New England Doo Wop Society
Check out the George Carlin interview
about Doo Wop Music on our Links page!
The Dance Contests
One way to spotlight the songs, the dancers, and the dances on American Bandstand was to hold dance contests. Kids in the studio loved them, and the viewers did, too. The rules were simple. Contestants had to sign up to get a number, then once a week they pinned numbers on their backs, much like they did in the dance marathons in the thirties. During the contests, viewers cast ballots for their favorite dancers. Each contest lasted three or four weeks, after which winners were announced on the air. Several of the winners confessed that the voting was done more on popularity merit. Still, they took their prizes, which ranged from portable TVs to juke boxes.
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The June 5th show at the Castle of Knights was another success! A super crowd was regally treated to some excellent talent! Rich Steben started things off with a couple of exciting numbers. He was followed by Old School Rock and Roll and they had the crowd kickin' out the jams! Fine harmonies and great lead vocals. They were followed by another one of the Society's secret finds from Mt. Kisco, NY, Classic Sounds. Their harmonies were tight, clear and right on! I guess the best way to explain how good they were is in the number of standing ovations they received: I counted four....but there could have been more! This terrififc evening was capped off with the sensational Jive Five, sporting some snazzy looking suits (check out the picture page). Sounded better than ever, they went through their classic songs, like "Never, Never," What Time Is It," and after an encore, their signature tune, "My True Story." They sound as good now as they ever have! Another fine crowd witnessed Volume # 17 with the next show to come on November 7th! See you there? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Just when I thought I had heard the best of the accapella groups, you pull another one out of a hat! Classic Sounds was really a treat! Good job once again! Pat and Ed Taddy Chicopee, MA ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Thank you for another great show! Classic Sounds Acapella were absolutely "fantastic!" and we hope you have them back again soon. Gene Pitt & The Jive Five were truly enjoyable and both groups demonstrated their dedicated professionalism. Two dynamic groups. We have now been to three of The New England DooWop Society's shows. Each one has been seemlessly and professionally run-- absolutely fun evenings, and it is obvious that you aim to please. The people, the location, the food, the groups--I never want the night to end and I am always thinking, "I can't wait for the next show!" Not like other oldies shows...yours are up close and personal. Again, our deepest appreciation for your efforts...see you in November! Nancy & Curtis Blau Newington, Connecticut -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dear Gary and Bobby, My wife and I, along with my brother and his wife attended the doo- wop on June 5th. Fortunately we have been able to attend most of your shows. You guys always never cease to please the crowd! The talent that you guys put together is amazing. Obviously you put your hearts and souls into each show. Please keep up the good work! Best Personal Regards, Joe & Chrystal Rosinski
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To send Bob Belniak a message, write to him at echoes.past@yahoo.com |
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The Days Inn at 450 Memorial DR., in Chicopee, MA is now the official hotel of the New England Doo Wop Society. When you are booking rooms, be sure to mention the New England Doo Wop Society for special rates! (413-739-7311) |
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