5 Royales

Rock historian Ed Ward concludes his profile of the early rhythm and blues band the 5 Royales. They were known for their raucous live shows and their prominent lead guitar lines.

In the first of a two-part profile, Fresh Air's rock historian looks back at the 5 Royales. They started off as a mediocre gospel group from North Carolina before evolving into a distinctive rhythm and blues vocal ensemble signed to Apollo Records.