The Penguins' 1954 single "Earth Angel" became a foundational doo-wop track, notable for its early crossover appeal. The song's enduring popularity cemented its place in early rock and roll history.
- "Earth Angel" was the first record by a rhythm and blues group to become a number-one hit on the Billboard Top 100 chart. The single reached number one on the R&B chart and number eight on the pop chart. It was recorded at Joe Bihari's studio in Los Angeles.
- The song was written by Jesse Belvin, Gaynel Hodge, and Theodore Williams Jr. It was originally released on the small doo-wop label Dootone Records before being re-released by Mercury Records.
- The Penguins' "Earth Angel" was featured in the 1955 film "The Lieutenant Wore Skirts." The song has since been covered by numerous artists and featured in many films and television shows.
The Penguins were a West Coast doo-wop group formed in Los Angeles in 1953. They are best known for their only major hit, "Earth Angel".
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