Andrews Sisters

         Professionally discovered in 1932 by Dave Kapp. The Andrew Sisters were not known as dancers , but singers (they did take dance lessons and did dance tho), however they appeared in many popular Swing movies of the day such as "Hollywood Canteen, Follow the Boys" etc. and sang many popular swing songs such as "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy," "Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen" and "Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree." They incorporated swing dance steps/ movements in their routines while on Stage. The Boswell Sisters were a major influence for this trio.

     By 1954 the trio started to break up for solo careers, but reunited in 1956. They were avid swing dancers (reportedly very good at it) and would dance every chance they got (which was not alot-due to the heavy schedule they endured.) They began their careers when still in their teens. They would wind up their career by selling nineteen gold records and almost broke the 100 million copy mark. Joyce de Young replaced Laverne in 1966 due to poor health. West Coast Swing Dancer Ron Andrews is a cousin of this famous group and says they are the ones who started him doing West Coast Swing as a teenager. Check out this fun video clip of them in 'Six Jerks in a Jeep.'

     The Andrews Sisters joined with many singers and musicians over time and had very big successes sing for with Glenn Miller, Danny Kaye, and with Bing Crosby (47 songs). During WWII they (and others) made V-Disc's for the soldiers over seas however the number one recording with the soldiers was the Sisters 'Rum and Coca Cola.'

     They played for years in Las Vegas and put on very entertaining shows. When Laverne fell ill, Joyce DeYoung replaced her in the act, Laverne passed away shortly after. Today they have many Songs, Movies to their credit, some of their songs are even used in Video Games. Now that Patty's gone, these things are all that remain, but what remains will live on forever.... They will truly be "the greatest close harmony group ever".

    So. California dance legend and West Coast Swing dancer Ron Andrews is a first cousin to the Andrews Sisters and has many fun stories he tells. PattyAndrews died in Los Angeles at age 94. Andrews died Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2013, at her home in suburban Northridge of natural causes.