For those who are enamored of old love songs, listening to the melodious songs by the world-famous band, The Platters, is a great treat. After all, the band's many sweet-sounding songs have stood the test of time.

Fortunately, their dream will come true at the turn of the year. To commemorate the 10th anniversary of the establishment of Beijing Music Radio, The Platters will perform at Poly Theatre on New Year's Eve.

The Platters' year-end performance is set to steal the hearts of fans in Beijing.

Formed in Los Angeles, The Platters quickly rose to the top after making an initial breakthrough on the music scene.

The original line-up included Tony Williams, David Lynch, Herb Reed and Alex Hodge.

In 1954, Alex Hodge was replaced by Paul Robi and a 15-year-old, Zola Taylor, was also invited to take part in the band. Since then, the band has always consisted of four male and one female singers.

The Platters rocketed to fame with the hit "Only You." This recording marked the start of a successful career.

In 1955, the song "The Great Pretender" topped the R&B best pop song list. In the following several years, the songs "My Prayer," "The Magic Touch," "Twilight Time" and "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes" became chart-toppers too.

The Platters was the first black act to enjoy chart-topping success.

Fronted by Curtis Michael, the current line-up also features Arnold Davis Parker, Ira J Greig, Barry Lewis Gunn and Gretchen Gale.

They have continued the tradition created by their predecessors.

The group has become a household name in the United States. Until now, the Platters have notched 16 gold records with sales of over 80 million copies.

After further improving the melody of the song "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes," which made a splash before, the group cut a disc and captured the hearts of millions with a revamped version.

Through the power of film and TV, the band enjoyed a second wave of success with music used in the hit movie "Ghost."

The singers have toured widely. The band's last performances in Hong Kong in June 1997 and Valentine's Day in 1998 scored full houses at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre and Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre respectively. All the shows won high praise from pop music lovers.

When they perform, the group tells its audience that the songs are precious gifts from the United States to people around the world.

On New Year's Eve, their "special gifts" will include "Only You," "Unchained Melody," "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes," "My Prayer," "The Great Pretender," and "Harbour Lights."

Time/date: 10:40 pm, December 31

Location: Poly Theatre

For tickets, contact the box office at 8421-6764, 8421-6765, 5102-6846

Tickets: 500 yuan, 800 yuan, 1,200 yuan and 1,500 yuan VIP.

(Beijing Weekend December 23, 2002)