5 Little-Known Facts About Little Anthony

Little Anthony, born Jerome Harris, is an iconic figure in the realm of rhythm and blues. While many fans know him for his hits with The Imperials, there are a host of fascinating details about his life and career that aren't widely known. Here’s a deep dive into five little-known facts about this legendary artist:

The Musical Beginnings and Early Influences

Little Anthony’s journey into music started at a very young age. Here are some lesser-known facts about his musical roots:

• Influence of the Neighborhood: Born in Fort Hamilton, Brooklyn, in 1941, Little Anthony was surrounded by music from an early age. The neighborhood was a melting pot of musical genres, and he was influenced by the doo-wop harmonies heard on street corners.

• His First Group: Before The Imperials, Anthony was part of a doo-wop group called The Chesters. This early experience helped him hone his vocal skills, learning harmonies and group dynamics which would later define his signature sound.

• Unexpected Stage Name: The moniker "Little Anthony" came from his bandmates who noticed his small stature and vocal agility. They thought it suited him perfectly as he had the "little voice with the big range."

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: Little Anthony's nickname reflects his unique stage presence and voice, a testament to the importance of finding a distinctive persona in the music industry.</p>

The Formation of Little Anthony and The Imperials

Little Anthony’s career took off with The Imperials, but here’s how it all started:

• High School Harmony: The Imperials were formed when Anthony was still in high school. The original members, including him, would sing at school assemblies and local talent shows.

• Not the Original Lead: Initially, Clarence Collins was the lead singer. However, Little Anthony’s voice quickly distinguished him, and the group began to coalesce around his dynamic range.

• Naming the Group: Originally named The Chesters, they became The Imperials when a fan, impressed by their polished performance, said, "They're so good, they're like the Imperial Sound." The name stuck.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: The evolution of the group’s name and lead singer highlights how initial roles can shift, leading to unexpected success.</p>

Little Anthony’s Unique Voice

Anthony's vocal style is unmistakable, with these interesting aspects:

• Three Octaves and Then Some: Little Anthony's range extends beyond three octaves, allowing him to soar from the depths to the heights of human vocal expression. This versatility made him stand out in the doo-wop era.

• Inspiration from Nat King Cole: His smooth delivery and rich tone drew inspiration from jazz crooner Nat King Cole, blending R&B with a polished sound that appealed to a broad audience.

• The Falsetto Edge: While famous for his powerful tenor, Little Anthony’s ability to seamlessly switch to falsetto provided an edge, making songs like "Shimmy Shimmy Ko Ko Bop" uniquely his own.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: To truly appreciate Little Anthony's voice, listen to the nuances in his live recordings where his vocal technique truly shines.</p>

Contributions Beyond Music

Little Anthony made significant impacts outside of his recording studio:

• Civil Rights Activism: In the 1960s, Little Anthony was actively involved in the civil rights movement, using his platform to advocate for change. He performed at fundraisers and supported organizations that fought for equal rights.

• Television and Film: Beyond music, Anthony appeared in various TV shows like The Donna Reed Show and movies, showcasing his versatility as an entertainer.

• Philanthropy: He’s been involved in several charitable organizations, including music education programs aimed at helping underprivileged youth find their voice through music.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: Engaging with causes beyond one's immediate profession can enhance an artist's legacy and provide lasting impact.</p>

Career Evolution and Later Life

The career trajectory of Little Anthony and The Imperials wasn't without its challenges and evolutions:

• 1970s Breakup and Reformation: The group disbanded in the early 1970s, and Anthony pursued a solo career before reuniting in 1992, showcasing his commitment to his musical legacy.

• Inducted into the Hall of Fame: In 2009, Little Anthony and The Imperials were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a testament to their enduring influence.

• Performing into Later Life: Even into his 80s, Little Anthony continues to perform, proving that true artists never stop sharing their talent and passion with the world.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: Artists like Little Anthony remind us that music is a lifelong journey, and there’s no age limit on passion or performance.</p>

The story of Little Anthony is rich with music, personal growth, and contributions to society. His lesser-known facts give us a fuller picture of the man behind the hits, encouraging fans to appreciate not only his music but also his life's work. If you're curious about more hidden gems in music history, explore our related tutorials on legendary artists and their untold stories.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: Exploring the lesser-known aspects of artists can deepen your appreciation for their music and provide insights into their creative process.</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What was Little Anthony's first musical group?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Little Anthony was part of a doo-wop group called The Chesters before forming The Imperials.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How did Little Anthony and The Imperials get their name?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>A fan described their performance as "like the Imperial Sound," leading to the group adopting the name The Imperials.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What is unique about Little Anthony's vocal range?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>His range extends beyond three octaves, allowing him to deliver both powerful tenor and smooth falsetto in his performances.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Did Little Anthony contribute to civil rights?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, he was actively involved in the 1960s civil rights movement, performing at fundraisers and supporting related causes.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What has Little Anthony done in his later life?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Even in his 80s, Little Anthony continues to perform and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>