The Platters are one of the most iconic and influential vocal groups in the history of popular music. With their smooth harmonies, elegant style, and captivating performances, they captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world. Since their formation in the early 1950s, The Platters have produced an extensive repertoire of timeless classics, many of which have become staples of the American songbook. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best The Platters songs of all time, based on their popularity, impact, and enduring appeal. From romantic ballads to lively dance numbers, The Platters’ music has touched the hearts and souls of generations of music lovers, and continues to be celebrated and enjoyed to this day. Whether you’re a long-time fan of The Platters or a newcomer to their music, this list is sure to offer a glimpse into the magic and artistry of one of the greatest vocal groups of all time. So sit back, relax, and let’s take a trip down memory lane with the top 10 best The Platters songs of all time.
1. Only You (And You Alone)
“Only You (And You Alone)” is a classic doo-wop love song performed by the American vocal group, The Platters. The song was written by Buck Ram, the group’s manager, and was released in 1955. It features lead vocals by Tony Williams, who sings with a smooth and soulful tone, backed up by the beautiful harmonies of the other members of the group. The song has become one of the most iconic love songs of all time, with its simple yet powerful lyrics that express the deep love and devotion one has for their partner. The gentle piano and the soft strings in the background add to the romantic atmosphere of the song. “Only You” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but The Platters’ original version remains the most beloved and timeless.
2. The Great Pretender
“The Great Pretender” is a soulful ballad by The Platters, released in 1955. The song was written by Buck Ram, the group’s manager, and was inspired by the lead vocalist, Tony Williams, who was struggling with the pressure of being a public figure. The song’s lyrics express the feeling of pretending to be happy and confident in front of others while feeling lonely and sad inside. The Platters’ performance of the song is haunting and emotional, with Williams’ powerful and soulful vocals carrying the weight of the lyrics. The song is characterized by its slow and melancholic tempo, with the soft background vocals and the gentle piano accompaniment adding to the somber mood of the song. “The Great Pretender” became one of The Platters’ biggest hits, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1956. The song’s timeless message of the struggle to keep up appearances and the loneliness of fame has resonated with audiences for generations.
3. You’ve Got The Magic Touch
“You’ve Got The Magic Touch” is a classic love song by The Platters, released in 1956. The song features lead vocals by Tony Williams, backed up by the smooth harmonies of the other members of the group. The song’s lyrics express the power of love and how it can make someone feel like they have a magical touch. The Platters’ performance is characterized by its upbeat tempo and catchy melody, with the saxophone solo adding to the lively atmosphere of the song. “You’ve Got The Magic Touch” became one of The Platters’ biggest hits, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1956. The song’s timeless message of the power of love has resonated with audiences for generations.
4. My Prayer
“My Prayer” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad by The Platters, released in 1956. The song features lead vocals by Tony Williams, backed up by the group’s signature harmonies. The song’s lyrics express a deep and sincere prayer for the one you love, asking for their happiness and safety. The Platters’ performance of the song is characterized by its slow and melancholic tempo, with the soft strings and gentle piano adding to the somber mood of the song. Williams’ powerful and soulful vocals carry the weight of the lyrics, conveying the sincerity and depth of the prayer. “My Prayer” became one of The Platters’ most popular songs, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B chart and number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1956. The song’s timeless message of love and devotion has made it a classic that continues to be loved by audiences to this day.
5. You’ll Never Never Know
“You’ll Never Never Know” is a heartbreaking ballad by The Platters, released in 1956. The song features lead vocals by Tony Williams, backed up by the group’s signature harmonies. The song’s lyrics express the pain and sadness of a lost love, and the regret of not realizing how much you loved someone until it’s too late. The Platters’ performance of the song is characterized by its slow and melancholic tempo, with the soft strings and gentle piano adding to the somber mood of the song. Williams’ powerful and soulful vocals convey the emotion and regret of the lyrics, making the song a poignant and heart-wrenching experience for the listener. “You’ll Never Never Know” became one of The Platters’ most beloved songs, reaching number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1956. The song’s timeless message of lost love and regret has resonated with audiences for generations.
6. Twilight Time
“Twilight Time” is a classic love song by The Platters, released in 1958. The song features lead vocals by Tony Williams, backed up by the smooth harmonies of the other members of the group. The song’s lyrics express the magic and romance of twilight, and the special moments shared with a loved one during that time. The Platters’ performance of the song is characterized by its dreamy and romantic atmosphere, with the soft strings and gentle piano adding to the ethereal mood of the song. “Twilight Time” became one of The Platters’ biggest hits, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1958. The song’s timeless message of the beauty and magic of love has made it a classic that continues to be loved by audiences to this day.
7. Smoke Gets in Your Eyes
“Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” is a beautiful and melancholic ballad by The Platters, released in 1958. The song features lead vocals by Tony Williams, backed up by the group’s signature harmonies. The song’s lyrics express the pain and sadness of lost love, and the memories that linger on after it’s gone. The Platters’ performance of the song is characterized by its slow and mournful tempo, with the soft strings and gentle piano adding to the somber mood of the song. Williams’ powerful and soulful vocals convey the emotion and heartbreak of the lyrics, making the song a deeply moving experience for the listener. “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” became one of The Platters’ most popular songs, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1959. The song’s timeless message of lost love and the pain of memory has resonated with audiences for generations.
8. Enchanted
“Enchanted” is a romantic and dreamy love song by The Platters, released in 1960. The song features lead vocals by Tony Williams, backed up by the group’s signature harmonies. The song’s lyrics express the magical feeling of falling in love, and the enchantment that comes with it. The Platters’ performance of the song is characterized by its dreamy and romantic atmosphere, with the soft strings and gentle piano adding to the ethereal mood of the song. Williams’ powerful and soulful vocals convey the emotion and passion of the lyrics, making the song a deeply romantic experience for the listener. “Enchanted” became one of The Platters’ most beloved songs, reaching number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1960. The song’s timeless message of the magic and enchantment of love has made it a classic that continues to be loved by audiences to this day.
9. Harbor Lights
“Harbor Lights” is a beautiful and romantic song by The Platters, released in 1960. The song features lead vocals by Tony Williams, backed up by the group’s signature harmonies. The song’s lyrics express the longing for a lost love and the comfort of the peaceful harbor lights. The Platters’ performance of the song is characterized by its gentle and soothing atmosphere, with the soft strings and gentle piano adding to the tranquil mood of the song. Williams’ powerful and soulful vocals convey the emotion and yearning of the lyrics, making the song a deeply moving experience for the listener. “Harbor Lights” became one of The Platters’ most popular songs, reaching number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1960. The song’s timeless message of lost love and the comfort of familiar places has resonated with audiences for generations.
10. Ebb Tide
“Ebb Tide” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad by The Platters, released in 1958. The song features lead vocals by Tony Williams, backed up by the group’s signature harmonies. The song’s lyrics express the ebb and flow of a relationship, like the tides of the ocean. The Platters’ performance of the song is characterized by its slow and mournful tempo, with the soft strings and gentle piano adding to the melancholic mood of the song. Williams’ powerful and soulful vocals convey the emotion and heartbreak of the lyrics, making the song a deeply moving experience for the listener. “Ebb Tide” became one of The Platters’ most popular songs, reaching number 56 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1958. The song’s timeless message of the ebb and flow of love has resonated with audiences for generations, making it a classic that continues to be loved by audiences to this day.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
