The Doo Wop Sound

Doo Wop was one of the most popular genres of rock & roll and R&B in the early '50s to the early 60's. Doo Wop artists were vocal groups, with each singer in the group taking a different part that interweaves with the other singers. Frequently, the background vocalists sang comical words as rhythm, and the genre's name derives from this trait.

Doo Wop was one of the most popular genres of rock & roll and R&B in the early '50s to the early 60's. Doo Wop artists were vocal groups, with each singer in the group taking a different part that interweaves with the other singers. Frequently, the background vocalists sang comical words as rhythm, and the genre's name derives from this trait.

Most Doo Wop groups started out singing a capella,  performing without instrumental accompaniment. The hit Doo Wop singles inspired countless teenagers to form their own a cappella groups, though many of them never went on to become recording artists. Despite its a cappella origins, few Doo Wop records were made without instrumental backing. Doo Wop faded away in the mid '60s, though its influence has been felt throughout popular music in the decades since.

Doo Wop generally includes the following musical qualities:

• Group harmony
  
• Wide range of vocal parts
• Comical lyrics
• Simple beats
• Minimal instrumentation
• Uncomplicated music and lyrics