The Spaniels
The Doo-Wopp Era: 1954-1960
Editor's Note: This interview took place in February, 2000 at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Mr. Don Porter, a 2nd tenor vocalist of The Spaniels (one of the original Doo-Wopp groups in music history) had been invited to give a lecture on Doo-Wopp and its roots in the African-American musical tradition. I was able to catch up with him afterwards, and for the first time in nearly three years, this interview is finally be made available to all.
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Quick Facts
*** The Spaniels were a vocal group from Gary, Indiana, formed circa 1952 ***
*** The Spaniels were signed to VeeJay Records (the most successful Black-owned record company before Motown) also based in Gary, Indiana ***
*** VeeJay Records was formed in 1953 by the husband and wife team of Vivian Carter and James C. Bracken. Other artists on their roster included the following: The Dells, John Lee Hooker, The Staple Singers, Jerry Butler & The Impressions (with Curtis Mayfield), Gene Chandler, Jimmy Reed, and the Five Blind Boys ***
*** Before Capitol Records wrestled them away, VeeJay Records was also home to The Beatles...read more here***