63 - The Smooth Sounds of Doo Wop

Doo wop music. It’s the harmonized sound of street corner serenades and teenage romance. The irresistible sound that makes you wanna snap your fingers, sway your hips, and sing along with those timeless harmonies.

This music broke down racial barriers years before the civil rights movement, as millions of kids across the country just cared about listening to great music. 

Some of the most popular groups of the era were Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers, The Drifters, the Platters, Dion & The Belmonts, and more. There were also dozens of one hit wonders that you still hear today, like Earth Angel and Get A Job. 

As the 1950s gave way to the 1960s, doo wop began to give way to other styles of music like rock and roll and soul. But it’s legacy and the music lives on. 

In this episode of Prisoners of Rock and Roll, we’re looking at the history of doo wop music so gather ‘round that burning trash barrel out on the corner. We’re going on a music journey that will have you singing “shoo be doo” in no time. 

Hear More

Check out the episode playlist.

Get In Touch

Check us out online, on Facebook, Twitter, or YouTube. or drops us an email at [email protected].

Or if you're in Philadelphia, come visit our home base at McCusker's Tavern.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices