When you speak of the internationally famous "INK SPOTS", you're really talking about a "household name".
Although there have been several changes and replacements throughout the years, as all of the original members have passed away (The FOUR INK SPOTS originated in Indianapolis, Indiana in 1932), the UNIQUE SOUND which made them famous is still alive, through JIM NABBIE who joined the group in 1945 to replace Bill Kenny.
JIM NABBIE passed away suddenly in September 1992 and has been replaced by GRANT KITCHINGS. Shortly before Jim Nabbie's untimely death, he named GRANT KITCHINGS as his successor as lead tenor. Grant was not immediately available but was able to rejoin the group in February 1995. He was welcomed enthusiastically by the Ink Spots and audiences alike.
The Four Ink Spots have had 86 hit recordings ... many of them million sellers. "IF I DIDN'T CARE" (their "anthem" or the " money song" ) has sold 19,000.000. Some of their other million sellers are:
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My Prayer |
Whispering Grass |
For Sentimental Reasons |
Bless You For Being An Angel |
Maybe |
Java Jive |
I'll Never Smile Again |
Lovely Way To Spend An Evening |
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Marie |
Do I Worry |
To Each His Own |
Don't Get Around Much Anymore |
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We Three |
The Gypsy |
What A Wonderful World |
My Greatest Mistake |
Many of their hits have been made popular again by other artists and entertainers. Many of their recording hits were written exclusively for them. Entertainers have been imitating and impersonating the INK SPOTS and their unique song-stylings for years; Redd Foxx impersonated the INK SPOTS on his TV show "SANFORD AND SON".
The INK SPOTS have made movies including "THE GREAT AMERICAN BROADCAST" and PARDON MY SARONG" with the late Abbott and Costello, and were regular favorites with Jack Benny, first on radio, and then on TV. They have toured in well-known Clubs and Theaters all over the world; performing with musical talents such as Ella Fitzgerald and Cab Calloway as well as with many "BIG BANDS". They are "regulars" on the BIG BAND CRUISES on the MISSISSIPPI QUEEN and the new AMERICAN QUEEN. They appeared as "guest artists" with the Houston Pops, The South Florida Symphony, Gold Coast Symphony, the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra and others. There are very few nostalgia acts and shows today with such elegance and style. Audiences from coast-to-coast and worldwide enjoy and appreciate their talent and professional showmanship ... and consistently give the INK SPOTS "standing ovations".
THE INK SPOTS carry on the great tradition while offering exciting entertainment and music for all types of audiences. THE INK SPOTS are an American Musical Legend that is singing and entertaining better than ever!
The Ink Spots in Branson, MO, with manager Ms. Milli Lilley
and Jim Nabbie who replaced Bill Kenny
with the original members in 1945.
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