The Vocal Group Hall of Fame announced its 2003 inductees Friday, the sixth annual class of its kind.

The 13 inductees are:

   » The Association

   » The Charioteers

   » The Commodores

   » Danny & the Juniors

   » Earth, Wind and Fire

   » The Five Satins

   » The Four Lads

   » The Impressions

   » The Isely Brothers

   » The Merry Macs

   » Peerless Quartet

   » Martha and The Vandellas

   » The Whispers

In addition to the inductees came the announcement of the Pioneers of Musical Style Award, which recognizes vocal groups before 1940 who contributed to the foundations of American vocal harmony. The Charioteers was chosen as the pioneer vocal group.

Sharon native Tony Butala, founder of The Lettermen, announced the inductees. He said a great deal of criteria went into selecting the 13 groups.

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