Doo-wop’s Diamonds returning to Cleveland
The group famous for the doo-wop standard “Little Darlin’” will close out the Bradley Concerts season next week in Cleveland, Tenn. Promoters say The Diamonds aced their last appearance and have been invited back.
“Our audience was thrilled two years ago to get to see and hear a group that brought rock ‘ n’ roll music to the forefront in the 1950s and 1960s, and we are pleased that they are returning to Cleveland,” says Nancy Casson, president of Bradley Concerts.
“What a great show they do,” agrees Marion Cook, publicity chairman.
“Little Darlin’” was released in 1957, first by the Gladiolas, then a month later by The Diamonds, whose version became a bigger hit. The song is instantly recognizable for a spoken recitation, “My darlin’, I need you …” and comical smattering of “la-lala-laa” refrains. To date, it has sold more than 20 million copies.
Though none of the current members can claim tenure with the group since the very beginning, baritone singer Gary Owens has seniority, singing with The Diamonds since 1973. He also does much of the vocal arranging for the group.
“Our goal has always been to keep that classic Diamonds sound intact,” he says on the group’s website. “Although The Diamonds are four distinctive individuals, we have created one strong group personality” with “a special chemistry.”
His fellow singers have diverse backgrounds in music.
Tenor Sean Sooter has performed with the national touring group The Young Americans, on cruise ships and with the Dapper Dans of Disneyland. He also has worked as musical director for productions including “Xanadu” and “Five Guys Named Moe.”
Lead singer Jerry Siggins’ resume includes guest appearances on “The Tonight Show,” “The Love Boat” and “Tony Orlando and Dawn.” He was a mainstay at Disneyland and Disney World as a vocalist with the Dapper Dans.
Bass singer Jeff Dolan earned a Grammy Award singing with the Phoenix Chorale. He also formerly sang with jazz vocal group Beachfront Property, toured internationally for 10 years with Ray Coniff and was a member of the Dapper Dans of Disneyland.
In addition to Diamonds hits, the group’s repertoire includes “Chantilly Lace,” “Rock Around the Clock,” an Elvis medley, a Jersey Boys medley and other familiar songs of the era.
The show is scheduled for Thursday, March 17, on the Lee University campus. Promoters are advising early ticket purchase.