Doo Wop
The song “He’s So Fine” by The Chiffons is one of the wonderful golden oldies with its catchy refrain of “doo-lang, doo-lang, doo-lang.” The Chiffons were an all-girl group from the Bronx, New York, who formed around 1960.The members included Judy Craig, Patricia Bennett, Barbara Lee, and Sylvia Peterson. “He’s So Fine” was their first hit single. It was written by Ronald Mack, a fellow Bronxite, who had produced The Tokens (“The Lion Sleeps Tonight”). The Tokens played on the record, and Carole King was on the piano. In 1963, the song went to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #16 in the U.K., and was awarded an RIAA gold record. Ronald Mack, sadly, passed away of cancer at the age of 23 while this record was successful around the world.
This song was also the center of the high-profile plagiarism case against George Harrison’s “My Sweet Lord.” The litigation went on for many years, due to various delays. The judge ruled that it was “subconscious” plagiarism due to similarities in the musical patterns (although not the lyrics). As to how the money settlements went, well, … Let’s just enjoy the song.
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[…] If you are interested in reading about and listening to another song by The Chiffons, please click here for “He’s So Fine.” […]
Love the song and the backstory is so interesting. thanks.
You’re very welcome.