Ink Spots, The

Vocal harmony group originated in Indianapolis in early 1930’s.

West Baltimorean Bill Kenny joined the group in 1936 as lead vocalist as they scored many hits including “If I Didn’t Care,” and “The Gypsy.” Baltimore musician Roy McCoy aka ‘Tanglefoot’ (trumpet) backed the group for a time. Originator Deek Watson split off in 1944 due to some turmoil in the group, allegedly forming a new Ink Spots, then later the Brown Dots. Founding member Charlie Fuqua also had an Ink Spots group during the ‘50s and ‘60s that for a period of time included Watson.

Sources contradict the history of the group and there were several groups that used the name over the years. The purpose of this article is not to document the history of the Ink Spots, but to recognize the contributions of Baltimoreans to the group.

After Watson left, Bill Kenny remained as the leader and lead vocalist. He later brought in his brother Herb Kenny (vocals see bio).

Bill also embarked on a solo career while apparently still an active member of his Ink Spots through 1953. Jim Nabbie, who would later acquire the rights to the name Ink Spots, joined the group in the mid-‘40s as they continued popularity releasing hits such as “I Don’t Want to Set the World on Fire,” “To Each His Own,” “My Prayer,” and many others.

For a while there were two legitimate Ink Spots groups actively performing. Nabbie’s version, having none of the original members, included Baltimorean Gregory Carroll (Four Buddies, Orioles). In 1974 they released the album “An Evening with Jim Nabbie’s Ink Spots” (Legend 52074). Sonny Hatchett (Sonny & the Dukes) joined this group in 1980. Nabbie passed away in 1992. Later Baltimore members include Morris Dow (baritone vocals, guitar), and Herman ‘Junior’ Denby (Swallows) joined in 2001 replacing Grant Kitchings… The modern version of this Ink Spots also included D.C. native Harold Winley (ex-Clovers)…

Based mainly on their innovation and enormous popularity during the ‘30s and ‘40s, The Ink Spots have been honored with induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (1989), and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame…