The Andrews Sisters

The Andrews Sisters burst onto the scene in 1937 with "To me, you are beautiful." Prior to this recording that brought them national attention, they toured with various bands. By 1940, they were a household name.

LaVerne, the oldest; Maxene and Patty, the youngest brought a harmony the likes of which had never been seen and probably never will again. A masterpiece of contralto, mezzo-soprano and soprano that simply took the world by storm in the late 30's and into the 50's. Still today, their music remains and is imitated by many. Even the great Cristina Aguilera has done one of their tunes.

The Andrews Sisters became the best selling female vocal group in the history of pop music and this record still remains today.

Boogie Woogie and Swing! My daughter and two nieces dressed in Andrews-like Army outfits and did their rendition of Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy at my parent's 50th wedding anniversary before 103 guests. This was the highlight of the night! And, I am sure this sort of compliment to the Andrews Sisters goes on all the time. To your right, however, are the real Andrews Sisters.

This trio of redhead, blond and brunette included LaVerne born in 1911, Maxene born in 1916 and Patty born in 1918. The first born, LaVerne lived to be 55. Second born, Maxene lived to be 79 and the baby, Patty is still living today at the age of 94.

During World War II, the sisters entertained the troops all over Africa and Italy. They also helped Bette Davis and John Garfield found the famous Hollywood Canteen which was a retreat for servicemen. The trio and many great stars would perform there for the military.

The trio broke up in 1951 when Patty went out on her own, but, would reunite in 1956. The act came to an end in 1967 when The oldest sister, LaVerne died of cancer. The two remaining sisters would have a fued in the '70's that would continue until the death of Maxene.

Patty was once married to Marty Melcher who later would marry Doris Day. At age 94, Patty lives in Northridge, California. Her second husband of 60 years died in 2010.

Patty was usually the sister in the middle with the mezzo-soprano voice and would break from the pack with solo's. She is probably the most recognizable of the three for that reason.

The Andrews Sisters would make seventeen movies with three of them joining Abbott and Costello. Their most famous song, "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" was from one of these films, Buck Privates.

They also were featured on most of the truly great tv shows hosted by Ed Sullivan, Milton Berle, Sammy Davis, Jr., Johnny Carson, Perry Como, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and others.

The Andrews Sisters were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 1998.