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There’s no doubt that The Everly Brothers played a large part in shaping the sound of a generation and in turn sculpted their own unique and original rock ‘n’ roll style. The use of vocal harmony was something that elevated brothers Don and Phil above similar artists of the late 50’s and helped the sibling duo shift over 60 million albums worldwide and be included in Billboards ‘Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame’.
Sadly, Phil Everly passed away on January 3rd in California aged 74. Typically singing in a tenor range to compliment sibling Don’s more baritone style, Phil and Don’s vocal harmonies are said to have influenced many rock and pop groups including; The Beatles, The Beach Boys and Simon and Garfunkel.
The Everly Brothers live performances were renowned for their high quality vocal performance. The Royal Albert Hall became one of the groups most notable live venues and the stage for their 1983 reunion show, being helped back together by British guitarist Albert Lee after 10 years of rivalry between the brothers. It was due to this performance that the duo made the decision to carry on their reunion for another 26 years.
The duo weren’t to everyone’s taste with many critics scrutinizing their style and the style of their peers such as Buddy Holly. However Phil stated in interviews before his death that he and his brothers goal was to always remain as original as possible while maintaining a rock ‘n’ roll edge. With their most notable hits ‘Wake Up Little Susie’ and ‘Cathy’s Clown’ both selling over 2 million copies world wide and ultimately being cemented in musical history for many years to come, it seems that being original got Don and Phil to where they wanted to be.
Nostalgia Music Catalogue are delighted to be releasing a special commemorative version of The Everly Brothers performance at The Royal Albert Hall, including addition live tracks.
You can hear ‘Wake Up Little Susie’ and many more Everly Brothers classics on iTunes and on the Nostalgia Music Catalogue.