The Platters were a very successful doo wop group, formed in 1953. They first signed with Federal Records, but moved after meeting manager, producer and songwriter Buck Ram. They signed with Mercury Records and, under Ram's leadership, became one of the most popular African American singing groups of the time.
"The Magic Touch" was their first top-ten hit, followed by "The Great Pretender" and "Twilight Time." In 1959 they had a number one hit with Jerome Kern's "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes," despite the fact that Kern's widow had expressed concern that her late husband's standard would be turned into a 'rock and roll' record. "Only You", "My Prayer", and "Harbor Lights" also became popular; all were known at the time as excellent "make-out songs". The Platters are still known as one of the most romantic doo wop groups, in spite of having broken up in 1961.
The group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990 and into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 1998, its first year.
There is also a road called "The Platters" in the county of Kent in south east England.
The Platters had several lineup changes, but Tony Williams was the lead singer from 1953 to 1961. Williams and many other members of the group have deceased.
External link
Vocal Group Hall of Fame page on The Platters
