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The Platters are an American vocal group, originally formed in Los Angeles in 1952, who became one of the most successful doo-wop and R&B groups of the 1950s and early 1960s.Formed by manager Buck Ram, the classic lineup featured Tony Williams (lead tenor), David Lynch (tenor), Paul Robi (baritone), Herb Reed (bass), and Zola Taylor (contralto).They achieved massive crossover success with hits like "Only You (And You Alone)", "The Great Pretender", "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes", and "My Prayer", bridging racial barriers in popular music.Despite lineup changes and a major scandal in 1959, their sophisticated harmonies and polished performances left an indelible mark on popular music, influencing countless artists.

• The group faced a major scandal in 1959 when four members (Williams, Lynch, Robi, and Taylor) were arrested in Cincinnati on drug charges (marijuana and heroin possession) while on tour. Although the charges were eventually dropped or reduced, the incident severely damaged their wholesome image and led to radio boycotts.
• Lead singer Tony Williams possessed an exceptionally high tenor voice, capable of soaring falsetto notes, which became a defining characteristic of their sound.
• Zola Taylor was one of the first prominent female members of a major male vocal group in the rock and roll era.
• Bass singer Herb Reed is the only member to have performed on every original Platters recording and remained involved with various touring lineups until his death in 2012.
• The group's sophisticated arrangements and polished presentation, orchestrated by manager/producer Buck Ram, set them apart from many contemporary R&B and doo-wop groups and helped them achieve mainstream (white) acceptance.
• Legal battles over the right to use "The Platters" name persisted for decades after the original group fragmented, involving numerous former members and managers.