The Drapels

The Drapels -- Mary and Johnny Frierson (siblings), Marianne Brittenum, and Wilbur Mondie -- had two releases on Stax Records. Johnny Frierson, Brittenum, and Mondie were the oldest (in their late teens), while Mary was about 15. Only Johnny had any experience; he played guitar and had sung and toured with gospel groups on weekends and during summer vacations. They all schooled at Klondike and Manassa High in North Memphis. Before Stax, the Drapels never performed anywhere, not even the local talent shows. Mondie and Johnny formed the group to make some money and saw recording...