Members of four British rock bands – the Hollies, Badfinger, The Moody Blues and Wings – who scored top 10 hits in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, will relive that magical era of music in a program to be presented on Thursday, Oct. 23, 6 p.m. at Rosch Recital Hall. The event is free and the public is invited to attend.
Terry Sylvester of the Hollies, Joey Molland of Badfinger and Denny Laine, formerly of The Moody Blues and Wings, will discuss their respective histories and exploits in the music industry in an informal gathering organized by Fredonia’s Music Industry program. In 1969, The Hollies and Badfinger each scored a No. 7 hit on the U.S. charts with “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother,” by the Hollies; and “Come & Get It,” by Badfinger, both in 1969.
At the start of his musical career, Sylvester’s band, the Escorts, performed with the Beatles in the early 1960s. Sylvester joined the Hollies in 1969, replacing Graham Nash as singer and guitarist. During his tenure with the band, which lasted until 1981, the Hollies released their bestselling hit, “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress,” in 1972. Since departing the band, Sylvester has worked on many other projects including solo work.
Molland, who is visiting the Fredonia campus for a second time, began his career with small rock bands in his hometown, joining Badfinger in 1969 as singer, guitarist and keyboardist. The band signed to Apple Records, created by the Beatles. Through his association with Apple, Molland guest starred on two albums by George Harrison and on John Lennon’s album “Imagine.” After leaving Badfinger, Molland continued recording and touring under the Badfinger name, recording solo work as well.
Singer/songwriter Laine was one of the original members of The Moody Blues, singing the lead vocal on its 1964 hit, “Go Now.” He later joined the band Wings with Paul McCartney for 10 years, co-writing its hit, “Mull of Kintyre,” and providing vocals and instrumental contributions.
The trio is also slated to perform the next evening, Oct. 24, at 7 p.m. at the Hamburg Palace.
For more information regarding these artists’ visit to Fredonia, contact Music Industry Coordinator Armand Petri at armandpetri@fredonia.edu.
