[citation needed] In 1958, while still in elementary school, Santiglia met childhood friends Denise Ferri and Arleen Lanzotti.

At the suggestion of a teacher, the three girls performed in their school's talent show to much acclaim, and formed the all-girl group, The Delicates.

Black and White Thunderbird became a significant hit on the East Coast, which afforded The Delicates a guest spot on American Bandstand on March 8, 1960.

After their hit, The Angels frequently worked as background singers in the New York area, and Santiglia and her earlier Delicates bandmate Denise Ferri, together with solo artist (Dahlia) Bernadette Carroll, sang backup on Lou Christie's "Lightnin' Strikes."

[citation needed] In the early 1970s, Santiglia was the lead vocalist for Dusk, a girl group formed by Bell Records producers Hank Medress of The Tokens and Dave Appell to expand upon their successful collaboration with Tony Orlando and Dawn.