The Exciters

The Exciters are an American pop music group formed in 1961, originating from Queens, New York City. The original members included Brenda Reid, Carolyn Johnson, Lillian Walker, and Sylvia Wilbur, who initially performed as the Masterettes. Their first recording, "Follow the Leader", was released in early 1962. After several lineup changes, including the addition of Herb Rooney, they secured a contract with Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller at United Artists Records. The group's breakthrough came with their hit single "Tell Him" in 1963, which reached number 4 on the U.S. pop chart. The Exciters continued to release notable songs such as "He's Got the Power", "Get Him", and "Blowing Up My Mind". They also recorded "Do Wah Diddy Diddy", later covered by Manfred Mann. The group opened for the Beatles during their first North American tour in 1964, becoming the first black musicians to perform at the Gator Bowl in Jacksonville, Florida. In 1965, they left United Artists and signed with Roulette Records, releasing a remake of "I Want You to Be My Boy". Throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s, they recorded for various labels including Bang, Shout, and RCA. The group disbanded in 1974. Brenda Reid and Herb Rooney later enjoyed success as Brenda & Herb with hits like "Reaching for the Best" (1975) and "Tonight I'm Gonna Make You A Star" (1978). Herb Rooney passed away on February 16, 1991.