Established in Los Angeles in 1952, The Platters are an esteemed American rock group famous for their signature smooth vocal harmonies and integration of genres such as R&B and doo-wop. Gaining fame in the early Rock-n-Roll era, their music exemplifies the bridge between the traditional Tin Pan Alley style and the emerging rock and roll sound.
From the very beginning, the band consisted of Curtis Williams, Herb Reed, Joe Jefferson, Alex Hodge and Cornell Gunter. By 1953, this group expanded to add Zola Taylor and Tony Williams, Paul Robi, David Lynch which formed what is considered the classic lineup. Ralph Bass was the band manager until they were taken over by Buck Ram who helped shape the band into an international success and gave guidance to help turn their sound from only recognized on the West Coast to loved all around the world.
Their most important breakthrough came when Ram re-recorded “Only You (And You Alone)” with the band for Mercury Records. The song had initially been turned down by Federal Records. The song became a massive hit in 1955 reaching No.5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B chart. Their next single “The Great Pretender” went on to become a No. 1 pop hit and became one of the timeless classics.
The group had a strong run from 1955 to 1960 where they released multiple chart topping singles and appeared in movies like Rock Around the Clock. This period was marked by the soaring popularity of Tony Williams’ emotionally gripping vocal delivery, the group’s seamless execution, and their selection of powerful ballads like remake of “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes” and “My Prayer”.
In 1956 the group was trademarked as Five Platters Inc. (FPI) which allowed each member to have a share in the group. However, this arrangement created legal issues and a judge ended up saying that the corporation was formed improperly. To this day, the original lineup continues to endure conflicts caused by personal problems, different public preferences, and changes in style.
In 1960, Tony Williams left to go solo, bringing in Sonny Turner to replace him. Turner helped The Platters gain moderate success in the mid 1960s with hits like “I Love You 1,000 Times” and “With This Ring.” Though, legal battles over the group’s name surfaced which led to several different groups touring as The Platters.
Herb Reed, the only member who appeared on all of the original recordings until 1969, fought fiercely to defend the group’s name. During the 2000s and 2010s, courts repeatedly ruled in favor of Reed and his companies, granting exclusive rights to the “Platters” name. Herb Reed passed away in 2012, but his legacy still remains through Herb Reed Enterprises, which continues to manage the official Platters lineup.
The Platters are without a doubt one of the most influential and best-selling vocal groups. They are well-known for their role in popularizing doo-wop and rhythm and blues music.
Contents
Top Songs
Only You (And You Alone)
Their breakthrough hit that redefined the vocal group landscape in 1955.
The Great Pretender
A No. 1 hit known for its emotional intensity and dramatic performance.
My Prayer
A beautiful ballad with strings that topped the charts in both the US and the UK.
Smoke Gets In Your Eyes
A dramatic reworking of a Jerome Kern standard that went on to become an international number one hit.
Twilight Time
Another chart-topping hit known for its lush harmonies and a romantic feel.
(You’ve Got) The Magic Touch
A pop and rhythm and blues stalwart that displayed Tony Williams’ control of vocals.
Enchanted
A dreamy 1959 hit with angelic vocals and trademark harmonies.
I Love You 1,000 Times
A 1966 nostalgic comeback hit that was released with new lead singer Sonny Turner.
With This Ring
A Motown infused classic that marked a return to the charts for the group.
Harbor Lights
A nostalgic favorite championed by The Platters in their smooth style.
| Song Title | Year | US Chart |
|---|---|---|
| Only You (And You Alone) | 1955 | #5 |
| The Great Pretender | 1955 | #1 |
| My Prayer | 1956 | #1 |
| (You’ve Got) The Magic Touch | 1956 | #4 |
| Twilight Time | 1958 | #1 |
| Smoke Gets in Your Eyes | 1958 | #1 |
| Enchanted | 1959 | #12 |
| Harbor Lights | 1960 | #8 |
| I Love You 1,000 Times | 1966 | #31 |
| With This Ring | 1967 | #14 |
| Washed Ashore | 1967 | #56 |
Top Albums
The Flying Platters Around the World (1958)
Containing thematically global songs and some of their hit singles.
Encore of Golden Hits (1960)
Comprised of their early best sellers.
Remember When? (1960)
Featured reimaginings of classics containing The Platters’ trademark vocals.
I Love You 1,000 Times (1966)
Marking their mid-60s comeback album with Sonny Turner singing lead.
New Golden Hits (1967)
Centered on the best recordings from the Musicor label era.
Awards and Achivements
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction (1990): Recognized for their groundbreaking contributions to music and culture.
- Vocal Group Hall of Fame (1998): Honored during the inaugural class for vocal group excellence.
- RIAA Certified Gold Records: Multiple singles and albums reached gold status.
- Billboard Chart Legacy: 40 singles on the Billboard Hot 100 between 1955 and 1967, including four #1 hits.