Arlene Smith, the legendary lead singer of The Chantels, has passed away at the age of 84. Born on October 5, 1941, in New York City, Smith was a trailblazing figure in the R&B music scene of the 1950s and 60s. Arlene Smith's passing leaves behind a legacy of iconic songs and a pioneering spirit that paved the way for future generations of female R&B vocal groups.
Alongside her bandmates Lois Harris, Sonia Goring, Jackie Landry, and Rene Minus, Smith formed The Chantels in the 1950s. Their harmonies were unlike anything heard before, captivating audiences and earning them a spot on the prestigious American Bandstand.