About Souvenirs
Artist Biography
Los Angeles R&B vocal group the Souvenirs formed in 1954. According to Marv Goldberg's profile in the June 1977 issue of Yesterday's Memories, tenor Alvin Johnson co-founded the act with neighbors Otis (tenor) and Arthur Rabun (bass) upon returning to Southern California after a stint in the military. Johnson soon recruited his own brother Edwin to assume baritone duties, completing the lineup with lead tenor Abraham Watkins. After honing their sound at local clubs and talent showcases, the Souvenirs began shopping for a recording deal. In early 1957 they signed to the local Dooto label, releasing their lone single, "So Long, Daddy." Shortly after its release Watkins resigned from the group, prompting the addition of new lead Dean Heath. A subsequent session for the Ebb label went unreleased, but the Souvenirs forged on until the early '60s before finally splitting. The Johnson brothers enjoyed greater success as songwriters, authoring a series of efforts for the Robins including "Snowball," "Quarter to Twelve," and "Talk, Talk, Talk." ~ Jason Ankeny
Hometown
Los Angeles
Genre
Emo