The Platters were an American vocal group formed in 1953, known for their smooth blend of R&B and pop music. They gained fame in the 1950s with hits like "Only You (And You Alone)" and "The Great Pretender." Their unique sound and style helped define the doo-wop genre, making them one of the most successful groups of their time. The group originally consisted of members Tony Williams, David Lynch, Paul Robi, Herb Reed, and Zola Taylor. They were one of the first African American groups to achieve widespread popularity in the mainstream music scene. The Platters' influence continues to be felt in music today.