Curtis Lee, born October 28, 1939 in Yuma, Arizona, was an American singer-songwriter best remembered for his 1961 pop hit “Pretty Little Angel Eyes,” produced by the legendary Phil Spector. Though his time in the spotlight was brief, Lee’s music captured the charm and innocence of early 1960s rock and doo-wop.
With a career that spanned only a few years before he transitioned to a successful business life, Curtis Lee’s story reflects the excitement—and volatility—of the early rock ‘n’ roll era.
Early Beginnings
Curtis Lee showed musical promise from a young age. While still a teenager, he began recording for small, independent labels. His earliest single, “Pure Love,” was released in 1959 on Hollywood’s Warrior label after he relocated from Arizona to the West Coast.
In 1960, Lee released “I Never Knew What Love Could Do” backed with “Gotta Have You” on the Hot label. The songs leaned toward the smooth, crooning style popularized by artists like Ricky Nelson. Although these early records didn’t make a national impact, they demonstrated Lee’s potential.
Breakthrough in New York
Lee’s big break came when he caught the attention of Ray Peterson, best known for hits like “Tell Laura I Love Her” and “Corinna, Corinna.” Peterson, who had just launched his own Dunes Records label, invited Lee to New York to record some demos.
In New York, Lee partnered with friend and fellow songwriter Tommy Boyce. Their songwriting collaboration produced several songs, but it wasn’t until Lee teamed up with producer Phil Spector that things took off.
Success with “Pretty Little Angel Eyes”
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Initially, Lee’s first few singles for Dunes Records failed to chart. However, when Phil Spector took over production duties, everything changed.
At a recording session at Mira Sound Studios in late 1960, Lee presented four Boyce-Lee compositions. Spector, unimpressed by Lee’s somewhat thin and scratchy voice, decided to boost the recording by enlisting The Halos, a New York vocal group known for their soon-to-be hit “Nag.”
The Halos’ vibrant, doo-wop-infused backing vocals brought “Pretty Little Angel Eyes” to life. Their infectious harmonies, combined with Spector’s production, helped the song catch fire.
Released in mid-1961, “Pretty Little Angel Eyes” became a hit:
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#7 on the Billboard Hot 100
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#47 on the UK Singles Chart
The song’s sweet, upbeat feel captured the doo-wop revival happening at the time and made Lee a pop sensation, albeit briefly.
Follow-Up and Final Charting Single
Following the success of “Pretty Little Angel Eyes,” Lee released “Under the Moon of Love,” another Boyce-Lee composition. This time, the sound leaned more toward the party atmosphere style popularized by Gary U.S. Bonds rather than pure doo-wop.
Though it didn’t match the success of its predecessor, “Under the Moon of Love” still charted respectably, reaching:
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#46 on the Billboard Hot 100
Unfortunately, it would be Lee’s last appearance on the national charts.
Career Decline and Exit from the Music Business
After 1961, Lee’s commercial success dwindled. As Phil Spector left Dunes Records to start Philles Records, Lee continued releasing singles, but none captured the magic of his early hits.
In the mid-1960s, Lee attempted a shift toward “blue-eyed soul,” recording for labels like Mira and Rojac. Despite his efforts, he couldn’t reignite his career.
By 1970, Lee officially left the music industry. He returned to his hometown of Yuma, Arizona, and began working alongside his father in the custom home construction business, eventually becoming a successful builder.
Legacy and Later Recognition
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While his national fame was brief, Curtis Lee’s music found new life overseas. In 1976, British band Showaddywaddy covered “Under the Moon of Love,” taking it all the way to #1 on the UK Singles Chart.
Showaddywaddy also revived two other Curtis Lee songs:
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“Pretty Little Angel Eyes” (#5 UK, 1978)
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“A Night At Daddy Gee’s” (#39 UK, 1979)
Through these covers, Lee’s music enjoyed a second life, particularly among British audiences nostalgic for early American rock and roll.
Final Years and Passing
After stepping away from the music industry in the early 1970s, Curtis Lee returned to his roots in Yuma, Arizona. There, he shifted his focus from performing to building a new life. Teaming up with his father, who also worked in construction, Lee found great success as a custom home builder. The skills, dedication, and work ethic he had shown in his music career helped him thrive in his new profession.
Lee rarely sought the spotlight during his later years, preferring a quieter, more private life surrounded by family and close friends. Though he no longer pursued fame, he remained proud of his musical achievements, particularly the lasting popularity of “Pretty Little Angel Eyes” and “Under the Moon of Love.”
He continued to live in Yuma for the rest of his life, staying connected to the community where he had grown up. In his final years, Lee occasionally shared memories of his time in the music industry, reflecting fondly on his experiences recording, touring, and working alongside legends like Phil Spector and Tommy Boyce.
Sadly, Curtis Lee was diagnosed with cancer. After battling the illness, he passed away on January 8, 2015, at the age of 75. His death marked the end of a life that, while not spent entirely under the bright lights, was filled with creativity, hard work, and resilience.
Final Thoughts
Curtis Lee’s brief but bright musical career captured the youthful energy of the early 1960s pop era. Songs like “Pretty Little Angel Eyes” remain beloved by fans of oldies and early rock and roll, keeping his legacy alive.
Though he eventually left the music industry behind, Curtis Lee’s contributions—enhanced by partnerships with figures like Tommy Boyce and Phil Spector—secure his place in the rich tapestry of rock and pop history.
His career is a reminder that even a few unforgettable songs can leave a lasting mark on music lovers across generations.