IN MEMORIAM       © Greg Dodd 2023
Please join us as we pay tribute to NL's rock and roll pioneers who have passed. Their contribution to the province's music culture should never be forgotten...

Rock and roll forever!!
Art Andrews
During the early 1960's Art Andrews was a close friend to every teenager who tuned into CJON's Art Andrews Dance Party or CBC's Reach For The Top television programs. Art would go on to have a successful 33-year career in broadcasting. Art was considered one of the builders on the local rock & roll music scene always there to promote local musicians. On occasion he would MC local band reunions as well as special events involving local musicians. Upon retiring Art ventured into the tourism industry in Trinity where he skippered his own craft while running a successful tourism business.
Art passed away on August 20, 2009 at the age of 78. . . . Read More
Cyril "Bob" Bambrick
Cyril, also known as Bob started his musical career during the early 60's playing guitar and singing with the Bel-Aires rock & roll band. Bob performed with the band until the early 70's when they morphed into The B.D.S. Collection. The original Bel-Aires would regroup to play one last time at NL's Rock & Roll Tribute Jam in 2018. Bob's brother John Bambrick played saxophone with another local rock & roll group the Commanders. Bob retired from a successful career with the provincial government.
Bob passed on November 24, 2018 at the age of 75. . . . Read More
John Bambrick
John Bambrick was not only a musician but was also a respected and recognized athlete. Inducted into the NL Softball Hall of Fame in 1974 for pitching as well as hitting, John racked up a number of awards including MVP. John was also a stand out player in any sport he attempted including hockey, soccer and squash. Known as "The man with the horn" John played saxophone with The Commanders entertaining thousands of fans for over 50 years. A consummate professional, John would also have a successful career At Worker's Compensation Commission. John's brother Cyril Bambrick played with another local rock & roll band the Bel-Aires.
John passed on July 15, 2020 at the age of 80. . . . Read More
Robert "Bob" Battiste
Bob Battiste was one of the original members of the legendary music group, the Ducats. Bob played bass guitar with the group and was with the band in 1964 when they made their historic trip to Boston to record this province's first Rock & Roll single record, "Hey Woman" b/w "Stay Awhile" which Bob co-wrote. Bob also appeared on the Ducats follow-up self-titled LP.
Bob passed on April 9, 2002 at the age of 56 years. . . . Read More
Joseph "Joe" Boulos
Joe Boulos was a member of the province's west coast legendary music group, the Ducats. Joe replaced original drummer Art Bragg shortly after the guys recorded the province's first rock & roll single record. Joe was behind the drum kit when the Ducats recorded their first LP recording, now known as the tartan jacket LP.
Joe Boulos passed on May 29, 1995. He was 49 years old. . . . Read More
Harold Brown
Harold Brown was a policeman with the RNC who loved to sing. It didn't matter if it was a full-fledged dance or just a get together with a few musician friends, strumming his guitar and sharing in the fun of making music. Harold was the frontman for a number of local rock & roll bands including Rasputin & The Miracle Workers and the Ducats Rock & Roll Revue taking on the persona of Johnny Rivers. One of Harold's dreams was to gather all his musical friends for a recording in a professional studio. Unfortunately, Harold passed before realizing that dream.
Harold Brown passed on October 5, 2004. He was 55 years old. . . . Read More
Dennis Browne
Dennis Browne was one of the original members of the St. John's rock & roll band the Fourth Agreement. The band took home gold at the first ever St. John's Battle of the Bands. The band came together around 1966 with Dennis playing saxophone, keyboards and percussion.Dennis also performed with Rasputin and the Miracle Workers and many other groups in the St. John's area.
Dennis Browne passed on November 20, 1999. He was 48 years old. . . . Read More
Peter Bursey
Peter hailed from Lower Island Cove before making his way to St. John's. In the early seventies Peter joined up with the local rock and roll group the Rising Sons. In 1972 the trio released a self titled album which they followed up with two 45 r.p.m. records. Not only was Peter the drummer and vocalist with the group but he also brought his song writing skills to the trio. One of their original songs was the closing theme on a national CBC variety show.
Peter passed on January 17, 2014. . . . Read More
Terrence "Terry" Chaplin Sr
Terry Chaplin was the kind of musician everyone wanted in their band. Skilled on keyboards, lead and bass guitars, Terry wasn't shy about singing backup vocals or taking the lead on any style of music. As a young teenager Terry started playing in bands in the late fifties. The sixties saw a lot of pickup bands with Terry bouncing between guitar and keyboard duties. In the seventies he played with The Art Haynes Combo and then into the 80's with Variety. Terry continued to perform well into the millennium. Terry's creative talent extended to his professional career in electronics which saw him work on the D.E.W. line in Northern Canada before his employment at Memorial University's Educational Television Department as a digital visual editor, where he retired. Terry's infectious smile and welcoming manner put everyone in his company at ease. His stage presence and his superior music ability was a pleasure to watch in action either from the stage or from the dance floor.
Terry passed on July 24, 2022, he was 77. . . . Read More
Urban "Chick" Cheeseman
Chick Cheeseman was known not only as a good drummer but also as a good guitar player. Playing in local bands such as the Rebels, Borealis and Switch, Chick would always bring his best to the stage. Whether it was spending a relaxing time riding his much-loved motorcycle or just sitting in favourite chair in his favourite hideaway gazing out the window watching the world go by. Chick always had a smile and a good word for anyone who passed by.
Chick passed on November 29, 2019, he was 68. . . . Read More
Reuben "Chico" Williams
Chico Williams first came to NL for a two-week booking... and never left. Originally from Hamilton, Jamaica the then 31-year-old hooked up with three other CFA's and one locally born musician to form Chico & The Bermuda Life. The versatile group performed at all the top clubs of the day introducing a much different vibe and performance to an appreciative audience. Chico would later settle in the Bellevue area where he became involved in gospel choirs at his local church.
Chico passed on August 5, 2016, he was 77. . . . Read More
Eugene "Gene" Coady
Gene Coady is not a name that readily comes to mind when talking about local rock & roll. However, Gene was one of the province`s original local rock & roll pioneers. Back in the 60's Gene played guitar with "The Jays". These guys were the electric version of the "Four Jays" which spawned two members of the legendary rock & roll band "The Ravens". "The Jays" were a four-piece group who performed in the St. John's area back when rock & roll was just making its presence felt locally. When the late Jim Hennessey and Paul Rumsey left the Jays to join the Ravens, Gene free lanced before joining up with "The Ben Cowley Trio". Fred Bowdrigg was the other member of "The Jays" rock & roll pioneer group. Gene eventually moved onto "The Journeymen", later named "The Village Singers". The singers showcased their talent both on CBC and CJON Television during the 60's. Gene was also comfortable sitting at the piano when not enjoying the outdoors snapping a few pictures.
Gene passed on May 1, 2022, he was 83. . . . Read More
Basil "Bas" Connolly
Back in the sixties one of the most popular local rock & roll bands was the Deltones. But there was one this missing in the band, a lead singer. Enter Bas Connolly who was chosen as the first frontman of the group. Bas was known for his ability to belt out a rhythm and blues style of singing. Over the years Bas would keep his love for and interest in the local music scene.
Bas passed on July 5, 2009. . . . Read More
Eugene Crane
Gene was a great lover of music that saw him play drums with a number of local bands including: The Heet, The Mary Jane Company, Storm, Borrowed Time, The Cavaliers, Center Lane, Night Owl and Traces Dance Band, which he was the driving force behind even while his health was declining. One of Gene's passions was restoring vintage drums, something he took great pride in doing. After retiring from a successful career with the provincial government Gene would start his own consulting firm.
Gene passed away on October 30, 2013 at the age of 61. . . . Read More
Noel Dinn
Noel Dinn is a name that rings loud on the music scene in this province. A self-taught musician on drums and keyboards, one of Noel's first groups was the Sandells which came together around 1965. Noel would go on to play with one of the province's legendary rock groups, Garrison Hill. Again, breaking new ground, Noel helped form the Philadelphia Cream Cheese rock group, a band that introduced original rock music with psychedelic light shows to the St. John's music scene. And then to make sure he made his musical mark, Noel moved on to help form the rock band Lukey's Boat, another iconic rock group in Newfoundland. But Noel still wasn't finished. With a keen interest in the traditional music of his ancestors, Noel wanted a new generation to hear a new genre of music, trad-rock.In 1974 he formed Figgy Duff. Multi record releases under Noel's direction saw Figgy Duff's popularity gain international status while also lending his talents collaborating with other artists.
Noel Dinn passed on June 26, 1993. He was 45 years old. . . . Read More
George Follett
By day George patrolled the streets of the capital city as a member of the RNC keeping them safe but by night he could be found center stage. In 1975 George joined the rock & roll band Dawn once considered the house band at the Stardust Lounge. George was known for his keyboard ability but if prompted, he could rock out on the button accordion. Dawn parted ways in 1982 which saw George still keeping his hand in the local music scene.
George passed on July 12, 2015 at the age of 72. . . . Read More
Chesley Alexander "Sandy" Forbes
Sandy Forbes started his musical career playing drums. In 1985 he played drums as well as performing backing vocals on the self-titled release by the local rock band Total Kaos. The band without Sandy eventually moved to the mainland, shortening their name to Kaos and releasing a few more recordings which garnered some success. Sandy easily transitioned to lead guitar where he was just as comfortable up front as he was behind the drum kit. Sandy passed on November 27, 2019, he was 62.
 . . . Read More
Gerry Formanger
Gerry Formanger was born on Newfoundland's Port Au Port Peninsula. Learning to play guitar and accordion from his dad, the two performed on local radio and tv shows. During the early 60's Gerry played guitar with the west coast rock & roll band the Shindigs, performing in the Stephenville area of the province. Looking to broaden his musical horizons, Gerry changed his name to Gerry Reeves and moved to Calgary where he released LP's with musicians Chef Adams and Andy Greatrix . One LP featured Gerry's accordion talents while another release spotlighted his command of the guitar. Gerry shared the stage with some country music greats including Stonewall Jackson, Grandpa Jones and Don Gibson.
Gerry Formanger passed on July 17, 2001. He was 62 years old. . . . Read More
Robert "Bob" Frelich
Bob spent most of his musical career performing with the Commanders Orchestra. As with any band there was a gradual turnover of members but the one constant with the Commanders was Bob keeping time behind the drum kit. During his senior years Bob filled in with other groups, even at 80 plus years of age performing with the Reg House Band. He retired from a successful career in the auto sale industry.
Bob passed on August 11, 2020, he was 82. . . . Read More
Rod French
Rod was a member of the local legendary band the Ravens, who released one of the province's most iconic 45 rpm records. Rod made the trip to Halifax where on March 19, 1965 he performed with the band on national CBC television on Frank's Bandstand. A week later on March 26 the show aired in this province. Rod went on to perform with another local legendary rock roll band The Bel Aires and had a successful career in the broadcasting industry in radio.
Rod passed on June 18, 2108 at the age of 73. . . . Read More
Wayne Gladney
If you mention Wayne's name the first band to come to mind is the Sons of Erin. Wayne played bass guitar with the Irish music group when they released the album Pleasant & Delightful in 1980. But back in 1974 Wayne was playing rock and roll with the group The Marquis where he also played bass and sang with the group. He would eventually leave the province settling in Florida.
Wayne passed on March 22, 2020. . . . Read More
John Goosney P.ENG
John was a quiet guy who always got the job done. Playing lead guitar in local rock & roll bands such as the Lincolns and Bel Aires his natural ability and precision playing was admired by many. John pursued an engineering degree and eventually moved to Canada's west coast.
John passed on April 1, 2016, he was 72. . . . Read More
Glenn Greening
Glenn Greening was a multi-instrumentalist who could sing, play guitar and keyboards. He was well known on the local music scene performing with a number of bands including The Sons of Music. Glenn entered politics where he sat as an MHA in the provincial legislature. He later became a successful businessman in both the entertainment and food industries.
Glenn passed away on August 5, 2019, he was 71. . . . Read More
Arthur Haynes
Art Haynes instrument of choice was the saxophone, performing with the Ducats, Center Stage and his own group, The Art Haynes Combo which he led for a number of years. Art was also known to pick up the accordion on occasion as well as belt out a few vocal tunes. Working his way through the ranks in the furniture selling profession, Art would open his own successful furniture retail business. Always quick with an appropriate joke, Art loved to dance, especially the jive.
Art pass on March 1, 2020, he was 78. . . . Read More
Roy Hender
Roy Hender was known as one of the finest guitar players this province has ever produced. In the early 60's Roy was one of the first guitarist to use electronic effects such as the wah-wah pedal. It is believed that Roy owned one of the first electric guitars in the province. Roy played with a number of groups including Rick & The Romans and was a founding member of The Trip Company. Roy had a great stage presence with such antics as playing his guitar behind his head, behind his back and even with his teeth!!
Roy Hender passed away in 1981. He was 41 years old. . . . Read More
Bryan Hennessey
Bryan or "Hen" to his friends was a triple threat. He was a musician an actor and a writer. From his early days playing with his brother Jim in the local rock & roll band the Leftovers, Bryan was also a member of Gunther, Lukey's Boat and was a founding member of the Philadelphia Cream Cheese and The Wonderful Grand Band. Moving to the main stage as well as behind the scenes, Bryan acted, produced and was a playwright. No part was too big or too small, for Bryan as he was all about giving it his all. His acting career saw him on many stages in the province's as well as appearances on radio, tv and in movies. Bryan was also a published author of two books.
Bryan passed on May 7, 2021, he was 72. . . . Read More
James "Jim" Hennessey
Jim Hennessey started his musical career singing in one of Newfoundland's first a cappella groups, The Four Jays. The groups smooth four-part harmony was heard on many live stage performances, as well as radio and television. In fact, the 4 Jays performed on CBC TV's first ever national variety show, Talent Caravan. Jim was responsible for introducing the first Fender Precision Bass guitar into the province. Company owner Leo Fender wrote Jim thanking him for opening up new markets. Jim was also a member of one of Newfoundland's first rock & roll bands, the Ravens. The Ravens were a sought-after group for appearances on radio and television. Making regular appearances on CJON TV's Art Andrews Dance Party, the band was also showcased on CBC's Frank's Bandstand, a national television show out of Halifax. Jim's music career saw him perform with many local music groups including the Ducats Rock & Roll Revue taking on the persona of music legend Buddy Holly.
Jim Hennessey passed on October 19, 2001. He was 60 years old. . . . Read More
David "Dave" Hillier
Dave Hillier was a rock-solid drummer with a thundering right foot and lightning-fast hands, Dave started out in 1965 playing drums with the Del-Rays. One of Dave's hidden talents was song writing. He helped form the rock band Borealis where some of his song writing talents took on life when Borealis released the 1972 LP, Sons of the Sea. The album was the first all original rock release by a NL artist or group. The LP was re-released in the U.S. in 2001 and in CD form in 2005. The album was the first rock recording on the Audat label in Atlantic Canada. Dave performed with Scott Rowsell and Aquarius playing a regular club circuit in the St. John's area while touring throughout the province. They released an LP entitled the Draggerman. Dave also performed with many musical groups including Buster, Rick & the Romans and the power house rock band The New Trip Company. He would share the stage with international music names Crowbar, Lighthouse, Poppy Family and Abraham's Children.
Dave Hiller passed on May 7, 1996. He was 47 years old. . . . Read More
Joseph Terance "J. Terry" Hynes
Back in 1964 a young J. Terry Hynes was singing lead vocals with future local legendary rock & roll band "The Lincolns". Little did Terry know this would be the start of sixty plus years making music. Just as "The Lincolns" decided to go their separate ways, the west coast hottest rock & roll band "The Ducats" made the decision to go "all in" on the music business. Their lead singer Wince Blackmore was reluctant so "The Ducats" reached out to Terry to front the band. However, Terry had his sights set on the Big Smoke so he recommended local west coast teenage sensation Claude Caines for the job. In 1970 Terry got his first introduction to a recording studio releasing a 45 rpm of two originals on the Caribou Records label. In 1973 Terry found himself in Toronto's Sound Canada Recording Center along with his brother Tommy on keys and fellow Newfoundlanders, Mickey Andrews on guitars and Gary Tilley on drums. Their debut album "J. Terry Hynes and Goodtime" was released on the Periwinkle label by Quality Records. This record also featured a few originals by Terry. 1973 was a busy time for Terry as he fronted "Shrimp Cocktail" the house band for "Live at the Caribou" on Harry Hibbs television series. In 1976 Terry was back in the studio recording his second album "Scrunchi'ns", an independent release on the Ocean label. This release also featured his brother Tommy and friends Mickey Andrews and Gary Tilley. Both albums spawned a few 45 rpm releases featuring originals written by Terry. Terry waited another forty plus years before releasing "Sensitive To Reality" which was recorded at Topsail Tracks Studio located in Newfoundland. This CD was released in October of 2018, again with his long-time friend Gary Tilley on percussion and showcasing some of Terry's writing skills.
Sadly, Terry was taken by cancer on January 2, 2023. He was 81 years old. . . . Read More
Wayne Hynes
Wayne's whole life centered around music. From tapping out a simple rhythm at an early age on whatever was close by to taking the stage with the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra. Wayne was not only comfortable behind a drum set but he was also a composer and production manager with the Sound Symposium. He ran his own recording studio, Studio 8 as well as being an independent broker of multiple music companies, both here at home and in Nova Scotia. When not laying down a beat, Wayne could be found involved in his other passion, gardening, spending many hours being one with nature.
Wayne passed on January 3, 2019. . . . Read More
William Joseph "Joe" MacDonald
Some say Joe could sing the local phone book and it would sound great. A natural singer and entertainer, Joe's first group came together back in the late fifties. Four friends from St. Pat's Hall School started a four-part harmony group, taking the name the Del Rays as a tribute to their singing heroes the Del Vikings. The guys quickly became teen favourites playing sock hops and anywhere the "in crowd" gathered to dance, even recording at CJON. The 70's saw Joe as front man with the local rock group Jester. The band's rendition of top hits of the day quickly made them a must-see band. The following decade country music peaked Joe's interest. Along with his brother Bob and life long friend Derek Pelley, he formed the group Joe, Bob & Derek. Joe's mellow laid-back approach to performing easily held the audience captive the entire night. Many also remember that the brother's striking harmonies were something to behold. The trio showcased on CBC Radio and toured the island with an ambition to perform original material. In between groups Joe found himself in Clode Sound Studios in Stephenville recording a 45 rpm record. "Oh Baby", was co-written by Joe along with a Derek Pelley original "Woman of the Night". The single was released on the Quay Label with plans for a follow-up album. Joe had that something special of being able to perform any genre of music while still adding his own special touch.
Joe passed on December 3, 2012, he was 69. . . . Read More
Brian "Too Loud" MacLeod
Brian MacLeod was a multi-talented musician with an outstanding ability to play any instrument with ease. During his teenage years, Brian was also an award-winning figure skater. Originally from Nova Scotia, Brian started his music career in and around St. John's. Brian's enormous talent began to shine when he joined The local mega rock group, Garrison Hill. His flawless guitar work put him in a category all his own. He would later move on to playing with the rock group Huski before setting his sites on mainland Canada. Teaming up with a group called Peppertree, Brian would tour through Ontario before going on to join the legendary Canadian Rock group Chilliwack. As a side project while still playing with Chilliwack, Brian formed the Headpins acting as their producer as well as performing with the group. Brian also worked with rocker Chrissy Steele. Chilliwack had a mega hit with their 1982 Opus X album release garnering a number of Juno awards. Brian was given the nickname "Too Loud Macleod" for his heavy but very clean guitar sound.
Brian Macleod passed on April 25, 1992. He was 39 years old. . . . Read More
Click here to view Brians pioneer profile
Russ Marshall
Russ Marshall was known as one of the finest guitarists to play the music scene in Newfoundland. Starting out with the Dar-Tels in 1965, Russ would play with many bands throughout his career. In 1969 Russ joined the middle of the road music group, the Rising Sons. The band released a self-titled LP featuring some original music with one song entitled "Sing With Me " featured as the theme song on a late night national CBC TV show. In 1969 Russ joined the group Jarvis, a much sought-after group on the local club circuit. Russ also performed with the group Misty. Russ was known for more than his guitar talents. He was also an award winning visual artist. His commissioned works hang in many local and national homes throughout Canada.
Russ Marshall passed on September 24, 2006. He was 57 years old. . . . Read More
Robert "Robbie" Mills
Originally from Nova Scotia, Robbie came to this province when he was recruited by the local power house band, Garrison Hill. His musical talents on keyboard, upright and electric bass guitar had him in demand in many music genres. Performing in rock bands Sky out of SpringHill, N.S. and Garrison Hill and Reunion here in NL., Robbie was equally competent and comfortable playing jazz with the Ralph Walker Band and the Jimmy Thompson Trio. In 1995 Robbie joined the rock & soul band Billy & The Bruisers performing on his trademark Hammond organ plus additional keyboards. He was still a member of the band upon his death, 24 years later.
An avid sailor, a marine and aviation historian and model boat builder, Robbie was also a published author. Robbie passed on December 18, 2019. He was 70 years of age. . . . Read More
Greg O'Blenis
In 1967 Greg O'Blenis played drums with the legendary Ducats. Greg had a gift for singing as well as his drumming abilities. Greg performed with the group Next in Line and was showcased on television with Linda Brake.
Greg O'Blenis passed away in Nova Scotia on March 9, 2005. He was 58 years old. . . . Read More
Charles O'Dea
Charlie O'Dea made his mark on the local music scene as a frontman who gave it his all to every song he sang. In 1967 Charlie was front and center with the Fourth Agreement, a young but a power house of a band known for their musicianship and attention to detail. The band performed on CBC as well as taking home the gold at the first ever Battle of The Bands held in the capital city. Charlie also sang lead in other bands including Family. His professional career took him to Toronto where he worked for thirty plus years as an addiction's counsellor at St. Michael's Hospital.
Charlie passed on January 4, 2016 at the age of 67. . . . Read More
Dave "Nipper" Parsons
Dave "Nipper" Parsons was the founding member of one of the hottest rock & roll groups on the local scene during the early sixties, The Deltones. The band was sought after and was known as the unofficial house band of CJON TV's Art Andrews Dance Party. After the break-up of the Deltones, Dave went on to play with the Ducats and then on to the perfect harmony rock & roll group, the Five Synns Plus One. The band would set the music bar higher in the St. John's area by taking the stage with two drummers, Dave and John Dalton. Dave was in demand on the local scene and he soon saw himself with the multi-talented group, Garrison Hill. The band introduced the local audience to a rock band with a killer horn section.
Dave Parsons passed on May 16, 2002. He was 55 years old. . . . Read More
Derek Pelley
Derek Pelley could turn his bass playing to any style of music. His handy work can be found on Red Island's "Pursuit of the Wild Bologna" LP as well as Figgy Duff's " A Retrospective 1974-1993" CD release. Derek also appeared on a number of single pop style releases on the Quay label. Derek was one of the first local musicians to grace the St. John's Art's & Culture stage performing jazz, blues and rock style music. In the 90's Derek travelled to England to record his all-original cassette release "Near Life Experience" which featured members of the world-renowned Fairport Convention. For fun Derek liked to wet a line at one of his favourite fishing holes and then spend the evening sharing stories and music with family and friends. Well into the millennium Derek could be found on stage among the house band's rhythm section especially Sunday afternoons which were reserved for a good ole rock & roll jam session.
Derek passed on August 27, 2022, he was 72. . . . Read More
Edward "Fox" Power
Fox Power caught the music bug when he was in his teens. Picking up a pair of drumsticks, Fox made his mark with local rock & roll bands like The Del-Rays, The Viscounts and The Rogues to name a few. Later Fox would make a smooth transition from the drums to playing guitar. In the seventies Fox moved to Toronto to try his luck in the big smoke, hooking up with the band The Sparrows. Feeling homesick Fox headed back east. The band changed their name to Steppenwolf and the rest became history. After retiring from his career at The Telegram, Fox kept busy with music and friendships he had built up over the years. Fox performed at the inaugural NL's Rock & Roll Pioneers Tribute Jam in 2017.
Fox passed on May 10, 2019 at the age of 74. . . . Read More
Wally Pynn
Wally Pynn's whole life was surrounded by music. Growing up in Markland, Wally learned to play the guitar and fiddle. He would perform on a regular basis with his dad and brother and sisters. The Pynn Family Music group performed in the Markland area from 1943 to 1959. Wally would go on to play with the Mid-Sounds, the Country Gentleman, the Melody Makers and the Music Makers. Wally performed on the CJON TV show Country Sound. He also performed on CBC radio. Wally's day job was as a technician at Jack's Radio Shop which later became Echo Music and Recording. The name was taken from the music group Wally was performing with at the time, The Echoes. Wally also performed with the music group from the CBS area South Division. The folklore is that Wally is responsible for bringing the first Fender Jazz Master guitar into the province.
Wally Pynn passed away on September 11, 2007. He was 70. . . . Read More
Paul Rumsey
Paul Rumsey was in the wrong place at the wrong time. That's what fellow Raven's band mate and rhythm guitar player Rod French believed. Rod once said that if Paul had met someone like Dick Clark, he could have gone all the way. As it was, he went all the way in the local rock & roll music scene. At a very young age Paul was the lead singer in one of the most popular doo-wop groups in the province, the 4 Jays. The a cappella group even appeared on CBC TV's first national variety show, Talent Caravan. At age twenty Paul became lead singer in one of the most successful rock & roll groups in the province, The Ravens. The group appeared on CJON TV'S Art Andrews Dance Party. They travelled to Halifax to appear on CBC's national TV show Frank's Bandstand. While there they cut a record for ARC Records. Paul was not only known for his full range vocals, but also for his incredible stage presence. From sliding across the stage on his knees amid thunderous applause, to bringing the audience to near tears while singing a slow ballad. Shortly after the 45 R.P.M. was released, the Ravens went their separate ways. Paul went on to sing with other local rock & roll bands including the Bel-Aires before retiring from the local music scene.
Paul Rumsey passed away on November 29, 2007. He was 67 years old. . . . Read More
Derm Ryan
Derm Ryan's first exposure to music was singing in his parent's front room with his brother Paul, while his mother played the piano. Derm got his first guitar from a second-hand store. He paid $12.00. Derm was a self-taught guitarist who also taught his brother Paul to play. With friend Dave Evans, the guys formed one of the province's most popular local rock & roll groups, The Ravens. Derm performed with other local groups including the Bel-Aires.
Derm Ryan passed away on December 23, 1989. He was 47 years old. . . . Read More
Paul John Ryan
Paul Ryan, the original frontman who along with his brother Derm co-founded the local legendary rock and roll band The Ravens. A consummate frontman Paul could single handily hold an audience captive in the palm of his hand while singing and playing guitar. Quick with a joke and an infectious laugh, Paul entertained locally as well as travelling to the U.S. making many friends along the way.
Paul passed on January 27, 2017. . . . Read More
Roger Skinner
Roger Skinner started his musical career by following in his brother's footsteps. Lew Skinner is one of the founding members of the longest playing rock & roll group in Newfoundland.... the Ducats.Roger would play his entire music career with the Ducats. Replacing Ducats drummer Joe Boulos, Roger performed with the band when they released their second and third LP's. One record reflected their show band days and the other was a country LP when the band was known as the Country Ducats. Roger also found himself playing drums on other local artists commercial releases including Minnie White. During the nineties, Roger became involved in the Music Association of Newfoundland, now known as Music NL, taking on an executive role. His position saw him involved in the East Coast Music Awards as well as a local contact for the JUNO awards. Roger died suddenly while performing with the Ducats at a Big Brothers/Big Sisters Celebrity Secrets Show at Mile One in St. John's.
Roger Skinner passed away on February 23, 2002. He was 50 years old. . . . Read More
William "Bill" Smith
Bill grew up in the Placentia area starting his rock & roll days playing saxophone with the Mid Sounds, one of the top bands from that area. He would make his way to the capital city and team up with the Ducats.
Bill pass on June13, 2016.
Harold "Hal" Somers
Originally from Sibley's Cove, in 1971 Hal stepped up to the mic to sing lead with the St. John's rock & roll band Stained Glass. Hal moved throughout the local music community singing with different groups before stopping to perform with The County Ducats.
Hal passed on December 5, 2015, he was 69. . . . Read More
Laverne Squires
Originally from the south coast community of Hermitage, Laverne Squires made her musical mark in our province as one of the first to fuse local folk and rock music, introducing the combination to a new audience. Laverne's career can be traced back to the early sixties as one of the first local females to front a rock and roll band The Ambassadors. Laverne stepped into the spotlight when rock and roll was entering its rebellious era. She fronted local cutting-edge bands, "Philadelphia Cream Cheese" and "Land of Mordor" with their combination of psychedelic cover tunes sprinkled with an electric take on traditional and original music. Many believe that Laverne made her greatest impact on the province music history performing with Lukey's Boat. When Laverne performed, just like a Joplin or a Slick, she demanded your total attention exposing some local fans to their first taste of "live" rock music. In later years she performed sparingly with her bands, Heavy Weather and Stone Arc.
Sadly, on July 14th, 2016 Laverne passed away at the age of 69. . . . Read More
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Charl "Charlie" Stacey
In 1964 Charlie Stacey was lead singer with the local rock & roll band the Impalas. When they disbanded Charlie hooked up with one of the hottest local bands in the capital city, The Deltones. There his singing talent stood out on songs with a country feel. As the years passed Charlie confined his singing and guitar playing to private gatherings with friends and family. Though music would always be a part of his life, Charlie was also successful in business.
Charl passed on June 18, 2021 at the age of 80. . . . Read More
Thomas Walshe
Tommy Walshe was one of the few local musicians who had his name front and center. In 1967 Tommy Walshe joined the local rock and roll band The Rebounds calling themselves Tommy Walshe and the Rebounds. The guys played in the St. John's area for approximately two years before parting ways.
Tommy passed on May 7, 2016 at the age of 76. . . . Read More
Jeff "Jef" White
Jef began his vast musical career first performing with the popular west coast rock & roll bands The Dumonts then J. Boyles Roberts & White. Performing all across the province on stage and radio, Jef soon moved to Toronto to pursue his musical career. In 1976 Jef released his all-original debut album" Grey Lord" to critical acclaim. But he then stepped back from the spotlight living a more reclusive life. In 1987 he released another recording before again stepping back. Through out the years Jef continued writing, accumulating over 150 original compositions. Into the millennium Jef released two CD's before immediately starting work on another.
Jef passed on January 12, 2019 at the age of 70. . . . Read More
Darroch "Rocky" Wiseman
Rocky Wiseman was a drummer's drummer. He could perform any style of music with ease and finesse. From the early 60's backing the legendary "Ravens" to the 80's co-founding "The Wonderful Grand Band", Rocky sat behind the drum kit for over five decades. Rocky also performed both on radio and television. Even though Rocky was a sought-after jazz drummer by local groups, Rocky's heart was in the early blues music, a passion that he pursued his whole life.
Rocky passed away on June 8, 2018 at the age of 78. . . . Read More
Kevin Lacey
"Kev's" first exposure to music goes back to singing in school choirs. In the late 50's early 60's he teamed up with a few friends to form the legendary local rock and roll band, The Bel-Aires. Playing rhythm guitar and singing, Kev loved belting out the latest pop hits of the day. Or performing slow heart throb rock & roll ballads, sometimes down on one knee or out on the dance floor surrounded by friends and fans. His other close passion was singing Irish songs, the older the better. Kevin would move through the local rock & roll scene performing in various bands before being asked to take center stage in the Art Haynes Combo. Kevin sang with the group until the mid-seventies when the band became a trio under the Variety banner name. Known for their extended song melodies sometimes running for thirty minutes plus, the guys finally stepped back in the mid-eighties. Kevin would still be heard singing at family gatherings or just for his own enjoyment.
Kevin passed on February 28, 2023, he was 79. . . . Read More