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A popular foursome of the 1950s and \u201960s, The Diamonds, will come to Cortez on May 8 for a 7 p.m. performance at Montezuma-Cortez High School.<\/p>\n
Known for the Top 10 hit \u201cLil Darlin,\u201d which also played on the soundtrack for \u201cAmerican Graffiti,\u201d The Diamonds are a Canadian quarter that rose to prominence with 16 Billboard hits. They continue to perform through the years with gradual changes in personnel and currently include lead signer Jerry Siggins, baritone Gary Owens, tenor Sean Sooter and bass Jeff Dolan.<\/p>\n
The original Diamonds \u2013 Dave Somerville, Ted Kowalski, Phil Levitt and Bill Reed \u2013 were noted for interpreting and introducing rhythm and blues vocals to a wider pop music audience. They won first place on Arthur Godfrey\u2019s \u201cTalent Scouts\u201d with the prize being guest artist for a week on Godfrey\u2019s daily radio show, which then led to their first recording contract with Coral Records.<\/p>\n
Television performances included shows with Steve Allen, Perry Como, Vic Damone, Tony Bennett and \u201cAmerican Bandstand.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Diamonds\u2019 biggest hits were 1957\u2019s \u201cLil Darlin\u201d and \u201cThe Stroll.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWith their 16 hit records, their Doo-Wop Hall of Fame, their Vocal Group Hall of Fame, their 20 million records sold and their soundtrack \u201cAmerican Graffiti,\u201d The Diamonds are the perfect entertainment choice for audiences ranging from formal settings, like their appearance here, to the casual atmosphere of an outdoor stage at a fair or festival,\u201d Julie Auers, of Southwest Concerts said in a press release. \u201cThey combine their great vocal harmony and musical instrument talents to provide an unforgettable, first-class entertainment for our audience!\u201d<\/p>\n
For more information about SouthWest Colorado Concerts and how to attend this show, visit swcoloradoconcerts.org or call Julie Ayers at 970-882-1284 or Eric Wilson at 970-739-8508.<\/p>\n