Mary Weiss, the lead singer of 1960s pop group The Shangri-Las, has sadly passed away at the age of 75. Miriam Linna, founder of Weiss’s label, Norton Records, announced the news on Sunday, January 21, revealing that Weiss died on Friday in Palm Springs, California. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Mary Weiss was not only an icon but also a hero and heroine to multiple generations. Her talent and influence resonated with young men and women of all ages. The Shangri-Las, the band she fronted, were one of the most underrated bands of all time. Their unique sound combined R&B influences from groups like The Ronettes with powerful emotions that struck a chord with teenage audiences. Their songs have continued to be covered by artists such as Aerosmith, ABBA, Blondie, and Amy Winehouse.
The Shangri-Las were pioneers in the music industry, particularly as an all-female group. They paved the way for future bands and became a significant influence on the punk scene, inspiring the likes of the Ramones and the New York Dolls. Hailing from the Queens borough of New York City, the band consisted of two pairs of sisters: Mary Weiss and her sister Elizabeth “Betty” Weiss, as well as twins Marguerite “Marge” Ganser and Mary Ann Ganser. They started performing together as teenagers, captivating audiences at school dances and teen hops.
After being signed to Kama Sutra Productions by producer Artie Ripp, the Shangri-Las achieved massive success with their tough, working-class image and songs filled with the drama of teenage dreams and heartbreak. Their music dominated the radio waves in the mid-1960s, with their biggest hit, “Leader of the Pack,” reaching number one in 1965. The song tells the tragic love story of a young girl who falls in love with a boy “from the wrong side of town” and later dies in a motorcycle accident. It captured the spirit of teenage rebellion and became an enduring classic.
Unfortunately, the Shangri-Las’ success was short-lived, and the band disbanded in 1968 due to legal issues. After the breakup, Mary Weiss moved to San Francisco and stepped away from the music industry. She found work in an architectural firm and it wasn’t until four decades later that she returned to recording new material. In 2007, she made her solo debut with the album “Dangerous Game,” which captured the spirit and sound of the Shangri-Las from a more mature perspective.
The Shangri-Las left behind a remarkable legacy. Their hits like “Leader of the Pack” and “Remember (Walking in the Sand)” continue to be cherished by fans and are considered timeless classics of 1960s pop. Their influence can still be felt today, as their music has been embraced by new generations through covers and even viral TikTok trends.
Mary Weiss will be remembered as a talented and influential artist who left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her contribution to the world of music, both as the lead singer of The Shangri-Las and as a solo artist, will be cherished by fans for years to come.
Rest in peace, Mary Weiss, 1948-2024..
