Executives at Stax Records sliced Wendy Rene (born Mary Frierson) from the Drapels, who released two singles before the separation. Stax employee/artist/songwriter Deannie Parker created the catchy name. A month after Stax issued the final Drapels' single, they issued "After Laughter Comes Tears" (August 1964) and credited it solely to Wendy Rene, though the Drapels recorded the song as a unit. The diss prompted Wilbur Mondie to leave for college, and Rene's brother Johnny Frierson and Marianne Brittenum (the other members) to have second thoughts. (AllMusic) Despite the back story (possibly undeservedly) Obscure. File under: Memphis Voices.
Discography: 1964 After Laughter / What Will Tomorrow Bring After Laughter Comes Tears / She's Moving Away
Bar-B-Q / Young And Foolish
1965 Give You What I Got / Reap What You Sow
In the music library: The Complete Stax / Volt Soul Singles: 1959-1968: After Laughter (Comes Tears); Bar B-Q ; Give You What I Got
Links: Wikipedia AllMusic Discogs 45cat Stax Records.free.fr Ponderosa Stomp