A vocal group from Philadelphia, Lee Andrews & The Hearts sound slick compared to raucous, unpolished groups like the Cadets ("Stranded In The Jungle") or the Monotones ("Book Of Love"). But, by applying a pop sheen to the close-harmony, East Coast sound, the Hearts produced some of the most memorable singles in doo wop history, scoring three major hits in the process - roughly two more than most other doo wop groups!

The Hearts were formed in 1952 when the smooth stylings of the "bird groups" (typified by the Orioles and Ravens) still ruled the roost. Lee Andrews and his group combined that sensibility with a more modern, urgent sense of soul and scored several big hits in the late 50's, mainly for Chess Records. The Hearts are best remembered for "Long Lonely Nights," a dramatic, surging ballad which competed successfully on the hit parade with a cover version by no less than ex-Drifter Clyde McPhatter.

Collectables Records has released several collections of Lee Andrews' songs including the mammoth For Collectors Only - a three-disc, doo wop overdose comprised of 61 songs recorded from 1954 to 1968. The more sensible choice, however, is Teardrops: The Very Best Of Lee Andrews & The Hearts - well documented and impressively mastered. Further, oldies collections (such as Rhino's Doo Wop Box series) will frequently spotlight the Hearts' best-known songs.

After so many years, Lee Andrews & The Hearts are celebrated mainly by doo wop aficionados. Yet, the group's influence can be heard an entire generation of soul singers, including the more celebrated artists who recorded for hometown label Philadelphia International in the 1970's - Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes, the O'Jays, the Intruders, and more. Frontman Lee Andrews continued recording into the 1980's. [top of page]