Gene Ricky and the Swingers cut “What You Wanted Most” for Huey Meaux’s Pic 1 label of Pasadena, just SE of Houston. Gene sounds to me like a rockabilly singer adapting to the new style, but if so he does it well. I’d like to know who the Swingers were, they have that spare Texas sound down.
The plug side “If All Goes Well” (both sides written by Lynn Boudreaux) is milder music.
Gene Ricky had an earlier single with The Ravens that I haven’t heard yet, “There’s More for You” / “Without True Love” on Shane Records in 1964.
Another Texas band on Pic 1 is the Argyles with “Farmer John” / “White Lightnin'” released shortly after the Gene Ricky record.
I could’ve sworn this is a Question Mark & The Mysterians mover! It’s real boss!!!
Hi, I am Gene Ricky’s sister…just wanted to let you know, he is in his finals days….he is dying of bone cancer…still singing, but Christian music since the 80s…
Hello, thank you for letting us know about Gene Ricky’s condition, I hope he’s not in much pain. His early music has many fans around the world now.
Best,
Chris
garagehangover.com
Chris,
I am a loved one of Gene Ricky. Just googling his name. You are obviously more of an expert in this field than I am. How do you know he has a lot of fans around the world? I am very interested in learning more about his early days.
I don’t know much at all about Gene, sorry, as I’ve never spoken to him or any of his band. His record “What You Wanted Most” is on youtube and has sold for up to $100 a copy in the past. There are many collectors of this kind of music in the US, Europe and Japan. I’ve played his record on the radio and at ’60s dance nights.
Chris,
Is there anyone you could point me to that would know more or also likes his music?
I’ll ask someone who may know more and let you know. Where was Gene living around this time (1964-1966)?
Chris, any word on any of this? Thanks for all your help man.
Not yet, but I’ll keep asking.
New Iberia, LA