The Mamas & the Papas
USA, 1965–1968
Los Angeles group with lush four-part harmonies. John and Michelle Phillips, Cass Elliot, Denny Doherty.
MusicRoots documents 4 artists who influenced The Mamas & the Papas and 0 artists The Mamas & the Papas influenced in turn. Every connection cites a published source.
Who influenced The Mamas & the Papas?
- The Byrds — The Byrds invented the folk-rock that The Mamas & the Papas turned into supreme pop harmony.
- The Everly Brothers — The Everly Brothers' harmony style was expanded to four voices by The Mamas & the Papas.
- Bob Dylan — Dylan's songwriting craft was a primary influence on John Phillips' approach to lyrics.
- Joan Baez — Joan Baez paved the way for female voices in serious folk music, which Cass Elliot followed.