The Hey Baby Days of Beach Music autograph tour continues

Proof that the drummer for the Original Pieces of Eight once had hair... Harvey " Irven" Hicks signs the books at the Coachman & Four reunion... photo courtesy of Grainger Hines


At the Coachman & Four Reunion, we added over twenty new autographs to the two books we have been carrying around since the book was released in 2006. One of the two books will be auctioned off for the benefit of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness- Georgia Chapter ) The other book was already auctioned in 2007 for the benefit of the Atlanta Study Hall. It received $1,000 at the SIOR Leadership Breakfast in Atlanta but at that time, the book only had about 70 signatures. Both books now have well over 200 autographs of musicians, performers and others pictured in the book and or were involved in the music scene of the Hey Baby Days. We want to get more signatures and will work toward that over the next couple of months before releasing the book for the auction. NAMI is a 501 C charity and as a result, certain tax deductions are allowable. We will furnish more information at the time the book is made available for the auction.

If you are in the book (photo or mentioned by name) contact us. If you have not signed the book, we’ll try to work a time and place over the next couple of months to get your “John Henry, or Jane Henry”

We will soon post the signatures that we have received to date.
Here are a few other Johns and Janes that we got this past weekend:



Vicky Skinner who was one of the Chantelles who traveled with the Aqua Lads Revue signed the book and gave us a copy of a CD with her new cut



Randy and Cindy Floyd sign the book. Billy Scott and Jimmy Campbell have signed it as well in another part of the book




Willie Tee Walker , lead singer for Burlington's Willie Tee & The Magnificents signed the book.






We added three additional Monzas to the list of autographers; Don Baker and Mike Griffin have signed as well on another page






Carlie Barbour, certainly a Man of Distinction signed as an original Pieces of Eight



Ada Eason, widow of Freddy Owens signed his 1967 In-Men Ltd. photo




The Man Loves Beach Music




Durwood Martin... an original Ember







Chris Biehler, President Forevermore Records produced the CD shown above; we failed to acknowledged that in the book; he graciously forgave us and gave us two new CD productions to boot !

We'll add a few more signatures that we obtained from the event soon.

Willie T & The Magnificents, Attractions, In_Men Ltd. Monzas, Footnotes, Men of Distinction All-Stars, Clifford Curry Billy Scott & Prophets

Originals, and others lived up to Coachman & Four reunion expectations. It was Burlington North Carolina night at the Ocean Drive Beach Resort and Golf Club in North Myrtle, South Carolina as the bands who frequently played the old Coachman & Four Club in Bennettsville, South Carolina gathered for a reunion. Of course, there were bands and performers from throughout the Beach Music world but the Burlington crowd carried the day . In-Men Ltd. keyboard player Moose Smith sat at the boards for most of the Burlington bands who blurred the crowd with ex ordinary interchangeability. It you think that any of these performers have missed a beat since the Hey Baby Days, think again,

I could go and go about each of the groups that performed but rather than bore with a dictionary of superlatives, peruse the photos that we begin adding now and will continue adding until the dinner bell rings. Special thanks to Julian Fowler for his hospitality. Julian did a masterful job of putting this event together. Most covered songs:"Ain't No Big Thing", "Be Young Be Foolish Be Happy" "39-21-40 shape""Thank You John" (some things never change...nor should they)

















Carlie Barbour (Pieces of Eight, Men of Distinction, others ) Big John Thompson (Monzas, Band of Oz,others)Ervin Hicks (Tassles, Pieces of Eight, Swingin' Medallions, others) Jackie Gore ( Embers, Legends of the Beach) Durwood Martin (Embers, Legends of The Beach, others )





Vicky Skinner ( Chantells / Aqua Lads Revue ) review has a current top Beach song




Ervin Hicks ( Tassles, Pieces of Eight, Swingin' Medallions ) Linda "Quig" Quinlin James (Monzas), and Greg






Quig and Mags reprise "For Your Precious Love"




Original Willie T. & Magnificents thanking John and others







Ada (widow of Freddy Owens- In-Men Ltd. ) Greg, Ward May (Monza) Bing Greeson (Monzas), and Clifford Curry (in back)

More event photos are coming here !



North Myrtle Beach proclaims itself the home of the shag... no arguments here



Judy's, a popular place to buy your shaggin' shoes


and there are many places to try them out !






In-Men Ltd. includes Trumpeters Howard Eaton and Garth Hutson who are members of the Attractions (also shown in photo on guitar is Attraction's guitarist, Keevin Smith substituting for Sonny Long who was unable to attend);on saxophone is Tommy Burgess and as always on keyboards, Moose Smith.





The Footnotes featured an awesome horn section.




Billy Scott of Prophets reflects on years of old... while vocalist, Cindy Floyd, watches on




Vintge Posters will soon be available; note South Georgia's King David & The Slaves appearance with Jerry Butler






The Attractions featured an awesome horn section ( Seems like there were two bands playing at the same time but in different rooms that had awesome horn sections... many people wore out their shaggin' shoes traveling between the two)





The already nine piece Attractions band swells to twelve with three guests(Carlie Barbour, guitar; Johnny Cobb, vocalist, and Moose Smith, keyboards)


All I can report is this was a most incredible event; one for the ages !

Coachman & Four Reunion Line-Up

Attractions appear at Coachman & Four Reunion Friday Night... "Zing, Went The Strings of My Heart"





Georgia Prophets AKA Billy Scott & The Prophets appear Saturday Midday




Catalinas appeared Thursday night





In-Men Ltd. appear Friday and Saturday night




Monzas with Quig and Sharon are back supported by The In-Men and Monzas from the past




Willie T & The Magnificents , the Magnificents appear Saturday Night

paste the following link in your browers to get the full line up on the Coachman and Four Reunion


http://www.beachmusiconline.com/04/coachman-four-reunion/


Here' the Lineup at the Ocean Drive Beach Resort and Golf Resort in North Myrtle Beach South Carolina

Wednesday Night: Avengers/Band of Oz

Last Night: Thursday

Catalinas : The Barkers, Earl Dawkins, Gary Brown

Friday Night June 12

The Attractions

Clifford "She Shot a Hole in My Soul" Curry

Big John Thompson

The In-Men Ltd.

The Monzas

The Footnotes

Saturday

mid day: The "Georgia" Prophets aka Billy Scott & The Prophets, "I Got The Fever"

Saturday Night:

Willie Tee & The Magnificients

Clifford Curry

The Originals

Big John Thompson

The Monzas

The In-Men Ltd.

The "Original Men of Distinction" Dunn, NC

The Men of Distinction, founded by the late great Harry Driver are composed of musicians that had previously been members of legendary Beach Bands, Gene Barbour & The Cavaliers, The Thymes, and others... they were well known in UGA 60s party circles


THis event is taking place in North Myrtle Beach South Carolina... so do not head to Athens Georgia thinking it is 1968 and it's a typical Saturday night on frat row.

Major 60s bands to relive days of Coachman & Four

Footnotes appearing at Coachman & Four Reunion... backed many of the greats




Appearing at Coachman & Four Reunion: Clifford Curry



Hi Greg,


I received my book today in perfect condition. Thank you so very much for that piece of history. My wife went wild looking at all the bands, especially The Imperials Combo! Needless to say you have created a valuable document to view the bands of that era. The mid 1960 was the best time of my life. Thank you again for your great work.

Mickey Brafford


The Imperials Rock 'N Roll Combo"

ps. I had to sign it for my wife right away. She has taken it over!



Thanks Mickey,

I appreciate your contributions. Interestingly, there were a couple on non-Anthony Imperial bands, yours and the Imperial Show Band out of Jackson, Mississippi headed by Tim Whitsett. You can read about the Mississippi based band in chapter 16. Those were the best of times and music, Regards,

Greg

P.S. By the way, the "Imperial" is the same as the "Shag" in the Carolinas but has an entirely different meaning in the UK.




Hi Greg,



Oh yes, I'm aware of the Imperial names used by other bands. There are a couple of groups battling it out in court as we speak. As you may know the name "THE IMPERIALS" was used by a Christian gospel group quite successfully. However the original Imperials name was used by Little Anthony and the Imperials, and the name THE IMPERIALS was trademarked by Clarence Collins of that group. Clarence did give the Christian group permission to use the name in around 1964-65. As the older Christian singer started to phase out of music he gave his son permission to use the name, but things got kinda nasty in 2007. You can read the story here --> http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2008/februaryweb-only/109-43.0.html?start=1 As for our group "The Imperials Rock 'N Roll Combo" came about in 1962. This name was a spin off of my original band "Mickey And The Tech Raiders" Here is the story: First off the band was started, and created by yours truly. At the time I was attending The Danville Technical Institute in Danville, VA. studying Electronics Engineering Technology. One evening several students were crammed in Van Hunsucker's dorm room, which was located in the old castle building at DTI. We were singing and playing songs of that era (early 60's). After we finished singing and playing a guy came over to me and asked if he could bring his sax to school next weekend, and join in the fun. Of course I said sure. That Guy was Billy Gwaltney, and we hit it off right away. In the guys crammed into Van's dorm room were guitar players drummers and other musicians. The very next week Billy brought his sax to school and we played several pretty cool songs. Along with Billy was George (Tommy) Dunn, (guitar) Chris Colenda (VPI student) drummer. At that point in time VPI, Danville extension and DTI students used the same classrooms, and dorms. Of course the main campus of VPI was and still is in Blacksburg, VA. Anyway, the four of us Billy, Chris, Tommy, and yours truly decided to practice a few songs. Actually we sounded pretty good, and Billy and I wrote a song called "Raider Rock". Because we were students Billy and I decided to attend a "mixer" or two to meet some members of the opposite sex. While attending a Nursing School mixer I met two young ladies named Helen, and Tex. Helen was the head girl who arranged parties and dances for the Danville, VA School of Nursing. She asked me if I knew of any bands who would play cheap, as Thanksgiving break was drawing near, and she was trying to organize a dance and party. Of course I said, well girl you found the right guy, I know a band who will play VERY cheap. Who are they she quizzed.... Uhhhhh I stammered... "Mickey" I blurted out. Mickey Mouse she screamed, and we all laughed hysterically. By then several girls had gathered around, Nooooooo I corrected.... Mickey, and and.... YES she asked Go ON. Suddenly it popped in my head "Mickey and the Tech Raiders" Cooool she said, and who are these guys Tex asked. Is he the same Mickey as you??? Of course I lied. We had a few practice sessions, but had played no gigs....zero! Anyway Billy and I made a deal with Helen to play for the Thanksgiving dance and party. She agreed to pay us with homemade food and drinks. Oh yeah....food and drinks Billy chided, that'll pay the rent. Well...we gotta start somewhere...don't we? I must say the dance went very well, and everyone loved "Raider Rock". That very year Billy and I went to the DTI Christmas party with our dates, and someone had hired the "Lancers" from Lynchburg, VA. The dance was held at Glen Oak Country Club in Danville. We could feel the ground shaking as we walked toward the building. Billy and I looked at each other in utter disbelief as we entered the building. We were hypnotized by the fantastic music. I asked someone who they were, and the answer was Phil Vassar and the Lancers. They had new Fender gear, a super PA system, and we sounded like rank amateurs compared to them. I had never heard a bass guitar that shook the floor, and the singers were beyond fantastic. I vowed right then the Tech Raiders needed some new gear, and tons more practice! Fast forward a few years, and the band was enjoying a lot of success. We had hired a new drummer, Johnny Johnson who took over the booking duties, and handled many of the decisions. Johnny's Mom and Dad were fairly well off, and had a lot of influence in Danville. His Dad was Fire Chief in Danville, and he had a lot of pull with many people. Anyway, for some reason Johnny had decided the band name Mickey and the Tech Raiders was no longer appealing to many venues, such as college frat parties, and a Saturday afternoon TV show in Eastern NC. One sunny afternoon before practice in Johnny's parents basement, he announced we were going to change the bands name. We had a local hit record which was "Raider Rock" and it was getting regular play on WYPR in Danville, and many of the NC stations had picked it up, but Johnny said we're changing the band name anyway. Johnny put the band name change idea out, and no one objected except me. I said lets drop the "Mickey" and call ourselves "The Tech Raiders". Johnny said no, we need something connected to soul music, and would be accepted by more people. He then suggested we call ourselves The Imperials Rock 'N Roll Combo. Immediately one of the band guys asked what about "Little Anthony"? Johnny responded with "my Dad's lawyer has checked this name and said it wasn't connected to Little Anthony, so it's ok to use." Everyone except me agreed to use the new name, so that's how we became "The Imperials Rock 'N Roll Combo".

Boy Greg there is a LOT more to this story, but you get the idea I'm sure. By the way, my record Raider Rock is long gone, I don't even have one copy. One of my DTI classmates asked me last week if he could get a copy, and of course there are none.

Sincerely,
Mickey Brafford

Hey Greg! Terrific news to hear that the book has Sold Out!!! I hope you print some more.

I have a couple of small corrections for your band directory entry on the James Gang. Fred Guarino and I both rejoined Wilbur on the road again from summer 1969 to the James Gang's demise in 1970. The band (it's final version) consisted of Wilbur on vocals, Fred on drums, me (Jimmy Dean) on bass, and Marvin Taylor playing guitar.

Thanks. Much more success with future printings of the book!

Jimmy Dean





Greg



Hi Greg,
Thanks for the book. I am already half way through and it is really
entertaining and very well done. I am doing the CD playing that is directed on
the page as I go and I love it. Also, the CD's are great. I haven't heard some
of that music in years and there are some that I have actually never heard.
Great Stuff!
I want to make sure you got my check. It was # 8410 and dated 5-1-09. It did
not come through on my statement today so let me know if there is a problem. I
send it out the day after I made the order and your book arrived in one day!
Anyway, let me know about the check and many thanks for a fabulous book that
brings back so many memories.
Sincerely,
David Stanfill



David,

Thank you for you email and most importantly, I am pleased that you are
enjoying the book. Everyone seems to have a frame of reference for that period
of great music, bands and fun. Mine is an abridged version at 13 pounds but I
had a ton of fun and the memories that stay alive through the blog. As for the
check, I did recently deposit the check so it should clear soon. I am a lot
better at mailing the books than I am at depositing the checks I get for them.
Not sure what that says but enjoy the book; and especially the "party to end all
parties."

Regards,

Greg

Greg


Enjoyed your site very much! My name is Mike Moser, born and raised in Greensboro. I played bass for the Fabulous Five, The Manhattans, and various other groups in N.C.. Hung out at the Pavillion, Sonny's Pavillion Cherry Grove, and The Pad in S.C. in my teen years. In Greensboro, The Castaways, Tom-Tom Supper Club [hot place during the early Shag days], and the old Henry's Danceland [really where it all started in N.C.. Those were, as you know, very exciting days for music, the Shag, and live entertainment in general. Presently living in Tampa Florida and still playing regularly with the Satellites Band. Your site brought back some very good memories, keep up the good work, and my hat is off to you for your dedication and hard work. mm




Greg

UNBELIEVABLE!!! Just got my copy yesterday and stayed up half the night reading and listening. The book blew away my expectations. The amount of time and effort that must have gone into it will never be recovered in $’s. It surely was a labor of love. I wish I had a picture of this 62 year old guy last night sitting in his favorite chair with ear phones on reading the book, grinning from ear to ear with an occasional tear. Greg, I can’t tell you how much pleasure your book has given me in just one day. Although I have not lived there since I left for college, I grew up in Va. Beach and knew Bill Deal, Ammon. George Bell and Gene Johnson. We used to book all the bands for the fraternity parties thru Noah Biggs in Norfolk. Gene was not “ General “ then.. Just a Showman. I last saw Bill in August of the year he passed away. They played a benefit at the Cavalier in Va. Beach. We shared a few laughs but little did I know it would be our last ones. More than anyone I have ever known, Bill changed the least over the years. Success and fame did not change him a lick. A gentleman for all times. As they say” Thanks for the memories.”


Mike Malloy
Senior Vice President
ERA Strother Real Estate
www.erastrother.com
(910) 864-2325
mike.malloy@era.com



Hi Greg,

I had a great time browsing your site.

I worked with The Soulful Seven from Saluda, SC and with Julius Cobb and The Soul Messengers when I was a teenager living in Columbia, SC.
There may be some pix of TSS with Arthur Conley after a show. On a recent visit to my Mom in SC, she said she had JC's 45 "Excuse Me". I didn't play on that session. I believe it was Mark Williams (or Williamson). I joined the band right after the recording. I was amused to see those two bands on your site.

I went to a HS prom in 1971 only to hear The Columbians. Info on your site shows them playing '66-'69. I believe that Harry S. Dent Jr. Was playing organ/LH Bass for them at the time. I'll contact him to see if my memory is working.

I may be able to fill in some blanks regarding the Columbia, SC music scene from '69-'73. I repaired amps at Columbia Music Center and knew many of the working musicians in the area as well as the travelling groups.

Jeff Simpson
(now in Boston)


Jeff

I welcome any and all input. -I have always considered the Hey Baby Days to be a project, an evolving process where more will be added and corrections will be made. Thank you for your interest. Any photos that you have that can be used would be appreciated.

Regards

Greg




Phillip,

You are right…Coach is very deserving. There are some things in life that only happen once and I am so glad I made the trip to Dalton to see him honored in such a way.

Although I did not play in a band I do understand one thing….Beach Music is truly a religion for those who love it. And I am here to tell you “I Love Beach Music”. And if God had given me a voice…I’d be on stage in a heartbeat.

Mark your calendar for Memorial Day Sunday 2010….Unless something unforeseen happens we’ll be at Chateau Elan again next year.

I do remember some of the bands you mentioned. As a matter of fact the author of the book has a blog www.heybabydays.blogspot.com and is looking for more names of old bands from the 60’ and 70’s. I’ll forward your e-mail to Greg as well.

Rick Wagner
________________________________________
Rick,

It was good seeing you at Maloof’'s induction into the Hall of Fame. It was certainly a long time coming to a very deserving man.

As I had told you, I played in a band (bass guitar) back in high school. There were other St. Pius people involved who held the roles of lead singer (Greg Solomon) and back up singer (Jessie Prothro). When playing football became too demanding I had to give up playing in the band which I loved dearly but football meant more at the time. The band was known as The Newbreed Band and we went head to head back then with bands such as The Soul Jers, The Bushmen, The Soul Survivors, and The Uninhibited Limited. Some of these bands were mentioned in the Hey Hey Baby Days of Beachmusic book but for whatever reason, our band wasn’t. We were as prominent back then as any band playing soul and beach music.

I have missed playing in a band terribly. Two of my former band member’s play now in a band out of Greenville, SC called The Encore Band. These are professional people that play together on the weekends as time permits much like what you indicated the Pieces of Eight do.

I would like to get back into playing and seeing your email has spurred me to pursue this urge. It’s going to take me awhile to get back up to speed playing the bass but it’s not something that is totally out of reach.
My thought would possibly involve some possibility with Asip’s band on a limited basis if the occasion should arise. It’s the same music I played originally in many cases and which I have followed and continue to follow today.

I wonder if you would be kind enough to pass my email to Jimmy Asip. I know it’s a long shot but I must give it a try. You’d have to play in a band that plays this type of music to truly understand my passion and desire. If it were even for one o two songs that would be more than I could ever ask for. It’s certainly not about the money. I don’t need that. It’s all about getting on that stage and playing.

Hope to see you at another one of their concerts if I can find their schedule foe the remainder of the year or in the Fall at one of the Alumni gatherings at a football game.

Regards,

Phillip Welch
Class of ‘71
Captain of the 1970 Football Team





Hiya, Greg -

Can't believe it's taken me this long to come across the website for the book. Beach music was a big part of my life growing up in the Richmond area and traveling the Southeast (although somehow I never made it to Myrtle Beach).

Will keep my eye on the site and blog in hopes you'll garner enough interest for that second printing, unless you think there's any chance the Plan 9 stores would still have one. (My sister-in-law lives in Brandermill.)

Since the move to digital audio I've been dubbing a bunch of old radio airchecks when time permits. I'm attaching two small clips for your entertainment...the first is a custom jingle done for Steve Leonard's Sunday Night Beach Music Show on WEZS back in the early 80's, the other is Jackie Gore and The Embers' classic "I Love Budweiser" radio spot.

I have about forty hours of Steve's show from the period '83-'90 (different stations and venues) around here somewhere. When I get around to making that retrospective that's been on the back of my mind, I'll send you a copy.

Thanks for all your work on the Heeeey Baby Days project.

Regards,
Rob Barker
West Linn, Oregon




Rob,

Thanks for your email; last time I talked with Jim Bland he had four books left in his stores. If he can't help you then try Barnes and Nobles on line. We are taking the last of our books to the Coachman and Four reunion in NMB later this week. If you can't get the book from either of the above two, let me know and I will save one that I plan to take to this week's big reunion in SC.

Regards,

Greg

Greg

Barnes & Noble did the trick...free shipping, to boot!
I was listening to Ted Bell this morning and he was doing phoners with Clifford Curry, Linda Quinlan and several other performers about the Coachman & Four gig...sounds like it's going to be a great time - enjoy.



Hello Greg,

My name is Joe Wilson and I'm at Archie Jordan's house in GA. I really love your
book and I think you have a big hit. If you ever do an update I have even more
stories about our group (The Classics IV) and "The Allman Joys playing together
at the Neptune A-Go-Go in Daytona Beach. Anyway I want to buy your book. Where
can I buy it when I get home in Indiana? You can reach me after Sunday at my
email address below.

joeandleah@verizon.net

Thanks for the memories,
Joe Wilson

Georgia Prophets, the Monzas, the In-Men Ltd, Willie Tee & the Magnificents, the Catalinas, and the original Men of Distinction."LIVE" on stage at the

Men of Distinction were popular at UGA as well as The Coachman & Four; some had appeared earlier as members of Gene Barbour & The Cavaliers


Coach and Four Reunion. It starts on June 10th; it is much more than a blast from the past. It's shaping up to be "The Party To End All Parties" if you know what I am talking about. All you need to do is read about it below in Fessa Hook's story. I know where I am headed Friday morning and I have rounded up some copies of the book which will be available for purchase. However, I am taking a couple of books I hope to get signed by some of the musicians most of whom are pictured in the book. I hope to have a number of photos for the blog beginning next Monday. I have sort of been on vacation from the blog. The real world of industrial real estate has attracted most of my attention... but this weekend I am headed to hear the sounds of authenic Carolina Beach Music featuring a lineup that will probably never be matched again.

Coachman and Four Club and Restaurant 45-Year Reunion

Fessa John Hook

The Coachman and Four Club and Resturant in Bennettsville was a beacon for Beach Music enthusiasts in the Golden Era from 1964 to 1974. It was more than the Temptations, the Four Tops, Smoky Robinson and the Miracles, Jr. Walker, the Tams, Jimmy Ruffin, Mary Wells and a host of other Beach Music all-stars. It was also the cradle and proving ground for dozens of bands who grew from regional obscurity to headliner status.
‘Beach Music’ at the time named a new genre of music in the Southeast. As the phrase became part of regional entertainment, high school and college kids were caught up in the magic of a culture that now spans generations.
An Atlanta road trip in the mid-60s triggered the inspiration which led the Wade R. Crow family to establish a new club for Marlboro county youth. Little did they know it would become an icon of the era as one of the exclusive venues for Rhythm & Blues performers that set the bar for future entertainment. The Coachman became one of the hottest live entertainment showcases in the Carolinas.
Both lanes of U.S. 15-401 were soon jammed with fans streaming from the north and south on weekends and holidays. As one of the pivotal centers of a Southern mini-tour for national and regional bands, the Coachman was a magnet to a generation that hungered for the unique experiences they found there and few other places.
From its origins as a drive-in movie, the original property added a skating rink, a restaurant and a dairy bar. Its metamorphoses into a club came from two inspirations during that mid 60s trip to Atlanta, when Wade Crow’s family saw the enormous excitement in a Go-Go Discotheque and had breakfast at the famous Atlanta Coach and Four Restaurant.
Modest renovation allowed for a stage where bands could be seen throughout the club and not bump their heads on the rink’s low ceiling. Bathrooms were added and a new dancehall was born, along with hundreds of stories still told today about the memories that have grown into the stuff of legend.
One measure of its popularity is the stories which remember that although it was only 10,800 square feet, it often took an hour to move from one end of the club to another. And moving they were, to the music of the Georgia Prophets, the Monzas, the In-Men Ltd, Willie Tee & the Magnificents, the Catalinas, and the original Men of Distinction.
Few other clubs achieved the status of the Coachman and Four. Although regional names like the Cellar in Charlotte, the Castaways and Jokers Three in Greensboro, the Embers Club in Raleigh, and the Beach Club at Myrtle Beach were big draws in their area, the Coachman and IV was central to both Carolinas drawing fans and musical talent from more than two hours away. During its heyday the club’s location between Charlotte, Raleigh, and Myrtle Beach, profited from groups booked in their respective dancehalls as well as entertainers at the fraternities and sororities of regional colleges and universities.
From the parking lot of the Coachman, one could see that Beach Music not only touched innumerable Carolinians, it shaped their musical lives forever. We will celebrate the Coachman’s pioneers, management, bands, bouncers, bartenders, romances, love affairs and the countless nostalgic memories which carry its legend.
The five-day June reunion (June 10 -1 4) comes 13 months after the demolition of the Coachman and IV Mecca of 60s Beach Music and forty-five years after it mushroomed to become a milestone of the Carolina Beach Music legacy. The story will continue on ... hope to see you there.

“Fessa” John Hook is director of the Endless Summer Network and author of “Shaggin’ In the Carolinas,” and “Beach Music Guide 1945-2006,” and historical consultant to the Coachman & Four Reunion committee.

I am on my way out the door to the Windy City but I am going to take my external drive and will post some photos used in the book of some of this week's line-up in Myrtle Beach. If you are looking for something special, grab you Bass Weejuns and head to the Mecca of the Beach Music world.

Casting Call for The Play, "The Heeey Baby Days of Beach Music", SC Beach Music Day book signing, and a lot more about the In-Men Ltd.

above: In-Men Ltd. circa 1968

Casting Call for the play,

“The Heeey Baby Days of Beach Music”
Stage adaptation written by Nora Lott Haynes


Please send head shot and resume to:

Pyramid Worldwide Productions
155 Westridge Drive
Suite 108
McDonough, Georgia 30253

Or call for more information:

678-432-0780

Note: Scenes from Act One are posted at www.heybabydays.com

Hey Baby Days Italiano

Details coming soon on Francesco Calazzo radio show in
Casagiove, Italy featuring the music from Disk One & Two of “The Heeey Baby Days of Beach Music.”

We took a sabbatical from the blog and web site to catch up on some other matters. Hope to start posting again with more regularity.


Book Signing In Columbia, South Carolina May 16

We will be going back to Columbia, South Carolina for the third time for a book signing. We have not had a book signing in some time because we have sold out of new books in their original shrink wrap. The State Museum of South Carolina still has copies and we have been invited to South Carolina’s Beach Music Day on Saturday May 16 and will sign the books that they have left.

Where other “new” books can be found: (Sightings)

In addition to the State Museum, some Barnes & Nobles and Books-A-Million stores may have copies but check with the store before going. For instance, there is one copy available in Opelika, Alabama at the Books-A-Million store on Tiger Town, but none at the BAM at East Chase in Montgomery. There was one at the Barnes & Noble store across from Cumberland Mall in Atlanta but don’t know if any of these books at still available in those stores.

If you know any stores that have copies (in their original shrink wrap) let us know and we will post for those who are still inquiring and want a new copy. We only have used copies available which are available through ABE Books. (www.abebooks.com)


Comments on Book and the In-Men-Ltd.


Received your book as a Christmas present from my younger brother...have been going through it in bits and pieces and really enjoying it...brought back great memories...wanted to share a couple of things with you including a correction or two.

1. I was working for Curtom (Curtis Mayfield/Eddie Thomas) Records in 1968-1970 while I was a student at UNC Chapel Hill. Was a huge In-Men Ltd fan during the time Mickey Combs was singing lead. I was doing radio promotion for Curtom in NC and VA, and went to Chicago to the offices on South Stoney Island Avenue about once a month. Donny Hathaway was doing
some writing for Curtis at the time, and Jerry Butler and Major Lance were frequent office visitors.

Curtis loved Girl Watcher...thought the O'kaysions were black...and particularly like Jay of Jay and the Americans (I assume because he sung falsetto and covered some of Curtis' songs).

I recommended Curtis sign the In-Men...got them on a show together at the Cellar in Charlotte so Curtis could hear them...and the In-Men tore it up that night.

Then, I went with the In-Men into the Copeland Sound Studios...I think in G'boro but may have been Burlington...and they cut their entire set as if performing live. That's where the I'm Gonna Miss You cut came from. They also did their Rascals medley...Does Your Mama Know About Me...Don't Look Back...the Dione Warwick song "Don't Make Me Over," their intro medley
that included "I Thank You"...and assorted others...including "People." I'm guessing when I periodically see references to that...it also came from that session.

I've got a scratched and battered version of the acetate from that
session...but would love to get the digitalized version. Help me with that...glad to pay...can't find that CD anywhere.

You are correct, however, when you note that the recording was as a demo for Curtis.

Incidentally...Curtis provided them with the sheet music to I'm The One Who Loves You...the full orchestration...because that's the one he wanted them to cover. Not sure why it never happened...too bad.

2. When Sonny Long references playing with the Magnificent Men...he is incorrect in the location. It was actually at Marshall University in West Virginia...I went on that trip with them. The In-Men were in their white suits with pink ruffled shirts. Obviously that was before they became Peace Corps.

By the way...the In-Men did Stormy Weather during their set...but that was the only Mag Men song they covered.

Both bands performed well...and although I'm prejudiced...I think if it had been a battle the In-Men would have come out on top. But that close to the Mag Men's home base of Pennsylvania...they were the "big deal" that night.

3. I was a DJ in Rockingham...WAYN...during my high school days. Advertised Coachman & Four club often, as you can imagine. Used to get the groups coming through town for interviews and for promos...Drifters...O'Jays...Maurice Williams...etc. O'Jays did one for me that said "When we're not listening to Bill's Platter Chatter Show, Baby...we're asleep."

Used to interview Curtis a bit (before I went to work for him)...as well as Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff when the Intruders broke onto the scene.4. FYI...later (much later) in my career...I became president of the Cleveland Browns football team...1996-1998...when there was actually no team...my role was to build the new stadium...sell the franchise for the NFL...and get the team successfully back in town.

Former Brown running back Jim Brown became a great friend, and we produced a music video with original music (written by Michael Stanley and Bob Pellander of the Michael Stanley Band in Cleveland). We shot some in Cleveland...some in LA. Used Bobby Womack as lead singer...as well as Gerald Levert (Eddie of O'Jay's son). Also the Dramatics (What you See is What you Get), Ali Williams (later version of Temptations singer), Syretta
Wright (Stevie Wonder's ex-wife), Freda Payne, Lou Rawls, Clarence Clemons (E-Street Band) on sax, plus Drew Carey and a lot of ex Browns. Get me an address and I'll send it to you...without question the best sports team music...won a national Telly award...it's called "Here We Go Again" and has some vintage Browns footage in addition to the production video.

Will think of more and let you know.

Help me get clean version of the In-Men items and any other In-Men stuff you have ... reunion CD???...other.

Thanks.

Great work on the book. Not only informative...but layout TERRIFIC. Very
impressed.

Best regards,

Bill Futterer
Managing Member
Futterer Partners LLC/PSE-3



Bill

What great info ! I have been having a case of "writer's block" for the Hey Baby Days' blog but you have cured that with your email so expect for it to appear tomorrow. The recording that you reference has been made into an incredible medley by Tim Easton which I am sure we can get you a copy.

I had hoped it would have been release. It's top notch. By the way I am sending a copy of this to Sonny Long. Are you aware that they will be appearing at a reunion of the Coachman and Four. I hope to attend. Please continue with any other memories as this is the essence of the blog.

Regards
Greg Haynes


Greg

Not aware of the Coachman reunion, but please let me know when and where. Coincidentally, I just spoke to Wilson Howard about a business matter last week.

Also...go to my company website and click on the link for PSE Broadway. Be sure to let Sonny know about that as well. I think he'll remember me. Tell him I was the skinny kid with glasses who went to Carolina.

Incidentally, he may remember I set up a few old reel-to-reel recorders and taped the In-Men at the Keg in Salisbury...perhaps in summer of 1968...but may have been sooner than that.

I think I recall Sonny playing both guitar and drums, actually, but not sure about that.

As for Broadway, although most of my activities have been in the sports arena...with the Browns, other NFL items, and a great deal of NASCAR-related work...I'm producing my first Broadway musical...have hired Richard Frankel Productions as General Manager and co-Executive Producer...they did Smokey Joe's Cafe and teamed with Mel Brooks on The Producers and Young Frankenstein...

I've secured the underlying rights to the South African apartheid story from Zindzi Mandela...Nelson Mandela's daughter...and we've hired a writer/director and are currently working to retain our composer/lyricist.

I think Sonny...with his enjoyment of music...would get a kick out of that.

Feel free to forward my email address and this correspondence to him. I get to Charlotte periodically...my offices are in Raleigh and Phoenix...so maybe he and I could hook up at some point for lunch.

Meanwhile, I look forward to talking further and joining you at the
Coachman reunion. I've got a lot of friends who would attend...including some business partners of mine from Alabama who attended Pembroke 40 years ago.

Thanks for the email.

Bill Futterer
Managing Member
Futterer Partners LLC/PSE-3

4030 Wake Forest Road
Suite 300
Raleigh, NC 27609

Bill,

I don't have all the details of the reunion but hopefully someone will see this posting and fill in the blanks. Thanks for all the detail you provided. As you know, we dedicated a lot of ink in "The Heeey Baby Days of Beach Music" to the In-Men Ltd. and I think you know why. Unless you saw them perform back in the 60s, you might think that they were just another band. We know better. For them not to have really gotten out in the national main stream is best termed in Lucy's words, "The fickle finger of fate."

Regards,

Greg

P.S. I usually have a photo with a posting. If I can find the photo of the In-Men Ltd. in the white suits, I put it on.


Bill,

CDs are coming your way courtesy of Sonny Long. Here's the link to the information about the Coachman & Four reunion. Sounds like a great time with many bands from the golden age.

http://www.beachmusiconline.com/04/coachman-four-reunion/

High Interest in Ray Whitley

Above image: From the "The Heeey Baby Days of Beach Music"
photo courtesy of Gene Lee click on image to enlarge

Many have emailed about Ray Whitley following yesterday's post. One of the greatest composers of the Hey Baby Days, Ray Whitley was responsible for some of the era's greatest songs (some of which were hits in other genres)i.e. provided there is a genre other than Beach Music.

"Dancing Mood" - originally recorded by the Tams, it's a classic in Reggae

"Be Young, Be Foolish Be Happy" (with J.R. Cobb) - a southern anthem

"Hey Girl, Don't Bother Me" - No 1 in England

"What Kind of Fool ( Do You Think I Am )"

"I've Been Hurt" one of the biggest songs of the party ; original Tams' but covered by many

"You Lied To Your Daddy"

"Laugh It Off"
AND MANY MORE...
"Too Much Fooling Around"

Want to comment about the music of Ray Whitley ? "Add a comment" by clicking on the Add A Comment link below, and review the ones posted above.