Originally known as the Metronomes. The group was formed by classmates from Frederick Douglass High School – Leon ‘Larry’ Harrison (lead), Greg Carroll (2nd tenor), Bert Palmer (tenor), Maurice Hicks (bass), and William Duffy (baritone).
In 1950 the group signed with Savoy Records. Their first record was as backup for recording artist Little Esther titled “Just Can’t Get Free” (Savoy 750). Hicks and Duffy soon left and were replaced with Billy Carter (bass), and Vernon Palmer (baritone). The pioneering R&B group became known as the Four Buddies and released some classic R&B records through the early ‘50s. Their lone hit was the 1951 recording “I Will Wait.”
Palmer was later replaced with Joseph Walker and then Alvin Bowen. Guitarist Tommy Smith was also a member.
The original group split up in 1953. Carroll later joined the Orioles.
Lead vocalist Harrison continued with the Four Buddies name forming a new group that consisted of Luther Dixon (2nd tenor), Roger Wainwright (baritone), and Danny Ferguson (bass). This lineup recorded on Glory Records. They later reunited with Maurice Hicks and recorded as the Barons on Decca.
D.C.’s Van McCoy wrote and produced material for a group called the Four Buddies on Imperial Records. The record is listed below although author has not yet confirmed if this group is related.
1950 Savoy 769 I Will Wait / Just to See You Smile Again
1951 Savoy 779 Don’t Leave Me Now / Sweet Slumber
1951 Savoy 789 My Summer’s Gone / Why at A Time Like This?
1951 Savoy 817 Heart and Soul / Sin
1951 Savoy 823 Simply Say Goodbye / Window Eyes
1952 Savoy 845 You’re Part of Me / Story Blues
1952 Savoy 866 What’s The Matter with Me / Sweet Tooth for My Baby
1953 Savoy 888 Ooh-Ow / My Mother’s Eyes
1954 Glory 230 I Stole Your Heart / I Waited
1964 Imperial 66018 Just Enough of Your Love / I Want to Be the Boy You Love
