The Chordettes

Formation

The Chordettes were formed in 1946 in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, originally consisting of members Janet Ertel, Alice Mae Buschmann, Dorothy "Dottie" Schwartz, and Jinny Osborn. Initially, they performed folk music in the style of The Weavers but later transitioned to a harmonizing style known as barbershop harmony or close harmony.

Rise to Fame

The group gained prominence after winning on Arthur Godfrey's radio program, Talent Scouts, in 1949, which led to feature status on Godfrey's daily show. Their first LP, "Harmony Time," was recorded in 1950 for Columbia Records, followed by three more albums. In 1954, they released their breakout hit, "Mr. Sandman," which topped the charts for seven weeks and sold over a million copies, earning a gold disc. This success was followed by other hits, including "Lollipop."

Later Years and Disbandment

The Chordettes continued to perform and record throughout the 1950s, with several albums released under Cadence Records, founded by Archie Bleyer, who was also involved in their recordings. However, the group disbanded in 1963 after a successful career that left a lasting impact on the traditional pop and doo-wop genres.

Legacy

The Chordettes were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2001, solidifying their influence in the music industry. Their unique sound and memorable hits continue to resonate with audiences, showcasing the enduring appeal of their harmonies and style.