Arlene Smith, lead singer of pioneering ‘50s girl group the Chantels, dies at 84
Summary
Arlene Smith, the lead singer and co-founder of the 1950s girl group the Chantels, died at age 84 from a heart attack. She was known for the hit song “Maybe,” which helped pave the way for female Black vocal groups in early rock ’n’ roll.Key Facts
- Arlene Smith was the lead singer and co-writer of the Chantels’ 1958 hit “Maybe.”
- “Maybe” was recorded in a church studio and sold over 1 million copies.
- The Chantels were among the first Black female groups to gain success in rock ’n’ roll during the 1950s.
- The group influenced the rise of other girl groups like the Shirelles and the Ronettes.
- Smith left the Chantels around 1959, later worked briefly with producer Phil Spector, and recorded “Love, Love, Love.”
- She earned a master’s degree in education and taught music in New York City after her music career slowed down.
- Smith’s contributions were recognized by the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2002.
- Early racism and copyright issues affected the group, such as Smith’s name being left off song credits and album art changed to feature white faces.
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