Highly influential vocal group, the Orioles was formed in 1948 in Baltimore. Along with the Ravens, they were pioneers of R&B vocal harmony, launching their career in 1948 with the chart-topping R&B ballad "It’s Too Soon to Know.” Written by Deborah Chessler, the group’s manager, she went on to pen many of their subsequent hits, including "Tell Me So" and "Crying in the Chapel." The group struggled as the hits began to dry up, and in early 1955 Johnny Reed quit to work with the Ink Spots. Lead singer Sonny Til was unable to revive former fortunes, though he continued to use the Orioles name until his death in December 1981. The group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995.