Founded: 2019
Origin: Chicago, USA
Members: Evelyn Carter, Marlene Carter, Ruby Dawson, Helen Dawson
Family: Evelyn and Marlene are sisters; Ruby and Helen are cousins
Musical Style: Four-part vocal harmonies inspired by the classic female groups of the 1950s and early 1960s, blending Jive, Boogie, Swing and Rock&Roll with a modern touch.
Background and Band History
The Jive Belles were formed in 2019 in Chicago when sisters Evelyn and Marlene Carter joined their cousins Ruby and Helen Dawson for a spontaneous performance at a retro festival. Their tight four-part harmonies and authentic vintage sound immediately captivated the audience.
What began as a one-time appearance soon developed into a dedicated vocal ensemble. The Jive Belles interpret Jive, Boogie, Swing and Rock&Roll with an authentic yet fresh character. Their unmistakable sound is rooted in family harmony, precise arrangements and their love for classic music of the 50s and 60s.
Their shows combine nostalgia with expressive energy, making them regular guests at retro clubs, dance halls and vintage festivals.
Role: Lead Alto, Musical Director
Date of Birth: April 11, 1994
Age: years
Place of Birth: Chicago, USA
Eye Color: Dark brown
Hair Color: Black, classic 1950s waves
Build: Slim, expressive stage presence
Biography
Evelyn Carter is the musical director of The Jive Belles. Raised on jazz, doo-wop and early swing records, she developed an exceptional sense for harmony and vintage vocal styling. Her rich alto voice forms the foundation of the group’s four-part arrangements.
She arranges most of the group’s repertoire and is known for her precision and her finely tuned ear for classic tonal colors.
Role: Soprano
Date of Birth: September 5, 1996
Age: years
Place of Birth: Chicago, USA
Eye Color: Green-brown
Hair Color: Chestnut brown
Build: Slim, lively stage energy
Biography
Marlene Carter has a clear and bright soprano voice that shines particularly well in classic boogie and jive arrangements. Her vibrant stage personality often makes her the energetic focus of live performances.
Together with her sister Evelyn she developed a natural harmonic blend that became one of the signature elements of The Jive Belles’ sound.
Role: Mezzo-Soprano
Date of Birth: January 23, 1995
Age: years
Place of Birth: Milwaukee, USA
Eye Color: Blue-green
Hair Color: Auburn
Build: Elegant, composed
Biography
Ruby Dawson grew up in a family of barbershop singers, which helped her develop a naturally warm mid-range register. Her mezzo-soprano voice provides the essential bridge between the high and low harmonies of the ensemble.
She is admired for her calm elegance and her affinity for classic 1950s fashion.
Role: Alto
Date of Birth: June 18, 1993
Age: years
Place of Birth: Milwaukee, USA
Eye Color: Brown
Hair Color: Black
Build: Classic, calm stage elegance
Biography
Helen Dawson provides the deep harmonic foundation of the group. Her warm alto tone anchors the lower registers and gives the ensemble vocal stability.
She is the most introverted member of the quartet, yet on stage she reveals a resonant voice that enriches the group’s vintage sound.
