Mary Weiss, Lead Singer of the Shangri-Las, Dies at 75

PALM SPRINGS (AP) — Mary Weiss, the lead singer of the 1960s pop group the Shangri-Las, passed away at the age of 75. Miriam Linna, founder of Weiss’ label, Norton Records, confirmed her death on Sunday. Weiss died in Palm Springs, California on Friday, though the cause of death remains unknown. Rolling Stone was the first to report her passing.

Remembering Mary Weiss and the Shangri-Las

Formed in the borough of Queens in New York City, the Shangri-Las consisted of two pairs of sisters: Mary Weiss and Elizabeth “Betty” Weiss, along with twins Marguerite “Marge” Ganser and Mary Ann Ganser. They started performing at school dances and teen hops during their teenage years.

Under the guidance of producer Artie Ripp, the Shangri-Las achieved great success as a girl group in the mid-1960s. Their tough, working-class image and emotionally charged songs about teen dreams and heartbreak captivated the airwaves. The group took their name from a restaurant in Queens.

The Hits and Legacy of the Shangri-Las

Their first major hit, “Remember (Walking in the Sand),” released in 1964 under Red Bird Records, reached the top 5 on the Billboard charts. Weiss was just 15 years old at the time. The song, which was later covered by Aerosmith, was written by the renowned pop songwriter-producer George “Shadow” Morton.

Morton played a crucial role in shaping the Shangri-Las’ sound, blending Ronettes-style R&B with intense teenage emotions. Their biggest hit, “Leader of the Pack,” co-written by Morton, became the top Billboard single of 1965. The song featured Weiss singing:

“My.