The Flamingos are in the elite of vocal harmony groups, considered by some to be one of the best; they emerged from the 1940's jazz idiom, and though they were certainly influenced by their precursors the Five Keys, Orioles etc., they were intent upon forging their own unique sound. From the Chicago neighborhood to the local black Jewish 'Church of God and Saints,' where they lived, worshipped and hung out, the young conglomeration practiced and performed (changing lead singers on the way) and subsequently were able to secure a deal with Chance Records. This was the first of many labels, including Parrot, Checker, Decca and End, for whom the group recorded, and certainly the Flamingos suffered through as much ignominy as any group could: non-payment of royalties, original compositions attributed to other writers, litigation, and the 'cover' phenomena, whereby a white artist would record a hit by a black group, and make off with the sales. (Pat Boone was a notorious raider.) Nonetheless, history was kinder, and the Flamingos have since been recognized as the innovators they are. |
