Emile Ford & The Checkmates were a prominent group in the late 1950s and early 1960s, celebrated for their significant influence on the British music scene, particularly in the realm of doo-wop and rock and roll. Led by the talented musician Emile Ford, born Emile Sweetman in Castries, Saint Lucia, on October 16, 1937, the band gained notoriety for their smooth vocal harmonies and engaging performances. Emile Ford, whose full name was Michael Emile Telford Miller, was not just the frontman; he was also a pioneering sound engineer, noted for developing new techniques for the live and recorded sound production of his era.

Their career was catapulted to stardom with the release of their most famous hit, "What Do You Want to Make Those Eyes At Me For?" which stormed the charts in 1959 and became a number one hit in the UK. The band's distinct blend of Ford's charismatic lead vocals and the slick backing of The Checkmates won the hearts of audiences and solidified their place in music history. Throughout their career, they released numerous singles and albums, fostering a nostalgic fondness for the classic doo-wop sound. In later years, the group's legacy was celebrated through the remastered compilation of "The Golden Years," which brought their timeless music to new and old fans alike, capturing the essence of an era when Ford and his band reigned supreme in the British pop music scene.

Genres

Merseybeat

Rock-and-roll

Latest Release

What Do You Want to Make Those Eyes at Me For (Remastered)

Emile Ford & The Checkmates

Ep - 4 Tracks - Released April 29, 2024