The "5" Royales

The "5" Royales were a groundbreaking R&B group from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, who helped bridge the gap between gospel, doo-wop, and early rock and soul music in the 1950s. Originally formed as a gospel group called the Royal Sons Quintet, they transitioned to secular music and found success with hits like “Baby Don’t Do It,” “Dedicated to the One I Love,” and “Think”—a song later made famous by James Brown. Their blend of gospel-inspired vocal harmonies and raw, bluesy guitar work made them influential figures in the evolution of soul and rock ‘n’ roll.

One of the group’s standout members, guitarist and songwriter Lowman Pauling, was especially influential—his innovative guitar playing and songwriting drew admiration from legends like Steve Cropper and Eric Clapton. Though not always household names, The "5" Royales left a lasting mark on music history, and their work was recognized with their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015. Their sound was ahead of its time, and their contributions continue to be rediscovered and celebrated by music fans and historians today.

Genres

Doo-wop

Northern Soul

Roots Rock

Pop

R&b

Rock

Soul

Jazz

Blues

Funk

Gospel

Related Artists

Sam Cooke

The Drifters

The Platters

Little Richard

Jackie Wilson

The Coasters

Otis Redding

Ray Charles

Chuck Berry

Bo Diddley

The Clovers

Marvin Gaye

Latest Release

The Rockin' 5 Royales

The "5" Royales

Album - 12 Tracks - Released August 2, 2024