Doo wop / soul vocal group Little Anthony and the Imperials was formed in
Brooklyn, New York in 1958. Founded by Clarence Collins, the lead vocalist of
the group was Jerome Anthony ‘Little Anthony’ Gourdine, who lent the group their
name. The group’s original line-up also included Ernest Wright, Gloster ‘Nate’
Rogers, and Tracy Lord. Originally known as The Chesters in 1957, they changed
their name to The Imperials when Little Anthony joined the following year. Their
debut single, “Tears on My Pillow,” was a smash it, climbing to number 4 on
Billboard’s Hot 100 and number 2 on Bi...