On March 4th, 2008 our President and Founder, Ronnie I,
passed away. He fought a valiant battle against cancer,
but alas it took its toll on him. Those of you who
were present at Meeting/Show #354 witnessed his final
show. Just one day after leaving the hospital from
a week long stay, he managed the strength to get up
and attend what we didn't know then would be his last
UGHA show. That whole week in the hospital he kept
insisting on getting out in time to go and host #354,
for as he stated that night in weak voice, sitting
in a wheelchair, "I haven't missed a show yet."
That was Ronnie I. That was the man who loved UGHA,
the organization he created 31+ years ago to promote
and preserve the music he loved. He was passionate
about "his music" right to the very end
and was so happy to be able to share it with you all.
It was his pleasure to bring you the groups you admired,
the music you enjoyed, and the camaraderie of like
minds and hearts.
The United in Group Harmony Association
was formed by Ronnie Italiano in 1976. UGHA is a non-profit,
tax-exempt organization that is truly dedicated to
the preservation and exposure of authentic vocal group
harmony music (R&B, Pop, Spiritual, Jazz Vocal
and Acappella). Some people know this as 'Doo-Wopp',
but we know it as a rich tradition in American music.
On Saturday night, Dec. 4th 1976,
UGHA meeting/show #1 was held at the American Legion
Hall in East Rutherford, NJ, attended by approximately
100 people, 50 being card members. Our special guests
were 2 veteran acappella groups, Remaining Few
and The Bonaires. As of 2006, we have produced
over 300 meeting-shows, and sponsored a Hall of Fame
program to honor the members' favorite and most revered
performers. For nearly 30 years, UGHA's events and
recordings have provided music lovers the opportunity
to see the groups and hear the music that is rarely
heard today on commercial radio.
Ronnie I has left a void in this
music. A void that will never be filled. It was written
that the day Ronnie I passed away was the day the
music truly died. One thing is for sure is that his
memory will never die. Ronnie I will live on forever
in every song he ever played, in every group who ever
preformed on his stage, and in each one of you who
shall always remember him as the man who brought so
much enjoyment and happiness through this music.
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