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Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular MusicA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZBARRY, Len(b Leonard Borrisoff, 12 June '42, Philadelphia PA) Soul singer whose hits matched a pleasant voice with memorable ditties of the period. He began with Boss-Tones (minor hit 'Mope-Itty Mop' '58), then his high tenor equipped him to follow in Philly teen-idol trad.; bigger hits with the Dovells: 'Bristol Stomp' no. 2 USA on Parkway label '61, followed by similar dance-craze numbers 'Do The New Continental', 'Bristol Twistin' Annie', 'Hully Gully Baby' (all top 40 '62), 'You Can't Sit Down' (no. 3 '63). Solo career brought three major hits: '1--2--3' (no. 2 USA, 3 UK '65, prod. by Leon Huff), 'Like A Baby' (no. 27 USA, 10 UK '66), 'Somewhere' (no. 26 USA). Left Decca for RCA, toned down James Brown-styled stage act as cabaret beckoned '70s. |