Dressed in Black offers the first in-depth history of the Shangri-Las, one of the most significant - and most misunderstood - pop groups of the 1960s.
Sisters Mary and Betty Weiss, together with twins Mary Ann and Marguerite Ganser. were schoolgirls when they formed the Shangri-Las, and had a meteoric rise to fame in the mid-60s with hits like 'Leader of the Pack' and 'Remember (Walkin' in the Sand)'. Their career was cut short for reasons largely beyond their control, derailed by an exploitative music industry-heartbreak and tragedy followed.
Historian Lisa MacKinne marshals an impressive array of new evidence to tell the Shangri-Las' story. dispelling longstanding myths and mysteries and reevaluating their place in music history. They have consistently been undervalued by critics, trivialised as a "girl group with little creative input into their own recordings, but MacKinney highlights their extraordinary ability to channel personal emotions into impassioned performances that resonated deeply with audiences. While producer George Shadow' Morton certainly crafted material tailored to their strengths, the Shangri-Las' artistry extended well beyond his direction - they are revealed here as co-creators of a substantial musical legacy.
MacKinney backs up ber arguments with in-depth analysis of key recordings, and makes a powerful case that the Shangri-Las' achievements warrant a far nore prominent place for the group in the history of rock and roll.
Size: 230 x 152mm (softback)
Pages: 400 (30 illustrations)
Publisher: Verse Chorus Press
