Arlene Smith, the lead singer of the pioneering 1950s girl group the Chantels, dies at age 84. Multiple reports describe her as the group’s frontwoman and note her role as a co-writer of the classic doo-wop song “Maybe.” Sources also credit the Chantels with helping open doors for Black female artists during the late 1950s era of American popular music. After her years performing, Smith shifts to a career in music education, according to the reports, continuing her involvement with music beyond the spotlight. News of her death prompts tributes that focus on her contributions to the group and her influence on the broader music landscape. The articles do not provide additional details about the circumstances of her death. Overall accounts emphasize her status as a key figure in the Chantels’ legacy and her later work in education.