“Earth Angel” is a classic doo-wop song originally recorded by the American vocal group The Penguins. It was released in 1954 and became one of the most enduring and beloved songs of the genre.
“Earth Angel” was written by Curtis Williams, Jesse Belvin, and Gaynel Hodge. The song features a romantic and tender storyline, expressing the yearning for a love that is ethereal and everlasting. It showcases the vocal harmonies and smooth melodies that are characteristic of doo-wop music.
The Penguins’ recording of “Earth Angel” features lead vocals by Cleve Duncan, with the group providing lush background harmonies. The song is known for its memorable falsetto “oohs” in the chorus, which have become an iconic part of the song.
Upon its release, “Earth Angel” became an instant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Rhythm & Blues Records chart and crossing over to the pop charts, peaking at number eight on the Billboard Top 100. Its success helped popularize the doo-wop genre and solidified The Penguins’ place in music history.
“Earth Angel” has since been covered by numerous artists and has appeared in various movies, TV shows, and commercials. Its timeless appeal and romantic sentiment continue to resonate with audiences, making it a beloved and recognizable song.
As one of the definitive doo-wop songs, “Earth Angel” remains an enduring classic that represents the charm and nostalgia of the genre.
“Earth Angel” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, showcasing its enduring popularity and influence.
The Crew-Cuts: Shortly after The Penguins’ original release, The Crew-Cuts, a Canadian vocal quartet, recorded a cover of “Earth Angel” in 1955, which became a hit on the pop charts.
Johnny Tillotson: American singer Johnny Tillotson released his version of “Earth Angel” in 1960, putting his own spin on the classic doo-wop sound.
The Four Seasons: The Four Seasons, led by Frankie Valli, included a cover of “Earth Angel” on their 1963 album “The 4 Seasons Sing Ain’t That a Shame and 11 Others.” Their rendition incorporated their signature harmonies and polished pop sound.
Marvin Berry and The Starlighters (fictional): In the 1985 film “Back to the Future,” the fictional band Marvin Berry and The Starlighters performed a rendition of “Earth Angel” during the Enchantment Under the Sea dance scene.
New Edition: The R&B group New Edition released their cover of “Earth Angel” on their 1985 album “All for Love.” Their version infused the song with a contemporary R&B flavor.
Death Cab for Cutie: The indie rock band Death Cab for Cutie included a cover of “Earth Angel” on the 2003 soundtrack album for the film “A Cinderella Story,” giving the song a modern reinterpretation.
These are just a few examples of the artists who have covered “Earth Angel.” The song’s timeless appeal and beautiful melodies have made it a favorite for reinterpretation across different musical styles and generations.
