Dodie Randle was described by one newspaper in Hackensack, New Jersey as “[Decca’s] female answer to Elvis Presley.” The raw, even amateurish rockabilly sound of both sides of her only known single, “Man Hunt” / “I Feel in Love Again,” might indicate that this was true. The single was released in 1957, at the height of Presley mania.
Rhythmettes, The
The Rhythmettes were a three-member vocal group from the Detroit area. The members were Donna Watkins, Nadine Small and Jo Craig. They met in the Don Large Chorus, which was affiliated with Fred Waring, in 1950 and decided to form their own smaller group. They played local nightclubs and USO benefits and became known for their charity work. The Rhythmettes took on New York City in 1954, and they became acquainted with Alan Freed.
Ross, Beverly
Beverly Ross was born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in New Jersey. She began to write songs while still a student, contributing to musical productions at her high school and winning competitions. She also began hanging around the Brill Building when she would visit a cousin in in the city, hoping for a chance to write professionally. Eventually, R&B songwriter Julius Dixon gave her a break and helped her to make her first connections in the business. Not yet out of high school in New Jersey, Ross would sometimes miss class on Fridays to be around during the week to pitch her songs.