Doo Wop rocks in Valley Stream

Doo wop shoo bop. The Duprees and The Chiclettes performed at Doo Wop Under the Stars II at the Valley Stream Band Shell on July 18.

“We have concert series all summer long,” said Chuck Ristano, supervisor of the recreation department. “It’s our biggest concert — a major concert for the summer season.”

This is the second year of the village has presented the event. Around 1,200 people attended the performance, a boost up from last year’s audience of 900. On top of the performances, community members enjoyed a car show featuring 25 classic and custom cars.

“It was brought back this year by popular demand,” said Mayor Ed Fare. “I think The Chiclettes, and especially, The Duprees, were a big draw.”

The Duprees’ first single was “You Belong to Me,” a cover from Jo Stafford. The song reached the United States’ top ten in 1962. The Duprees incorporated romance, energy and fun into their songs and performances. The Chiclettes represent women artists from different musical backgrounds from the 70s, 80s and 90s. The band focuses on tributing female artists from different eras, using high energy and upbeat tunes in their music, according to their website.

The Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce sponsored the event, along with the Valley Stream Soccer Club and Advantage Toyota of Valley Stream.

The concert is part of the Valley Stream Recreation Department’s Free Summer Concert Series with upcoming performances from Captain Jack, a Billy Joel tribute band; Nassau Pops, which will be performing music from Broadway, television and the movies; Bonjourney, a Bon Jovi and Journey cover band and many more. All concerts begin at 8:00 p.m. at the Band Shell.

“If we continue with the doo wop with such a great response, [next year] it will be Doo Wop Under the Stars III,” Ristano said.