Jay And The Americans - Cara-Mia

Jay and the Americans were an American pop and rock vocal group that enjoyed a string of hit records during the 1960s. Formed in New York, the group became known for polished harmonies, dramatic arrangements, and a style that blended pop, rock and roll, and vocal-group influences. The group originally featured lead singer Jay Traynor, who sang on their first major hit, "She Cried," in 1962. After Traynor left, David Blatt joined the group and adopted the stage name Jay Black. With Black's powerful and distinctive lead voice, Jay and the Americans achieved their greatest commercial success. Their best-known recordings include "Come a Little Bit Closer," "Cara Mia," "Only in America," "Let's Lock the Door (And Throw Away the Key)," and "This Magic Moment." "Come a Little Bit Closer," released in 1964, became one of their signature songs and remains a popular oldies favorite. Jay Black's soaring vocals were especially prominent on "Cara Mia," helping establish the group's recognizable sound. Jay and the Americans remained successful through much of the 1960s, even as popular music changed dramatically during the British Invasion and psychedelic era. The group eventually disbanded in the 1970s but later reunited in various forms. Their recordings continue to receive airplay on oldies stations and appear frequently on collections of classic 1960s pop music.