Song #93 - "Easier Said Than Done" - The Essex

#1 for weeks of July 6 and 13th, 1963. 

     Here's another uncommon act to top the charts, a group comprised entirely of US marines. Even more uncommon is that this is a self-contained group with no outside writers or singers. All four members, including vocalist Anita Humes, were previously stationed overseas in Japan. After returning to the states, the group released "Easier Said Than Done" as their first single and it actually went as high as #1. But did it deserve to chart that high?

     Well, I can certainly say the song is catchy. It has a persistent beat to it which was apparently based on the rhythmic patterns of a computing machine on their base. The overall feel of the music and vocals reminds me of The Exciters' "Tell Him". Both are mostly minimalist recordings which feature the backing vocalists often singing rhythmically to enhance the beat of the song. Perhaps I'm right about this connection because The Essex sing "Tell Him" quite prominently in "Easier Said Than Done". 

     Despite the group's origins, there is nothing militaristic or warlike about this song, (Unlike a certain early 1966 hit that I'll unfortunately have to get to later). It's just a simple love song with some strong vocals accompanying it. Regardless, the song is definitely more poppy than other R&B hits of the era, and doesn't sound as long lasting as something by say, Motown or Stax.  

     "Easier Said Than Done", turned out to be The Essex's only smash hit as all subsequent recordings were gradually lower on the charts. This of course makes the group a bit of a one hit wonder, which seems to be a common occurrence on the charts this particular year. Still, I give the group credit for managing to strike gold on their first attempts. 

Final Verdict - "Easier Said Than Done", though not a knockout classic or a song which will change your life after hearing it, is still a nicely crafted R&B pop song. I'd certainly recommend giving it a listen. 

                  Coming Up Next - "Surf City" by Jan And Dean. 

                 Until Next Time - I'm Doc...er...Commander Rock.