This is a fascinating bit of low-fi doo-wop, featuring just a guitar and the group's voices. My guess is that it cost about fifty bucks to record.
The Tri-Lads were from Tulsa, Oklahoma; "Cherry Pie" was their only single release. It had local success in some markets, reaching #2 in Toronto, #4 in San Francisco, and #7 in Vancouver.
"Cherry Pie" was originally recorded by Marvin and Johnny in 1954; this is doo-wop with a more traditional R&B feel. Skip and Flip reached #11 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1960 with their version; it has an orchestral backing, which makes it sound like it is from before rock and roll hit the charts.
The Vancouver Pop Music website has an entry on the Tri-Lads and "Cherry Pie".
Created July 20, 2026.