The Edsels

The Edsels, an American doo-wop group from Campbell, Ohio, were active during the late 1950s and early 1960s. The band, originally named The Essos after the oil company, changed their name to match the new Ford automobile, the Edsel. They recorded over 25 songs and had multiple performances on Dick Clark's American Bandstand. Before signing with a major record label, Capitol Records in 1961, they released several singles including "What Brought Us Together", "Bone Shaker Joe" and "Do You Love Me". Their breakthrough came with the release of "Rama Lama Ding Dong", written by lead singer George "Wydell" Jones Jr. The song was recorded in 1957 but did not gain popularity until 1961, eventually peaking at number 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The Edsels are known almost exclusively for this hit, which became the official goal song of German soccer club VfL Wolfsburg. The group continues to perform today. In addition, James Reynolds performs with his five sons Jeff, Baron, Patrick, Chris and Carlisle as the Reynolds Brothers, releasing an album in 2006 titled The Reynolds Brothers. Notable members who have passed away include George Jones on September 5, 2008, Marshall Sewell on June 5, 2013, Emmett T. Perkins II on February 11, 2014 and Pastor James C. Reynolds on April 11, 2025.