Biography
Originating in Los Angeles, the Lockettes operated as a female vocal trio made up of Ledoria Ann Knox, Belle Rhea Montgomery, and Elaine Carol Brown, with Jennell Hawkins periodically expanding the lineup to a quartet. Knox contributed a light alto voice that recalled a young Diana Ross.
Richard Berry, best known for “Louie, Louie,” found the singers and steered them to Flip Records, where they produced their only release, “Puddin’ Pie” backed by “You Don’t Want Me.” The A-side combined the group’s luminous harmonies with forceful playing from the supporting band, most notably its guitarist, while the B-side placed the vocalists in greater relief.
The Lockettes also supplied background vocals for Berry on the Dreamers’ coupling “Heaven on Wheels” b/w “The Mess Around” and on Jimmie Smith’s “I Cry and Cry All Night” b/w “Night Time Is the Right Time.”
Richard Berry, best known for “Louie, Louie,” found the singers and steered them to Flip Records, where they produced their only release, “Puddin’ Pie” backed by “You Don’t Want Me.” The A-side combined the group’s luminous harmonies with forceful playing from the supporting band, most notably its guitarist, while the B-side placed the vocalists in greater relief.
The Lockettes also supplied background vocals for Berry on the Dreamers’ coupling “Heaven on Wheels” b/w “The Mess Around” and on Jimmie Smith’s “I Cry and Cry All Night” b/w “Night Time Is the Right Time.”