I am very sorry to report the passing of Richard Barrett, the legendary singer-songwriter-producer who was responsible for literally hundreds of classic vocal group harmony sounds from the 1950s and 1960s. The original lead singer of The Valentines, Barrett was among the most creative and talented individualsof the era, and was instrumental in the careers of the many talented artists that were signed to GeorgeGoldner's plethora of successful labels including the Chantels, Dubs, Teenagers, Little Anthony and the Imperials, the Flamingos, Cleftones, and others.
He served as a producer, A&R director, manager, and successful songwriter well into the 1970s, working with artists including Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes and the Three Degrees. Richard died early this morning of prostate cancer at age 70. He passed away peacefully with his family by his bedside.
My thanks to Wayne Cosford and Wayne Baptista for passing on the sad news to me.
Michael
