The Platters

USA, 1952–now

American vocal group formed in Los Angeles in 1952 and among the most commercially successful of the early rock era. Tony Williams's lead on 'Only You' and 'The Great Pretender' continued the Ink Spots ballad style.

MusicRoots documents 2 artists who influenced The Platters and 1 artist The Platters influenced in turn. Every connection cites a published source.

Who influenced The Platters?

• The Ink Spots — The Platters' romantic ballad style descended directly from the Ink Spots — they made a career of the Ink Spots' high-lead vocal-group sound.
• The Mills Brothers — The Mills Brothers' polished harmony blend was the other pole of the vocal-group tradition Buck Ram steered the Platters toward.

Which artists did The Platters influence?

• Little Anthony & the Imperials — The Platters' romantic lead-tenor ballad style shaped the Imperials' high-voiced harmony.