Encyclopedia of Rhythm & Blues and Doo‐Wop Vocal Groups

Rhythm and blues, doo‐wop and their antecedent, race records, were borne out of the musical styles of the American rural south. True rhythm and blues evolved from the traditional blues sound and was predominantly vocal. Generally, it referred to the work of an ensemble rather than the traditionally solo work of blues artists. The groups that created the rhythm and blues and doo‐wop styling consisted of a solo vocalist accompanied by backup singers. Its distinctive sound was characterized by its close and lush harmonies.

In the introduction to Encyclopedia of Rhythm & Blues and Doo‐Wop Vocal Groups, Mitch Rosalsky...