BIOGRAPHY: The Marvelettes were
the first major successful act of Motown. Their single” Mr. Postman”, released
in 1961, was the first number one release by a Motown act. As a girl group,
they initially achieved popularity in the early to mid ‘60’s.
They were founded by
Inkster (Michigan) High School schoolmates: Gladys Horton (deceased), Katherine
Anderson (now Schaffner), Georgeanna Tillman (later Gordon-deceased), Juanita
Cowart (now Cowart Motley), and Georgia Dobbins, who was replaced by Wanda
Young. Their hit ‘Don’t Mess with Bill”, along with “Mr. Postman” earned
million-selling Gold singles from the RIAA. Other hits include: “Too Many
Fish In The Sea”, My Baby Must Be A Magician”, The Hunter Gets Captured
By The Game” and “Beechwood 45789”. Their catalogue of hits is quite expansive.
The group has several
honors including induction into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and have
received the Pioneer Award from the Rhythm and Blues Foundation in 2005.
On August 17,2013 The Marvelettes were inducted into the 1 st class of
the Official Rhythm & Blues Music Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio.
In June 2017, the ceremonial aspect of this induction was repeated in Detroit,
where Motown was founded.
The legacy of The Marvelous
Marvelettes continues under the trademark and guidance of original member
Katherine “Kat” Anderson Schaffner, who returned to the stage after 50
years, after gaining all rights to The Marvelettes trademark following
a lengthy court battle. Kat recruited members Delores “Lady Dee” Harris,
Brenda Michelle Chatman and Jaki “Lady J” Gilliard-Fondren to continue
The Marvelletes legacy!
.
THE HIT SONGS:
Mr. Postman, Don't Mess
With Bill, Beechwood 45789, Too Many Fish In The Sea
