The Chantels were the first black female group to have nationwide success. The goup was established in the early 1950's at St. Anthony of Padua school in the Bronx. The group constisted of Arlene Smith (lead), Sonia Goring, Rene Minus, Jackie Landry Jackson and Lois Harris. They got their name from a rival school, St. Francis de Chantelle.
They were discovered by Richard Barrett, lead singer of the Valentines and eventually signed to End Records. Their first single was "He's Gone" (Pop #71) in August 1957. In January 1958 they released their second single, "Maybe" (#15 Pop; #2 R&B). Several other singles were released on End, though none as successful as "Maybe."
The group was dropped by End in 1959, and Arlene Smith decided to go solo. Lois left to pursue a college education. In 1960, Annette Smith (no relation) replaced Arlene and the group went to Carlton Records, where they had their second huge hit with "Look in My Eyes" (#14 pop, #6 R&B). Several other singles followed and the group switched labels several times. Personnel changed throughout the 60's, with their final single released in 1970.
More on [ The Chantels ]
1950s :: By Decade
Girl Groups :: Pop
Rhythm and Blues :: R
Harmony Vocal Group :: Vocal
Women in Music :: Music

History of Rock: The Chantels - Biography of the 1950s female RB group.
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The Doo-Wop Society of Southern California: The Chantels - Photograph, profile, and discography.
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