The Andrews Sisters

The Andrews Sisters
Unknown author · Public domain · source
Name	The Andrews Sisters
Caption	LaVerne, Maxene, and Patty Andrews
Background	group

The Andrews Sisters were a highly popular and influential close harmony singing group of the Swing era, consisting of sisters LaVerne Andrews, Maxene Andrews, and Patty Andrews. They were one of the most popular and successful female vocal groups of all time, performing with renowned musicians such as Bing Crosby, Glenn Miller, and Duke Ellington. The sisters' unique sound and style were heavily influenced by Jazz and Blues musicians like Louis Armstrong and Bessie Smith. They were also inspired by the Harlem Renaissance and the music of Fats Waller and Ella Fitzgerald.

History

The Andrews Sisters were born in Mound, Minnesota, to a family of Greek and Norwegian descent. They began performing together as children, singing at local events and on radio stations like WCCO (AM) in Minneapolis. The sisters' early career was shaped by their experiences performing with orchestras like the Larry Rich Orchestra and the Leon Belasco Orchestra. They were discovered by Jack Kapp, the founder of Decca Records, who signed them to a recording contract in 1937. The sisters' first major hit was a cover of the Boswell Sisters' song "Bei Mir Bistu Shein", which was also recorded by Al Jolson and The Barry Sisters.

Career

The Andrews Sisters' career spanned over four decades, during which they performed with many famous musicians, including Billie Holiday, Count Basie, and Artie Shaw. They appeared in numerous films, such as Abbott and Costello's Buck Privates and Follow the Boys, and performed at USO shows during World War II. The sisters also worked with composers like Irving Berlin and Cole Porter, and recorded songs like "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" and "Rum and Coca-Cola". They were one of the best-selling female vocal groups of all time, with over 90 million records sold worldwide, and were inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame.

Music Style

The Andrews Sisters' music style was a unique blend of close harmony singing, Jazz, and Pop music. They were influenced by the Swing and Big band sounds of the time, and their music often featured complex harmonies and scat singing. The sisters' sound was also shaped by their experiences performing with orchestras and bands like the Glenn Miller Orchestra and the Duke Ellington Orchestra. They were known for their energetic and lively performances, which often featured dance routines and comedy sketches. The sisters' music was also influenced by Folk music and Country music, and they recorded songs like "Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree (With Anyone Else but Me)" and "Rum and Coca-Cola".

Discography

The Andrews Sisters released over 600 songs during their career, including hits like "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy", "Rum and Coca-Cola", and "Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree (With Anyone Else but Me)". They recorded over 50 albums, including "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy", "Rum and Coca-Cola", and "The Andrews Sisters Sing the Dancing 20's". The sisters also appeared on numerous compilation albums, such as "The Best of the Andrews Sisters", "The Andrews Sisters: 50th Anniversary Collection", and "The Andrews Sisters: The Complete Decca Recordings". Their music was released on labels like Decca Records, MCA Records, and Universal Music Group.

Legacy

The Andrews Sisters' legacy is immense, and they have influenced many famous musicians, including The Beach Boys, The Beatles, and The Supremes. They were one of the first female vocal groups to achieve widespread success, and paved the way for future generations of female musicians. The sisters were also known for their patriotism and their contributions to the USO during World War II. They were awarded numerous awards and honors, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Andrews Sisters' music continues to be popular today, and their influence can be heard in the music of artists like Christina Aguilera, Lady Gaga, and Katy Perry. Category:American musical groups