Sonny & Cher, an iconic American pop and entertainment duo, captivated audiences in the 1960s and 1970s. Consisting of spouses Sonny Bono and Cher, this dynamic couple commenced their musical journey as R&B backing vocalists for the esteemed record producer Phil Spector.
Their ascent to stardom commenced in 1965 with the release of two chart-topping hits, namely “Baby Don’t Go” and “I Got You Babe.” Subsequently signed by Atco/Atlantic Records, they delivered three compelling studio albums in the late 1960s. Additionally, they contributed to the soundtracks of two films, Good Times and Chastity, although these ventures did not achieve notable success. Nonetheless, Cher showcased her vocal prowess in “Chastity’s Song (Band of Thieves).” After a three-year hiatus, the duo resurfaced in 1972, producing two more albums under the MCA/Kapp Records label.
In the 1970s, Sonny & Cher skillfully established themselves as prominent media figures through their highly regarded television shows: The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour and The Sonny & Cher Show, both of which enjoyed tremendous popularity in the United States. Unfortunately, their professional partnership came to an end in 1975 as a consequence of their divorce. Throughout their decade-long collaboration, Sonny and Cher garnered two Grammy Award nominations and sold an impressive 40 million records worldwide. Their notable achievements led Rolling Stone to rank them No. 18 on the esteemed list of the 20 Greatest Duos of All Time.
Cher, thereafter, embarked on an incredibly successful solo career as a singer and actress, gaining immense acclaim under her first name. Meanwhile, Sonny Bono ventured into politics and was elected as a Republican U.S. Representative from California. In recognition of their remarkable contributions to the entertainment industry, both Sonny and Cher were honored with stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1998, following Sonny’s tragic demise in a skiing accident.
Cherilyn Sarkisian and Salvatore Bono’s initial encounter took place in a Los Angeles coffee shop in November 1962, when Cherilyn was just sixteen years old. Bono, who was eleven years her senior at the time, happened to be employed by record producer Phil Spector at Gold Star Studios in Hollywood. Their connection grew from a deep friendship to a romantic relationship, and it is believed that they entered into a marital union in 1964, although Bono later clarified in his autobiography that it lacked official recognition.
Subsequently, following the birth of their only child, Chaz, they obtained legal wedlock. Initially, Cher embarked on her music career as a session vocalist through Bono’s influence. She contributed backing vocals on several timeless recordings produced by Spector, such as “Be My Baby” by the Ronettes, “You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling” by The Righteous Brothers, and Darlene Love’s “A Fine, Fine Boy.” It is worth noting that in Darlene Love’s rendition, attentive listeners can distinctly discern the presence of Cher and Sonny near the microphone alongside Love, who performed her own supporting vocals.
