The Story and Music of The Earls

The Earls were one of the most recognizable white doo-wop vocal groups of the early 1960s. Known for their signature hit “Remember Then,” the group originated from the vibrant street-corner singing culture of The Bronx, New York. Their music blended classic doo-wop harmonies with a touch of streetwise charm, earning them a lasting legacy on the oldies circuit.

Though their time on the charts was brief, The Earls never truly faded away. Led by Larry Chance, the group adapted, evolved, and remained active for decades. Their influence helped shape the sound of New York vocal harmony in the early rock era.

Attribute	Details
Group Name	The Earls
Origin	The Bronx, New York
Formation Year	1961
Founding Members	Larry Chance, Bob Del Din, Eddie Harder, Larry Palombo, John Wray
Genres	Doo-wop, Vocal Harmony, Rock and Roll
Breakout Hit	“Remember Then” (1963)
Key Label	Old Town Records
Notable Albums	Live!, Earl Change, Today
Honors	Bronx Walk of Fame (2008), Doo-Wop Hall of Fame
Current Members	Larry Chance, Bobby Tribuzio, Bob Coleman

Formation and Early Days

The Earls began as a group of friends who sang on Bronx street corners and in subway stations. Originally calling themselves The Hi-Hatters, they performed at local clubs like the Tecumseh Social Club. The group’s founding lineup included:

• Larry Chance (born Larry Figueiredo, October 19, 1940, Philadelphia, PA)

• Bob Del Din

• Eddie Harder

• Larry Palombo

• John Wray

Larry Chance moved from Philadelphia to the Bronx in 1957 and quickly became immersed in the city’s street harmony scene. Sadly, Larry Palombo passed away in a military skydiving accident in 1959.

The Rise to Fame

In 1961, the group released their first single “Life Is But a Dream” backed with “First Love” on Rome Records. The song received local attention and led to appearances on American Bandstand and shows hosted by New York DJ Murray the K.

In 1962, The Earls signed with Old Town Records, a respected New York label known for R&B and doo-wop. Working with producer Stan Vincent, they released “Remember Then”, which became their biggest hit.

Chart Success

• “Remember Then” peaked at #24 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1963.

• Its catchy hook and nostalgic lyrics made it a fan favorite and a staple of doo-wop revival shows.

Other Recordings

Though none of their later singles matched the success of “Remember Then,” The Earls released a string of songs that kept them in the spotlight:

• “Never” (1963)

• “Eyes” / “Look My Way”

• “I Believe” – a heartfelt ballad

• “Life Is But a Dream” – re-released with renewed attention

• “It’s You,” “My Heart’s Desire,” “Ask Anybody,” and “LaVerne”

Chance briefly left the group to pursue a solo career, releasing “Let Them Talk.” However, he soon returned, and The Earls reformed with a new lineup including Bob Morico and Ronnie Calabrese. This version of the group began performing with instruments and adapted their style to changing times.

The 1970s and Disco Era

During the 1970s, The Earls remained active on the oldies circuit and adapted their sound to the evolving music scene. They recorded a disco version of The Velvets’ “Tonight (Could Be the Night),” showcasing their willingness to experiment.

They also released singles like:

• “If I Could Do It Over”

• “Papa”

• “It’s Been a Long Time Coming”

• “In My Lonely Room”

Although they no longer topped the charts, they maintained a strong following and appeared in nostalgic concert lineups across the country.

A Bronx Tale and Continued Recognition

In the 1980s, The Earls experienced another revival. In 1983, the group included:

• Larry Chance

• Ronnie Calabrese

• Colon Rello

• Bobby Tribuzio

• Tony Obert

They released the album Larry Chance and the Earls – Today.

In 1989, they gained further attention by contributing music to the original stage version of A Bronx Tale. Their song “Streets of the Bronx” became associated with the play’s setting and theme.

Around this time, the lineup changed again, bringing in:

• Bob Coleman

• Art Loria (formerly of The Belmonts)

• T.J. Barbella

They released albums including:

• Larry Chance and the Earls (Live!)

• Earl Change

• The single “Elvis: He’s Alive”, which received a BMI Award of Recognition

Recent Years and Honors

By the 1990s and into the 2000s, The Earls continued to perform with a stable lineup including:

• Larry Chance

• Bobby Tribuzio

• Bob Coleman

They became a regular feature at doo-wop shows, festivals, and PBS specials celebrating vocal harmony music. In 2008, they were honored with a spot on the Bronx Walk of Fame, recognizing their contribution to the borough’s musical legacy.

Art Loria, who had spent eight years with the group, passed away on October 23, 2010. He co-wrote “He’s Alive,” which later appeared on Larry Chance’s country album Larry Chance Sings Country.

Legacy and Influence

The Earls helped define the doo-wop revival sound of the 1960s. Their harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and Bronx roots made them relatable and beloved. Although they had only one Top 40 hit, their influence stretched far beyond the charts.

They’ve received numerous honors over the years, including:

• Induction into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame

• Recognition by the Doo-Wop Hall of Fame

Their music continues to appear in:

• Films

• TV shows

• Commercials

While the article erroneously credits them with “Get a Job,” that hit belongs to The Silhouettes. However, “Remember Then” truly became their timeless anthem—symbolizing nostalgia, youth, and simpler times.

Essential Songs by The Earls

Here are a few of their standout tracks: