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The Chordettes were an American female vocal quartet renowned for their close harmony singing style, bridging barbershop and early pop music, famous for hits like "Mr. Sandman" and "Lollipop".Formed in 1946 in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, The Chordettes initially focused on barbershop harmony. They gained national fame after winning Arthur Godfrey's Talent Scouts radio show in 1949. Signed to Columbia Records and later Cadence Records under Archie Bleyer, they achieved major chart success in the 1950s with their distinctive clean-cut vocal sound. The group underwent several lineup changes throughout its active years, finally disbanding in the early 1960s. Their music remains emblematic of the era's pop vocal group style.

• The founding members (Janet Ertel, Carol Buschmann, Dorothy Schwartz, and Jinny Osborn) met at Sheboygan's Wisconsin State Conservatory of Music.
• Their win on Arthur Godfrey's Talent Scouts in 1949 led to regular appearances on his show and a recording contract.
• Producer Archie Bleyer, who signed them to Cadence, later married group member Janet Ertel.
• Their signature hits "Mr. Sandman" (1954) and "Lollipop" (1958) both reached No. 1 on the Billboard charts, becoming defining songs of the 1950s.
• The group underwent numerous personnel changes; Lynn Evans and Margie Needham were among later members replacing original singers.
• While known for upbeat pop, they also recorded novelty songs and covers like "Born to Be With You" and "Eddie My Love".
• Their clean-cut image and harmonies contrasted with the emerging rock and roll scene but secured them lasting popularity.
• The original group disbanded around 1961, though subsequent groups have performed under the name.