Biography of Mickey & Sylvia

The duo of vocalist Mickey Baker and vocalist Sylvia Vanderpool had a number one R&B hit with "Love Is Strange" (number 11 pop) in 1956, still among the most endearing duo numbers in rock history. They continued recording together into the early '60s, landing another Top Ten R&B hit on Vik with "There Oughta Be a Law" in 1957. Baker was one of rock and R&B's great session guitarists, performing on songs recorded for Savoy, Atlantic, King, Aladdin, and several others. Sylvia Vanderpool first recorded with Hot Lips Page for Columbia as "Little Sylvia" in 1950. She resurfaced solo in 1973, recording as Sylvia. She was also later owner of Sugar Hill Records, one of the earliest labels to chronicle the rap revolution. As Sylvia, she had a number one R&B and number three pop hit in 1973, "Pillow Talk," and recorded duets with Ralfi Pagan and the Moments. She married Joe Robinson, owner of All Platinum/Vibration, and recorded for both companies, as well as Sugar Hill into the '80s. Their son Joe was leader of The West Street Mob. ~ Ron Wynn