The Merry Macs
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Merry Macs were an American close-harmony pop music quartet active from the 1920s till the 1960s and best known for the hits “Mairzy Doats,” “Praise the Lord and Pass the Ammunition,” and "Sentimental Journey."
Formed to play proms in Minneapolis, Minnesota, they were discovered by Eddie Dunsteder. After performing as the Mystery Trio and the Personality Boys, in 1930 they added a female lead singer Cheri McKay and changed their name to the Merry Macs. The original lineup was:
- Ted McMichael: baritone
- Joe McMichael: tenor
- Judd McMichael: tenor
- Cheri McKay: melody
In 1936 they appeared on several national radio programs, and Cheri was replaced by Helen Carroll.
Their 1938 appearance in Love Thy Neighbor was the first close harmony act in a film. That year they signed with Decca Records and recorded “Pop Goes the Weasel.”
In 1939 Mary Lou Cook replaced Helen Carol. Marjory Garland replaced Cook in 1941 and remained with the group for 22 years.
[edit] Awards & Recognition
The Merry Macs were inducted into The Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2003.
