R&B group originated in Montgomery County. Chico Vega (guitar, bass) replaced Jackson in 1960 and the group became known as Chico Vega & the Moroccos. Members included Sammy Fitzhugh (lead vocals), Vega (bass), Winfield Parker (sax), Russell Divan (trombone), Ralph (guitar), Sarge (drums), and Chris Johnson (vibes). With Vega wearing his trademark turban the group could be seen at D.C. and Baltimore clubs. The group backed many top artists coming through the D.C. area including Chuck Jackson, Maxine Brown, Etta James, Bo Diddley, Shirelles, and many others.
Recordings included a 1959 single as Sammy Fitzhugh & the Moroccos “Sadie Mae” b/w “Linda Baby” (Poplar 115), and the 1960 single “Lover’s Plea” b/w “I Feel Alright” (Atco 6181) billed as by Sammy Fitzhugh.
The group performed regularly at the Las Vegas Club on Warwick Avenue during the early ‘60s. Also seen at the Howard Theater, Carr’s Beach, Ice House, Bitner’s… During the ‘60s and ‘70s Vega and various lineups of the group toured with the Drifters, Billy Stewart, and Brook Benton. Parker toured as saxophonist for Little Richard, and went on to an illustrious recording career starting with Ru-Jac Records in Baltimore (see bio).
