The Chryslers began as an acapella R&B vocal harmony group in their West Baltimore neighborhood near Whitmore and Lanvale Streets. Originally a trio of Larry Jackson aka ‘Moe’ Jackson, Wendell Amprey aka ‘Wolf’, and Randy Hammond aka ‘Hippie’, they soon added a fourth vocalist Bertram Murray aka ‘Rabbitt’. Eventually Andre Towles joined the group creating a vocal quintet.
Backing music was provided by several different groups throughout the years. The earliest collaboration was with the Monarchs, who were formerly a rock and roll Top-40 band in the early ‘60s. The Monarchs & the Chryslers created perhaps the first integrated musical performing act in the Baltimore area.
The (Fabulous) Monarchs were a Parkville area band featuring Ron Breznicky (lead guitar), John Gerhardt (rhythm guitar), Joe Farace (bass), Fran Breznicky (organ), Vic Giustina (drums), Bob McElvaney (trumpet), Dave McElvaney (trumpet), Bob Mickey (trombone), Gary Lewissen (tenor sax), and Tony Mattheu (tenor sax).
As the Chryslers with the Monarchs Band the group released a smooth soul single in 1967 recorded at Dave Smith’s studio on Biddle Street. “Because I Love You” (written by John Gerhardt) b/w “I’m Not Gonna Lose You” (written by Ronnie Breznicky). The label JE (Jody Enterprises) JODY named after Joe Secola (of TV channel 13), Dave Smith, with Chuck Weber
Eventually the Monarchs split off to pursue the emerging underground rock music scene.
Photos courtesy of Larry Jackson
Known as the Five Chryslers circa 1967-68, the Camaros became their new backing band. This group was managed by John Purdie (who also managed Jimmy Briscoe & the Little Beavers). Chryslers members remained constant except that Towles had been replaced with Lamont Davis. The R&B group played at the U.S.O. Club and vied for the opportunity to travel to Viet Nam to perform for the troops.
From 1968 through 1972 the vocal group and band was known as the Chrysler’s Movement Plus. There were a few personnel changes during these years. Davis was replaced with Darnell McManus – who was later replaced with David Maurice Crew, ‘Hippie’ was replaced with Mike ‘Droop’ Fielder. In 1969 Murray was replaced with Steve ‘Scrib’ Scribner. Other members included Kenny McEchen, Joe Willis…
The Chryslers also toured for several years with the Mascaleros.
With their various backing groups, the Chryslers made 13 TV appearances (including the Kerby Scott Show, Lloyd Thaxton Show, Kaleidescope), many radio appearances and countless stage performances. Venues included The Blackjack Club, Embassy Room, Club Al-Ho, Club Casino, Dotson’s, Alcazar Ballroom, James Brown Motor Inn, Carousel, Biddy’s, The Zoo
Hammond went on to sing with the rock bands Tricks, Toys, and Concert.
Record release by Chryslers with The Monarchs Band:
1967 JE JODY 2215 Because I Love You / I’m Not Gonna Lose You
