Roots of Grant Green

Little Anthony and the Imperials is an American rhythm and blues, doo-wop, and soul vocal group from New York City founded by Clarence Collins in the 1950s and named in part for its lead singer, Jerome Anthony "Little Anthony" Gourdine, who was noted for his high-pitched voice. In addition to Collins and Gourdine, the original Imperials included Ernest Wright, Glouster "Nate" Rogers, and Tracy Lord, the last two of whom were subsequently replaced by Sammy Strain.