Gaynel Hodge RIP

[Michael V]

Have just heard the sad news of the passing,at age 83,of LA Doo-Wop legend Gaynel Hodge of The Hollywood Flames,The Turks and the 1st pre-fame line up of The Platters on Federal in 53'. In the early 60's Gaynel-a pianist as well as a singer (and writer)-played piano on The Rivingtons' Papa Oom- Mow -Mow hit and Johnny Guitar Watson's fine  R&B dancer 'Sweet Lovin' Mama' a 1962 King 45 'which I'm sure could get some plays when the clubs and Soul venues re-open. In the 60's Gaynel also  accompanied Aretha,Ted Taylor and others (live,not on record) Perhaps best known as the co-author -after a court case- of the Doo-Wop/50's anthem 'Earth Angel' (fiercely disputed by the family of the great Jesse  Belvin ,who claim Jesse's sole authorship,it must be said) Gaynel was a fine singer-a good example being his lead on the beautiful 'I'm A Fool' with The Turks - a classic ballad which I'm privileged to say I saw Gaynel perform at London's 100 Club in 2018.Also privileged to say I met and chatted with Gaynel that evening- slightly eccentric,a character,for sure,but friendly and with a terrific memory for LA's Doo-Wop scene in the 50's-of which he was such a great part.

 

[Robbk]

He was one of my favourite singers.  What a smooth voice.  Sorry he's gone.  But he lived to a decent age.  There are not many left of the great R&B singers from The early 1950s, who got me interested in music.

[Mike]

sad news , thanks for sharing

https://gaynelhodgemusic.com/

[Michael V]

8 hours ago, Robbk said:

He was one of my favourite singers.  What a smooth voice.  Sorry he's gone.  But he lived to a decent age.  There are not many left of the great R&B singers from The early 1950s, who got me interested in music.

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Yes, Robb, not many left now,sadly; of the early 50's groups, Willie Winfield of The Harptones ,Eddie Rich of The Swallows and Harold Winley of The Clovers are still with us,thankfully,but I can't think of many others.Those I've mentioned  are in their late 80's/early 90's (and Eddie, bless him, was still singing beautifully just a couple of years ago!)