The MTA label was a faceless New York corporation primarily licensing recordings from both the East and West Coasts. Most of their California bands were signed through Leo Kulka at San Francisco’s Golden State Recorders. Their East Coast material seems to come from a variety of sources, and some bands seem to be purely studio concoctions.
One such shadowy group are the All 6, with this 1967 release. For years I thought they were a studio group like the Powers of Blue on the same label, as the only names I could ascribe to them come from the songwriters, Paul Leka (well known for writing “Green Tambourine” for the Lemon Pipers, among other hits) and Joseph Messina (credited on the label as J. Mesina).
Both are commercial pop of the time. Of the two I prefer “You Call It Love” for it’s arresting intro and consistent energy, while the A-side “Baby Hold On” has some fine organ playing. Production is credited to Cynthia and A.B. Jet Productions.
Tom Southwell and Andy StoneTom Southwell, Joe Messina and Eddie Rigano
As it turns out, they were a real group, a quintet despite their name. Tom Southwell commented below: “This was a real group from Mamaroneck, Larchmont, and New Rochelle, New York. The odd thing about All 6 is that there were only five members Their names are in the anagram A.B. JET: Andy Stone (drums), Bill Hanff ( lead vocal, electric piano), Joe Messina (organ, principal writer/leader), Eddie Rigano (guitar, vocal), and Tom Southwell (lead guitar, vocal). While All 6 were promoting this record they often were the opening act for The First Edition, B.J. Thomas, The Association, and The Four Seasons. All 6 performed in the area thru high school and college but went into other specialties: journalism, medicine, law, business, and motion pictures, respectively.”
The All 6 also backed Terry Randazzo on a 45 for MGM, “Trick or Treat”.
I asked Tom some questions about the band and he kindly answered with a short history of the group and the photos posted here.
Tom SouthwellWe really were a true performing band with costumes and routines and not just studio musicians. Our band was often hired to record the instrumental part of a vocal groups record. Some were master recordings and others were demos for writers to place songs with artists. We did quite a lot of these for Teddy and other writers. I was surprised when he put our name on that record (“Trick or Treat”). I think it may have been an accident (with our name on the envelope with the tape as it went to the place where the records are pressed… or a deal with our label MTA.)
We recorded an entire album (instruments only) for (Little) Anthony And The Imperials. All this studio work was after years of performing as a band in clubs and school dances. This was a way to gain experience for our own records when the time came. Sometimes I was in the studio working with some jazz legends.
The recordings were mostly done on Broadway across from The Winter Garden Theater, on Saturday or Sunday mornings. We would perform live the weekend evenings, and summers. I think it was Joe Messina who got us in front of MTA. Their A&R man had used us on a record or two and once Joe had a few songs they liked we recorded them. This is the way we worked, since we were all still students.
We played lots of senior proms and dances in the area (including Scarsdale High, Sleepy Hollow High, among others.) During the summers we played at the beach clubs, country clubs , and finally the New York night spots The Phone Booth, Joel Heller’s Eighth Wonder in the village, and often we were regulars at The Canada Lounge in Mamaroneck, NY. I studied guitar with Linc Chamberland from Norwalk, Connecticut, who also was a regular attraction at The Canada Lounge. Spectacular guitarist.
We were friends with Don McLean who lived a couple blocks from me (he was a graduate of Iona Prep school where Joe, Bill, and I briefly went). Don hit it big about 1969 but he was always building a guitar or playing his individual style of music. I was a class mate of Tommy Mottola who lived down the street and we would play guitars together. This was long before he became a legend in the music business. I was already in Hollywood when he got famous.
By the way, that James Burton record (Powers of Blue) really rocks! (too bad I wasn’t at his session.)
Tom Southwell
Ed Rigano added:
This band was formed by Joe Messina. Joe was a great musician besides the organ he was as accomplished drummer and of course a great song writer. Bill H. our lead singer had a incredible voice could sing with the best of them. Andy could play drums like no one else and Tom Southwell played lead guitar, wow could he play. I backed everybody playing rhythm guitar, bass on the recordings and backing vocals to bill. We did other recordings but they were never released, I’m sure Joe has copies.
Andy StoneTom Southwell
45 thoughts on “All 6 of Westchester, NY”
I dig how this real pop tune, undoubtedly not a stomper, has this snarling guitar solo twice! Nice pop music and lyrics and then, bam, along comes this bad seed almost-Sonics guitar solo. That’s what moves my soul and ticks inside of my brain.
This was a real group from Mamaroneck, Larchmont, and New Rochelle, New York. The odd thing about All 6 is that there were only five members. Their names are in the anagram A.B. JET: Andy Stone (drums), Bill Hanff ( lead vocal, electric piano), Joe Messina (organ, principal writer/leader), Eddie Ragano (guitar, vocal), and Tom Southwell (lead guitar, vocal). While All 6 were promoting this record they often were the opening act for The First Edition, B.J. Thomas, The Association, and The Four Seasons. All 6 performed in the area thru high school and college but went into other specialties: journalism, medicine, law, business, and motion pictures, respectively. Tom Southwell, Hollywood, California.
Hi Bob. Are you the Bob from Caruso Music in New Rochelle? I have many memories of Caruso Music and you and John. He was part of the Musicians Union and would scold us when our dues were late. My brother and I bought records and instruments from you and they brought so much joy to our lives. Still have most of that vinyl. Thanks for your comment, my best to you.
Bob: Used to hang out at Caruso’s also with my drummer, Eddie Jurgens. Wouldn’t happen to know his whereabouts, would you? Last I knew he was living in NYC.
Bob, My brother Richard is well, thank you, and living in Germantown Maryland, just outside Washington D.C. So nice to hear from you. Tom Southwell
Hi Tom… It was John and Bob from whom I purchased my 63 Jazzmaster which I still have to this day. I too would hang out at Carusos Music where I also took guitar lessons from Brad Bivens of the Stratotones, my older brother of Tau Pi fraternity. Brad is now a classical guitarist with a Bay Area symphony orchestra. Carusos was a great shop with first class people. Interestingly, Andy Stone, drummer for All 6 was also a fraternity brother and one of the most intelligent and erudite students at NRHS. I played guitar with the James Boys the members of which consisted of Bob Rothstein (lead guitar) subsequently performing as Rob Stoner with Bob Dylan and Don Mclean. The remaider of the group consisted of Ben Beckly (drums) and Bob Strumer (guitar) with whom I have unfortunately lost contact years ago.. My best wishes to you and Bob, should he be paying attention. Peter
A lot of people don’t realize the rock and roll bands came from mamaroneck N Y the flats there was D massa lead singer for the sidewindwers Henry Tezzi known as Hank The Royal Jacks the were called garage bands or basement bands I was cousins of Donna Massa and was always in the basement on Friday and Saturday nights kids that couldn’t fit in the basement were in the driveway listening and there was the Great David Spinoza he was such a nice guy and a great great guitar players I would say he was right under Jimmy Hendri David taught me to play the guitar for 50 a hr and all the roast beef sandwiches he could eat oh and about a gallon of coke an Pepsi what ever my mom had to drink my dad would come home and say ahh nothing to drink David been here right I still play guitar I’m 70 years old thank you David love you bro
James Burton, guitar legend with Ricky Nelson and Elvis, released an album on MTA under the name Powers Of Blue, which may have been a “studio band”. The same album with a different cover was released in England.
Well this is a treat!!! Boy do I remember this band very well, especially that picture, which I had a copy of. My cousin Bill Hanff played the electric piano. Many times did I see them in person.
Hi Tommy We’re both a long way from Larchmont/Mamaroneck/New Rochelle. I’m in contact with both Eric Beerwald and Joe Messina. Lost contact with Eddie Jurgens years ago, would like to find him, if you have any leads after all these years. Ken Adams guitar Majestic Creators
Dear Ken, Nice of you to touch base after all these years. My biggest aging problem is remembering names, even people I met yesterday so please don’t be offended I don’t recall Eddie Jurgens’ name. Im much better with faces. Eddie Ragano stood next to me on the stage singing into the same microphone for a few years but I have lost track of him, sadly. But I’m not sure where Eddie Jurgens fits in. Perhaps a few reminders might help me.
Eric Beerwald of course was our sixth member of All 6 when we started but he had to leave the band for family reasons and he could never really be replaced so Joe filled the void with organ base pedals but we didn’t want to change the name of the band. Please send him my warm regards.
Joe Messina, the only band member to stay in the music industry full time has had a long and fruitful career in every corner of the music and publishing business including a private law practice in Mamaroneck, N.Y., not far from The Canada Lounge site where we played some forty years ago. It’s been far too long since I saw Joe and I miss him deeply. Send him my love.
What I miss most, though, is the music we would make together. We had an invisible connection, sort of a “wifi” that seemed to let each of us know what each other was thinking, or feeling or where we were going next within a song, even when we were playing an uncharted free form piece. And that sound we would make…that snappy and fresh rumble from Andy on the drums that sounded like the complete percussion section of a symphony orchestra with all the delicate whisper sounds included as well, the sustained string like sounds, or percussive “Jimmy Smith” sounds Joe would play on the organ, the driving rhythm guitar and vocal work I would blend into provided by Eddie (Bear), and, sadly, last that voice and electric piano of Billy, who has departed. Making music with these guys, and Eric was a highlight of my life and I only have the fondest memories of being a part of making that sound. (thanks to garage hangover for providing this link)
Passing this on to Eric and Joe, Tommy. I only remember that Eddie (drums) and I played as fill ins on a couple of your gigs, with the Valiants I believe. Did I remember that correctly, was that the band you played in before All 6? Thanks for the reply.
I forgot all about this website, and just stumbled back across it today.
send me your new email address. Mine is still the same…tried to email you but got kicked back……….lots of memories….including the Farfisa and tone cabinet ! This is very cool !
As the former 6th member of ALL 6 (bass player) I am so thrilled to see the pics and know that some of the finest people I ever met in my life are still out there. I am saddened that Billy Hanff is no longer with us. He was a great guy and could always make me laugh.
Tommy, Ken Adams forwarded your reply to him to me. Thrilled to know you are out there and so successful. Thought you should know that all those hours I spent on the bandstand with you I never failed to be awed by your solo whenever we played “Johnnie B. Goode”. I vowed that if I ever got a guitar I would learn that solo. Well, to make a long story short, after putting the bass away in 1970 or thereabouts, I took up the guitar 3 years ago. My guitar teacher has a bunch of us get together every month. He assigns us certain songs to to play together. One of the songs at our November get-together was “Johnnie B. Goode”. I worked like a dog practicing your solo. I played it at our get-together and according to my guitar teacher, while I was concentrating on my fretboard, heads all snapped around as soon as I played your solo. I can tell you this–at least two other guys have had my guitar teacher work on that solo with them. I even wrote it out as a TABS for them. Your solo now lives on and is officially known as “the Tommy Southwell Solo” amongst a whole bunch of guitar students in Branford, CT. Hope the years and life have been and will always be kind to you.
By the way Dan Lagarino (ex-Valiants rhythm guitarist) lives just down the way from me, and he remembers, as do Ken Adams and myself, the Valiants as though it was yesterday. Great to know you are still out there, Tommy. Rock On!!!–Eric Beerwald
Eric, you are so flattering with your comments on my guitar playing. Thanks for your warm memories. I’m not sure my Johnny B. Goode solo was original or just a rip off of Chuck Berry or The Ventures who covered it. And how would you remember it after so long ? Did you have a record of it? Any way, thanks. The playing we all did way back then was such a pleasure for me and I recall those days every now and then. The film “Inside Llewen Davis” brought back a ton of memories of trying to make it in New York and Greenwich Village in particular, and our funky little label MTA wasn’t much more than depicted in the movie. We even recorded a novelty record more embarrassing called “Gluey Christmas” sung by this old guy trying to sound like a child. But we also had a load of happy moments, and fun musical experiences. Thanks to you and the guys. Please give my very best wishes to Dan Lagarino who was a joy to play with and be with. He had a smile that could make you melt. And a sweet sense of humor. He could make me laugh just by saying: “Ha!” and he knew every chord you could play on a guitar, in every position, and every possible strum rhythem. He was amazing. I hope he is still playing that beautiful Gibson he had way back. Over the years I have kept playing at home but not professionally. But have met and discussed music with some famous musicians and they connect on a personal level not different from the way we would. It’s like a brotherhood where the ears are so very important. To listen to each other and say something back, with a piece of our soul, like we did.
Eric, Such lovely comments. I’m embarrassed because I hardly deserve such praise, but thank you. I will respond in more depth at your personal email. My very best wishes to you.
Tommy–If you remember, in the spring of 1964 the Valiants went into Bruno and Dean’s recording studio to record a demo album. I still have it somewhere. One or two tracks have deteriorated so badly over the decades they are unlistenable. But for many years I listened to Johnnie B. Goode just so I could try to copy, on an old Sears Roebuck Silvertone guitar I got from Dave Penna, your solo from Johnnie B. Goode. Lol the other song I wanted so badly to learn was Honky Tonk. Still working on that one lol.
As info I played the “Tommy Southwell Solo” for Dan Lagarino who came to dinner with his wife a few weeks ago. He confirmed it as the one you played. He was amazed. He thought I had it down note for note. I admit to being rather proud of that. Lol that solo was like your first love–you never forget it. I sure could never get it out of my head. I didn’t want to. And I didn’t. Tommy, you and all the guys I ever played with will never ever know how much you all, and the whole experience of playing together meant to me. It was always a joy and a thrill. It meant so much to guys like Ken Adams and myself we could never quite shake it all off. Ken, and I, separately, independently, before we reconnected both took up playing again after about 45 years. Music has that kind of hold on us I guess.
And idle thought–can you conceive of any way it would ever be possible for you, me, Ken Adams, and Dan Lagarino to get together for one last jam session for old times sake? As I say, just idle speculation. But no matter what, rock on!!–Eric
Tommy Eddie Jurgens was the long time drummer for the Majestic Creators. He is the one who called me about playing in that band, and for the life of me I cannot remember how he heard of me. He must have known you somehow, because he called me, when both of us filled in for your regular band members in the Valiants. I remember playing two private parties with your band, one indoors and one outdoors. Played my Jazzmaster at one of them, and a Telecaster at the other. ( An equipment switch as a result of hearing Link Chamberland playing his Tele, at the Canada Lounge) I think Eddie played at the indoor one, and you called me directly for the outdoor one, which he didn’t play at. That is the best I can do, re: refreshing your memory about Eddie. He obviously knew you from the band scene in New Rochelle, somehow. You certainly were widely known, as were the bands you played in, in the Larchmont, Mamaroneck, New Rochelle, area, amongst the other bands in the area. Unfortunately, he seems to have disappeared with time, I doubt that I will be able to find him. Ken Adams
Other guys from our area, that I knew and you might have known or known of, back then: David Spinozza, Danny Kortchmar, Steve Tobias, Richard Frank, Rob Rothstein (aka Stoner), Bill Gervasio. I
Bob Rothstein was our lead guitar from The James Boys. New Rochelle High circa 1962-1964. Other members were Ben Beckly (drums) and Bob Strumer . I have had several communications with both Bob and Ben but have lost contact with Bob Strumer. Anyone know of his where abouts? .
Strange how I came across ‘All 6’ today. For a moment I flashed on the name Dan Lagarino. He was the guitar teacher my mom sought out after I had seen Elvis on TV and wanted to learn how to play. Alas, I was only 9, and all the moving of fingers was a bit difficult for me. And I really had no musical sense at the time, or didn’t know how to find it! I’m assuming the Dan you played with may have been my teacher’s son, because this was 1956, and Mr Lagarino seemed too old to be playing with rock bands in 1967. The kicker here is that grew up in Larchmont in the 50s and 60s, leaving for college in 1965. So I missed ‘All 6,’ but it was great to read about all of you. Not sure if you know this, but Mamaroneck High was a musical hotbed in the 60s. John Emelin, MHS ’63 or ’64, would start Lothar and the Hand People, a psychedelic band with two albums on Capitol in the late ’60s. Danny Kortchmar (MHS ’64) and Rich Frank (also ’64) put together a band called The King Bees right out of high school and released three singles on RCA. Kortchmar would hook up with James Taylor and Carol King and become an in demand session guitarist who still works to this day, and has partnered with Don Henley, Jackson Browne and more over the years. The Pinney Brothers (Roy and Tor) would form The Dolphins and score a regional hit with ‘Surfing East Coast,’ before starting a band called The Chains which was very big in the southwest but made no national impact. Guitarist David Spinozza also became a session playing, working alot with John Lennon. And Tom Mandel would play keyboards with The Miamis (a very popular CBGB group) before going on to play and tour with many acts, including Dire Straits plus a long tenure with Bryan Adams. Just thought you might be interested in hearing all that. Funny how so much came out of a small area.
I think you are right that “my” Danny Lagarino was the son of your guitar teacher. He always seemed to have a leg up on all of us. He seemed to know more about chords then all of us put together.
I knew of many of the Mamaroneck musicians you named and played with several of them: the Pinneys, David Spinozza ( who also appeared on albums with Paul McCartney and Paul Simon among many others) and hav admired the career of Danny Kortchmar since the early days.
Nice that we found this spot to reflect and touch base. Thanks.
This message is for Ken Adams, if he should read it. The Majestic Creators seem very familiar to me, and I’m wondering if your ‘gimmick’ was that you all had silver hair(?). Did you go to MHS?
Yes, we had silver hair. I went to MHS, the rest of the band was from New Rochelle. We played one dance at MHS, the rest of our gigs were elsewhere. We also did a big rock and roll review, Showtime Review, with multiple acts at the NRHS auditorium. We were the backup band. Did you go to MHS?
Yes, I went to MHS — Class of ’65. I distinctly remember seeing a poster or a flier for your band once on the walls at school. I had always remembered that photo with the silver hair, but had forgotten the name of the band. But when I was visiting this site, the words ‘Majestic Creators’ jumped right out! Somehow I think we may have vaguely known each other.
What a small world it has become. Browsing the web looking for bands I used to know, and I find my first guitar teacher, Tommy Southwell! I’m so glad to see you did so well, Tom. I note that you didn’t mention opening for Dylan, but then again, don’t blame you! I recognize so many names in this blog but just can’t recall the faces. I went on to many different local groups, got a record contract, and disappeared when when my producer and label got into a rift the day my record was tested to great results in NY & L.A. I only got a copy of it a few years ago when someone found it on a bootleg album of NY artists. I’ve been mostly in S. Cal since the 70’s, too. Please send a FB link or email and I’ll catch you up. Yes, you taught me that infamous Johnny B Goode solo, too, as well as some good takes from the Stones “It’s all over now”, which helped me ready for the World’s Fair gig. best to you, Tom Phil
This site is a work in progress on 1960s garage rock bands. All entries can be updated, corrected and expanded. If you have information on a band featured here, please let me know and I will update the site and credit you accordingly.
I am dedicated to making this site a center for research about '60s music scenes. Please consider donating archival materials such as photos, records, news clippings, scrapbooks or other material from the '60s. Please contact me at rchrisbishop@gmail.com if you can loan or donate original materials
Most of their California bands were signed through Leo Kulka at San Francisco’s Golden State Recorders. Their East Coast material seems to come from a variety of sources, and some bands seem to be purely studio concoctions.
I dig how this real pop tune, undoubtedly not a stomper, has this snarling guitar solo twice! Nice pop music and lyrics and then, bam, along comes this bad seed almost-Sonics guitar solo. That’s what moves my soul and ticks inside of my brain.
Thank you.
Hey, I’m glad to find this recording on YouTube now!
IS THIS THE ALL 6 THAT ARE CREDITED WITH TEDDY RANDAZZO ON THE MGM SINGLE
“TRICK OR TREAT”
Yes.
This was a real group from Mamaroneck, Larchmont, and New Rochelle, New York. The odd thing about All 6 is that there were only five members. Their names are in the anagram A.B. JET: Andy Stone (drums), Bill Hanff ( lead vocal, electric piano), Joe Messina (organ, principal writer/leader), Eddie Ragano (guitar, vocal), and Tom Southwell (lead guitar, vocal). While All 6 were promoting this record they often were the opening act for The First Edition, B.J. Thomas, The Association, and The Four Seasons. All 6 performed in the area thru high school and college but went into other specialties: journalism, medicine, law, business, and motion pictures, respectively.
Tom Southwell, Hollywood, California.
What a Great bunch of guys and devout Caruso Music colleagues and customers….Not forgetting Toms Brother Richard too
Hi Bob. Are you the Bob from Caruso Music in New Rochelle?
I have many memories of Caruso Music and you and John. He was part of the Musicians Union and would scold us when our dues were late. My brother and I bought records and instruments from you and they brought so much joy to our lives. Still have most of that vinyl. Thanks for your comment, my best to you.
‘Tis Me.
How is your “Brother?
Bob:
Used to hang out at Caruso’s also with my drummer, Eddie Jurgens. Wouldn’t happen to know his whereabouts, would you? Last I knew he was living in NYC.
Bob, My brother Richard is well, thank you, and living in Germantown Maryland, just outside Washington D.C. So nice to hear from you.
Tom Southwell
Hi Tom…
It was John and Bob from whom I purchased my 63 Jazzmaster which I still have to this day. I too would hang out at Carusos Music where I also took guitar lessons from Brad Bivens of the Stratotones, my older brother of Tau Pi fraternity. Brad is now a classical guitarist with a Bay Area symphony orchestra. Carusos was a great shop with first class people. Interestingly, Andy Stone, drummer for All 6 was also a fraternity brother and one of the most intelligent and erudite students at NRHS.
I played guitar with the James Boys the members of which consisted of Bob Rothstein (lead guitar) subsequently performing as Rob Stoner with Bob Dylan and Don Mclean. The remaider of the group consisted of Ben Beckly (drums) and Bob Strumer (guitar) with whom I have unfortunately lost contact years ago..
My best wishes to you and Bob, should he be paying attention.
Peter
A lot of people don’t realize the rock and roll bands came from mamaroneck N Y the flats there was D massa lead singer for the sidewindwers Henry Tezzi known as Hank The Royal Jacks the were called garage bands or basement bands I was cousins of Donna Massa and was always in the basement on Friday and Saturday nights kids that couldn’t fit in the basement were in the driveway listening and there was the Great David Spinoza he was such a nice guy and a great great guitar players I would say he was right under Jimmy Hendri David taught me to play the guitar for 50 a hr and all the roast beef sandwiches he could eat oh and about a gallon of coke an Pepsi what ever my mom had to drink my dad would come home and say ahh nothing to drink David been here right I still play guitar I’m 70 years old thank you David love you bro
James Burton, guitar legend with Ricky Nelson and Elvis, released an album on MTA under the name Powers Of Blue, which may have been a “studio band”. The same album with a different cover was released in England.
Well this is a treat!!! Boy do I remember this band very well, especially that picture, which I had a copy of. My cousin Bill Hanff played the electric piano. Many times did I see them in person.
Valerie Keller
New York, NY
Hi Tommy
We’re both a long way from Larchmont/Mamaroneck/New Rochelle.
I’m in contact with both Eric Beerwald and Joe Messina. Lost contact with Eddie Jurgens years ago, would like to find him, if you have any leads after all these years.
Ken Adams
guitar
Majestic Creators
Dear Ken,
Nice of you to touch base after all these years. My biggest aging problem is remembering names, even people I met yesterday so please don’t be offended I don’t recall Eddie Jurgens’ name. Im much better with faces. Eddie Ragano stood next to me on the stage singing into the same microphone for a few years but I have lost track of him, sadly. But I’m not sure where Eddie Jurgens fits in. Perhaps a few reminders might help me.
Eric Beerwald of course was our sixth member of All 6 when we started but he had to leave the band for family reasons and he could never really be replaced so Joe filled the void with organ base pedals but we didn’t want to change the name of the band. Please send him my warm regards.
Joe Messina, the only band member to stay in the music industry full time has had a long and fruitful career in every corner of the music and publishing business including a private law practice in Mamaroneck, N.Y., not far from The Canada Lounge site where we played some forty years ago. It’s been far too long since I saw Joe and I miss him deeply. Send him my love.
What I miss most, though, is the music we would make together. We had an invisible connection, sort of a “wifi” that seemed to let each of us know what each other was thinking, or feeling or where we were going next within a song, even when we were playing an uncharted free form piece. And that sound we would make…that snappy and fresh rumble from Andy on the drums that sounded like the complete percussion section of a symphony orchestra with all the delicate whisper sounds included as well, the sustained string like sounds, or percussive “Jimmy Smith” sounds Joe would play on the organ, the driving rhythm guitar and vocal work I would blend into provided by Eddie (Bear), and, sadly, last that voice and electric piano of Billy, who has departed. Making music with these guys, and Eric was a highlight of my life and I only have the fondest memories of being a part of making that sound.
(thanks to garage hangover for providing this link)
Passing this on to Eric and Joe, Tommy. I only remember that Eddie (drums) and I played as fill ins on a couple of your gigs, with the Valiants I believe. Did I remember that correctly, was that the band you played in before All 6? Thanks for the reply.
I forgot all about this website, and just stumbled back across it today.
PS: If you would like Eric’s email address, email me privately, and I’ll send it to you. Don’t want it posted on the internet.
Hi Vlerie…
Might you be related to another Tau Pi brother Ed Keller?
Peter
send me your new email address. Mine is still the same…tried to email you but got kicked back……….lots of memories….including the Farfisa and tone cabinet !
This is very cool !
Tommy:
email messina…trying to reach you
joe
corrected email address: jcmessina1 [at] aol [dot] com
Thank you.
As the former 6th member of ALL 6 (bass player) I am so thrilled to see the pics and know that some of the finest people I ever met in my life are still out there. I am saddened that Billy Hanff is no longer with us. He was a great guy and could always make me laugh.
Tommy, Ken Adams forwarded your reply to him to me. Thrilled to know you are out there and so successful. Thought you should know that all those hours I spent on the bandstand with you I never failed to be awed by your solo whenever we played “Johnnie B. Goode”. I vowed that if I ever got a guitar I would learn that solo. Well, to make a long story short, after putting the bass away in 1970 or thereabouts, I took up the guitar 3 years ago. My guitar teacher has a bunch of us get together every month. He assigns us certain songs to to play together. One of the songs at our November get-together was “Johnnie B. Goode”. I worked like a dog practicing your solo. I played it at our get-together and according to my guitar teacher, while I was concentrating on my fretboard, heads all snapped around as soon as I played your solo. I can tell you this–at least two other guys have had my guitar teacher work on that solo with them. I even wrote it out as a TABS for them. Your solo now lives on and is officially known as “the Tommy Southwell Solo” amongst a whole bunch of guitar students in Branford, CT. Hope the years and life have been and will always be kind to you.
By the way Dan Lagarino (ex-Valiants rhythm guitarist) lives just down the way from me, and he remembers, as do Ken Adams and myself, the Valiants as though it was yesterday. Great to know you are still out there, Tommy. Rock On!!!–Eric Beerwald
Eric, you are so flattering with your comments on my guitar playing. Thanks for your warm memories. I’m not sure my Johnny B. Goode solo was original or just a rip off of Chuck Berry or The Ventures who covered it. And how would you remember it after so long ? Did you have a record of it? Any way, thanks. The playing we all did way back then was such a pleasure for me and I recall those days every now and then. The film “Inside Llewen Davis” brought back a ton of memories of trying to make it in New York and Greenwich Village in particular, and our funky little label MTA wasn’t much more than depicted in the movie. We even recorded a novelty record more embarrassing called “Gluey Christmas” sung by this old guy trying to sound like a child.
But we also had a load of happy moments, and fun musical experiences. Thanks to you and the guys. Please give my very best wishes to Dan Lagarino who was a joy to play with and be with. He had a smile that could make you melt. And a sweet sense of humor. He could make me laugh just by saying: “Ha!” and he knew every chord you could play on a guitar, in every position, and every possible strum rhythem. He was amazing. I hope he is still playing that beautiful Gibson he had way back. Over the years I have kept playing at home but not professionally. But have met and discussed music with some famous musicians and they connect on a personal level not different from the way we would. It’s like a brotherhood where the ears are so very important. To listen to each other and say something back, with a piece of our soul, like we did.
Eric,
Such lovely comments. I’m embarrassed because I hardly deserve such praise, but thank you. I will respond in more depth at your personal email.
My very best wishes to you.
Tommy–If you remember, in the spring of 1964 the Valiants went into Bruno and Dean’s recording studio to record a demo album. I still have it somewhere. One or two tracks have deteriorated so badly over the decades they are unlistenable. But for many years I listened to Johnnie B. Goode just so I could try to copy, on an old Sears Roebuck Silvertone guitar I got from Dave Penna, your solo from Johnnie B. Goode. Lol the other song I wanted so badly to learn was Honky Tonk. Still working on that one lol.
As info I played the “Tommy Southwell Solo” for Dan Lagarino who came to dinner with his wife a few weeks ago. He confirmed it as the one you played. He was amazed. He thought I had it down note for note. I admit to being rather proud of that. Lol that solo was like your first love–you never forget it. I sure could never get it out of my head. I didn’t want to. And I didn’t. Tommy, you and all the guys I ever played with will never ever know how much you all, and the whole experience of playing together meant to me. It was always a joy and a thrill. It meant so much to guys like Ken Adams and myself we could never quite shake it all off. Ken, and I, separately, independently, before we reconnected both took up playing again after about 45 years. Music has that kind of hold on us I guess.
And idle thought–can you conceive of any way it would ever be possible for you, me, Ken Adams, and Dan Lagarino to get together for one last jam session for old times sake? As I say, just idle speculation. But no matter what, rock on!!–Eric
Tom-I sent a reply to your email address re getting together. Let me know if you got it so I will know it went to the right address.–Eric
Tommy
Eddie Jurgens was the long time drummer for the Majestic Creators. He is the one who called me about playing in that band, and for the life of me I cannot remember how he heard of me. He must have known you somehow, because he called me, when both of us filled in for your regular band members in the Valiants. I remember playing two private parties with your band, one indoors and one outdoors. Played my Jazzmaster at one of them, and a Telecaster at the other. ( An equipment switch as a result of hearing Link Chamberland playing his Tele, at the Canada Lounge) I think Eddie played at the indoor one, and you called me directly for the outdoor one, which he didn’t play at. That is the best I can do, re: refreshing your memory about Eddie. He obviously knew you from the band scene in New Rochelle, somehow. You certainly were widely known, as were the bands you played in, in the Larchmont, Mamaroneck, New Rochelle, area, amongst the other bands in the area. Unfortunately, he seems to have disappeared with time, I doubt that I will be able to find him.
Ken Adams
Other guys from our area, that I knew and you might have known or known of, back then:
David Spinozza, Danny Kortchmar, Steve Tobias, Richard Frank, Rob Rothstein (aka Stoner), Bill Gervasio. I
Bob Rothstein was our lead guitar from The James Boys. New Rochelle High circa 1962-1964. Other members were Ben Beckly (drums) and Bob Strumer . I have had several communications with both Bob and Ben but have lost contact with Bob Strumer. Anyone know of his where abouts?
.
Strange how I came across ‘All 6’ today. For a moment I flashed on the name Dan Lagarino. He was the guitar teacher my mom sought out after I had seen Elvis on TV and wanted to learn how to play. Alas, I was only 9, and all the moving of fingers was a bit difficult for me. And I really had no musical sense at the time, or didn’t know how to find it! I’m assuming the Dan you played with may have been my teacher’s son, because this was 1956, and Mr Lagarino seemed too old to be playing with rock bands in 1967. The kicker here is that grew up in Larchmont in the 50s and 60s, leaving for college in 1965. So I missed ‘All 6,’ but it was great to read about all of you. Not sure if you know this, but Mamaroneck High was a musical hotbed in the 60s. John Emelin, MHS ’63 or ’64, would start Lothar and the Hand People, a psychedelic band with two albums on Capitol in the late ’60s. Danny Kortchmar (MHS ’64) and Rich Frank (also ’64) put together a band called The King Bees right out of high school and released three singles on RCA. Kortchmar would hook up with James Taylor and Carol King and become an in demand session guitarist who still works to this day, and has partnered with Don Henley, Jackson Browne and more over the years. The Pinney Brothers (Roy and Tor) would form The Dolphins and score a regional hit with ‘Surfing East Coast,’ before starting a band called The Chains which was very big in the southwest but made no national impact. Guitarist David Spinozza also became a session playing, working alot with John Lennon. And Tom Mandel would play keyboards with The Miamis (a very popular CBGB group) before going on to play and tour with many acts, including Dire Straits plus a long tenure with Bryan Adams. Just thought you might be interested in hearing all that. Funny how so much came out of a small area.
I think you are right that “my” Danny Lagarino was the son of your guitar teacher. He always seemed to have a leg up on all of us. He seemed to know more about chords then all of us put together.
I knew of many of the Mamaroneck musicians you named and played with several of them: the Pinneys, David Spinozza ( who also appeared on albums with Paul McCartney and Paul Simon among many others) and hav admired the career of Danny Kortchmar since the early days.
Nice that we found this spot to reflect and touch base. Thanks.
Yes, nice indeed. The internet has certainly made this a small world indeed.
This message is for Ken Adams, if he should read it. The Majestic Creators seem very familiar to me, and I’m wondering if your ‘gimmick’ was that you all had silver hair(?). Did you go to MHS?
Yes, we had silver hair. I went to MHS, the rest of the band was from New Rochelle. We played one dance at MHS, the rest of our gigs were elsewhere. We also did a big rock and roll review, Showtime Review, with multiple acts at the NRHS auditorium. We were the backup band. Did you go to MHS?
You “silver hair devil”!
Lol…….always great to here from you Tom. 🙂
Ken…
Did you know my girlfriend Ellen Hoffman and Paul Bellows?
Best Wishes
Peter
Yes, I went to MHS — Class of ’65. I distinctly remember seeing a poster or a flier for your band once on the walls at school. I had always remembered that photo with the silver hair, but had forgotten the name of the band. But when I was visiting this site, the words ‘Majestic Creators’ jumped right out! Somehow I think we may have vaguely known each other.
Yes I had the dance committee put photos in a glass case of the band at MHS. Your name sound familiar, but can’t put a face to it at the moment.
What a small world it has become. Browsing the web looking for bands I used to know, and I find my first guitar teacher, Tommy Southwell! I’m so glad to see you did so well, Tom. I note that you didn’t mention opening for Dylan, but then again, don’t blame you!
I recognize so many names in this blog but just can’t recall the faces. I went on to many different local groups, got a record contract, and disappeared when when my producer and label got into a rift the day my record was tested to great results in NY & L.A. I only got a copy of it a few years ago when someone found it on a bootleg album of NY artists.
I’ve been mostly in S. Cal since the 70’s, too. Please send a FB link or email and I’ll catch you up.
Yes, you taught me that infamous Johnny B Goode solo, too, as well as some good takes from the Stones “It’s all over now”, which helped me ready for the World’s Fair gig.
best to you, Tom
Phil
Phil
What groups did you play with in Westchester, and who are some of the musicians. Wondering if I knew any of them.
Ken
Just happened onto this site. It’s interesting since I’m from Mamaroneck and knew some of these guys many years ago. Best Jimmy Strassburg drummer