The original RaVons were formed in the spring of 1959 by Woodlawn teens Carl Burkowske (stage name Carl Evans) on rhythm guitar/vocals (ex-Spartans), and Clyde Weitzel (lead guitar). The name RaVon was derived from the Buddy Holly tune “Rave On,” as the group-to-be’s repertoire was predominately the popular ‘rock-a-billy’ sound. Shortly thereafter, Gary Soleas of Forest Park joined in on accordion and piano, followed by Randy Pfeiffer of Lochearn on drums.
The RaVons then gained their initial reputation by playing parties, area teen centers, gigs with local DJ’s (mainly Les Alexander, Ed Graham and Frank Luber from WCAO), Milford Mill Swim Club, and the Baltimore chapter of the USO. “Having our name mentioned on Baltimore’s top teen radio station was a definite asset” says Carl.
In the summer of 1959, The RaVons decided to enter a weekly talent contest being held at the Dixie Ballroom in Gwyn Oak Amusement Park, and won over other contestants that week. The contest was 12 weeks long and by summer’s end the RaVons were in the Finalist Week. The contest publicity generated the band more local bookings and a month-long stint at Laurel Hills Country Club.
Things then began to change for The RaVons. Drummer Randy Pfeiffer had other commitments and was replaced by an old friend, Arthur ‘Jeep’ Stapleton, also of Woodlawn. “Jeep fit like a glove,” recalls Carl, “and the group went back to the Dixie Ballroom for the talent contest final.”
They didn’t win, and placed 3rd, but there was good news – they gained a manager. Vern Ruppert, an agent from the Loch Raven/Taylor Avenue area, “discovered” the RaVons and became their booking agent and manager. Ruppert then groomed the group with his musical experience, and polished their performance with tux uniforms and choreography, occasionally joining in with a number or two of his own. “I had a good run with them, working area teen centers, CYO’s, and DJ record hops”, remembers Ruppert.
In the spring of 1960, the RaVons added electric bass player Chuck Evans, another Woodlawn boy, just returned from Texas. Chuck brought a new dimension to the sound of the group and added a nice variety of vocals. The 1960 RaVons would not only play their normal bookings, but would have fan clubs throughout the Baltimore area (Highlandtown to Loch Raven). Their highlight that year would be playing weekends the entire summer at Mayo Beach Club in southern Maryland.
The Original RaVons played as this group until 1961 when 4 of the 5 members joined The United States Air Force, thus dissolving the band as such. All members returned to playing music at various stages of their lives and remain friends to this day. “It was a great ride and forever, a piece of Baltimore ‘garage band’ history.” ~ Carl ~ Clyde ~ Vern ~
Pfeiffer played for the Fenders. Burkowske also with the Centaurs, and was a founding member of the Sentries. Soleas and Weitzel later with Gary Sea Trio…
