Verne Allison Dies at 90, Founding Member of The Dells Remembered

Last Updated on 3 hours ago by Vijay Kumar

Verne Allison, a founding member and longtime second-tenor vocalist of the legendary R&B group The Dells, has died at the age of 90. Allison’s death was reported on October 7, 2026. SoulTracks reported his passing while remembering his decades-long contribution to the influential vocal group.

Quez Gaines wrote on Facebook, “I feel like everyday we lose another legend or icon. Late last night we lost the legendary Verne Allison of The Dells
The Dells were the blueprint for so many vocal groups that came after them. Breaking the standards, creating history, and setting records; The Dells did it all
Even tho The Dells retired in 2008, it was always a pleasure to see Mr. Verne Allison whenever we visited the Chicago area
I’m gonna miss you Mr. Allison and the wisdom you’ve bestowed on me and countless others
Take your rest good sir”

Born on June 22, 1936, in Chicago, Illinois, Allison became part of The Dells during the group’s earliest years. At the time of his death, he was widely recognized as the last surviving original member of the group. The U.S. Congressional Record had previously honored Allison in 2017 as the last surviving member of The Dells.

Verne Allison was one of the original members of The Dells, a vocal group formed in 1952 in Harvey, Illinois, by young singers who attended Thornton Township High School. The group initially performed under the name The El-Rays before becoming known as The Dells.

Allison served primarily as the group’s second tenor and background vocalist. The Dells went on to become one of the longest-running and most influential vocal groups in R&B history.

The group scored major hits including “Oh, What a Night” and “Stay in My Corner.” Between 1956 and 1992, The Dells recorded 46 R&B hits, demonstrating their remarkable longevity in the music industry.

The Dells were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2004, recognizing their major contribution to American popular music. Allison remained associated with the group for decades, performing with The Dells through their later years.

Allison’s passing marks another major loss from the classic Dells lineup. Other prominent members, including Marvin Junior and Charles “Chuck” Barksdale, died in 2013 and 2019 respectively.