The Cadillacs

The Cadillacs were an American rock-and-roll and doo-wop group from Harlem, New York; active from 1953 to 1962. The group was noted for their 1955 hit "Speedo", which was instrumental in attracting Caucasian audiences to African American

The Cadillacs were an American rock-and-roll and doo-wop group from Harlem, New York; active from 1953 to 1962. The group was noted for their 1955 hit "Speedo", which was instrumental in attracting Caucasian audiences to African American rock-and-roll performers.

The group came together as The Carnations in 1953 with members Earl Carroll (lead vocalist), Bobby Phillips, Lavern Drake (bass vocalist), and Gus Willingham. As the group moved into the recording studios, James "Poppa" Clark was added as a fifth member, and the name "The Cadillacs" was given to them. The groups first recording came in July of 1954, with Josie Records #765, featuring Gloria and Wonder Why.