Dion and the Belmonts

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Dion and the Belmonts

Dion and the Belmonts were a prominent American vocal quartet from the late 1950s, originating from the Bronx, New York City. The group was formed in 1957 when Dion DiMucci joined the established trio of Angelo D'Aleo, Carlo Mastrangelo, and Fred Milano. The name "the Belmonts" was inspired by Belmont Avenue, where two of the members lived.

The group signed with Laurie Records in early 1958 and achieved their breakthrough with the single "I Wonder Why," which reached No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This success led to their appearance on the nationally televised American Bandstand show. Dion and the Belmonts were known for their doo-wop and rock and roll sound, influenced by urban street corner groups like the Flamingos and the Five Satins.

They followed up with hits like "No One Knows" and "Don't Pity Me," and embarked on major tours, including one with the Coasters, Buddy Holly, and Bobby Darin. Dion and the Belmonts released four studio albums and one live album, with several songs charting on the Billboard Hot 100.

Despite Dion's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989, the Belmonts have not yet been inducted. However, the group was inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2000.