Christine Vitale became interested in vocal groups of the 1950s when
she discovered the Doo-Wop Shop on WCBS FM in the early '80s, way before
broadband internet.
Innovations played a key role in the evolution of music distribution and
radio broadcasting. Hungry for greater diversity and deeper insight
into the roots of this music, she began to read everything she could
find on it, developing and cultivating, and refining her taste.
WAYS IN WHICH SHE DEVELOPED IT
At about this time she discovered, became an active volunteer member,
and by 1988, an employee of, the still-strong United In Group Harmony
Association (UGHA), the unique nonprofit organization founded in 1976,
by its President, Ronnie Italiano (Ronnie I.), dedicated to the
preservation, exposure and education of rhythm & blues vocal group
music from the 1940s, 1950s and early 1960s.
For years, under the tutelage of UGHA President Ronnie I., Christine
continued to study this music. She began to realize the multiple
perspectives with which one could view the Phenomenon of this largely
urban musical subculture, not only because of its diverse styles in
harmony and overall sound, but also how the music as a whole related to
the larger part of society in which it experienced its fashionable
prime, and noticing its tremendous influence on musical styles that
followed it. Christine began to teach seminars about the history of
r&b/doo-wop vocal group music to a variety of audiences: adults,
young adolescents, teenagers and to striving acappella groups who wanted
to capture the sound and essence of the era.
RADIO EXPERIENCE
Christine served as co-host with Ronnie I for a combined five years
(1989-1994) on UGHA's educational trademark radio program, "Ronnie I's
R&B Party" on WNYE 91.5 FM public radio, and on commercial radio
WNWK 105.9 FM, hosting the "Ronnie I Just For U" program.
HOW HER MUSICAL INTEREST BEGAN
