Sha Na Na
Sha Na Na is an American rock and roll group that gained fame for their nostalgic approach to the genre.
Sha Na Na is an American rock and roll group that gained fame for their nostalgic approach to the genre, specializing in covers of early rock and roll hits while donning flamboyant 1950s-era greaser attire. Their act was a blend of music and comedy, evoking the early days of rock 'n' roll with high energy and a sense of humor. The group played a significant role in popularizing the nostalgia for the 1950s, paving the way for the revival of interest in the era's culture and music.
Formation and Early Years
Sha Na Na formed at Columbia University in 1969 by a group of undergraduates. The original lineup was large and somewhat fluid, often including a dozen or more members participating in their performances. The name "Sha Na Na" came from a part of the syllables in the doo-wop hit "Get a Job" by the Silhouettes.
One of their earliest and most notable appearances was at the Woodstock Festival in 1969, where they performed just before Jimi Hendrix. Despite being relatively unknown at the time, their energetic performance and unique style—counter to the prevailing hippie culture—garnered significant attention.
Television Show and Mainstream Success
Sha Na Na's national fame was significantly boosted by their syndicated television show, which aired from 1977 to 1981. The show combined comedy skits with performances of rock and roll hits from the 1950s and early 1960s, featuring guest appearances by various musical acts and celebrities. The television show played a crucial role in introducing 1950s rock and roll to a new generation.
Influence and Contributions
Beyond their performances, Sha Na Na's influence extended into popular culture, contributing to the 1950s nostalgia wave that swept through America in the 1970s and 1980s. They played a part in the revival of interest in 1950s music and fashion, influencing other forms of media and entertainment, including movies and musicals. Notably, they appeared in the film "Grease" (1978), performing at the high school dance and further cementing their association with the '50s era.
Members
The lineup of Sha Na Na has changed considerably over the years. Some of the original and early members included:
- Donny York - Vocals
- Rob Leonard - Vocals
- Alan Cooper - Vocals
- Frederick "Dennis" Greene - Vocals (deceased)
- Henry Gross - Guitar, Vocals
- Scott Powell - Vocals
- Richard "Ritchie" Joffe - Vocals
- Joe Witkin - Piano
- Elliot "Gino" Cahn - Guitar
- Bruce Clarke - Guitar
- John "Jocko" Marcellino - Drums, Vocals
This list is not exhaustive, as the band has had many members come and go throughout its history. The constant turnover and large ensemble were part of what made Sha Na Na distinctive, allowing them to cover a wide range of parts and harmonies in their renditions of classic rock and roll songs.
Legacy
Today, Sha Na Na is remembered for their role in the preservation and celebration of 1950s rock and roll music. They were a bridge between the original era of rock and roll and later generations, providing entertainment that was both nostalgic and novel. Through their performances, television show, and appearances in film, Sha Na Na contributed to keeping the spirit of the '50s alive for new audiences, long after the decade had passed.