About this episodeBurton Cummings and Randy Bachman reflect on their early careers in Winnipeg's 1960s music scene, discussing t…AI summary
Burton Cummings and Randy Bachman reflect on their early careers in Winnipeg's 1960s music scene, discussing the formation of The Guess Who, early recordings like 'Two-Wheel Freedom' and 'Blue Is the Night', and the competitive local band environment. They share anecdotes about gear, fan interactions, and business ventures, emphasizing the importance of persistence and authentic songwriting for long-term success.
Key takeaways 6
The Winnipeg music scene in the 1960s was highly competitive, with bands like The Devrons, The Quidd, The Shags, and The Mongrels all vying for attention and gigs.
Burton Cummings joined The Guess Who after hearing Chad Allen's band perform 'Blue Is the Night' at a Jerry and the Pacemakers concert in 1965, where he performed for 20,000 people.
The band's early success was built on a complementary vocal style: Chad Allen handled softer, melodic songs while Cummings took on harder, screaming rock numbers.
Early gigs were often at high schools, churches, and community clubs due to the drinking age being 21, with pay ranging from 50 cents to $2 per show.
Daryl B, a CKY radio DJ, played a crucial role in the band's development by producing early recordings and inspiring the title 'Taking Care of Business' during a tour.
The Guess Who's longevity is attributed to honest songwriting that has endured over decades, proving that dreams can come true with practice and persistence.
Notable quotes 4AI-generated: wording and quote attribution may be wrong. Use the play link to verify.
“I think because the music is honest and the songs have lasted. The thing that makes me the proudest... is our songs have never gone away and that's very important.”
▶ 24:46Burton Cummings explaining why people should care about The Guess Who and the value of their music.
“It was a big deal for me. Clock on the Wall, first one that I sang lead, first single of the Guess Who that I sang lead on. It was a big deal for me.”
▶ 12:42Randy Bachman reflecting on his first time singing lead on a Guess Who record when he was 18.
“We played anywhere that that would hire us to be him. ... It was a buck to get in. 20 kids came, we got 20 bucks. That was big deal in those days.”
▶ 9:46Burton Cummings describing the early days of playing high school sock hops and community events.
“Dreams can happen, but you got to practice, practice, practice.”
▶ 25:18Burton Cummings offering advice on achieving success in music.
Chapters & Sections (12)▼
0:00Honda Commercial and Early Devrons Recordingschapter2
1:33Blue Is The Night Impact
3:05Devrons Singles and Radio Promo Memorabilia
5:08Early Career Stories and Gear Historychapter2
8:02Vox Organ History and Early Gear
9:17Early Gig Venues and Ticket Prices
10:38Chad Allen's Vocal Style and Early Careerchapter1
13:12Replacing Bob Ashley and Warner Bros Nostalgia
15:35Winnipeg 1960s Music Scene and Bandschapter2
17:22Winnipeg 60s Bands and Musicians
18:29Early Winnipeg Bands and Recordings
21:29Business Ventures and Kentucky Fried Rat Storychapter
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