Wendy Rene

Executives at Stax Records split Wendy Rene (born Mary Frierson) from the Drapels. A month after Stax issued the final Drapels' single, they issued "After Laughter Comes Tears" (August 1964) and credited it solely to Rene. The heartfelt ballad became the Memphis native's biggest hit. More sessions followed, but Stax didn't release much of what Rene did. Nothing hit with any impact after her solo debut and Stax gave up on her. Ace Records has released You Thrill My Soul, which contains previously unissued recordings. In 2012, Light in the Attic issued After Laughter Comes Tears: Complete Stax & Volt Singles + Rarities 1964-1965. ~ Andrew Hamilton