Shirley Goodman facts for kids

Shirley Mae Goodman (born June 19, 1936 – died July 5, 2005) was an American singer. She was famous for her Rhythm and Blues (R&B) music. Shirley was best known as one half of the duo Shirley and Lee in the 1950s. Later, in the 1970s, she had a big comeback with the disco hit song "Shame, Shame, Shame". This song was released under the name Shirley and Company.

Shirley Goodman's Music Journey

Shirley Goodman was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA. She started singing in church choirs. In 1950, she made her first music recording, called a demo, with some friends. A few months later, her unique singing voice caught the attention of Eddie Messner. He owned Aladdin Records, a record company.

Forming Shirley & Lee

Eddie Messner found Shirley and paired her with a school friend, Leonard Lee (born June 29, 1935 – died October 23, 1976). They formed a singing duo called 'Shirley & Lee'. In 1952, they released their first song, a "single," called "I’m Gone." A "single" is a song released on its own, not as part of an album.

This song was produced by Cosimo Matassa, a record producer who helps create songs. "I'm Gone" became a big hit, reaching number 2 on the Billboard R&B music charts. Shirley's high voice (soprano) and Leonard's deep voice (baritone) sounded very different together. This mix of voices was special and influenced later music styles like ska and reggae.

The Sweethearts of the Blues

In their early songs, Shirley & Lee pretended to be sweethearts. People even called them "the Sweethearts of the Blues." But in 1956, they changed their style. They recorded "Let the Good Times Roll." This song became their biggest hit.

"Let the Good Times Roll" reached number 1 on the US R&B music chart. It also made it to number 20 on the main Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song sold over one million copies! This earned them a "gold disc," which is an award for selling so many records. Shirley Goodman's voice was very unique, mixing flat and sharp notes, which made the song special.

Later Years and Solo Work

After "Let the Good Times Roll," they had another song called "I Feel Good" that also made the charts. However, their later songs were not as successful. Shirley and Leonard decided to split up in 1963. Leonard tried to make some solo records, but they didn't become popular.

In the mid-1960s, Shirley Goodman moved to California. There, she worked as a "session singer." A session singer is someone who sings in the background or helps other artists record their songs. She sang on records for famous musicians like Sonny and Cher and Dr. John. She also sang "backing vocals" on The Rolling Stones' album Exile On Main Street. After this, she took a short break from music.

The Big Comeback: Shirley & Company

On October 15, 1971, Shirley & Lee reunited for one special show. It was at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Many other famous rock and roll artists from that time also performed.

Later, in 1974, Shirley was contacted by her friend Sylvia Robinson. Sylvia was a co-owner of a record label called All Platinum. Sylvia convinced Shirley to sing the main part on a dance song called "Shame, Shame, Shame."

This song was released under the name Shirley & Company. It became a huge international pop music hit! It reached number 12 on the Billboard chart. This song was released just before disco music became very popular. After making a few more recordings and going on tours, Shirley Goodman retired from music in the late 1970s. She moved back to New Orleans.

Life After Music

In 1994, Shirley Goodman had a stroke. A stroke is a serious medical event that affects the brain. After her stroke, she moved to California. She passed away on July 5, 2005, in Los Angeles. Shirley was buried in New Orleans. She is survived by her son.

Chart Successes

Here are some of the songs that Shirley Goodman was part of that appeared on music charts.

Shirley & Lee

Shirley and Company