Old Town

Old Town Records was founded in 1949 by Hy Weiss in New York City, initially focusing on rhythm and blues, jazz, and doo-wop. The label gained prominence in the 1950s, becoming known for its innovative approach to recording and marketing. Notable artists associated with Old Town include the Five Satins, famous for their hit "In the Still of the Nite," and the Chords, known for "Sh-Boom." In the 1960s, Old Town expanded its catalog to include pop and rock music, but it struggled to maintain its prominence amid changing musical trends. Despite this, the label's contributions to the doo-wop genre and its early support of African American artists left a lasting impact on the music industry. Old Town Records is remembered for its role in the development of mid-20th-century American music, particularly in the realms of rhythm and blues and vocal harmony groups, influencing future generations of musicians and labels.