From Chicago Sun-Times · · 2m
Verne Allison of The Dells Dies at 90
R&B legend Verne Allison, co-founder of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame group The Dells, dies at 90 after decades of chart success.
In brief
R&B legend Verne Allison, co-founder of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame group The Dells, dies at 90 after decades of chart success. R&B group The Dells' founder Verne Allison dies at 90 following a career spanning 50+ years and multiple chart hits. Originally reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
Verne Allison Dies at 90
Verne Allison, co-founder of the R&B group The Dells, died at 90 on October 6.
The Dells Formed in Harvey
The Dells began as the El-Rays in 1952 when members were students at Thornton Township High School in Harvey.
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductees
The Dells were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 after 46 R&B hits between 1956 and 1992.
Biggest Hit: 'Oh What a Night'
Their biggest hit, 'Oh What a Night,' peaked at No. 3 on the charts in 1956 behind Elvis Presley's 'Don’t Be Cruel' and Fats Domino's 'Blueberry Hill.'
Ray Charles Story
The Dells sang so well they got standing ovations and five encores before Ray Charles even went on stage.
Ray Charles Fired Them
Ray Charles fired The Dells after a Carnegie Hall show in 1966, saying they were doing too much.
The Dells' Legacy
The Dells were called 'The Grandfathers of R&B Harmony' by the Vocal Group Hall of Fame and paved the road for groups like the Temptations and Boyz II Men.
Long-Term Success
The Dells stayed together for over 50 years, touring Europe and Japan and performing for more than 40 years.
Family and Survivors
Verne Allison is survived by his daughter Sheila Allison Moore and three grandchildren.
Last Surviving Member
Michael McGill, the last surviving member of The Dells, couldn't be reached for comment.
Golfer and Resident
Allison lived in Flossmoor and was an avid golfer in recent years.
Group Disbanded in 2009
The Dells stopped touring in 2009 after more than 50 years together.
The essence
R&B group The Dells' founder Verne Allison dies at 90 following a career spanning 50+ years and multiple chart hits.
