Which American girl group released the 1962 single “He’s a Rebel”?

The Crystals released the 1962 single “He’s a Rebel.”

Written by Gene Pitney and produced by Phil Spector, “He’s a Rebel” became The Crystals’ first and only US Billboard Hot 100 number-one single. Its lyrics describe a rebellious but faithful young man, matching the dramatic pop style associated with Spector’s productions.

A common mix-up is the song’s vocal performance. Although it was credited to The Crystals, the recording primarily featured Darlene Love and session musicians rather than the group’s usual lineup. The single therefore belongs to The Crystals’ catalog while also being closely linked to Love’s studio work.

The song helped establish the “girl group” sound of the early 1960s, alongside recordings by The Ronettes, The Shirelles and The Chiffons. It was later inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.