by Stuart Ross

When most of us think of the 1950s, we think of Rock 'n' Roll, hot rods, Elvis, D.A. haircuts and teenage rebellion.  But there was a "flipside" to this era - the side of harmony, innocence and the sincerity of dreams.  When American families gathered in front of the TV to watch their favourite variety shows, like Ed Sullivan or the Perry Como Show.  A period when four-part vocal groups harmonised their way across the airwaves, jukeboxes and hi-fi's of the country.  Throughout the land they would stand at a quartet of microphones, crooning a multitude of chaperoned party-goers into dreamy romance.  They wore dinner jackets and bow ties.  Each move was drilled in precision.  Each vocal arrangement soared stratospheric heights of harmony.  These groups got together to sing and rehearse in their basements.  If things worked out they might be hired to sing at weddings, conventions and country club socials.  Inspired by the success of their favourite recording stars, they made plans to climb that spiral staircase to fame and fortune.

This is the story of such a group - FOREVER PLAID

There were these four guys, Sparky, Smudge, Jinx and Frankie, who loved to sing.  They all met in high school around 1956.  Discovering that they shared an affection for music and entertaining, they got together and dreamed of becoming like their idols - The Four Aces, The Four Freshmen, The Hi-Lo's and The Crew Cuts.  They rehearsed in the basement of Smudge's family's plumbing supply company.  It was here they became FOREVER PLAID.  Although Rock 'n' Roll was racing down the fast lane like a candy-apple Corvette, they believed in their music.  As their sound developed , they sang at family gatherings, fund raisers and eventually graduated to supermarket openings and local hops.  Finally on 9th February 1964 they landed their first big gig - the Airport Hilton Cocktail Bar.  On this day our story begins .......................................................