The Marvelettes were one of the first successful acts signed to Motown Records, helping to shape the legendary Motown Sound and paving the way for future girl groups.
The Marvelettes formed in Inkster, Mich. in 1960, and initially consisted of five members: Gladys Horton, Katherine Anderson, Georgeanna Tillman, Juanita Cowart and Georgia Dobbins. Wanda Young replaced Dobbins prior to recording their 1961 debut single "Please Mr. Postman." The record showcased the Marvelettes' signature blend of tight harmonies and infectious melodies, and rocketed to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 - the first Motown release to achieve the feat.
The Marvelettes never returned to the top of the charts, although the group remained a fixture on radio thanks to singles including "Playboy," "Beechwood 4-5789" and "Too Many Fish in the Sea." Smokey Robinson wrote and produced their final Top Ten pop hit, 1965's "Don't Mess with Bill," but as rival Motown acts like the Supremes and Martha and the Vandellas continued to grow in popularity, the Marvelettes' fortunes declined, and the group splintered.
