The Platters

The Platters debut hit single "Only You (and You Alone)" that launched the vocal group as superstars on the world stage was actually done in error. A popular US DJ named Alan Freed accidentally played their Mercury Records single on-air during a "prime" time that was traditionally reserved for "white artists." The ballad, based on the then groundbreaking Tin Pan Alley sound, became an instant hit with the public and would eventually reach number five on the Pop Charts thus igniting the sound of rock and roll as we know it today. Soon after their bebut at the top of the charts, The Platters released "The Great Pretender." which propelled them to number one, providing the launch pad for their meteoric rise as crossover artists. As a result, they became the first African American group to achieve international superstardom. Both tracks have since been declared songs of the 21st century by the Grammy Music Hall of Fame. Additional hits include "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes", "My Prayer","Twilight Time", and "Harbor Lights"