Arlene Smith, The Chantels Co-Founder Who Wrote and Sang Hit Song ‘Maybe,’ Dies at 84: Report

Arlene Smith, a pioneering figure in the music industry and co-founder of the renowned girl group The Chantels, has passed away at the age of 84. Her death, attributed to natural causes, occurred in New York City on July 29, as confirmed by her friend Matt Beckoff. Smith’s contributions to the world of music, particularly as a lead vocalist and songwriter, have left an indelible mark on the landscape of popular music.

Born in the Bronx, Smith’s musical path began in the choir at St. Anthony of Padua school. There, she met future group members Sonia Goring Wilson, Renee Minus White, Jackie Landry Jackson, and Lois Harris. Their shared passion for music culminated in the formation of The Chantels, which signed its first record deal in 1957. That same year, the group released their inaugural single, “He’s Gone,” penned by Smith herself during a piano practice session.

The Chantels achieved significant success with their December 1957 release of “Maybe,” a song that would become emblematic of their sound and style. With Smith as the lead vocalist, the track quickly rose to No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “Maybe” sold over a million copies and, in 2004, was ranked 199th on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. Recorded in a church in midtown Manhattan, the song showcased the group’s unique blend of pop and R&B.

Smith reflected on the group’s early days in a 2005 interview, stating, “We were the first ones [to find success as a girl group]. They didn’t know what to do with us.” She highlighted the importance of uniqueness in their sound and appeal, noting the combination of strong lead vocals with beautiful harmonies that set them apart from other acts of the time.

Despite their initial success, The Chantels faced challenges, and after being dropped by their label in 1959, Smith focused on a solo career. Her passion for music led her to attend the prestigious Juilliard School of Music, where she continued to hone her craft. As Smith pursued her education, the remaining members of the group moved forward without her, and Harris also went on to attend college.

In 1973, Smith returned to music, reforming The Chantels with new members, Barbara Murray and Pauline Moore. The refined group was inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2002, a testament to their lasting influence on the genre. The Hall credited Smith with the songwriting talent that contributed significantly to the group’s success during a time when girl groups were few and far between.

While Smith transitioned into teaching in the Bronx, she maintained her musical career, performing with The Chantels and participating in various events. Notably, she appeared in the 1999 PBS special Doo Wop 50, which celebrated the legacy of rhythm and blues music. During the programme, she paid tribute to her late bandmate, Jackie Landry Jackson, dedicating the song “Maybe” to her memory.

Jerry Butler, the host of Doo Wop 50, praised The Chantels for their originality, recognising them as “the first all rhythm and blues female group to sustain a stream of hits.” Their ability to produce a consistent chart presence was remarkable, as was their role in shaping the sound and direction of music for future girl groups.

Arlene Smith’s legacy as a singer, songwriter, and performer transcends her contributions to The Chantels. As one of the early female pioneers in music, her unique vocals and songwriting have inspired countless artists in the decades since. As the music world reflects on her life, Smith will be remembered not only for her iconic hits but also for her role in paving the way for future generations of female musicians.