Doo-wop classics: Drifters, Coasters and Platters prepare to hit the Vic
Music was changing rapidly in the mid-1950s with the emergence or rock ’n’ roll and the rise of R&B acts like the Drifters, Cornell Gunter’s Coasters and the Platters, who are still entertaining audiences today. These classic doo-wop groups, all inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, bring a package tour to Victoria Theatre in Dayton on Friday, Dec. 21.
Jerome Jackson of the Drifters was home in Las Vegas recently when he answered some questions about the tour.
How busy are the Drifters these days?
Jackson: This has been a building year for the Drifters. The year before we really hadn’t worked a lot but we started doing this package and we’ve been playing bills all over the country. Things have picked up quite and the most important thing is, every- where we’ve gone there have been sellout crowds.
What makes these groups a good fit for a package show?
Jackson: It’s a great combination of groups. The Coasters are a comedy-type act, the Platters are a civil and loving act and the Drifters bring
formed in New York in 1953. Hits include “Under the Boardwalk”and Up on the Roof.”The current lineup features Jerome Jackson, Andre Reina, Smokey Noble and AJ Davis.
formed in Los Angeles in 1952. Hits include “The Great Pretender” and “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes.” along the sex appeal within the music.
What can Daytonians expect from this concert?
Jackson: It’s a wonderful show, man. People all over thecountryjustl o veit.The response we get and the energy we give to the people is so
The group is now comprised of Brian McIntosh, Leslie Mon’e, Lance Bernard Bryant and Kenny Williams. Cornell Gunter’s Coasters formed in Los Angeles in 1955. Hits include“Yakety Yak” and “Charlie Brown.” The current lineup features Charlie Duncan, Lionel Z & Tony T. inspiring and uplifting that it keeps peo plesmiling.Ithas them crying tears of joy. It’s just a wonderful situation. There are so many good vibes from the people and from us to the people and it gets more intensethemorewedoit.
What is it about the songs from these groups people still connect with all this time later?
Jackson: They’re plain, understandable and with the message of love and good times. People from our generation, especially, that came in with the music can relate to that. It’s a wonderful thing for the people t hatcometoour show and hear these songs. Audiences are different, too. Some people sit back and just listen to the music and they love it just as much as the people that come in with the energy to just have a good time and jump up and down, dance in their seat and sometimes come on the stage. It’s a wonderful time.