R&B band featuring Billy Noel (lead vocals), Greg Hay (guitar), Ned O’Byrne (bass), Bob Nelson (piano), Jimmy Loomis (sax), Bart Crisfulli (sax), Mark Tiernan (piano, trombone), and Butch Monticelli (drums). Nelson was later replaced with John Armetta (piano). Monticelli was replaced with Ronnie Schmidt (drums). Other members included Sonny Riffici (drums), Lou Gordon (guitar).
Hidden: Armetta (piano).
The Chaun-tels, managed by George Loomis aka ‘Whitey’, played many teen centers and CYO dances, Mayo Beach events, etc. They were one of the first bands to play at the Turf Valley Country Club in Ellicott City. Band outfits were purchased at Tru-Fit Tuxedos in Highlandtown, where many Baltimore bands got their suits.
Loomis later played for the Joyriders, Tommy Vann & the Echoes, the Fugitive Six, and the Majestics. In 1966 he was selected to join Mitch Rider’s band. Tiernan went on to play for many local groups including And the Echoes, Sawbuck, Monopoly. He also toured and recorded with Tim Buckley, and Dion’s Streetheart Band. Schmidt was also a member of the Del Vinos, Joyriders, and O’Byrne (aka Ned Burns) later with Frank James & the Outlaws.
