Crossroads made a television appearance on the Kerby Scott Show in November 1969. They were an opening act for Procol Harum at Merriweather Post Pavilion in 1970. In early 1971 the band split with five of the six members forming a new group called Hope. The band re-formed billed as Russ Vanscyoc & the Crossroads. Clyde Allen (ex-Con Chords) soon replaced Vanscyoc as lead vocalist as Russ went on to join the Associates. The band featured George Betz (guitar ex-Ducanes, Williamaires), later replaced with Bert Zimmerman (ex-Rockin’ Airs), Rusty Hinshaw (bass, rhythm), Scott Digennaro (guitar, bass, sax), and Ted Pryor (drums). Vocalist Joe Fiorino fronted the group briefly around 1976. The Crossroads were seen as house band at the Sea Gull Inn, and various clubs and dances.
Crossroads played Top-40 and oldies throughout the ‘70s.
In 1977 Zimmerman adopted the moniker of Gene Vincentt (with two T’s) to write a tribute about the recently departed Elvis Presley for the Baltimore News American. The initial two-week column became so popular that it turned into a two-year newspaper stint and a radio show on WCBM. While performing with Crossroads, Zimmerman carried the Gene Vincentt Elvis tribute onto the stage as well. He traveled to California and received permission from managers and family to use the Gene Vincentt name. By the 1980’s the band Crossroads became known as Gene Vincentt & the Cadillac Cruisers.
Off the musical stage, drummer Ted Pryor earned the title of Mr. Maryland. He moved to California where he appeared in television commercials, acted and directed hit TV shows and movies.
Hinshaw also played for Changing Tymes, Best Friends, Manhattan Project…
