The Rogues recorded two singles on Regan Records circa 1968-1969. They seem to be from Michigan, and the “Capital City Music” publishing on the one original song they recorded may refer to Lansing.
Their first 45 has good versions of Bob Seger’s “Heavy Music” b/w” a cover of “Born in Chicago”, released on Regan R-0021 with IRM #1039.
The second single has an original song, “Something Called Humanity”, written by Bill Goik and Richard Jantz. Publishing by Capital City Music BMI, released on Regan R-0022, with IRM-1067. This was the flip to a version of “Summertime”.
If anyone has a scan or sound clip of “Something Called Humanity” please contact me.
Steve Donahue produced both singles, the second has a credit to Don Kemp for engineering. I can’t find their names in connection to any other releases, nor can I find any other releases on this Regan Records label.
Other members of the band included Rick Brunson – drums, and Dennis Parker – keyboards.
This copy of “Heavy Music” came from the collection of David Martin, with special thanks to his family.
I the middle sixties there was a Canadian band called The Five Rogues. They became The Rogues minus David Clayton Thomas…and then became The Mandella. Great blue eyed soul.
Yes, they are from Lansing, Michigan.
I was married to Steve Donahue and the Regan in Regan records was Steves mother’s maiden name. The Regan name has been passed down as middle names in our family.
The song in question was written by Bill Goik and Richard Jantz.
They were managed by Steve Regan Donahue. The band started in 1965
playing the hep tunes of the day, but later went into a more jazz/blues style.
This record – Something Called Humanity – came out in 1969. They went
thru 20 members thru the years.
All according to Lansing State Journal – Saturday, March 7, 1970
I was the drummer from 1969 to 1971. And yes, there were about 20+ members. David (forgot his last name) was the band leader, played bass, and handled half the lead vocals. Bill (forgot his last name) was a recent Viet Nam vet and played guitar and some vocals. Dennis Parker was the keyboard player and attended UofM during the week. I believe this band started around 60 or so. The only other band that had been around longer at that time, as I recall, was Danny Hernandez and the Ones.
Steve is my father. I have a few copies of both releases. I can definitely digitize both 45’s.
Hey Scott! I’m from the Capital Area District Libraries and we’re developing a local music collection. We’d love to have digital (or physical) copies of both 45s and can help to digitize them if you need. Contact me at ackleyb@cadl.org if you’re interested!