About the song
Doo-Wop and “Earth Angel”: A Match Made in Heaven
The Penguins were an American doo-wop group that formed in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1954. The group’s original members were lead tenor Curtis Williams, first tenor Cleveland Duncan, second tenor Dexter Tisby, baritone/bass sheet music arranger and pianist Ronald “Boo” Bowen, and bass/baritone Nate “Hawkeye” Thirkield.
The Penguins are best known for their hit song “Earth Angel”, which was released in 1954. The song was written by Jesse Belvin and originally recorded by The Four Knights. However, it was The Penguins’ version that became the hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart and number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
“Earth Angel” is a classic doo-wop song that features the group’s signature close harmonies and Curtis Williams’ soaring lead vocals. The song’s lyrics are simple but effective, expressing the singer’s love for his “Earth angel.”
The song’s success helped to popularize doo-wop music and made The Penguins one of the most popular groups of the era. “Earth Angel” has been covered by many artists over the years, but The Penguins’ version remains the definitive one.
The Penguins and the Legacy of “Earth Angel”
The Penguins were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995. They continue to be remembered as one of the most important doo-wop groups of all time. “Earth Angel” is their most famous song, and it continues to be enjoyed by listeners of all ages.
Key takeaways:
- “Earth Angel” is a classic doo-wop song written by Jesse Belvin and recorded by The Penguins in 1954.
- The song was a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart and number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- “Earth Angel” helped to popularize doo-wop music and made The Penguins one of the most popular groups of the era.
- The Penguins were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995.
- “Earth Angel” continues to be enjoyed by listeners of all ages.
Further Information:
- Genre: Doo-wop
- Length: 2:54
- Label: Dootone Records
- Songwriters: Jesse Belvin
- Other notable recordings: The Four Knights, Marvin Gaye, The Beach Boys
Critical reception:
- “Earth Angel” is considered one of the greatest doo-wop songs of all time.
- The song has been praised for its beautiful melody, Curtis Williams’ soaring vocals, and the group’s signature close harmonies.
- “Earth Angel” has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Impact and legacy:
- “Earth Angel” was a major hit upon its release and helped to popularize doo-wop music.
- The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Marvin Gaye, The Beach Boys, and Dionne Warwick.
- “Earth Angel” continues to be enjoyed by listeners of all ages and is considered a classic of the doo-wop genre.
Video
Lyrics
“Earth Angel”
Earth angel, earth angel
Will you be mine
My darling dear, love you all the time
I’m just a fool, a fool in love with youEarth angel, earth angel
The one I adore
Love you forever, and ever more
I’m just a fool, a fool in love with youI fell for you and I knew
The vision of your love, loveliness
I hope and I pray that someday
I’ll be the vision of your happy, happinessOh earth angel, earth angel
Please be mine
My darling dear, love you all the time
I’m just a fool, a fool in love with youI fell for you and I knew
The vision of your loveliness
I hope and pray that someday
I’ll be the vision of your happinessEarth angel, earth angel
Please be mine
My darling dear love you all the time
I’m just a fool, a fool in love with you