The Coachmen, a Dundalk based teen rock and roll band, “formed right after the Beatles’ first appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show (Feb 9, 1964)” recalled rhythm guitarist and vocalist Rich Rice.
Managed by Bill Smith, the band also included Joe Jones (lead guitar), Ron Jones (bass, vocals), Bill Curry (keyboard), and Larry Peterson (drums, vocals). Tom Wilcher was part time drummer.
Bill Smith (manager), Bill Curry, Tom Wilcher.
Front Row L-R: Joe Jones, Rich Rice, Ron Jones
Rich added that the Coachmen “stayed together doing a lot of the British Invasion stuff, plus the usual “Wipe Out,” “Apache,” and “Telstar” stuff of the era until (the band) finally broke up in spring of 1965. We played CYO’s, Teen Centers, and school dances; essentially the same circuit as the Chevelles who were our contemporaries.”
Rice, originally inspired by the Beatles to play guitar, later played sax with Chrome, and Brass Menagerie, and in ‘00s switched back to guitar with the band Dockstreet…
