Biography
Jeanne & The Darlings were a soul group originating from Arkansas, formed by gospel-raised sisters Jeanne Dolphus and Dee 'Dee' Dolphus. The lineup expanded to include Jeanne's daughter Paula Dolphus and family friend Phefe Harris, evolving from their initial incarnation as The Dolphus Sisters. Raised in a gospel tradition, the group drew from church music roots before pursuing secular soul.
Seeking success, the sisters first tried their luck in Detroit and Chicago but returned to the South, landing in Memphis where they signed with Stax Records' Volt subsidiary. Their uptempo debut single, 'How Can You Mistreat the One You Love,' achieved minor chart success, peaking at No. 96 on the pop chart in 1967. They followed with 'Soul Girl,' an attempt to capitalize on Sam & Dave's 'Soul Man,' but it failed to chart. The group released several more singles in the classic soul, northern soul, and Memphis soul styles, characterized by tight vocal harmonies and energetic performances, though they saw no further hits.
By 1970, after a string of singles without substantial returns, Jeanne & The Darlings went on indefinite hiatus. Active primarily in the 1960s, they remain a notable part of Stax's early roster of female vocal groups, contributing to the label's legacy in southern soul despite limited commercial success.
Fun Facts
- The group started as The Dolphus Sisters and tried careers in Detroit and Chicago before succeeding in Memphis.
- Their debut single 'How Can You Mistreat the One You Love' was a minor hit at No. 96 on the pop chart in 1967.
- Jeanne's daughter Paula joined as a key member, making it a family affair alongside sister Dee and friend Phefe Harris.
Musical Connections
Key Collaborators
- Chips Moman - Satellite Records engineer who developed early Stax groups including influences on their path (Early Stax recordings) [1960s]
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Jeanne and the Darlings has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.