Originally known as the Cruisinaires. The Playmates were a horn line band from the Edgemere / Dundalk area led by singer Sammy Bo Smith, with John Brazinski (lead / rhythm guitar), Rick Russell (bass), Don Bogert (electric piano), Bob Mroz (drums), Clem Klinglehoffer (tenor sax), and Bernie Dlugokeski (tenor sax).
The Playmates played “solid soul sounds” at the Golden Ring Inn, Club Venus, Hollywood Park, The Zoo club, and frequent appearances at the Keystone Inn.
The group recorded the song “Bottom’s Up” at Monumental Studios.
Dlugokeski, Smith (shades)
Later members included Mike Alder (trumpet), Mike Fore (trombone), Hal Hagy (tenor sax ex-Mello Men, Chevelles), John Suzinski (guitar)…
In 1969 singer Lyle Diamond (Lyle & the Diamonds), and Jimmy Groszer (bass) joined the band. Jerry MacNeish replaced Mroz on drums in 1971 and Bobby Groszer replaced Bogert on keyboards.
The Playmates later became known as Cobblestone – then as Beginnings. Also see Groszer Brothers.
Diamond later sang for Majic. Bogert joined Gazze. Mroz was later with Fresh Air…
