Maxene Andrews, American singer (d. 1995)
The Andrews Sisters: Iconic Pioneers of Close Harmony in the Swing and Boogie-Woogie Eras
The Andrews Sisters stand as a seminal American close harmony singing group, indelibly linked to the vibrant musical landscapes of the swing and boogie-woogie eras. Their distinctive sound, characterized by tightly knit vocal arrangements where three voices blend seamlessly, created a rich, full-bodied timbre that captivated audiences worldwide. They were not merely singers; they were cultural phenomena, reflecting and shaping the popular music of their time with their energetic performances and optimistic anthems.
Originating from Minneapolis, Minnesota, their career spanned over four decades, during which they became synonymous with the big band sound, often performing alongside legendary orchestras. Their ability to adapt to various genres, from jazz standards to novelty songs and patriotic tunes, cemented their status as versatile entertainers. The "close harmony" style, a hallmark of their sound, involved singing notes very close to each other, often creating dissonances that resolve into pleasing harmonies, a technique perfected by the sisters.
Who Were The Andrews Sisters? Their Voices Defined an Era
The immensely popular trio was composed of three biological sisters, each contributing a vital voice to their renowned sound:
- LaVerne Sophia Andrews (July 6, 1911 – May 8, 1967): The eldest sister, a contralto, provided the low foundational harmonies, anchoring the group's sound with her steady and resonant voice.
- Maxene Anglyn Andrews (January 3, 1916 – October 21, 1995): The middle sister, a soprano, often took the high melodic lines or provided the top harmony, adding brightness and clarity.
- Patricia "Patty" Marie Andrews (February 16, 1918 – January 30, 2013): The youngest sister, a mezzo-soprano, typically sang lead vocals, delivering the infectious melodies with her engaging and dynamic style. Her energetic stage presence often put her at the forefront of their performances.
A Legacy of Millions: Record Sales and Unprecedented Popularity
The Andrews Sisters achieved extraordinary commercial success, with estimated record sales exceeding 80 million copies worldwide. This remarkable figure positions them as one of the best-selling female vocal groups of all time, a testament to their immense popularity during the 1930s, 1940s, and into the 1950s. Their prolific recording career included more than 100 Billboard chart hits, a feat unsurpassed by any other female group. Their music transcended mere entertainment, serving as a powerful source of morale during World War II, resonating deeply with both troops overseas and families on the home front.
Chart-Topping Hits: A Glimpse into Their Extensive Discography
Their discography is replete with iconic songs that continue to be recognized and celebrated. Many of their hits became anthems of their time, perfectly capturing the spirit and challenges of the era. Key songs closely associated with The Andrews Sisters include:
- "Bei Mir Bist Du Schön (Means That You're Grand)" (1937): This Yiddish theatre song, adapted with English lyrics, was their first major hit and catapulted them to national fame. Its success demonstrated their ability to transform a traditional tune into a mainstream pop sensation.
- "Beer Barrel Polka (Roll Out the Barrel)" (1939): A lively and immensely popular tune, this song became an enduring favorite, often associated with celebrations and communal singing, particularly gaining traction as a morale booster during the early war years.
- "Beat Me Daddy, Eight to the Bar" (1940): An energetic boogie-woogie number that showcased their mastery of the genre, featuring lively rhythms and their signature tight harmonies, further cementing their status as boogie-woogie queens.
- "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" (1941): Arguably their most famous song, this seminal hit is considered an early and influential example of jump blues, a precursor to rhythm and blues. Featured in the Abbott and Costello film Buck Privates, it became an anthem for American servicemen and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song, solidifying its place in popular culture and wartime history.
- "Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree (With Anyone Else but Me)" (1942): Another beloved wartime classic, this song captured the sentiments of separation and loyalty during World War II, becoming a staple at USO shows and a symbol of longing for loved ones.
- "Rum and Coca Cola" (1945): This highly successful and somewhat controversial song, based on a Trinidadian calypso tune, introduced American audiences to the rhythmic intricacies and narrative style of calypso music. Its widespread popularity marked a significant moment in the cross-cultural exchange of musical forms.
Enduring Influence and Lasting Recognition
The Andrews Sisters' musical legacy extends far beyond their active performing years. Their innovative close harmonies and vibrant interpretations of swing and boogie-woogie continue to influence generations of vocalists and groups across various genres. Their unique style set a benchmark for female vocal harmony that remains aspirational for many contemporary artists. Entertainers who have paid homage to or been influenced by their distinctive sound include:
- Patti Page
- Bette Midler (most notably with her version of "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy")
- Christina Aguilera
- Pentatonix
- The Puppini Sisters
- And countless other modern vocal ensembles who draw inspiration from their technical prowess and engaging performance style.
Their profound impact on 20th-century popular music is widely acknowledged. Mark Schoifet, writing for Bloomberg, accurately summarized their historical significance by stating that the sisters became "the most popular female vocal group of the first half of the 20th century." This acclaim is reinforced by their numerous accolades and recognitions. The group was among the inaugural inductees into the esteemed Vocal Group Hall of Fame upon its opening in 1998, a testament to their pioneering role in vocal music. Further cementing their place in music history, they were also inducted into the Minnesota Rock/Country Hall of Fame in May 2006, recognizing their foundational influence on various American musical traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Andrews Sisters
- What defined the Andrews Sisters' musical style?
- The Andrews Sisters were renowned for their "close harmony" singing style, where their voices blended tightly, often with intricate arrangements, creating a signature rich and unified sound. They primarily performed in the swing and boogie-woogie genres, which characterized popular music during their peak from the late 1930s through the 1950s.
- How many records did The Andrews Sisters sell?
- The Andrews Sisters are estimated to have sold over 80 million records worldwide throughout their career, making them one of the best-selling female vocal groups of all time. This impressive sales figure highlights their immense global popularity and enduring appeal.
- What was the significance of "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy"?
- "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" (1941) is arguably their most iconic song, serving as an unofficial anthem for American servicemen during World War II. It's considered an early and influential example of jump blues, a vibrant precursor to rhythm and blues, and was featured in a popular film, solidifying its cultural impact.
- Did The Andrews Sisters perform during World War II?
- Yes, The Andrews Sisters were incredibly active during World War II, playing a crucial role in boosting morale. They performed extensively for Allied troops overseas in USO tours, entertained soldiers at home, and participated in war bond drives, becoming a symbol of home and hope for many.
- Are The Andrews Sisters still influential today?
- Absolutely. The Andrews Sisters' close harmony style and energetic performances continue to influence contemporary musicians across various genres. Their songs are frequently covered, and their unique vocal arrangements remain a study for aspiring vocal groups, proving their lasting impact on popular music.