The Swallows

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The Swallows are a R&B group.

Founded in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1946 as the "Oakateers", the members were: Lawrence Coxson (lead tenor), Irving Turner (tenor and baritone), Earl Hurley (first and second tenor and bongos) and Norris “Bunky” Mack (bass, piano, guitar, and drums).

The "Oakaleers" practised on street corners until around 1948, when they joined with Eddie Rich (first tenor) and Frederick “Money Guitar” Johnson (baritone and guitar). Second tenor and baritone Herman “Junior” Denby was hired later. Irving Turner stopped singing with the group, but was kept on as valet (and occasional fill-in).

The Swallows' recording of "Wll You Be Mine" was released in 1951, and is now widely regarded as one of the first major doo-wop hits. "Will You Be Mine" reached a peak position of Number 9 on the Billboard R&B charts. The following year, 1952, the Swallows released "Beside You", which became their second national hit, peaking at Number 10 on Billboard's R&B chart.

[edit] References

Schaaf, Elizabeth. The Storm Is Passing Over. Peabody Institute. Retrieved on March 23, 2008.
Biography. The Swallows. Doo Wop Hall of Fame. Retrieved on April 11, 2008.