60's indiana band szene

Beat Generation - Ft. Wayne

2012-01-23T20:51:00.005-06:00

Trying to get the stage lights to flash with the beat gave rise to the "Beat Generation"! Didn't work, but hey, they tried. Mostly high school kids from Ft. Wayne, circa 1967.

Mike Rontfrow - organ
John Gall - bass
Don Squires - Rhythm guitar
Steve Leakey - Drums
Tom Romine - lead guitar

The Beat Generation favored songs that have a lot of harmony, favorite groups include the Who and Indy's Sounds Unlimited.
The Beat Generation had plans for a 45 and were in "negotiations"
with Tiara (Fewdle Lords) and Motown labels. Don't think that bore any fruit.

Give them a hand for livin' the dream in the 60's!

Sir Winston and the Commons

2012-01-04T19:48:00.021-06:00

Happy New Year 2012!
John Gillis introduces Sir Winston and the Commons, Vogue Theater Reunion Show 2004:

"Sir Winston and the Commons originally formed in 1963. The members of the band consisted of Don Basore from Northwest High School, Joe Stout and Gary Crawford from Ben Davis High School and John Medvescek and Ron Matelic from the old Cathedral High School. Don played bass, Gary and Ron played guitars, Joe played sax and John was the drummer. The band’s first name was The Illusions, but was soon changed to The Suspicions. Their repertoire at that time consisted mainly of instrumental surf music and other classics such as Honky Tonk and Harlem Nocturne. Their first shows were at parties, VFW dances, and promotions for Paul Harvey Ford and Dog & Suds drive in. With the advent of the British invasion in 1964, the band, like everyone else, assimilated the new British sound. The surf sound and instrumentals were eventually dropped in favor of the current chart toppers of the day, and Herb Crawford from Speedway High School replaced Gary Crawford on guitar. A new booking agent who wanted to capitalize on the ever growing English musical dominance suggested that the band’s name be changed to Sir Winston and the Commons. For several years, they played a number of college fraternity dances and were fortunate enough to have all the local teen venues like Party Time, The Flame Club, the House of Sound, Westlake Beach Club, Tiger a’GoGo, the Scene, the Indiana Roof Ballroom, and the Whiteland barn, to perform for the Indianapolis teen crowd.

They enjoyed local success and even chartered buses with friends and fans to several dates at The Cellar, a club in the Chicago area. They opened national shows for the McCoys, Beach Boys and Byrds and as they began to write and perform more original material, they recorded 2 singles “We’re Gonna Love” and “Not the Spirit of India”.

Through the remaining 1960’s, the band member count diminished from 5 to 4 and eventually to 3. The group finally discontinued performing as Sir Winston in 1970."

Just about covers all the bases for the band. They were known as the wild guys with costumes and Joe with the cape. Herb was Gary's younger brother, so this is one of the bands with the least amount of personnel changes over the years.

Sir Winston and the Commons recorded some great tunes and released 2 45's!
We're Gonna Love / Come Back Again - Soma 1454 (1966)
Not the Spirit of India / One Last Chance - Nauseating Butterfly 2207 (1967)

Also recorded during the Soma sessions were two unreleased songs

All Of The Time & No Sorrow - I'll only put up clips as these are for sale on the Norton records website. Hell, if I put up all the songs, who will buy the records?

Of course we previously covered Sir Winston and the Commons involvement with Rojay Gotee.

I've had more requests for this band than any other so far, so get the comments and additions in gear, and let them know they are remembered!

Cardboard Bachs

2011-12-16T19:43:00.003-06:00

Chances are that if you frequented "Le Scene" in the Fountain Square area of Indianapolis, around 1967, the Cardboard Bachs were your scene.

Maybe you remember this band painted van tooling around town.
Seems as perhaps something other than coffee and cigarettes may have been involved!

The Cardboard Bachs were one of many bands in the "Dino Enterprises" stable.

Rick Durrett - Seated at Harpsicord
Jack (Sean) Jones - Kneeling

Sadly, Sean passed way earlier this year. Blog friend Laura (Stout) Harmon opined that he was the best lead player in town.

Rick - here in the splendor that was the late 60's, went on to record with the Olivers, and joined Coven by 1968. He's still rockin' and played with many great bands since.

Thanks Rick for the great photos! And Laura for the great list of bands that I need to hunt down!

PJ and The Gentry - Beaver Records - Hammond

2011-11-16T21:13:00.003-06:00

Totally unknown group, with little to go on, that's the challenge we love! "PJ" and The Gentry had a couple of 45's on the short-lived Beaver Records out of Hammond, Indiana.

The Wounded Camel
Sing and Dance

This 45 has writer credits of Hebel - Farag. It also states a "James B. Hebel production". Their other 45 has writer credit to H. Farag III.

Nice song production, it may be as early as 1962, but I am just going by the matrix designation - SS2538-01a. Anyone have any idea on the members of this group?

Randy Benjamin - Vincennes

2011-11-12T20:07:00.003-06:00

Randy Benjamin is quite the enigma. From Vincennes, and Lincoln High School ('65), Randy managed to have his first 45 released with involvement of Mike Curb. Mike seemed to be golden on everything, except this time.

From Randy's website: "I was a songwriter and singer long before I became an author. I received my first guitar at the age of 4. It was bigger than I was! My first recording contract was with Mike Curb back in the early 60s in Hollywood, CA. I’ve also been an artist/writer for Mercury and Warner Brothers records. I had a top 40 record in Europe (Look At You Now) on Mercury in the late 60s. I owned a recording studio in Nashville, TN in the mid-70s."

The 45 is most probably recorded with Randy and session men.

Lovin' Man

Old Man

Randy also released a 45 on Mercury "Look at You Now", as far as I know it was released in early 1970.

I've tossed a few e*mails at Randy, but haven't heard anything. Look forward to filling in some blanks! Randy had to have a high school band...........

Kraftsmen - Parti Tyme 1965

2011-11-06T16:59:00.004-06:00

The Kraftsmen (with an extended T, think BeaTles) were together from 1963 to 1966. Picked by Jerry Kunkle of the mighty WIBC powerhouse out of Indianapolis to go on a tri-state tour and open for the "Dick Clark Caravan of Stars".

Tommy Shields - Lead guitar - Lead vocals
Mike Shields - rhythm - vocals
Charlie Lashbrook - bass - vocals
Mike Mull - drums - lead vocals

Looking at the ads, I don't think Parti Tyme lasted more than a few weeks. A photo of the place would be great.......

Riddlers - LaPorte

2011-10-27T19:52:00.001-05:00

The Riddlers:

Dan Malstrom - organ
Steve Kirkman - lead vocal / bass
Carl Roach - guitar
John Barkow - drums

From LaPorte, Indiana, the Riddlers. Other than Steve played with the band for awhile, I don't know much about them.

The ad is from December 1966.

Steve was a founding member of the Bare Facts, and thanks to him we now know the "Instant Happiness / There won't be a next time" 45 is from that band! Very cool!

Dimensions is new to me, but the Swingin' Stingrays are coming soon!

Thanks Steve for the photo!

Pillsberry Flower - Ft. Wayne

2011-10-13T19:52:00.003-05:00

Let's get acquainted with the "Pillsberry Flower". Clever name from the band calling Ft. Wayne home. The members included:

Waldo Bickham - drums
Tom Gibson - lead guitar
Bill Bickham - keyboard/organ
Bruce (Boris) Sack - lead singer
Brad Long - Bass guitar

Vanilla Fudge, Hollies, Young Rascals, and the Bee Gees' filled out the boys favorite tunesmiths. I'd like to say that I've a 45 from the band, but I'm pretty darn sure that they never made it to the recording stage.

Hat's off to being there!

The Creepers - Terre Haute

2011-09-29T19:12:00.005-05:00

The Creepers from Terre Haute!

Willard (Junior) Sollars Jr. - Lead Guitar / songwriter
Frank Hensley - singer / songwriter
William Wood - rhythm guitar
Johnny Ford - drums

The Creepers waxed two great songs on Rene' 502:

Jammin' Granny
Fried Potatoes

Written by Junior and Frank, the 45 has been so in demand that a reissue (unauthorized) is out there in Ebay-land. There is rumored to be two lp's worth of material in the vaults! Woo-Hoo!

I've been blessed with tons of info on the band, but in the interest of fair play, I'll point out some sites with band involvement, and I'm sure Justin will do a complete story on the Creepers. But for now, enjoy the tunes!

Creepers - Facebook
Creepers - MySpace
Creepers - Justin's Blog

Check 'em out and let them know they are remembered! Looking forward to the whole story Justin!

Thanks William for the pics and time on the telephone!

Olivers - last chapter - maybe......

2011-09-11T17:58:00.002-05:00

The Olivers are always one of the most popular groups in the 60's Indiana Band Szene. And this installment must herald good news. Yes friends, it does! The legend of the "lost" album is now officially no longer a legend.

Not only has an acetate* of the album been found, it is in the hands of a historian / collector that hopefully will be able to release it in the near future.

I know, where is the music? If I put it all up here, who will buy the album? Here is a clip of what's in store:

Olivers - Kaleidoscope

For great info and interviews from Jay, Mike, and Rick, check out:

60's Garage Bands

Visit Mike's site and let him know that you support a release!

Last Chapter - how about a live tape? Roger that!

Sons of Sound - Bloomfield

2011-08-29T21:20:00.002-05:00

Today's adventure starts again in Bloomfield, IN., home of Jim Bogans' TAGG (Teen a go-go) Productions. The Sons of Sound hailed from Terre Haute and may have been known as the Checkmates previously.

He's Gonna Ride
So Be It

The "Sons of Sound" played original material, which the one known 45 displays.

Band Members included:
Steve Peters - Drums
Bill Peters - bass
Steve Boardman - rhythm guitar
Doug Mausa - keyboards
Charlie Divincenzo - lead guitar

Steve and Bill went on and joined Goliath, a hard rock band that put out at least one LP in the early seventies "Hot Rocks and Thunder". The rest of the team, your guess is as good as mine!

Mother's Patroitic Apple Pie - Patriotic

2011-08-01T20:09:00.002-05:00

Mother's Patriotic Apple Pie - although it is misspelled as Patroitic on the label. South Bend label, NorG , pronounced N - or - G (energy) no doubt.
I know what I can read on the labels, Dave Anderson and Steve Yeakey credited as being "the pie" and Eugene L. Anderson Jr. , the songwriter and publisher (E.L.A. music BMI). Not much to be sure.
The style screams '64 or early '65, but the zip code on the label almost assures '66 or later.

Wild Vacation
Soul Searching

Wild Vacation has definite surf vibe, but Soul Searching is, well, different.
Enjoy!

Six in the Morning - Elkhart

2011-07-24T23:26:00.004-05:00

Presenting "Six in the Morning" from Elkhart , Indiana. This is one of the reasons I do this. Much information out there is just wrong! I know, I make plenty of mistakes myself. Look at the ad from August - 67, from DETROIT? No wonder I didn't think "Six In the Morning" had the Indiana pedigree.

Imagine my surprise when I received an e*mail from Bill Beaver:

"I was in this band from Elkhart that started as the Noble V in 1966 and became Six in the Morning after adding another member in 1967. We played throughout Indiana and the surrounding states until 1968 when we split up. Around central Indiana we played at Le Scene, Whiteland Barn, West Lake Beach Pavilion and The Jet Set Club. I’d like to see if anyone remembers Six in the Morning from Elkhart."

Members:

Jim Neher - Lead singer
Jim Anderson - Organ/Vocals
Bill Beaver - Bass/Vocals
Al Zavatsky - Rhythm guitar/organ/vocals
Gayle Davis - Lead guitar/vocals
Greg Huffman - drums/vocals

Also in the pic from Feb -68
Bob Ossyra -

The "photo" is from the local (Columbus, IN) paper. Many bands played at the Donner Park Center, literally less than a block from my house!

Phantom Five - South Bend

2011-07-14T20:32:00.004-05:00

The Phantom Five left one 45 and no other evidence of the band exists. Said to have hailed from South Bend, even that is conjecture at this point. Even the writers credits espouse "Phantom Five", with no name to track down.

GRAVEYARD
COOL-IT!

Obviously a custom label and the numbering even defies sleuthing. Said to be from 1966, but the surf sound is dated by that time frame.
Any help here appreciated!!!

Oscar & the Majestics

2011-07-03T16:57:00.007-05:00

Let's start July with a fuzzed-out bang! Presenting for your consideration, and with their contributions:

Oscar & the Majestics

Oscar Hamod - lead guitar - vocals
Bob Wheeler - rhythm guitar -vocals
Vince Jachim - drums
Sam Hamod - bass - vocals

Much like many bands, the members did change occasionally, but Oscar was the driving force, founder, writer of the original tunes, while Sam joined in '63, Bob joined in the late '60's, and that has been the nucleus of the band since.

The legend was that Oscar and Sam played with fretboard covers so the chords would remain secret. I'm ecstatic to say that, yes, it's true, as the photo shows Oscar's cover. Coupled with the explorer that he wielded, it must have been a sight to behold.

From Oscar & Sam:

"In the 1960's Oscar and his brother, Bud, formed the band "Oscar and the Majestics". Soon Oscar's other brother, Sam, joined the band. It wasn't long under Oscar's leadership that their hard rocking sound catapulted them from growing popularity in NW Indiana to the entire Midwest. Eventually Bob joined Oscar and Sam in the band. Uniquely these three original and core members still comprise "Oscar and the Majestics". Starting in the early 60's the band began to record Oscar's original material. Eventually Oscar also chose to put the hard rocking "OTM" driving rock style on a few songs such as "House of the Rising Sun" and "I Can't Explain". Even though their style has been called "garage rock" all the recordings were done at the famous and prestigious Chess Studios, RCA Universal Studios, and Sound Studios in Chicago. These original recordings are sought after and embraced throughout the world. Until now fans had to settle for searching for vintage recordings or purchasing compilation albums for OTM recordings. The good news is that Sundazed Music is releasing (July 26, 2011) an all "Oscar and the Majestics" authentic 60's recordings album (CD/vinyl) titled "No Chance Baby" and a two-sided 7" vinyl. The album and single include well known "Oscar and the Majestics" recordings and some never before released original recordings. Every one of the recordings is special to the band because they had to write, arrange, play, sing, record, and pay for it all in the 60's garage rock era. Here is a list and short description of each song included on the Sundazed Music "Oscar and the Majestics" album.

House of the Rising Sun (1966): Our hard rocking arrangement showcases and demonstrates why we are called one of the original early hard rockers of the 60's garage era. We were looking to the future (futuristic) so we used 1969.

My Girl is Waiting (1964): Oscar wrote this melodic song describing someone who is missing his loved one through no fault of his own. It could be a mistake or injustice that he is in prison or a soldier across the sea far from home.

No Chance Baby (1965): In this song Oscar describes in a relationship one partner may be done and finished. The other person realizes that in life there is "no chance" to get this loved one back. Also in life many times there is just "no chance baby" to get many things back. It is one of our favorite songs and recordings. It is the title of our album. (Vinylfool notes: One of my favorites!)

The other songs on the Oscar and the Majestics "No Chance Baby" album are:

Soul Finger (1966): A hard rocking blue-eyed soul arrangement with lyrics by Oscar. It stole the show on the 2131 album.

Got to Have Your Lovin (1966): This lover's lament is led by a fuzz guitar and hard rocking bass.

Baby Under My Skin (1965): This original is loaded with trash talking and singing lyrics.

I Can't Explain (1966): Our hard rocking version of a great 60's song.

Why-O/Jungle Beat (1964): Acappella singing and a drum beat lead the hands on conga line!

Jackie Jackie (1964): This early Oscar original is based on a true story of justice done.

Come On Willie (1964): A song about a fella who is dumped by his chick and is told "come back Willie"

Top Eliminator (1964): This is a hard rocking instrumental drag racing recording.

Dawn (1964): Oscar liked the chords changes and put them to his rock style guitar work.

Fanny Brown (1964): Oscar tells the story of a girl running all over town and now her boy friend is done with her.

I Feel Good (1965): Features the unforgettable sounds of Oscar's '58 Gibson Explorer guitar.

We would like to thank and recognize the entire Sundazed Music team for doing an outstanding job on the entire Oscar and the Majestics "No Chance Baby" album package. Also, we would like to thank our worldwide fan base for their support and tell them "this is just the beginning, Baby". Now we will let our music speak for itself."

"Oscar and the Majestics" played so many venues that there is not enough room here to list all of them. However they include many universities (Purdue, Indiana University, IUN, Valparaiso U., Northwestern, U. of Chicago, W. Michigan, etc), rocked the Marquette Park Pavilion for 10 yrs., many live concerts including a huge concert at the Hammond Civic Center with Chuck Berry and a Tivoli theater concert with the "Cyrkle", Valparaiso armory following Kiss's attempt to set it on fire, the huge Purdue U. armory, gigs with WLS disc jockeys, Madura's Danceland, Embassy Ballroom, Wells St. (Chicago), Marina Towers (Chicago), major hotels (including the Radison Star hotel), major churches and temples in the mid west, Lake Michigan cruises, etc. While playing in Milwaukee pro-wrestlers "Dick the Bruiser" and "The Crusher" became our fans."

I'm pumped, pre-ordered the vinyl, and I'm waiting for the comments!

Also check out Oscar & the Majestics website, and get the album!

Dignified Five - Columbus - 1967

2011-06-20T20:07:00.004-05:00

The Dignified Five, a group of Central Junior High School students in 1967.

Keith Guthrie - guitar
David Lanham - guitar
Chris Carlson - drums
Jerry Milan - bass
Terry Sullivan - organ

How cool would it be to be on cable TV in 1967. I don't think I knew what cable TV was in 1967!

If you know these kids, tell them to check in and let us know what the szene was like! We always want to know who went on and stayed in the music business, and if there are any recordings out there in the wild. What other bands did happen, or was it one time and out.

Westlake Beach Club Reunion - June 4, 2011

2011-06-01T17:35:00.003-05:00

Saturday marks the 5th annual
"Westlake Beach Club Reunion".

Meet and reminisce with many others who frequented the WBC in the day. The featured bands are the "Time Bandits" and the"Vlasics", both firmly rooted in Indiana 60's.

Many great bands played for the kids (and older kids), such as the Stingrays and Sir Winston and the Commons.

What do you remember? Help me shake the cobwebs off my brain!

WIFE - Lucky 1300 - Indianapolis - Radio

2011-05-23T21:24:00.002-05:00

To a central Indiana kid in the 60's, nothing was mightier than WIFE. They had it all, great DJ's, music, contests, and a signal we could get 40 miles away! AM at it's finest.

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA!

This "jingle" mentions a few of the highlights of Indianapolis circa 1963:
Clowes Hall, Garfield Park, James Whitcomb Riley, and of course the Indianapolis 500!

I recall DJ's: Lee Masters, Bruce Hunter, Jay Reynolds, and of course the legendary "Reb Porter".

What do you remember?

Oscar & the Majestics - Brad Long - July 2011

2011-05-22T19:27:00.004-05:00

News Flash!!!!!! Coming in July 2011, for your consideration:

Oscar & the Majestics - 14 cuts via Sundazed records.

Oscar and the boys cuts some of the most blistering tunes that Indiana has ever witnessed. Expect a nice feature on them on here after the release July 26th!

Brad Long isn't exactly a '60s band legend, but he is a legend among 60's band collectors. Brad composed, and recorded this 1977 release that has it's roots squarely in the 60's that he witnessed growing up. Try finding one for less than $100. Can't be done, until now. Available in July from Sing-Sing records. Brad is a fellow collector, historian, musician, and friend of the blog!

Both of these are a real discount from finding the 45's, trust me. You won't be disappointed!

Ballad of Jimmy Bryan - Harry Weger - Indianapolis 500

2011-05-16T20:00:00.003-05:00

It's May in Indiana, and all thoughts turn to the Indy 500. Quite a few records have memorialized the race and drivers, so why not have a go here.

Harry Weger had quite a country music career, record producer, and music store owner. He passed away in 2007 at 80 years.

Ballad of Jimmy Bryan
Back Home Again in Indiana

Harry had become close to quite a few drivers and recorded and released this tribute to Jimmy Bryan, 1958 winner who lost his life in a 1960 accident at Langhorn Speedway (Pennsylvania)

Released in 1961 - 4:22 was very long for contemporary 45's. Back Home Again In Indiana needs no introduction for any Hoosier. Wonderful arraignment on this.

Harry Weger also released a 45 on Adair, which was Bryant Wilson's label for his bluegrass output. (Only Adair 45 that I still need - hint hint). Read Harry Weger's obituary here.

the Children - Ft. Wayne 1967

2011-05-06T22:08:00.006-05:00

The Children is born of the "Miles Bluffton Blues Band" with one member change. The group spanned 20 years, quite a run.

Gary Sauers - drums
Mike Madrid - bass
Kevin Walsh - rhythm guitar
Cliff Webb - Lead guitar

From Gary:

The Band just is us at age 18 and 19. We were ALL living in a big house in Fort Wayne together. Shared the rent and played in the living room for a practice place. We did gigs and parties in the city and began playing in night clubs. This night club thing was supposed to be a very short thing to get up some money only. We never wanted top play any top Forty stuff. Well, 20 years went by and we were still doing clubs and bars around the city and from time to time out of town. Again, Lots of people knew us, but we never did anything big time.

Special thanks to Gary & Mike for the photo and info!

Surf Suns - New Haven - Ft. Wayne area

2011-04-21T19:11:00.007-05:00

The Surf Suns formed in 1966, a joining of two bands.

From left:
Denny McComb
Mike Kelly
Tony Lello
Phil Himelstein
Jason Liechty

The Surf Suns open for the Lovin' Spoonful and the Association at the Coliseum. Very cool.
In an interview circa 1967, the Surf Suns confided that their ultimate goals were making a record and purchasing a bus to go on a cross-country tour.

I can confirm they made the record!

Still In Love with You Baby
I Can't Stop It Now

I Can't Stop it Now is an original penned by McComb / Kelly.
The flip is a Beau Brummels tune. Maybe you remember the "beau brummelstones" on the Flintstones........maybe not.

Just some record geek musings:

Every copy I have ever seen has the labels reversed. BEN records could possibly be "Billy E. Nix" records, since Nix had a high output on the label.

Teen Tones - Mike Ryan

2011-04-10T17:59:00.011-05:00

Once upon a long time ago there is the "Teen Tones" with Mike Ryan. Mike hailed from South Bend (translation to non-hoosier - way up north) and the band kept pretty busy before college called.

Mike Ryan - Sax -lead vocal
Tom Hemminger -guitar
Ken Kidder - electric piano /key bass
Lew Kimbal - drums
Roger Lackey - guitar

The Teen-Tones recorded three 45's, with the first in 1963.

Premier IV - 368 (1963)
Long Cold Winter Ahead
Hurtin' and Cryin'

T and T Records (1964)
Do You Want to Dance?
Long Cold Winter Ahead (different version)

Don and Mira (1964)
Poison Ivy
Fortune Teller

Mike went on to the Other Five, Decembers Children, Walking Catfish and Poppa Jazz. Currently with the Souled Out Band (r.i.p. Russell) out of Indianapolis.

Band pics courtesy of Mike Ryan!

Swingin' Surfers - The Questions - Nov. 66

2011-04-04T18:41:00.005-05:00

This tiny little ad in the "Indianapolis Star" November '66.
This much is known about the "Swingin' Surfers":

All hailed from Warren Central High School
Danny McMullin - Bass
Roger Carr - Guitar / vocals
Patrick Rafferty - Drums
Steve Griggs - Lead guitar
Jeff Mills - rhythm guitar

Mills and McMullin also played in the "Joys of Life".

This much about "The Questions":
Zip - nothing, can we fix that?

WFYI - Indy in the '60s!

2011-03-14T17:07:00.002-05:00

Short notice 60's Indiana Band Szene Team.

Tonight - 8:00PM - WFYI (local indy PBS station) will have a two hour retrospective on the Indy scene. The TV schedule says "indy 500" but that seems to be a typo.

Wayne Wilson (drummer - sounds unlimited, owner of Dino Enterprises) called and said they filmed at his place for several hours as he talked about the Sounds Unlimited, Boys Next Door, Idle Few, Sir Winston and more.....

Should be interesting!

Hitch Hikers - Portage

2011-03-05T19:28:00.006-06:00

Bill, from St. Paul, MN, sends a suggestion for the Hitch-Hikers from Portage, Indiana! "Great idea" I exclaim!

The Hitch-Hikers had several 45's (I'm not sure how many) and released an LP (that I don't have, yet).

HH1:
Beaver Shot
Fool

HH2:
Stay Away
Five To One

I know nothing about the band with such a great output. The writer credits are simply:

Healey - Cole
Garrison - Rubino
Healey - Boese

Just not much to go on. There are a couple of other 45's, namely:

Thank you for your love (HH7)
Somf (HH8)

This could be just one 45 and a strange numbering. I need help here!

Thanks for the inspiration Bill. I have to share his "insight", it's priceless!

"Maybe you folks have heard of them. The rude & crude "Beaver Shot" was written by Healey and Boese. The sensitive/teen whiner ballad flip, "Fool" is credited just to Healey. I especially like the rude lyrics/double entendre sub-category of garage 45s for no other reason than you can speculate how it went when they got home. The Hitchhikers probably hit up everyone (mom, dad, grandma, grandpa) in their respective families to press the record up. The boys spend the $4-500 on a disc that has zero chance of radio play and then they still have to go home and play it for their families. A most of the Moms no doubt hit the roof, the Grandmas were disgusted. The Dads and Grandpas probably had a laff over it, at least Gramps did."

I can't say I disagree with that assessment!

Jersey Chains - Ft. Wayne 1966 - 67

2011-02-27T17:41:00.003-06:00

The Jersey Chains hail from Ft. Wayne.
From Wil (Bill Babcock):
"The original band members.
Left /right:
Dale Newman - Rhythm,
Bill Blosser - Bass,
Mike Hanson - Drums and lead Vocal,
Bill Babcock - Lead Guitar.
That was my 57' Olds we are standing in front of. When we originally got the name, we wore football jerseys and chains for belts. We played all over the Fort Wayne and surrounding area. We played several times at Tri-lakes, just north of Columbia City, IN. Had a ball doing it but we worked our butts off. The pic has to be circa 1966."

A later (March 1967) photo from the Ft. Wayne Gazette show a few new band members, and announcements that they had dates scheduled for San Diego, Houston, Des Moines, and more.

Pictured (I know the photo is horrible, but at least I have it):
Mike Chenoweth - organ
Dale Richhart - rhythm guitar
Steve Muldoon - bass
Dale Newman - lead guitar
Mike Hanson - drums

Let's give the boys a hand for doing it, and thanks to Wil for the great pic!

Chessmen - Ft. Wayne

2011-02-13T19:23:00.009-06:00

John Finchum, drummer of the Chessmen, tells the tale of the band.
"Me and Steve Griebel , started the group in "62". We added Steve's friend Phil Motley, then Chuck Weick, and played as a 4 piece almost 2 years before adding Kevin Evans on keyboards. Kevin didn't know how to play keys but learned fast. Steve and I did 99% of the lead singing. The last couple of years together I stood up playing drums and play standing up full time today. I got it from the drummer for the McCoys (Hang on Sloopy). In 66, the draft took 3 of the guys, so there was a couple of member changes. Mike Geise on bass and Al Crow on rhythm. Mike and I went on to form Faith then on to The Peace and Love, Snake and the
Armpits 50's floor show which took us all over the country in the 70's. In '66 when the Chessmen were going really good, I got a call from Phalanx. I really don't know if one of the other Ft.Wayne bands gave them our name or if the record company happened to notice all the bands that were available to solicit to ,but we jumped at the chance of being "recording stars"! We pretty much had to promote them ourselves, but we did get an interview on WGL with Al Russell one night.
We wrote both songs on the record. A little side note about "You can't catch me"..... The original words in one line in the song was "You chase MY ASS all over town". They insisted we change it to you chase me "round" all over town,because they said the radio station wouldn't play it. My how times have changed!!!!!!!!!!

We pretty much stuck to cover songs from the top forty for awhile. Our first year was pretty much instrumental songs,though, like from the Ventures, Astronauts, Pyramids, Sandy Nelson and others. Then THE BEATLES CAME!!!!!!!!!!!!! We along with so any other bands, felt the enormous influence that is still a part of my music today. The whole British Invasion back then influenced so many bands way of playing and also their way of dressing and their lists of songs. The invasion was kind of like Woodstock was later.There will never be another one like it! When the stones came in shortly after the question came up that to this day is asked of people when talking about the British bands. "You like the Beatles or Stones better? Well for the rest of the band they were pretty much Beatles fans. I myself liked the "bad boy, rebellious image the Stones had. I tended to dress more like them when I could. (Got me sent to the Deans office in South Side a couple of times too! Ha Ha) We did songs from both. Although they both influenced and continue to influence my music, one band that influenced my showmanship very much was Paul Revere and the Raiders! When I first saw them on Dick Clark's "Where the action is" I said to myself "that's what I want to do! I want to play my music and move around and act crazy while I'm doing it. That's another reason why I continue to play drums standing up,to this day.It helped me alot in showmanship when I got into the Peace and Love Band. Tom O'Brian can attest to that.

As far as our worst gig, we were so new and so into playing back then just about all of our gigs were good, but one that we kind of dreaded, although kept playing it, was at a place called Covington Downs, a few miles out of Fort Wayne on Covington Rd. For one thing, it was a big hall, so it was our first experience with an echo sound and how it can really screw up your sound. Then there was the fact that we played only on Sunday nights, and with all of us having school the next day, we were would be draggin' in school. Also for that same reason, we never had more than 8 or 10 people show up. We made very little money and just didn't have too good of time, but we kept playing it, even against our parents wishes. We alternated Sundays with a group called The Ravens. The cool thing I remember about that great bunch of guys was every Beatle song they did, they sounded like them so much it was awesome!

One of my favorite "gigs" if you can call it that,was when we were on Channel 21 on a show called "21 A-GO-GO", a local show that promoted the local bands. We taped the show on a Weds. night and got to sit home with our friends and relatives and watch it on the following Saturday afternoon. What a thrill! After we taped it on Wednesday we were able to go into another room and watch it right away. My first experience with video tape. I thought that was amazing! We played 3 songs on that show. "The Climb" by the Kingsmen, "Money",by the Kingsmen,and "Get off of my cloud" by The Stones. I developed an enormous crush on one of the dancers
on that show named Sue. Oh well that's another story,ha ha. I sure wish I could get a copy of that video tape but I doubt if channel 21 has a video archive of something as minor as that that far back. If you ever find out let me know. (Don't worry, I will!!! - Tim)

As far as Peace and Love and our alter ego "Snake an The Armpits", we put out 2 records. Nothing that was ever put on the charts though. We we simply a show lounge act with a lot of comedy that did Top 40 dance sets too. Our main moneymaker was the Snake and the Armpits floor show act. It was like Sha Na Na with twice the comedy and energy.We were together from 1970 to 1977. Played the "Cats Meow" to a packed house standing room only crowd many times. Our very last gig together was New Years Eve at Eli's in Fort Wayne when it was out in industrial park. Undoubtedly and to this day the best group I have ever been in."

Many thanks to John for taking the time to "fill in the blanks"

And now some music!

You Can't Catch Me

Mr. X

Stay tuned for the next round of 60's Indiana Band Szene. Keep the comments coming, the bands will know you care!

Argoes - 1967 - Ft. Wayne

2011-01-30T19:03:00.003-06:00

1967 brings the "Argoes" from Ft. Wayne.

Left to right:
Kent Cretors - drums - Bryan H.S.
Dan Miller - Bass - Bryan H.S.
Ben Algeo - Rhythm guitar - Bryan H.S.
Jeff Montgomery - Lead guitar - Montpelier H.S.

Rhythm and blues topped the list of music types of the Argoes, who they also agree on the Cream and Jimi Hendrix as favorites. They also appeared on a Detroit television program. No recordings, all cover band.
Kent (a friend of the blog) went on to join the Olivers, and in 1970, Dove, which featured future Petra guitarist Bob Hartman. (Anyone have a copy of the Bryan Times with this?)
Dan Miller was murdered around the same time.
Anyone know where Ben or Jeff are?

Update - The Fire Combo - Indianapolis

2011-01-24T22:07:00.001-06:00

Two members of the Fire Combo have checked in and confirmed the existence of the band. This drum head picture was just a glimpse in the video. Check out the Fire Combo updates for the skinny.

Keep spreading the word team, many, many bands are still out there.

Psycodillys - Ft. Wayne - 1967

2011-01-18T21:00:00.002-06:00

Late 1967 - the Psycodillys take the stage, and the world will never be the same. Well at least Ft. Wayne experienced the band.

Dave Hetrick - rhythm guitar
Tom Oberholtzer - bass
Paul Derloshon - lead guitar
Kent Hirschey - drums
Bob Dinse - lead singer

All were students at Concordia H.S.. The Psycodillys were named for the psychedelic trend at the time. Of course their idol at the time was the "Incredible Boss Mother" Frank Zappa! Very cool!

"Plans for the not too distant future are many. We plan to cut a record, and join the Ft. Wayne Musicians Union, says Paul. After graduation they hope to buy a van and tour the United States." (credit Kathy Murfield)

Ok boys, what dreams were fulfilled? We want to know!

Rojay Gotee - 1965

2010-12-29T18:27:00.003-06:00

Big label fun. Liberty records had the access to the best session musicians, i.e. the Wrecking Crew, but thankfully local solo act Rojay Gotee used an up and coming local band for the support. Introducing Rojay Gotee with Sir Winston and the Commons providing the backing tracks.

Best guess is Rojay is/was actually Robert Youngs.

Always a different sound when someone else writes the music. Enjoy this early example of the mighty Sir Winston and the Commons.

Thunder n' Lightnin
Miss Jantje Jones

Last post of the year, looking forward to 2011. Keep the leads and comments coming!

Boys Next Door - Indianapolis

2010-12-02T19:52:00.014-06:00

Steve says - Let there be music, and it is good! Links are live now for the songs! Merry Christmas!

What can I possibly add to the story of the "Boys Next Door"?
7 Singles - major labels - numerous newspaper articles - sterling reputations - what can I add?

The nucleus of the band:
Steve Lester - Lead guitar / vocals / trombone
Skeet Bushor - Keyboards / vocals / trumpet
Jim Koss - Drums / vocals / guitar
Steve Drybread / Bass / Sax / vocals
Jim Adams / Rhythm guitar

The band signed with Mercury records and was promptly renamed the "Four Wheels", without the bands knowledge. Five members, four wheels, oh well. Soon reclaiming the "Boys Next Door" moniker, five more 45's followed.
"Sneaky Little Sleeper/Ratchet" (Delaware# 1703) (as Four Wheels)

"Central High Playmate/Cold 45" (Soma# 1428) (Four Wheels)

"Begone Girl/See The Way She's Mine" (Atco# 6477)

"Mandy/One Face In The Crowd" (Atco# 6443)

"The Wildest Christmas/Christmas Kiss" (Bad# 1301)

"There is no greater Sin/I Could see me Dancing With You" (Cameo# 394)

"Why Be Proud/Suddenly She was Gone" (Soma# 1439)

What can I add... how about a video from Clowes Hall - featuring the Boys Next Door and their version of "Catch us If You Can".

The band was featured in the local "Teen Tempo" magazine. Journalism lite, but very cool for the day.

Heck, even Bobby Goldsboro believed the band was golden. But grand success never came, and the band left one by one. Steve Drybread was the only member that remained through it all. I didn't include any songs today because the a CD is still available, tho out of print, of the bands tunes and some unreleased songs. Highly recommended. However, if Steve gives his blessing, I'll add them for the world to admire.

James Spencer - John Voyles - the Herd

2010-11-14T19:14:00.004-06:00

Behold another mystery 60's Indiana 45.

A side - Daddy's Little Angel - James Spencer and the Herd
B side - Lovelight - James Spencer / John Voyles and the Herd

Spencer and Voyles seem to have many connections (Noblemen for one) to bands and to the Prism label in Dayton OH.

Cool songs, mysterious writers and I assume vocals. Is the Herd from Ft. Wayne or another of the popular name? Anyone? James, John?

Updates - Caravans - Revengers - Lords of London

2010-11-14T15:21:00.003-06:00

Updates today!

Caravans - New photos and info!

Revengers - Identified band video - member info!

Lords of London - New photos!

We are not even close to exhausting the bands to honor! I'm always looking for info to share!

Maude Meuller Incident - Peppermint Applebush - Stix and Stonz - Norsemen - just a teaser of what's to come, and I'm not ignoring the "Big Boys" like: Boys Next Door - Sir Winston & the Commons - Sounds Unlimited, just hard to find something that hasn't been already been covered.

Thanks for reading and commenting!

Roosevelt & the 7 C's - Muncie

2010-10-14T19:45:00.008-05:00

Roosevelt Johnson & the 7 C's, direct to you from Muncie, Indiana.
Top to bottom - Right to left:

Roosevelt Johnson -
Phil Dunn - Trumpet & Vocals
Phil Mann - Bass & Vocals
Allen Henry - Sax
Dennis (Dino) Springer - Drums
Bob Duncan - Trombone
Hubie Ashcraft - Guitar
Gary Thresher - Keyboards

This a true collaborative affair, Jason sent a photo of the band back in 2007. Didn't ring a bell, but put it in the "to do" file. John Hiatt mentions that he was in a band - Roosevelt & the 7C's - BINGO! Although John wasn't in the band that recorded, he put me in touch with Dennis, who was 16 (!) at the time of the 1st 45. Dennis sent a 45 to John via someone else. and we have some groovin' R&B sides here.

Black Jack 713 (scan courtesy of Dante Carfagna)

Call On Me
Groovin'

And although it's not in my 60's focus, here is another 45 from the team.

Rondo 1118:
We were always sweethearts / Black Cat

The 7 C's were from Muncie save Hubie, who hailed from Seymour. Hubie went on to play on the John Cougar Mellencamp demos. The band existed from '65 to 1973.

Has to be lots of stories about this band. Chime in!!!!!

Exports - Hammond 1964

2010-10-07T19:19:00.004-05:00

It's a dark night, and I'm reading a facebook page, "Planet Hammond". Suddenly a plea catches my attention:

"The "Kritters" were definitely the most popular. Band leader Ron Jongsma, and Rick Grigsby lived in my neighborhood and we were treated to garage concerts on summer nights. They recorded a record called "Hey Car Hop", but I believe it it was under a previous name, which I can't remember......Help."

The Exports is the band in question, circa 1964.

Band Members:
Ron Jongsma - Guitar
George Felaney - Guitar
Tom Barnhart - Guitar
Howard Friedman - Drums

The Exports left us two 45's

King 5917 - Car Hop / Seat Belts Please

King 5985 - Mustang '65 / Always It's You

I had the Car Hop 45, didn't know it was Indiana related, but it is a great surf\hot rod instrumental. Now I have to find the Mustang '65............

Special thanks to Jim Carley for the inspiration.

These Vizitors - Goshen

2010-09-27T20:11:00.005-05:00

These Vizitors - Goshen, Indiana 1965 -1969.

Band included siblings -

Mike Curtis - Vocals / bass
Rick Curtis - Vocals / guitar
Tom Curtis - Vocals / guitar
Patty Curtis - Vocals / tambourine
and (non family member)
Travis Rose - Drums

One of the local bands that had a major label release, but didn't translate into major success. I don't know all the details but I'm going to "cut and paste" the info from Jason's Indiana 45's site. Anyone willing to correct, if needed.......

Here's some tunes:

Happy Man
For Mary's Sake
Reacher Teacher - Demo
Rippling Road - Demo

Don't know what the 5th demo was, can anyone shed some light?

"By Phil Yoder -courtesy of Jason at Indiana 45's.

The first band I will tell you about is the Curtis family, from Goshen, Indiana. The Curtis's are probably the most famous and succesful from my area. These Vizitors went to NYC in ' 67 and cut 5 demo tracks with a then unknown producer, Phil Ramone. 2 were released on a Capitol 45 "For Mary's Sake" b/w "Happy Man". They played in Florida at an outdoor rock festival in ' 68 on a bill that included Jimi Hendrix, Jefferson Airplane etc. At that time they lived in Florida and were one of the "local" acts that had a major label 45rpm, so they were added to the festival line up. They were a psych / folk sound (kind of like We 5 with a fuzz sounding lead guitar) They all sang well and still do. After Vizitors folded Rick and Mike were invited by Ralph Molina (drummer) to join Crazy Horse and were the main song writers on the 1972 Epic album "At Crooked Lake". In 1974 they cut some demos with Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks, who at that time were on option to the Polydor label, as were Rick and Mike Curtis. One of these demos was "Blue Letter" written by Rick Curtis which appears on the 1975 Fleetwood Mac album. The other was a song called "Seven league Boots" which features Stevie Nicks singing backup with Rick Curtis. This song was 50% sold to Steven Stills in 1980 and turned into "Southern Cross", in which Stills changed the lyrics and some of the arrangement and appears on the 1982 Crosby, Stills & Nash album "Daylight Again". Rick and Mike, along with brother Tom cut an album in 1976 on Polydor called "The Curtis Brothers" and also had a shelved (unreleased) album in 1978 on the International Artists label. In the 1980s Rick spent time out of the music scene and Mike went on to play with Gene Clark's Byrds on the road. Then in the early ' 90s Mike played with Dewey Martin's Buffallo Springfield. He also played for 12 years with Hoyt Axton's band. In the middle 90s Mike played in the "Byrds Celebration". In Janurary of 1995 Rick Curtis died from a seizure at his home in California.Michael continues to play and lives just north of Nashville, Tennessee. Rick and Michael Curtis are 2 of my best friends. In 1992, ' 93, ' 94 I promoted shows entitled Reunion Jams I, II, and III at the Elkhart County Fairgrounds in which the Curtis's werethe headliners. Each drew about 4000 - 5000 people."

Young Society - Ft. Wayne 1967

2010-09-08T19:52:00.002-05:00

Exciting News! The Young Society was one of many bands that flourished in Ft. Wayne , mid '60's.

Young Society (left to right):

Doug Gard - drums
Steve Zweig - Organ - rhythm guitar
Lee Stamm - Bass
Dave Lloyd - Lead guitar

Obviously folk rock was the focus, but the boys could rock. Beatles, Byrds, James Brown, Them, Turtles, and more were on the Young Society's set list. They also had at least 3 original songs that I know of.

I have swapped a few e*mails with Steve, and was kind enough to send the newspaper article (that is in much better shape than the one I had). And the NEWS........ Lee still had some rehearsal tapes, and next thing you know, they are in my hands on CD. Stunning. And very soon they will share a couple of songs with the Indiana 60's Band Szene followers.

British Walkers - Noblesville

2010-08-26T19:13:00.005-05:00

The British Walkers performed from 1965 - 1967. From Noblesville, IN.. The ad is from Nov. 1965.

As pictured: circa 1967

Mike Reisener
Bruce Evans
Tal Middleton
J. Michael Henderson
Phil Phillips

Mike, Bruce, and Tal were original members.

Thanks to JMH for the photo.

Sound Sensations Exhibit - 1969 - updated

2010-08-04T22:34:00.004-05:00

OK team, any ideas? This contribution is completely unknown. Obviously late 1969, was found in southern Indiana, and recorded in Gary (Way North) Indiana.

Never seen, heard a whisper, no rumors. Who are these guys?

Here's the tunes, courtesy of Jason at Indiana 45's, the new owner of the "reference lacquer". Thanks, Jason!

Communication Breakdown

Summertime

Let the guessing begin!

Dawnells - Update

2010-07-30T11:03:00.004-05:00

Been some good info and comments on the Dawnells coming from friends and family. I received a note about this video on YouTube. Great photos and unreleased song all in one!

Special Thanks to Mike Parton for the heads-up on this.

Fewdle Lords - Ft Wayne

2010-07-17T21:08:00.005-05:00

Late, late 1966, in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, the Fewdle Lords are formed. Consisting of:

George Christie - lead Guitar
Denny Geiger - Drums
George Danusis - keyboards
Rich Jackson - Bass

The Fewdle Lords seemed to have a bright future, till tragedy cut short George Christie's life in an auto accident in 1970.

1968 was the year the boys left us this 45.

Farewell to Today and Tomorrow

I Know

Much confusion reigned for years as to the origin of the Fewdle Lords. Many signs pointed to Florida (the Tiara imprint was there at some point). But now the band is confirmed for Indiana status!

Anyone want to toss any stories of the band out there. Has to be much that I don't know.

****Chris at Garage Hangover did a quick piece on the Fewdle Lords. Lots of great info and insight there. I'm pretty sure he has a more detailed story coming. Highly recommended!

Early Mourning - 1968

2010-07-08T19:34:00.008-05:00

Time for some music - 1968 style. The Early Mourning recorded this cool 45 on Commercial Features, a label that released dozens of gospel tunes. Other than the writer credit -R. Gasway, I know next to nothing about the band.

The Blind Man - Side 1

I've Tried - side 2

Who are you guys?

Utopians - Ft. Wayne - 1967

2010-06-30T18:43:00.003-05:00

The Utopians, formed in November 1966, all students at South Side High School - Ft. Wayne.

Seated - Dave Schwartz - organ
Standing from Left:
Jeff Goltz - rhythm guitar
Ron Russ - drums
Ralph Tourkow - bass
Mike Weintraub - lead guitar

Gleaning the "Utopians" from the perfect society of Thomas More's book, the boys strove for perfection in Rock n' Roll music so the name seemed appropriate. The Lovin' Spoonful was a big influence.

The Utopians were finalists in the National Combo competition category of the Talented Teen Search - Chicago -1967. Groups getting to that level were usually "offered" a recording contract. "Recordings Unlimited" normally gave studio time and the band was offered a deal on paying for the pressing of a 45.

Recordings? 45? Any future activity? We all want to know!

Whiteland Barn Reunion show - Friday June 18

2010-06-16T23:45:00.002-05:00

The importance of the Whiteland Barn cannot be underestimated. From 1958 to the late '60's, the Whiteland Barn was one of the most famous venues in the states. Imagine in a time before arena rock, you could have seen:

Jerry Lee Lewis
The Ventures
Strawberry Alarm Clock
Led Zeppelin
and a host of great Indiana legends.

It's time to have a reunion of the place ( long ago lost to time). Friday night will mark the 1st reunion show. The Vlasics will be the band, the Suds (ex Dog and Suds, Greenwood, Indiana) will be the place. Starts about 5:00 pm.

I'd like to see everybody there. Maybe it's something that can be annual, but let's get the 1st one done and worry about that later!

Stop in and say hi! Please thank Ron VanLandingham for the hard work in getting this together, and keeping the Whiteland Barn site going!

See everyone there!!!

Sir Douglas & the Zircons - 1966

2010-06-07T19:23:00.002-05:00

Sir Douglas and the Zircons, from late May 1966.
This is another of our "shot in the dark" series. I have no idea, other than they played a few dates in Franklin, Indiana. So, guys and gals, if you knew them speak up now!
I have quite a few of these unknown bands in the pipeline. Seems like we have about a 50% success rate in identifying them. Great job team!!!

Think we are due for some music on the next post!

Bare Facts - LaPorte - 68-69

2010-05-31T12:21:00.009-05:00

Wes brings us the "Bare Facts", from LaPorte, Indiana.
A couple of guys in a band, The Intruders, know a couple of other guys in another band, mix in that they all go to the same school - LaPorte High School - and the Bare Facts are born.

Wes England explains:
"We were known as the Bare Facts. We recorded a few records at Universal Studios in Chicago, 1968, 1969, We toured all over the Midwest, playing with most of the major artists of the time. Such artists are James Brown, New Colony Six, Buckinghams, Turtles, American Breed, Derek and the Dominos, Tommy James and The Shondells. We played all the Circuits, The Hullabaloo Clubs, The Top Deck in South Bend, Orchestra Hall in Chicago and many more venues."
Behold the Bare Facts: L - R

Ron Shaw - Lead Guitar / Horns
Bob Nebelung - Drums
Wes England - Bass
Dan Topolski - Rhythm guitar
Jim Sipe - Lead Vocals
Dave Curtis - Keyboards / Horns
The presenter of the trophy is Clark Weber - WLS personality.
Steve Kirkman - not pictured / lead singer replaced by Jim Sipe.

Wes:

"The biggest influences on the band were probably the brass or horns, along with harmonies, We were one of the only groups in the mid-sixties that actually played on stage with horns. Many groups recorded with horns, but did not actually have them. The Buckinghams is a good example. They did not have a horn section.

Also, we took great pride in our vocals. most groups had a lead vocalist, but did not really focus on tight harmonies. We did. Every guy in the group sang, or performed back up vocals on most every song, unless it was not required, of course. We also did songs that other groups did not perform. Songs like "Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head", "It's Not Unusual" along with most every Four Tops song.

We actually would be let out of High School at Noon on Friday's, so that we could make our first gig on Friday night. We would play Friday in Chicago, Saturday in Burlington Iowa and then Sunday in Springfield, Ill. The next week would be Detroit, Mi to Findlay, Oh, to Indianapolis, In. It was a great time.

We would actually bump into many big time bands, on the road, at rest stops etc."

The Bare Facts also had a recording session that resulted in a couple original tunes:

Does She Love Me / Think I'm Falling in Love

Wes is working on getting the tunes from reel to reel, don't think it made it to 45 stage. should be a treat when we can share it! And here's loads of thanks for all the cool pics. This is just a few of them!!!!

Night Watchmen - Ft. Wayne -1967 - Findlay OHIO....OOPS

2010-05-02T18:18:00.004-05:00

Interesting ad from August '67. Playing at a W & D clothing store, we present the Night Watchmen.
I have no clue about any of the members, or the band, but look forward to finding out.

Clothing / Fashion stores were a popular gig in the mid '60s. I have photos of the Olivers playing at Wassons (1966), and The Boys Next Door had a show filmed by the owner of Dorothy's Fashions , Herb Levison, in November 1966. Dorothy's was located on 16th st, Speedway. Someone has to know if that tape is around somewhere.

Fabulous Squires - 1965

2010-04-22T19:38:00.003-05:00

The Fabulous Squires played in Franklin, December 1965. This is a call out to anyone that may know them, any info, real or imagined, welcomed. Just kidding on the imagined part, but it seemed to fit the mood.

Anyone know if Jim Shelton is still out there? Seems like I should get in touch with him.

Chain Reactions

2010-04-07T17:29:00.003-05:00

The Chain Reactions - another band from the fountain of teen combo's - Ft. Wayne.

Members include:

Rich Loy - Drums
Mark McNeal - Lead guitar
Mike Habig - Rhythm guitar
Steve Kamphues - Vocals
Kenny Parisot - Bass

All the kids were still in high school at the time. As of April '67, The Chain Reactions were preparing to cut a record. Original songs were ready, such as:

What Will Happen Tomorrow
Just Another Day
Stick Around

I don't know if the plans ever came to fruition, but as you know, I'll be looking! Kudos to the boys for the entertainment and hope to hear from you soon.

Chosen Few - Shelbyville

2010-04-05T19:34:00.003-05:00

For your consideration - from Shelbyville, Indiana, The Chosen Few.
Not the Chosen Few (Muncie) that recorded and had a quite lengthy career. But I'm told these guys at least had the band name first!

Front Row L-R:
Bobby Jones - Guitar
Louie Cover - Bass / vocals
Mike Carr - Rhythm / vocals
Middle:
Thom Beagle - Drums
Back:
Eddie Moore - Lead Vocals / Keyboards

At first glance, I'm floored by the Ventures Mosrite. Not quite the Kay or Harmony that seems most started out with. Wow, I'm still looking for one.

I'm pretty sure that there are no recordings, but as always, we salute the band, and hope we give the recognition that is due.

Vlasics - Valasics

2010-03-23T21:52:00.015-05:00

Originally Chris Henricks, Bill Harding, Ben (Duaine) Taylor (SHS 1968) Joe Green and Dan Ware (Manual High School 1966), were formed as the Vlasics at Southport High School.

This was way back in 1965. The Vlasics played at the Baxter YMCA, Eagles Lodge and many private parties in their first year. A major turning point was their win of the "Battle of the Bands" at the new,Greenwood Shopping Center, in June 1966. The band won a trip to Chicago to play in a regional battle of the bands, at McCormick Place! The Vlasics replaced Joe Green on Keyboards in 1967 with Randy Tipmore. (Also a Southport High School graduate). The Vlasics enjoyed a fair amount of success in those years and were playing clubs, fraternity/sorority parties,graduations and other events in a five 5 state region during their high school years.

REMEMBER THE:

Whiteland Barn
Flame Club
Hillside Beach Club
House of Sound
Indiana State Fair "Teen Tent"

Yep, They played those places often.

In May of 1968 the Vlasics went to record their first "Record" ("Breakaway") at Universal studios in Chicago. The Vlasics continued a busy schedule until August 1 1969, The date of their last "Gig".

Ok, all that text was borrowed (stolen) from the boys defunct website, circa 2004. But the Vlasics have a special place in my research heart. Dan Ware was the first band member I actually called and asked about any band. He was very kind and talked a bit, then directed me towards Bill Harding, who was playing locally. The wife and I met him and had a great time. Here we are several years later, and I'm finally telling the story.

Hear some tunes:
Break Away
Things Movin' Fast

Somehow the record was credited to the "Valasics", altho the band was sponsored somewhat by the Vlasic pickle company. The 45 was one of the more difficult to find ones I have on my list. Many, many to go, and look forward to sharing even more with my readers and contributors!

Brents - Shelbyville 1967

2010-03-07T17:28:00.005-06:00

Who would have thought that Shelbyville would be a hotbed of teen band action?

The Brents:

Front row l-r:
Gary DeBaun - drums
Bobby Jones - Lead Guitar
Fred Dickmann - vocals - sax

Back row:

Mike Carr - rhythm guitar - vocals
Louie Cover - bass - vocals
Eddie Moore - keyboards - vocals

The Brents placed third in the 1967 Indiana State Fair Battle of the Bands. That made them the best band in Indiana. If you wonder about the math, Fred explains it:

"I'm really proud of the 1st band I was in, The Brents. If you zoom in on the text of the pic I sent you, you will be able to see that we placed 3rd of over 500 bands from Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky & Illinois. Matter of fact, after we placed 3rd we printed handbills locally advertising our band as "the best band in Indiana". Well, the way we justified that statement was the fact that the first place band in the Indiana State Fair Battle of the Bands Contest of 1967 was from Ohio; the second place band was from Illinois; The Brents from Shelbyville, Indiana placed 3rd...so, by default, we were the best band in Indiana! Made sense to us, anyway. And really, if you think about that - over 500 bands - well let me just say, that was the absolute highlight of my modest live music career. Hey, check out our playlist from the competition...still classic tunes!! "

I'd sure like to find one of those flyers. The Brents didn't record, but did leave us some great info.

Thanks Fred for the contribution!

Saharas - Plymouth

2010-02-26T19:17:00.006-06:00

For your consideration, from Plymouth High School - 1966 - we present The Saharas.

The Saharas were chosen to be the music of the kids for the Republican party fundraisers. Maybe because of these kids (parents were business and country club socialites) Nixon won the '68 election.
The Saharas traveled to Columbus in '66, and this was the only photo I could find. The Go-Go girls were a hit, but the word is they played "too loud". Hard to imagine, but times were different.

Members were:

Larry Truman
Kurt Kralovanshy
Jim Boudreau
Dan Williams
Steve Robertson

The Saharas left us one 45, with a truly dazzlin' sleeve.
Hear the songs:

Spirit of '66
Because of Him

Hope we hear from the guys (or gals). I wrote to Kurt back in '98 or '99, but never heard back. Hope they are all doing well, and still love the music.

Teaberry Scandal

2010-02-12T20:49:00.005-06:00

The Teaberry Scandal. Great name, unknown kids, until now!
Purdue University connection, solid Indiana lead, now we have some names!
And those names:

Keith Vanderhook (?) - lead singer
Bob Leavell - Drums
Dennis ("Turkey") Heinz - Lead guitar
Bob Keller - 12 string guitar
Steve Behr - Bass

And who do we thank for the info? It's right there on the photo. I wrote to Gerald Goldhaber, and he replied right away:

"Wow! We were together from 1966-70, sponsored by Clark Gum Company (who made Teaberry Gum), a division of Philip Morris. I had contacted the head of PR at Clark/Philip Morris, just to get some help with uniforms....bands wore suits, etc. in those days. Boy, was I surprised when he flew to Lafayette, IN and the rest is history. The lead singer was Keith Vanderhook (I think), the drummer was Bob Leavell, the lead guitar was Dennis ("Turkey") Heinz, the 12-string guitar was Bob Keller and the bass player was Steve Behr. We played all over the country, starting at Purdue with sororities and fraternities, then the National Candy Show (Boston, MA), competed in the Little Rock, AK National pop/jazz festival, were offered a recording contract by Capital Records (which we never signed because the band broke up). My wife, Marylynn, and I used to travel with the band to various gigs in the U.S. in a UHaul truck; we made about $200-300/gig, a fortune in the '60's...lol. The band wrote its own music in order to get ready for Capital Records, but they broke up, due to lost interest, travel schedules, graduation, etc. We used to put a 7' wooden stick of Teaberry Gum on the stage at our gigs and at the end of each set, we threw out hundreds of packs of gum to the audience....in true bubble gum fashion. Towards the end, they changed their name to "The Scandal" to be a bit more edgy."

Fabulous eh? Tons of questions as usual:
Any recordings?
Top 40 or originals?
Best gig, gig from hell?
Where are we now?

Keep 'em coming gang! This starts our 4th year!!!!!!!!

Misfits - Showboat - Santa Claus -1967

2010-01-25T19:13:00.004-06:00

Let's go down to southern Indiana, circa 1967. The Misfits, On Showboat #1517. Tucked away in Santa Claus, Indiana, label owner Ray Scrivener released 45's with Showboat, Skoop, and Kasko imprints. Rock, country, gospel, and pop singles, alas none produced a hit.

Please Don't Go Away
I'll Feel Better (in the morning)

The Misfits are unknown so far. Songwriter credits
Kneeland - DeVillez. So, Indiana sleuths, let's get crackin'. There was a quantity of the 45 found, so prices aren't way out there.

Legend also has an acetate of unreleased songs "Cry, Cry, Cry - If You Believe in Yesterday". I'd love to get my hands on those tunes!

Suns of Summer

2010-01-11T19:55:00.002-06:00

Suns of Summer - mid 1967.

What you see is what I know, anyone have the "rest of the story"?

Lovin' Kind - Ft. Wayne

2010-01-01T17:22:00.002-06:00

Teenage moppets from Concordia and South Side High Schools, Ft. Wayne, 1967.

The Lovin' Kind :
Brian Kosteck - seated - drums
Jim Papagiannis - far left - lead guitar
Bruce Etzler - far right - bass
Gary Hall - back left - lead singer
Ken Schiebenberger - back right - Rhythm guitar

The Lovin' Kind started in Sept. '66, and added Brian and Gary in early '67. With the "Animals" being the groups favorite band, the Lovin' Kind had big dreams for the future. Bruce had one song " I Like" arranged and ready for recording, but it's unknown if they ever got to the studio.

Thanks for the memories boys! It's time to be heard from. Recordings, records, other bands, funny stories? We will keep a spot here open for you.

Gentlemen Bleu

2009-12-13T19:35:00.007-06:00

Where are you, Gentlemen Bleu?
Who are you, Gentlemen Bleu?

The only clues are writer credits:

Al Stone & Mike Hunting

The Gentlemen Bleu performed at the Cabaret (I presume a teen dance club) and left this ad in Ft. Wayne, June 1967. Since the 45 was pressed in 1965, we can assume that they were together for a least a couple of years. Believed to be students attending Hanover College (Madison, IN), and hailing from Indianapolis.

One 45 known - Trump 355 - Louisville label

Let's hear some music:

Hate to Tell You
One More Day

Looking forward to these guys checking in! Give us the scoop Gentlemen Bleu!!

The Flock - 1967 - Ft. Wayne

2009-12-12T21:15:00.004-06:00

Close your eyes and envision a formal cocktail party.
The place, Orchard Ridge Country Club.
The date, Saturday, July 1967.
The band: The Flock.

Of course it helps if your parents are members, and you can dress nicely, unlike those "hippie kids".

Band members that day:
Denny Grosenbacher
Andy Barile
Mark Richards
Rick Furniss
Denny Burns

Where did you go guys, any recordings left behind? There was a "Flock" that released an LP and a few 45's in 1969, but none of these guys seem related.

Quinchords - 1965

2009-11-28T20:17:00.006-06:00

The Quinchords, from 1965, a folk rock band that had many interesting stories.

The Quinchords were:
Terry Talbot
John Michael Talbot
Tanni Talbot
Tom Wright

Headin' for Missouri
Outside Lookin' In

The Talbots were from Oklahoma City, and moved to Indianapolis in the early '60s. When this 45 was recorded and released, John Michael was just 11 years old. Terry was the ringleader, and just a few years older.

Tom Wright went on to co-found the "Wright Brothers Overland Stage Company", an Indiana mainstay of country rock.
Terry & John Michael joined the Indianapolis based "Sounds Unlimited" in 1966 - 1968. In '69 the brothers founded the long-lived "Mason Proffit" country rock outfit.

The Talbot brothers were also in "Fourscore", a folk-rock band before "Sounds Unlimited", but details are fuzzy.

As always, any info you have, we'd love to have it and share it with the world! Who, what, where was the Big Star label?

The Wild Ones - Ft. Wayne

2009-11-14T20:35:00.004-06:00

Another entry from Ft. Wayne, Indiana. The Wild Ones were skilled enough to be selected to the Indiana Bandstand tour.

From Left:
Mike Babcock - Lead Vocal
Mike Heime - Bass
Joe Long - Drums
Rick Babcock - Lead Guitar
Larry Miller - Rhythm

The Wild Ones, students from Northside High School, recorded this 45 in June '66.

Hear "Tale of a City" now!

What was Indiana Bandstand you ask?
The bandstand consists of 10 bands from throughout Indiana, who were selected in a contest held at Kokomo. This summer (1966) the bands tour Indiana, playing two and three-night stands at various teen clubs and dance halls.

By February 1967, the Wild Ones had written 13 original songs. Rick, being the prolific songwriter, was looking forward to entertaining offers from Indianapolis bands for his material.

Where are they now?

Our Generation - 1966 -

2009-11-02T19:37:00.003-06:00

"They've got to be great - or crazy". That's the reaction from the interviewer, circa 1966, Teen Tempo magazine. Obviously named after the Who's "My Generation", these guys were regulars at the Le Scene nightclub / teen hotspot.

Back row:
Michael Stack - Singer - Broad Ripple High
Doug Kennerly - Drums - Broad Ripple High
Front Row:
Al Smith -Lead Guitar - Arlington High
Dave Fitch - Keyboards - Broad Ripple High
Mike Rea - Bass - Broad Ripple High

Al gets bonus cool points for playing a Vox guitar. Time to check in guys and give us the skinny on what was the haps in '66!

The Young Set - 1967

2009-10-23T21:22:00.008-05:00

From Indianapolis, 1967, the Young Set are in the mix of local bands making the rounds.

From left:
Sherie Marie
JoAnn McCubbins
Tom Tyner
Shari Robinson
Suzanne Simpson

The second photo (courtesy of Larry Goshen's "Let the Good times Roll") shows 5 ladies and no gent. Later, earlier, I don't know yet.

As the poster shows, the Young Set made it so far as Olney, IL in '67. Any recordings or 45's are surely rumors. I'm told they were Top 40 tunes only.

What Four - Indianapolis 1966

2009-10-14T20:29:00.003-05:00

Presenting the What Four. From Indianapolis, the band is unknown, other than they played some dates in late 1966.

Could these be the What Four that recorded on BOX ( a Dayton, Ohio imprint). Hoerr - Johnson is the only writer credits I can come up with. Any info at all appreciated!

Shades - Etna Green - Girl group

2009-09-20T19:32:00.006-05:00

Yes, there were more girl groups in Indiana! For your consideration we present the Shades. The band hailed from Etna Green (tiny little town between South Bend & Ft. Wayne).

From left:

Janice Gard - Bass
Suzannah Blodgette - drums
Cinda Stouder - Guitar

The girls managed to make three 45's, from 1964 to '66.

Denny
I Won't Cry
Prancer's got some red spots
Santa Claus is comin g to town
Send Him Back to Me
Tell Me Not To Cry

The Shades won a contest and ended up in Amsterdam for a show! How would you like to play in front of 5000! Pretty heady stuff for the girls I'm sure.
As usual, all comments welcome. Let's fill in the blanks here!

Revengers - 1967 band video - Ft. Wayne - Silly Putty

2009-09-10T18:35:00.006-05:00

Good news Indiana '60s Band Szene people. Great video from a '66 Indiana band. I just can't remember what band it was/became. Could be the End (from Indianapolis, not LaPorte), or perhaps the Knightsmen. Anyone know, please enlighten me!! I lost most of my notes (and this video , on a really wet hard drive) in June '08s flood. Thanks to the recovery gods, you are now seeing it!

I'm pretty sure it had something to do with the North Central Alumni reunion a couple of years back. Featured were the Joys of Life, Knightsmen, Sounds Unlimited, the End, and another I can't remember. If anyone has that web-page saved, could you please pass it on to me.

Enjoy the video!!!!!

UPDATE!!!

OK, finally found out the band name. The Revengers -

John Dinwiddie
Kent Baker
Bob Bain
Mike Maloney

Filmed at a "Disco Teen 15" show out of Ft. Wayne. Kent was in the 7th grade at the time!

Bushmen - Columbus - 1966

2009-09-08T20:29:00.003-05:00

Another local band, The Bushmen, from Columbus, 1966. This is from an ad for a show at the Lincoln Center - December 1966. The Bushmen were the "intermission" band, as the Mystics were the featured band.

Give a hand to (left to right)
Front Row:
Jeff Wilhite
Dennis Huntington
Back Row:
Rick Thompson
Mike Fox
Rick Spencer

No recorded music, real or imagined. I need to cross-check what other bands the boys were in, as always, I'll find out and spread the news!

Original Dukes - Indianapolis

2009-08-25T20:42:00.012-05:00

First known as the Dukes, formed in 1961. The Dukes headlined the "Rail Club" (anyone know where that is/was ?). After the rights were lost to the "Dukes", the band became the Original Dukes.

Pictured here - 1964 - from left:
Richie Martin
Chuck Best
Jim Sonday - Drums
Jim Hickman - Guitar

The Original Dukes left us one 45!

Hear the tunes!
Ain't about to lose my cool
It looks like rain

If you enjoyed the song, leave a note and let the boys know!

Thanks Jim Sonday for the photo, member names and support, and thanks to Larry Goshen for the dates.

Unknown 1968 ? Ft. Wayne area

2009-08-02T12:20:00.004-05:00

We need help, Indiana team. Mike R. sent in this unidentified band photo. It was found filed in a Huntington High School 1968 yearbook.
Who are they?
The pose has a very familiar look, not unlike a Dawn 5 photo I have. If it helps any, also in the same book was found a promo shot of the Chosen Few.
Fire in those ideas, any leads, real or imagined, appreciated.

Chardells - Columbus - 1966

2009-07-28T21:24:00.003-05:00

Forming in January 1966 - the Chardells - from Columbus, Indiana.

from left:
Larry Edwards
Gary Young
David Fisher
Ron Ward
Dan Edwards

At the time the boys ranged from 14-16 years. No recordings or other evidence of their chops seem to exist. But a "tip of the hat" to the boys willing to put it out there for the fans of the day.

Rogues - updated

2009-07-16T20:47:00.002-05:00

Great new info from Paul Sheehan of the Rogues. Paul was lead guitar / vocals / and co-wrote the 45. See the update here: Rogues - 1966 .

Miles Bluffton Blues Band

2009-07-09T18:46:00.005-05:00

Travel back to Ft. Wayne, circa 1967, and meet the
Miles Bluffton Blues Band.

Mike Madrid - Bass
Gary Sauers - Drums
Cliff Webb - Guitar
Cliff Fortney - Piano - Voice

Gary: Me and Cliff Fortney were really only 15 but lied to be cooler. LOL. We were just a home town band with all the big dreams. The Journal Gazette News paper in Fort Wayne had a "Band of the week or month" thing going on and we got our pictures in the paper by just existing. All of us in this band still play in bands to this day, as a hobby. We just played school dances and birthday parties and for any reason really.

Mike: We played a lot of Beatles, Who, Yardbirds Kinks, and were trying to get a set with all original stuff. We played in the '60s. Parks, schools, Battle of the Bands at the Coliseum.

Gary: At the time of that news paper picture we just got interested in blues bands and fancied ourselves as down and dirty pay en our dues blues cats. LOL. Truth is shortly after that, we went right back into out first love which was and still is the British Invasion music. We loved the music, but we just weren't good enough to sing and play those songs. Blues took very little talent and pretty much no singing or harmony ability at all.
We did not make any records, we just loved playing and
being in the whole 60's scene.

Where are we now?

Mike plays bass to this day mostly in church.
Cliff Webb plays to this day in Fort Wayne and is a fine jazz guitarist.
If you Goggle Cliff Fortney you may see that he did make records with a band he formed called Zelda. He also got 2 auditions with Genesis when Peter Gabriel left the band. If Phil Collins didn't decide to sing, Cliff Fortney may very well got the job. He plays flute, harp, keyboards and sings very well.
As far I (Gary) go, I am a Beatles tribute drummer. I am in rehearsal now with a all Beatles band to start playing this fall called THE BEAGLES.

Wow, what can I say, great contribution from the band, great history, guys that are still good friends, and still play music. Isn't life grand!!

Omer's Soul Rebellion - 1968

2009-06-25T22:09:00.008-05:00

One of the top regional bands to hit the scene centered around late 1960s’ Indianapolis was Omer’s Soul Rebellion (OSR). OSR’s style of music was rock and horn-based rhythm and blues, with the band lovingly referring to itself as a group of “blue-eyed soul brothers”. The band featured many of their own arrangements of songs made famous by such artists as the Temptations, Sam and Dave, Blood Sweat and Tears, James Brown, and the Rolling Stones. Towards the end of their collaborative effort, the band began venturing into harder styles of rock doing arrangements by the Vanilla Fudge and Cream.

Members of the band included:
Mark Hewitt (guitar),
Fred Hayes (drums),
Jeff Brant (bass),
Terry Self (organ),
John Cotner (trumpet),
John Tarkington (sax), and
Jim “Omer” Hutto (trombone).

Upon Fred Hayes’ departure to Tucson, Carl Peterson took over the role behind the drum kit. Everyone within the band contributed in delivering the multi-part vocals with Omer taking a lead role.

In 1968 Omer’s Soul Rebellion was one of 172 bands competing in the Indiana State Fair’s “Young America Fair” Battle of the Bands. The band took 1st place making it the second year in a row bands from the Kokomo area had dominated the competition. The Clean Machine, a band from Kokomo featuring Frankie Watters, had won in 1967. Judging the competition were the WIFE Good Guys from the dominant youth centered radio station of the day in Indianapolis.

Though most members of the band were high school juniors at the time of the Young America Fair, they capitalized on their new found connection with the Good Guys and signed with Carousel Productions. This allowed the band to play weekends throughout the five state region for the majority of their senior year in high school. At the end of summer following graduation, the band came to an end as various members went off to their different colleges and lives. The crowds had loved them and just a whole lot of good times had come out of this band.

Complete contribution thanks to Mark Hewitt! Thanks Mark!

Caravans - 1967

2009-06-22T19:46:00.012-05:00

Take a look at these blurbs for the Caravans, and you know what I know. Robbie Rogers was a member and a champion drummer. Whatever that is, I'm pretty sure it was very cool in the day. The pics were gleaned from May 1967. The band is credited with being "State Champions in Rock & Roll". Must be some documentation on a feat such as this.

Who else was on the State Champs roster? Time to honor these guys. How many years did the state determine champs? Who were the "not winners". This could be interesting.

UPDATE:

Bob Walterman, founding member of the Caravans has checked in with the skinny on the band.

"The band was formed in 1963,and the original name was Satans Angels. However since our first job was for the CYO of our local Catholic church we had to change our name to keep the job. As we were all musicians in the school band it was a natural step to form our own band. We worked very hard to hone our skills and the summer of 1965 we entered the Battle of the bands at the state fair. We placed second in the state to a band from Fort Wayne called The Epics. The third place band was from Shelbyville called The Kandels. As a result of our success we were invited by The Beach Boys to be one of the opening acts at their concert at Ball State . The Vietnam War took its toll on our group as two of our members were drafted into the service. With replacements we contined on until 1971 and disbanded. Our drummer Robbie Rogers was an exceptional player and could be considered the best in the state at that time, but of course I'm prejudiced. Our lead singer and guitar player Dan Mobley when he left the service moved to Florida and still to this day is performing and recording.Our bass player was Frank Smith who moved to Batesville in 1963 from Fordyce Ark. Our keyboard player was Glen Dickman who was originally a trombone player and was self taught on the guitar and keys, he was very gifted. We were always a cover band and had no desires to do our own material or record. We simply loved to play for people. Jim Shelton of WIBC radio took us under his wing and we did dances all over the state of Indiana."

The Caravans on the night we placed 2nd in the state battle of the bands. We are holding a check for $2500.00. The members are from left to right:
Robbie Rogers - Drums
Dan Mobley - Guitar / Lead Singer
Frank Smith - Bass
Bob Walterman - Guitar
Glen Dickman - Keyboards - Trombone

"In later years after The Caravans disbanded I started a group called Blackwater Falls which had two musicians from Columbus,In. Jim Prazner on bass and Henry Smith on drums. Since 1963 I founded a total of six bands."

Great to hear from Bob, and really stoked that we can share the Caravans story with our dedicated followers! Thanks!

Tribu-Terrys ride again!

2009-05-31T11:13:00.009-05:00

You have to love google. A search for family history leads a band to us, and The Tribu-Terrys are uncovered.
Pictured:
Terry Vandiver - Guitar /Vocals
Bud Schenk - Keyboards
John Carter - Guitar
Hollis Heuer - Drums
Bruce English - Bass

The 1st rock band from Rushville, Indiana, the Tribu-Terrys
started in '63 as an instrumental combo, Terry & John added Bob Duff on bongos (!) and the Tribu-Terrys were born. You might have heard "walk, don't run" as you dined at Barbara's Steak House , Shelbyville, 1963, as the bands first gig.

Jim Shelton (WIBC dj and personality) agreed to help the band, but insisted that vocals became part of the show. Adding keyboards, bass, and embracing the Beatles, Stones, and Beach Boys, they traveled throughout central Indiana as a popular attraction through '66.

The Tribu-Terrys recorded one 45 on Prism (Dayton, OH label), details are fuzzy on how they ended up there, but hear the results:

My Shadow is You
Leavin' To Stay

The Tribu-Terrys are gearing up for a reunion show August 1st, 2009 in Rushville, Indiana. Plans include playing from 5-9 pm at Riverside park behind the old Miller (now Daddy's) Drive-in.

See more pics at previous posts: click here!

Update - Ronnie & the Rascals! New photos

2009-05-05T22:52:00.003-05:00

Ronnie & the Rascals hs been updated with a couple great pics and news on the band members. Special kudos to Bob Brown. Check out his great photography website. I love it!

Sounds Of Us - 1966 - Combo Clash

2009-04-30T20:23:00.003-05:00

One of the many that played at 1966 Indiana State Fair Combo Clash. Not sure of how they fared, but I'm still searching for the results (someone help me please!)

The Sounds of Us, from Sept. 1966.
Pictured top row :
Mike Wehlage
Bob Pranger
Chuck Maurer
front row:
Steve Arvin
Jerry Arvin

Any info? Please chime in!

D.A. & the Downbeats - Franklin 1966

2009-04-16T20:10:00.003-05:00

The town of Franklin, Indiana (circa 1966), proudly presents

D.A & the Downbeats!

Did this band ever record? No.
Did they get rich and famous? No.
Did they set the bar for other bands? No.

Are they important to us? Hell yes!

From left:

Lee Wilhelm - rhythm guitar
Bill McCarty - bass guitar
Les Tabeling - lead guitar
Doug Adamson - drums

My notes say Doug was the leader of the band, and with his initials out front, I see no reason to doubt it. Don't know where he is or what he did, but I'll find out.

Lee didn't have another band gig and lives in Nashville, IN.
Bill, another unknown....
And of course, Les went on to front the "Try-Angle" of Orlyn 45 legend. I'll put it up soon.

Foremost - 1966 - No longer unknown!

2009-03-11T22:21:00.003-05:00

Behold another unknown from January 1966. These moppets were attending Park and North Central High Schools.

From Left:
Chris Katterjohn
John Lindquist
John Scofield
Allan Thorpe

Great to get your picture in the paper, but it would have been nice to have the band named! If you did have a group name, please share it with us!!!

Poorboys - Kokomo

2009-02-21T21:48:00.005-06:00

Some bands are just hard to pin down. The Poorboys from Kokomo, Indiana, circa 1966. I had a promo pic early in this blogs evolution (poor boys) and no less than two other Poor Boys bands let me know that it wasn't them. But the subtle answer is here, notice there is no space in the Poorboys.

The Poorboys that recorded this were:

Mark Hewitt - guitar
Jeff Williams
Clinton Wray
Larry Ingels.

Hear Think of livin' now!
Hear Julie, Julie now!

Jim Day of radio station WIOU in Kokomo made all arrangements for the recording in Nashville.

Emeralds - Greenwood - 1966

2009-02-02T20:36:00.007-06:00

It's March 1966, and the Emeralds are hot!
Hailing from Greenwood, Indiana, the boys, from top of ladder:

Pat Gwynn - Drums
Dale Young (Center Grove High School) - organ
Dave Church (far left) - rhythm guitar
Roger Craig - bass guitar
Dan Weaver (far right) - lead guitar

The Emeralds placed 1st in the Johnson County Fair competition,
1st in the Greenwood Battle of the Bands,
and 10th in Young America band battle at the State fair.
They even appeared on local TV showing their chops.
Showing off 5 of the 800 copies pressed on the Honey label (Bloomington? Confirmation?) the Emeralds were seemingly off to bigger things.

Hear that first 45 now!

Emerald City

Like Father, Like Son

As it seems all bands change personnel, Dave Wilson replaced Dale Young on organ. And the Boroughed Tyme were born. I've also seen it as:

Borrowed Tyme
Boroughed Tymes.
Shown here heading to Chicago and the TeenAge World's Fair, and a recording session at Recordings Unlimited.

Then of course I lose track of them. What happened to that session, and/or the tapes?
What other bands did the boys go to? What happened to their Fan Club (that's right, they had a fan club!) ?

The 60's hoosier band fans want to know!

Ronnie & the Rascals - 1967

2009-01-24T20:06:00.004-06:00

Another lead, another band found, kinda....

Ronnie & the Rascals, the ad you see is from May, 1967.
Bob Brown left a message on the Idle Few's page:

"Interesting blog. I played guitar for a group called 'Ronnie and the Rascals' in the 1960s, as well as a number of other groups. The Flame Club was one of my favorite venues. Ron Blackstone, the lead singer of the group died in 2002. I have long since lost track of Lanny Lambert, our bass player, but Rick Wilhelm and Mike Quick are alive and well.

Other notable venues from the '60s were the 'House of Sounds' in Plainfield, 'Westlake Country Club' and 'The Whiteland Barn.'

I no longer play music professionally, but have taken up the piano for my own enjoyment. I also shoot still photography, not only in America, but western Europe as well. Examples of my work can be seen on my website.

Best,
Bob Brown "

Thanks for the info Bob! Please contact me with your website information and e*mail, and I'll get the skinny straight from you.

Update..............

Great pics from Bob Brown!

Left to right:
Mike Quick
Rick Wilhelm
Ronnie Blackstone (with umbrella)
Lanny Lambert
Bob Brown

Another great shot from Dino Enterprises, owned by Norm Viehe. Many an area combo were under the wing of Norm. Seems Norm also played drums, the J.D. Combo shared Norm and Bob as members!

Ronnie & the Rascals played mostly R&B (that was the top 40 in the mid sixties!) "In the Midnight Hour, Shotgun, Hold on, I'm Comin', Turn on Your Lovelight, etc".

Bob also played with the Noblemen before they recorded the 45 they left us.

Another photo - from left:

Bob
Lanny
Ronnie - top center
Mike
Rick

Great info, and Bob was in a few bands, and that means more leads!
Thanks again, Bob! And please take a look at Bob's current gig - Robert Brown Images. Pretty cool.

5 Cents Extra - 5¢ Extra - 1967

2009-01-15T20:19:00.002-06:00

Tonight! March 11th, 1967 actually, The 5 Cents Extra band played a date in Franklin, Indiana. I have several ads of the band ( also shown as "5¢ Extra"), playing late '66 - early '67, In Franklin, and Indianapolis. And that friends, is all I know.

Ronnie & the Rebels

2008-12-30T20:40:00.003-06:00

Big bands, little bands, we try to cover them all here! From May 1965 (Race weekend too, for us Indy 500 fans! Jimmy Clark won that year in a Ford powered Lotus)
Ronnie and the Rebels, one of hundreds of bands playing on a Friday night in Indiana. Who are you guys? Where did you go, and would you share a story or two with us!

Nomads - Morgantown - '65-'66

2008-12-11T19:27:00.010-06:00

Ok, every state had a "Nomads", and most probably several in the state. These guys hailed from Morgantown, Indiana. The population is quite small (under 1,000), and I imagine this was the only teen combo at the time. Both photos are from July '65, but they look several years apart.

This is one of those bands where I have more contributed names than apparent members.

Associated names:
Harold Collier
Mike Collier
Dan Rueshaw
Skip Wood
Bill Owens
Herbert Brock
G. Means

Any narrowing down of who is who, please fill me in. And if the guy with the '65 Ventures mosrite still has it, all I ask is to let me play "Walk, Don't Run" on it, then my life will be complete!!!

The Premiers - Southport - 1966

2008-11-30T17:12:00.002-06:00

For 50¢ (members) or 75¢ for non members, you could see the popular Southport combo, The Premiers, play at the Green-Urban pool in Greenwood, Indiana. Prices have gone up since '66.

Who are these youth you ask?

From left to right:
Gary Davis - organ
Don Gray - bass guitar
Gary Wells - rhythm guitar
Roger Cummings - lead guitar
Jim Krug - drums

Any recordings or post-Premiers music life? Your guess is as good as mine. We are batting about .750 on finding these things out, so I'll keep my fingers crossed! Wonder if any of these guys kept the guitars.....

Him Her & Them '66-'67 Indianapolis

2008-11-19T21:03:00.002-06:00

Him Her & Them, granted, it's not the best quality photo, microfilm at it's best. The band formed in 1964. This is for a show in late '66.

Pictured: (and I don't know who is whom)
Bob Dawson
Jinx Dawson (ok, I know which one she is!)
Steve Farber
Greg Johnson
David Larman
Greg Osborne

Jinx, Greg, and David went on to form "Coven". Best known for the song "One tin Soldier" from the movie "Billy Jack", they recorded 2 albums. Jinx has cult following worshiping her as the first Gothic queen. Nice job if you can get it I guess.

Updates galore!

2008-11-06T19:55:00.002-06:00

I think I'll try this once in a while.

The Hurd - new photo and info from band member

Velvet Infinity - Band member info

Royal Blues - Partial band member info

**Anyone know of a "Thundermen"?***

prost!

Rogues - 1966

2008-10-22T20:36:00.006-05:00

From early 1966, Indianapolis, and I believe Shortridge High School, The Rogues.
How many bands had just 1/2 a 45? All I have found in Indiana is this split 45 of the Rogues and the V.I.P.'s.
And look closely at that label. A Jr. Achievement Co.. How many '60s teen combos in any state released a 45 as a business experiment?
Anyone know what STO-VA-CO stands for?

The Rogues were:

Danny Bonnett - rhythm guitar & vocals
Bill "Willy" Williams - bass & vocals
Vaughn Vernier - drums
Paul Sheehan - lead guitar & vocals
Pete Schmutte - organ

Hear "I'm not that way at all" now!

Any additional info appreciated! I'll do the VIPs soon also.

Additional info delivered! I made a couple mistakes in the original post, isn't that why we do this, to get the history right!

From Paul Sheehan - lead guitar/vocals/writer

"For the record (so to speak), the Rogues were an Indianapolis based band that played central Indiana teen clubs and high school/college gigs from 1963-1966. The band members were from Cathedral and Scecina High Schools (not Shortridge) and included:

- Paul Sheehan (lead guitar & vocals)
- Dan Bonnett (rhythm guitar & vocals)
- Bill "Willy" Williams (bass & vocals)
- Pete Schmutte (organ)
- Vaughn Vernier (drums)

Sto-Va-Co was a Junior Achievement venture, sponsored by Stokely VanCamp. The Rogues, who were well known in the Indianapolis area at the time, won a competition and were selected to be on the record. It was recorded at Jan Eden’s Recording Studio which used to be in the 1400 block of North Meridian Street.

Bill "Willy" Williams, who co-wrote "I'm not that way at all", sang lead on the record.

The posted picture shows Dan Bonnett, with Vaughn Vernier just barely visible in the background. Where in the world did you find that picture … and are there any more around? To the best of my knowledge, we who were in the band have none.

Dan Bonnett and Paul Sheehan later formed Indianapolis based Ezekial Longspur in 1972, and Pete Schmutte joined that group in 1974. For more info about Ezekial Longspur, go to:

www.indiana45s.com/indiana45s_detail.php?recordID=420&group=Longspur,%20Ezekial

If my memory serves me correctly, the VIPs, who did the flip side of the Sto-Va-Co record, were from Shortridge High School.

Sincerely,

Paul Sheehan
Camarillo, CA

Thanks Paul! E*mail me: vinylfool at vinylfool.net and I'll let you know where I found the photo!

Other Five 1966

2008-10-13T19:52:00.005-05:00

The Other Five, from Indianapolis, I believe.

Pictured:
Front row -Mike Ryan
Dan Koontz
back row-
Jabe Christman
J. Michael
Lynn Asper

I don't know much about the Other Five other than one 45 on
Baus, or maybe BA-US, hard to tell. Both sides are covers, and you
can hear them now:
Better Come Home
You Really Got Me
You may recognize the name Mike Ryan from the Teen Tones. I think he was the vocalist here also. Any insight appreciated!

Special thanks to J. Michael for the pic!

International Silver String Submarine Banned - update! Howe High School - 1968

2008-10-05T18:58:00.002-05:00

I'm pleased to announce a reunion show featuring friends of the blog: "International Silver String Submarine Banned". They will be performing at Howe High School Class of 1968 reunion on Nov. 29th. So all you Howe '68 guys and gals, all I ask is that someone send me a photo!
The photo here is from the Marion County Fair, July 1967.

Original members include:

Dave Smith - rhythm guitar
Mike Kelley - lead singer / guitar
Randy Barnes - bass guitar
Randy Steenbergen - drums
Laura Stout (now Harmon) - Lead guitar / backup vocals
Pat Kelley - sound tech, guitarist, tea and sympathy

Spread the news, and y'all have a ball.

***Just click on the band name to see the original posts of the ISSSB****

Noblemen - McCordsville - Prism 45

2008-09-25T20:09:00.007-05:00

The Noblemen - direct from McCordsville, Indiana, left us one great 45.
She still thinks I love her B/W
Satisfied on Prism 1930.

The Noblemen played around Indianapolis quite often, but seem to have very little known about them. The 45 shows "Crouch & Wilhelm" and "Spencer" as songwriters. I know a James Spencer had a Prism records connection, but maybe that is a coincidence. Any info is appreciated!

Fire Combo - '68 Whiteland Barn

2008-09-15T19:32:00.008-05:00

Good Day '60s Indiana Band team! We have a video of an unknown band. No audio (the overdubbed audio was the Seeds "Pushin' to hard") great tune, but not what we need here. At the very beginning we have a shot of the drumhead showing "Fire Combo". All I know is that it's 1968 at the Whiteland Barn.
Our mission....who are these guys!!!!! Any ideas (real or imagined) welcomed. I've seen it guessed as "Feebe n' the Ragweed Patche", but I have my doubts...............

I made it as small as I could for viewing, without resorting to postage stamp size. Who are you!

Jan. 2011 Update!

Two members, Danny Spencer and Rick Boger have checked in!
Rick writes:
"Fire members were:

Lead Singer - Danny Spencer

Lead Guitar - Don Grover

Guitar - Rex Thomas

Bass Guitar - Rick Boger

Keyboards - Dave Thomas

Drums - Paul Thomas

Drums - Kenny Dwiggins

This was a time when we experimented with two drummers. It actually worked out well. I recall we would start the show with a drum duet. Just the two drummers on stage and they would take turns for about five minutes and work the crowd up into a frenzy. Then the rest of us would come on stage and without missing a beat go into the first song. The crowd seemed to like it.

Most of us went to Howe High School. Don Grover and Kenny Dwiggins went to Tech High School. As you can see there were three Thomas' in the band. Dave and Paul were brothers, Rex was not related.

We finally broke up the band around 1970 after a couple of us got married and started families. Also, Danny Spencer went into the Air Force. "

Wow. Over two years have passed since I posted the video. Great info coming in all the time, I'm sure we'll hear more from the Fire Combo!

The Intakes - Combo Clash '66

2008-09-11T20:13:00.004-05:00

The Intakes, another entry in the 1966 Indiana State Fair "Combo Clash".
Members included (left to right):
Ralph Wilson - lead guitar
Jack Moore - Lead singer & tambourine
Mike Rowls - Bass guitar
Ken Noble - rhythm guitar
Mike Graves - Drums

The Intakes acquired the name by leafing through a dictionary of course! The "band" vehicle was a '51 hearse and naturally it was black! Playing the grittier tunes of the Animals, Kinks, and Rolling Stones, the group knew that original material was what made it worthwhile.

Mike Rowls is quoted as:
"Many adults don't care for this type of music because there is so much protest in the lyrics. If you protest in a song, it is against your present life or government and in a sense that is protesting against adults of today."

Wonder if Mike still feels the same way............what a drag it is getting old! Let's find these guys and find out if they left some recorded legacy behind!

Iguanas - Maconaquah - Bunker Hill 1967

2008-08-31T22:03:00.003-05:00

The Iguanas, unknown students from Maconaquah High School. All I'm sure of is that they attended 1966 - 1967. Look a little young to have graduated then, heck, I don't know!

Maconaquah H.S. is located in beautiful Bunker Hill, Indiana. Cool pic from the kids, hope I find out who they are. Looks to be a three piece combo, no organ or keyboards.

Bitter End - Indianapolis '66

2008-08-23T20:37:00.003-05:00

Earlier I exposed the International Silver String Submarine Banned.

Laura wrote:
"I previously was in a band (and was next-door neighbor) to Jeanne Schuller. That band was called The Bitter End, with Pat and Mike Finnegan and the drummer was Jay (something?). When I went on to join the ISSSB as lead player, Jeanne went on to join The Shy Ones as their lead player. Jeanne! Where are you?"

Well, today I found a pic of the Bitter End playing at a new playground opening late Aug. 1966. Don't know if the playground is still there, but how many pics do you find of bands that featured two ladies playing guitar in the mid '60s?

If anyone knows where Jeanne is, contact me and and I'll make sure Laura knows!
And who is Jay?

The Hurd - '66 - '67 Indianapolis

2008-08-03T19:14:00.005-05:00

The Hurd - circa 1967. The Hurd were known for the harder rock and psychedelic sounds. One of the few bands of the day to belt out "Psychotic Reaction", and one of even few still to do it well.
Pictured: (from bottom right to left)
Nick Rudman - kneeling - rhythm guitar - Speedway HS
Kevin Williams - seated - lead guitar - vocals - North Central
Dave Franks - organ - sax - Broad Ripple
Jimmy Thomson - drums - vocals - North Central
Bruce White - bass - North Central

No 45s left behind that we know of. Alas, maybe we'll find a rehearsal tape someday. Time to check in and let us know what else the Hurd was involved in!

Fab gear dear readers! Kevin Williams has found us and graciously sent this photo and info.

"Bruce White was tragically killed in the USAC airplane crash in 1978. He was finishing up his residency in Surgery, and was the USAC racing doctor. I have lost touch with Nick Rudman, and Jimmy Thompson. The picture you show was taken before we incorporated Steve Simpson on drums, who attended Ben Davis. At that time, Jimmy became our up front man, and singer. Also have lost touch with Steve. Matter of fact, I haven't seen Nick, Steve, or Jimmy since about 1969 or 1970. Dave Franks continued in bands, playing with the Idle Few for quite a while.

This is the only pic I know of, of us rehearsing, sometime in 1967. From Left to right, Jimmy Thompson with mic, Steve Simpson on Drums, myself on the Fender Jaguar (damn I wish I still had that guitar, and the old blonde bandmaster Amp). Nick Rudman with his back to the camera, he is facing Bruce White, only his face is showing, and on the Farfisa organ in back, is Dave Franks.
There was some other memorabilia but it was unfortunately destroyed in a flooded basement many years ago. I don't believe there were any reel to reel tapes, or even cassette tapes of the band, as they were just coming into vogue. There was much discussion about doing something, but we all had other life priorities coming up. We all went our separate ways, due to College frankly. Bruce wasn't interested as he was traveling to europe, and then to Med school. I was going to Florida to school, Steve went into the Marines, and I heard he played in the White house Marine band. Note, I heard that second hand. He most certainly was good enough to pass just about any audition. Again, dunno bout Jimmy and Nick."

Wow, all I can say is thanks Kevin. Tons of good info and we tip our hats to you and the band for stickin' that toe in the water and diving in! I wish you still had that Jaguar too.

Idle Few - update

2008-07-20T19:09:00.006-05:00

Idle Few

Known as the Kingsmen until they recorded they were-
From the top, clockwise:

Bill Compton - Bass
John Chappelow - Lead & Rhythm
Rick Webster - Lead & Rhythm
Ron Bennett - Lead Singer & Sax
Dan Mclean - Drums
Ron Knoop - Organ

This second pic shows the group as they recorded "Farmer John" and "Another World". John was killed in a car accident returning from an after prom dance in Cambridge City, and was never replaced. Bill was replaced by Paul Romine on bass and this is the recording lineup.

From top to left:

Ron Bennett
Paul Romine
Rick Webster
Ron Knoop - nearly kneeling
Dan McLean - sitting

Pretty cool eh? The Soma 45 came first and then picked up by Dunwich.

Special thanks to Ron for the great pics and info!