1963 Daily Events
January 1
New Year's Day finds Wanda Jackson at the Memorial
Auditorium In Sacramento, California, as part of a large
country package.
January 2
Sandy Stewart, who is a regular member of NBC-TV's
"Perry Como" program, promotes her hit "My
Coloring Book" on the show.
Dionne Warwick sings "Don't Make Me Over" on
American Bandstand.
January 4
On ABC-TV this afternoon, Johnny Thunder sings "Loop
De Loop" on American Bandstand.
January 8
Connie Francis is reportedly scheduled to guest on
"Jack Benny's" CBS-TV program, but she not listed
as having appeared.
This afternoon on ABC-TV, Paul and Paula sing "Hey
Paula" on American Bandstand.
January 10
This afternoon Sandy Stewart drops by the "Merv
Griffin" program on NBC-TV.
Also on TV today, American Bandstand presents Barbara Lynn
singing "You're Gonna Need Me."
In Miami, Sam Cooke is performing at the Harlem Square Club.
The show this evening is tape recorded by RCA Victor for
Cooke's first live album, a scheduled release titled Night
Beat.
January 11
Freddy Cannon makes another American Bandstand appearance
as he sings "If You Were a Rock and Roll Record."
January 12
While on a short visit to England, Bob Dylan appears on
BBC radio in a dramatic role as a folksinger on The Madhouse
on Castle Street.
January 13
Brenda Lee appears on "The Ed Sullivan Show,"
which is broadcast live from the Convention Hall in Miami.
January 15
Connie Francis is scheduled to play the Sahara Hotel in
Las Vegas for the next four weeks.
The Dreamlovers are the musical guest on American Bandstand.
Mid-January
Ace Cannon is currently on a swing through,
Illinois, Mississippi. Alabama, Georgia and Florida.
Freddy Cannon and Dion are in Boston to promote their latest
records with the media.
Dick Dale and the Del-Tones are currently playing weekends at
Harmony Park Ballroom in Anaheim California.
Gene Vincent marries for the third time, to an English girl
named Margaret Russell
January 17
Joanie Sommers begins a two-week run at New
York's Copcabana.
Dion sings "Ruby Baby" on American Bandstand.
January 18
Bobby Darin begins the first of his three
booking at the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas.
Sandy Stewart promotes "My Coloring Book" on the
"Tonight Show" on NBC-TV.
January 19
In Hollywood, Frankie Avalon marries Kay
Deibel, the former Miss Rheingold Beer.
January 20
Ray Charles is Dinah Shore's guest on her
NBC-TV show. Charles sings "Just a Little Lovin',"
and "You Don't Know Me" and "What I Say."
January 22
Joanie Sommers appears in a comedy role on
the "Jack Benny" CBS-TV program.
Earlier in the day, Barbara Lynn appeared on American
Bandstand for the second time in two weeks to sing
"Don't Be Cruel."
January 25
In England, Bryan Hyland launches a 23-city
tour that will run through March 3.
January 26
Skeeter Davis plays a one-night stand in Macon, Georgia.
January 27
Neil Sedaka guests on "The Ed Sullivan Show" on
CBS-TV.
January 28
Steve Alaimo makes his national television debut on
American Bandstand as he sings "Everyday I Have to
Cry." Production begins on Elvis Presley's latest movie,
"Fun in Acapulco." Disregarding the location of the
location proposed by the title, the movie is filmed entirely
on the back lot of Paramount Studios with scenic footage from
Acapulco used as backdrops.
January 29
The Paris Sisters make a rare television appearance on
"Red Skelton's" CBS-TV show.
Bobby Darin is guest artist on Steve Allen's syndicated
late-night television program.
In the afternoon, Conway Twitty sings "The Pick Up"
on American Bandstand.
January 31
On American Bandstand, Bobby Comstock returns with His
Counts to sing "Lets Stomp."
Late January
Danny and the Juniors are booked on a tour
of Canada that runs through February.
After resting over the holidays The Motortown Revue takes to
the road with its roster of Motown-Tamala-Gordy acts. First
stop is a week at the Royal Theater in Baltimore, Appearing
are the Miracles, the Marvelettes, Mary Wells. the Contours,
Marv Johnson, the Supremes and Little Stevie Wonder. In
February the revue makes a one-night stop at the Brevoort
Theater in Brooklyn before continuing to criss-cross the
county until June.
February 1
The Dresamlovers are the musical guest on
American Bandstand for the second time in two weeks.
Linda Scott makes one of her few television appearances as a
guest of the "Arthur Godfrey" CBS-TV special,
"Sounds of New York." Scott sings "I've Told
Every Star" and duets with Godfrey on "Mississippi
Mud," February 3.
February 3
Jimmy McCracklin headlines a revue at the San
Francisco Filmore Auditorium. Other performers appearing are
Bob and Earl, Lonnie Russ, the Four Rivers, and Daisy Dial,
who was dubbed in a pre-show promotion as a cross between
Aretha Franklin and Dinah Washington."
February 4
Bobby Rydell drops by American Bandstand to
sing "Love is Blind" and "Butterfly
Baby."
February 6
James Darren returns to American Bandstand as
he sing "Pin a Medal on Joey."
February 8
Barbara Lynn opens at the Royal Theater in
Baltimore this week.
February 10
A new television program in Detroit, seen
locally on Sunday afternoons from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. on
WXYZ-TV, features Rhythm and Blues acts. The inaugural
artists all come the Motown stable, Mary Wells, Marvin Gaye
and Martha and the Vandells. Future shows feature the
Miracles, Little Stevie Wonder and the Contours.
February 13
In the chapel of the Orly airport in Paris,
Paul Anka marries Marie Ann Allison de Zogheb, daughter of
Count and Countess Charles Zogheb. Zogheb is a Lebanese
businessman. Anka is en route to Rome where is scheduled to
re-record twenty-six hits in Italian. In addition he will
find him for an appearance on Studio One on Italy's RAI
network.
Skeeter Davis sings "The End of the World" on the
"Merv Griffin" afternoon variety program on NBC-TV.
Later. the Four seasons drop by the "Steve Allen"
syndicated late-night television show
February 15
Clyde McPhatter, Ben E. King and Barbara Lynn
begin a tour of North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia and Ohio.
Although the tour will be on the road through March 10,
apparently King leaves after the first week.
In Pittsburgh, Jackie Wilson and Bobby Rydell appear at the
Syria Mosque. Also on the bill are the Orlons, Lou Christie,
the Exciters, Junior Lewis, Little Anthony, the Rocky
Fellers, the Jive Five, the Belmonts, the Debonaires and the
"5" Royales.
Chubby Checker arrives in Hong Kong. He is set to play the
Latin Quarter on February 18 and 19, as well as appear on
local television shows. Following his short stay, he moves to
New Zealand where his shows are a sensation with hundreds
turned away at the gate.
Mid-February
Teddy Randazzo is booked indefinitely at
the Thunderbird Lounge in Las Vegas.
Mike Clifford is currently appearing at LaConcha Club in
Puerto Rico.
February 18
Brook Benton plays the Riverside Ballroom in
Phoenix, Arizona.
Ben. E. King flies to London where he is scheduled to make
two television appearances.
Joanie Sommers is booked into the Chevron Hilton in Sydney,
Australia.
February 19
Sandy Stewart returns to the "Merv
Griffin" afternoon NBC-TV variety program.
Connie Francis appears in a comedy roll on "Jack
Benny's" CBS-TV program.
February 20
Bobby Darin is booked for twelve days at the
Coconut Grove in Hollywood..
In the afternoon, American Bandstand presents
Lou Chrisie's national television debut as he sings "The
Gypsy Cried."
February 21
Gene Pitney is in the middle of a long string
of one-nighters. This evening he appears at the Sports Arena
in Syracuse, New York. On succeeding nights he is at the
George S. Patton Pavilion in Binghamton, New York (22); St.
John's Church in Hudson, New Hudson New Hampshire (23); Royal
Hall in Montreal, Canada (240; and the Coliseum in
Quebec, Canada (25).
February 22
Brook Benton performs at Clemson College in
Clemson, South Carolina, prior to opening for three days at
the Royal Peacock in Atlanta (2-25).
LaVern Baker begins a week at the Regal Theater in Chicago.
Earlier in the day, the Four Seasons are scheduled on
American Bandstand.
February 23
Neil Sedaka is at the Copacabana in New York
City.
Jimmy Velvet, currently touring with a large country package,
appeared Albuquerque, New Mexico. In days prior to this
sell-out show, the group had already appeared in San Angelo,
Odessa and El Paso, Texas.
February 24
Jay and the Americans entertain at the Motion
Picture Association Commissioner's Breakfast at the
Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City.
February 25
Connie Francis is Merv Griffin's guest on
this afternoon on NBC-TV.
Neil Sedaka sings "Alice in Wonderland" on ABC-TV's
American Bandstand.
February 26
Connie Francis drops by the NBC-TVs Tonight
Show to promote "Follow the Boys."
Earlier, on ABC-TV's American Bandstand welcomed Johnny
Tillotson as he sang "Out of My Mind."
February 28
Marcie Blaine appears on American Bandstand.
Late February
Jimmy Clanton, the Four Seasons, Ral Donner
and Oscar Brown Jr., perform at a combination television
show.record hop held at the Aragon Ballroom in Chicago.
March 2
In San Francisco, the "Limbo Party"
invades the Cow Palace. Headlined by Chubby Checker, other
artists on the bill are Marvin Gaye, the Crystals, Lou
Christie, the Four Seasons, Dick and DeeDee, Dee Dee Sharp,
the Alley Cats, Steve Alaimo, the Ribbons, Bob B.Soxx and the
Blue Jeans, the Furys, the Majorettes, Bobby Freeman and H.B.
Barnum's thirty-piece orchestra.
Don Gardner's band with Dee Dee For are booked into the
Sheraton-Hilton in Philadelphia.
March 3
Mike Clifford returns to the "Ed
Sullivan Show" on CBS-TV.
March 4
Johnny Tillotson opens for a week at the
Casino Royal in Washington, DC. This is a split two-week
appearance.
Joanie Sommers begins a week as a guest artist on the
"Steve Allen" late night syndicated television
show.
March 5
The music world is shaken by the loss of
three country and western superstar, Patsy Cline, Hawkhaw
Hawkins and Cowboy Copas, who had just finished a benefit
performance in Kansas City, perish when their light airplane
crashes near Camden, Tennessee, Of the three, Cline has had
the most influence on young rock 'n' rollers, especially
Brenda Lee.
On American Bandstand, Bobby Comstock invites the crowd to
"Lets Stomp."
March 6
Joanie Sommers sings "Memories,
Memories" and "Blues in the Night" in her
appearance on "Perry Como's NBC-TV program."
In the afternoon, Connie Francis appears on American
Bandstand and sings "Follow the Boys."
Early March
Connie Francis begins a ten-day stand
at the Latin Casino in Cherry Hill, New Jersey near
Philadelphia.
Little Eva leaves an for extended tour of Europe, which will
begin with two weeks in Paris.
Etta Jones is currently booked into the Playboy Club in
Chicago.
March 8
In England, Chris Montez and Tommy Roe share
top billing on a two-shows-per-day tour that begins this
evening at the Royal Hall in Yorkshire. Opening for the duo
are the Beatles.
March 11
On TV. Joanie Sommers is guest on the
syndicated Steve Allen late night show.
March 12
Johnny Thunder performs "The Rosey
Dance" on American Bandstand this afternoon.
March 13
Brenda Lee sings "Lover Come Back to
Me" and duets with Bob Hope on "Big Girls Don't
Cry" when she appears on Bob Hoe's NBC-TV show.
Later that night, Frankie Avalon visits Steve
Allen's late night syndicated show.
March 14
Jo Ann Campbell is welcomed on American
Bandstand as she sings "Mother Please (I'd Rather Do it
Myself)."
March 15
The Cookies headline the Apollo Theater revue
this week.
Mid-March
Johnny Tillotson makes his nightclub debut at
the Mardi Gras in Baltimore. He follows with a date in Washington
and Syracuse.
The Platters are booked for a week at Blistrub's in Boston.
Brenda Lee jets to West Germany for thirty-five day tour of
Europe.
Major Lance is currently doing one-nighters in Dallas and New
Orleans.
It is reported that Frankie Avalon and Bryan Hyland are set to
appear in the M-G-M film "You're Only Young Once." (As
far as it can be determined, the film was never made an Hyland
never appeared in any movies).
March 17
The Chris Montez/Tommy Roe/Beatles tour of
England continues with a show today at the Embassy Cinema,
Peterborough.
Back in the States, Paul Anka makes one of
his semi-regular appearances on "The Ed Sullivan
Show."
March 18
Johnny Tillotson returns for a week at the
Royal Casino in Washington, DC.
March 19
Timi Yuro makes one of her rare television
appearance as she sings "Insult to Injury" on
American Bandstand.
March 20
Sandy Stewart returns to her regular duties
as a performer on "The Perry Como Show" on NBC-TV.
March 21
Little Esther Phillips opens a week-long
engagement at the Royal Theater in Baltimore.
Frankie Avalon begins a two-week stay at the Copcabana in New
York City. Prior to this stand, he was at Chicago's Sahara
Club where he debuted his new nightclub act.
March 22
Ben E. King opens at the Regal Theater in
Chicago for a week.
March 23
A "teen-age jamboree" in
Shreveport, Louisiana, features Bruce Channel, Ray Stevens,
Joe Dowell and several country-rock acts.
March 24
Chubby Checker is a guests on "The Ed
Sullivan Show."
March 25
The Dreamlovers are the musical guests on
today's American Bandstand.
March 26
Bobby Rydell appears in a comedy role on the
Red Skelton CBS-TV show.
March 27
Gene Chandler begins a booking at the
Elegante Club in Brooklyn.
March 28
Wanda Jackson begins a sixteen-day tour of
the western U.S. with a show in Phoenix.
March 29
In the afternoon, American Bandstand welcomes
Jan and Dean as they perform "Linda."
Ray Charles launches a five-day tour with an appearance at
the Pittsburgh Civic Arena. Succeeding nights find Charles in
Louisville, Cleveland, Detroit and St. Louis.
The Howard Theater in Washington, DC, welcome Little Esther
Phillips as a headliner for the week.
In Houston, Texas, Johnny Tillotson headlines a weekend show
at the Houston Coliseum.
March 30
Connie Francis leaves the United States for a
two-week tour of South Africa. She soon develops a sever case
of laryngitis and her shows in Johannesburg and Durban are
postponed.
March 31
Jackie Wilson makes his fourth appearance on
"The Ed Sullivan Show."
Skeeter Davis appears in Memphis as part of a
country package.
Late March
Bobby Darin is working on the film
"Captain Newman, M.D." with Gregory Peck for which
Darin will be nominated, but not win, an Oscar as Best
Supporting Actor.
Ike and Tina Turner are on a one-nighter tour of Texas.
April 1
In Syracuse, New York, Johnny Tillotson
begins a two-week booking at the Three Rivers Inn.
Conway Twitty launches a new tour with a week-long stay at
Matty's Lounge in Kansas City, Missouri.
April 2
Bobby Vinton sings "Over the
Mountain" on this afternoon's American Bandstand.
April 4
On "The Adventures of Ozzie and
Harriet," Rick Nelson sings "I've Got a
Woman," the b-side of his latest single.
Frankie Avalon opens for a week at the New York Copacabana
this week.
April 5
Gene Pitney headlines the "Show of
Stars" tour that is currently playing the Hawaiian
Islands though April 13.
April 7
Frankie Avalom makes his first appearance on
"The Ed Sullvan Show" in four years.
Early April
Bobby Vee flies to Hamburg, West Germany,
where he will record two of his German hits.
Tommy Roe is currently on tour in West Germany.
Bobby Rydell visits London on a promotion tour.
Following her stay in South Africa, Connie Francis files to
Italy for an 18-hour layover to video tape a special and an
episode of the "Johnny Seven" variety show for
Italian television. Rumors that Paula, of Paul and Paula
are set to get married are hotly denied by everyone
concerned. In fact. she is checking her bags for the upcoming
trip to England.
April 8
Ben E. King, currently in the middle of a
string of one-nighters, plays Columbus, Georgia, tonight and
Montgomery, Alabama tomorrow.
April 11
Mike Clifford spends week entertaining at the
Colony Club in Orlando, Florida.
April 12
Brenda Lee, just returned from a tour of
Europe, is booked into the Deauville Hotel in Miami.
Bob Dylan plays his first major concert at Town Hall in New
York City.
Paul Anka plays this weekend at the Three Rivers Inn in
Syracuse, New York.
On American Bandstand, Jimmy Soul tells the fans what to do
"If You Wanna Be Happy."
April 13
In Northfolk, Virginia, Sam Cooke headlines
the opening night of a tour that features Jerry Butler, the
Drifter and Esther Phillips. For thie next few weeks, these
artists will be working venues along the East Coast.
This weekend, Ruth Brown tops the bill at the Little Cotton
Club in Carteret, New Jersey.
Gene Vincent joins the Beatles as they begin a six-week
appearance at the Star Club in Hamburg, West Germany. Vincent
will remain at the Star for only first two weeks.
Little Eva begins a two week booking at the Olympia Theater
in Paris.
April 14
Cliff Richards and the Shadows from England,
make an appearance on "The Ed Sullivan Show" that
was taped earlier in London.
Bobby Darin guests on the Dinah Shore NBC-TV program. Darin
sings "Blue Skies," "Bidin' My Time,"
"Long Time Man" and "The Work Song."On Ed
Sullivan's CBS-TV show Frank Ifield makes a rare television
appearance.
April 15
Johnny Tillotson flies to London to begin a
five week stay. Before he returns to the States, he will
perform more than a hundred shows in British theaters, record
stores and music halls.
Connie Francis performs at Boston's Music Hall.
Neil Sedaka brings his act to Altoona, Pennsylvania.
Mid-April
In Memphis, Bo Diddley plays a two-nighter
at the Cadillac Club.
Mike Clifford opens at the Frolic Club in Boston.
April 17
In the afternoon, Steve Alaimo sings
"Lifetime of Loneliness" on American Bandstand.
On TV, Brook Benton is the guest on the syndicated late night
Steve Allen show. A videography of Duane Eddy is telecast on
British television.
April 19
The latest Motortown Revue begins
three-month-coast-coast-jaunt. Scheduled for this edition of
the popular touring show are Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Mary
Wells, the Marvelettes, Martha and the Vandellas, the
Miracles, the Contours and the Supremes. Tonight they are
appearing at the Regal Theater in Chicago. On April 26 they
are in St. Louis and in June they end the tour in New York
City.
In the afternoon, ABC-TV's American Bandstand welcomes Johnny
Cymbal who performs "Mr. Bass Man" and
"Teenage Heaven."
Conway Twitty is booked to play Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
April 20
Rick Nelson marries Kristen Harmon, the
daughter of Tom Harmon, a former pro football player
and future actor Mark Harmon. She will join the cast of
"The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet," Life
magazine called it the Wedding of the Year, but the magazine
may not have realized that the bride was seventeen and
pregnant.
Ruth Brown rocks the house in Athens, Georgia.
Ray Charles does the same thing at the Syria Mosque Theater.
April 21
Skeeter Davis performs in Indianapolis,
Indiana.
April 23
On American Bandstand today, Bobby Lewis
sings "Intermission."
April 24
Eighteen year old Brenda Lee marries Ronnie
Shacklett, age nineteen in Nashville. Shacklett is the son of
city Councilman Earl Shacklett. The ceremony takes place at
the Radnor Church of Christ and the couple will honeymoon in
the mountain resort town of Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Little Peggy March makes her national television debut on
NBC-TV's "The Perry Como Show."
April 25
Bobby Rydell celebrates his twenty-first
birthday a day early as a party is thrown for him by his
manager at the Luau Club in New York City.
In the afternoon, Freddy Cannon sings "Patty Baby"
on American Bandstand.
April 26
Little Anthony and the Imperials play a high
school prom in Jeannette, Pennsylvania.
April 28
Ray Charles returns to Carnegie Hall in New
York City for a two-performance engagement. Prior to the date
Charles had been touring in the South, including a sold-out
show at the Nashville City Auditorium.
April 29
In Pittsburgh. the Syria Mosque hosts the
Motortown revue featuring Mary Wells, the Miracles, the
Marvelettes, the Contours, Marvin Gaye, Marv Johnson, Martha
and the Vandellas and the Stevie Wonder.
Brook Benton opens a two-week appearance at Basin Street East
in New York City.
Gene Pitney is at the Casino Royal in Washington, DC, for a
week.
Bobby Vinton returns to Pittsburgh to promote
"Blue On Blue."
April 30
Jerry Lee Lewis leaves New York for a
six-week swing though the British Isles, West Germany and
France.
Ann-Margret appear in a comedy role as she guests stars on
tonight's "Jack Benny Show" on CBS-TV.
Late April
Neil Sedaka is in England to appear on a
popular television show "Sunday Night at the
Palladium," after which he moves to Paris, Berlin and
Rome for additional appearances.
Paul and Paula travel to England to meet with music
publishers and record company executives.
Del Shannon and Johnny Tillotson are also in England to begin
a lengthy tour.
Little Eva's tour of France continues with bookings
throughout the province.
Bobby Rydell is named National Chairman of the Teenagers
Drive Against Leukemia. Proceeds raised by the drive will be
donated to St. Jude's Hospital in Memphis.
May 1
Jerry Lee Lewis begins a week of shows in and
around London, including a night at the Croydon Theater. This
stand will be followed by a show in West Berlin, another at
the Star Club in Hamburg, and another at the Olympia in
Paris, By mid-June he will be performing for a week in
Scotland.
May 2
The honeymoon is over, Brenda Lee breaks into
the New York City nightclub scene with her debut at the
Copacabana.
May 3
American Bandtand offers the talents of Jimmy
Clanton as he sings "Darkest Street in Town."
May 4
Ray Charles is booked for a return engagement
at the Donnelly Theater in Boston. Advance tickets sales
force a second show to be added and Charles becomes the first
performer to sell, out two shows in one day at the Donnelly.
Total take: $30,000 which is another record for the venue and
the city.
May 5
Jerry Lee Lewis plays the Rialto Theater in
York, England. Also appearing on the bill is Gene Vincent.
On the one-nighter trail, Skeeter Davis appears in Detroit
tonight.
May 7
Neil Sedaka sings "Let's Go Steady
Again" on this afternoon's edition of American
Bandstand.
Early May
Jerry Lee Lewis takes time off from his
tour of England to appear in the British musical movie
"Live It Up." The title of the movie was later
changed to "Sing and Swing."
Roy Hamilton is the first artist to play the new Club
Paradise in McKessport, Pennsylvania.Ray Charles starts his
most adventurous overseas trip to date. He begins with a
one-nighter at the Star Club near Hamburg, West Germany.
where he and his large troupe of entertainers will split
$15,000.
May 8
Darlene Love makes a rare television
appearance as she sings "I Met the Boy I'm Gonna
Marry" on American Bandstand."
May 9
Brenda Lee continues playing nightclubs as
she takes her act to Blinstrub's in Boston.
NBC-TV's "The Tonight Show" offers the talents of
Brook Benton for late-night viewers.
Del Shannon and Johnny Tillotson. who are currently sharing
the bill on a tour of England, perform at London's Royal
Albert Hall in a concert that also included the Beatles.
May 11
En route for West Germany to England for a
tour, Ray Charles appears The Hague in Holland.
May 12
Brenda Lee makes her second appearance on
"The Ed Sullivan Show" this year. Also on the
program is Ann-Margret, Bob Dylan is scheduled to make his
national television debut on tonight's show, but when CBS
executives confront him about his intention to sing
'"Talking John Birch Society Blues" he opts to stay
home.
Ray Charles brings his big band and the Raeletts to England
for his first British tour.
May 14
The Rockin' Rebels perform "Rockin'
Crickets" on American Bandstand today.
Conway Twitty begins a ten-day tour of England.
May 15
The International Club of New York City
offers a three-week revue with a "Prom Time' theme. Both
Bryan Hyland and Gene Pitney make their New York City
nightclub debuts as co-headliners.
At the fifth annual Grammy award ceremony honoring 1962
releases Ray Charles is again honored for Best Rhytmn and
Blues Recording for "I Can't Stop Loving You." No
other rock 'n' roll or rhythm and blues artists are honored.
Mid-May
Dick Clark's "Spring Show of Stars"
hits the road for twenty shows in the Midwest. Appearing early on
the tour are Lou Christie, Paul and Paula, Dick and DeeDee,
Johnny Cymbal and Steve Alaimo.
Ace Cannon is in the middle of an lengthy engagement at the Hi
Hat Club in Memphis, his adopted hometown.
Mike Clifford appears on the Boston Ballroom television show.
Connie Stevens is concentrating on her singing career with a
one-nighter tour of college campuses.
The Four Seasons are the latest American act to tour Europe.
May 16
Tommy Leonetti is playing a week at the
Southern Club in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
May 18
Roy Orbison starts on his first tour of
England. This had been originally scheduled as a Duane Eddy
swing through England, Italy, West Germany, France and
Sweden, but Eddy had been forced to cancel at the last
minute.
Jackie DeShannon makes her national television debut on the
"Jackie Gleason" variety show on CBS-TV.
May 19
Roy Orbison/Beatles/Gerry and the Pacemakers
tour of England continues at the Gaumont Cinema in Honley.
May 21
Little Stevie Wonder's performance in Detroit
is tape recorded for a release on the album Recorded
Live-The 12 Year Old Genius.
May 22
Ray Charles begins three days at the Olympia
Theater in Paris.
May 24
Skeeter Davis sings "End of the
World" and "I'm Saving My Lovin" during her
spot on American Bandstand.
May 27
Ruth Brown holds forth at the Cafe Tia Juana
in Cleveland.
May 28
On the one-nighter circuit, Paul and Paula
entertain in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, tonight, followed by
the Surf Ballroom, in Clear Lake, Iowa.
May 29
Dion begins ten days at the Boulevard Club in
New York City..
May 30
Connie Francis returns to the Copacabana
nightclub in New York City. She remains at the Copa through
June 16.
Lesley Gore makes her national television debut on American
Bandstand as she sings "It's My Party."
May 31
Little Peggy March opens at the Keith James
Hotel in Norfolk.
Earlier in the day, Bryan Hyland returns to American
Bandstand to sing "I'm Afraid to Go Home."
Conway Twitty rocks the New Munich Ballroom in Albany,
Minnesota.
June 1
Continuing to play one night stands, Paul and
Paula appear tonight at the Riverside Ballroom in Austin,
Minnesota, and tomorrow at the Coliseum in Davenport, Iowa.
June 3
In his hometown of Aurora, Indiana,
"Lonnie Mack Day" is proclaimed by the mayor. Mack
entertains that evening at the Moose Lodge Hall.
Two days after turning eighteen, Linda Scott opens at the
Elegante Club in Brooklyn, New York.
June 5
For the next three weeks of the school prom
season, Paul and Paula are at the International Club in New
York City.
June 6
Also in the area to entertain the prom crowd,
Tommy Leonetti opens at the Palm Shore Club in Brooklyn, New
York.
June 7
Teddy Randazzo begins a summer booking at the
Thunderbird Hotel in Las Vegas.
June 8
Johnny Cymbal, a Scotsman by birth, begins a tour of
Britain.
June 9
Neil Sedaka appears on "The Ed Sullivan Show."
June 10
Ray Stevens is today's scheduled guest on American
Bandstand.
June 11
Frankie Avalon drops by America Bandstand for the second
time in as many weeks.
June 12
In the afternoon, Chubby Checker stop by American
Bandstand on ABC-TV, to sing "Black Cloud."
Little Peggy March is scheduled to appear on the "Perry
Como" NBC-TV program but listings do not mention her.
June 13
Timi Yuro sings "Make the World Go Away" as she
guests on American Bandstand.
June 14
Dion headlines tonight's rock 'n' roll show at the
Pittsburgh Civic Center. Also appearing are the Shirelles,
the Chiffons, Freddy Cannon, Little Peggy March, the
Impressions and Dionne Warwick.
Paul Anka plays a weekend date at Freedomland, near New York
City.
American Bandstand rolls out the red carpet for Bobby
Vinton as he sings "Blue On Blue."
June 15
Jan and Dean headline a review at the Corte Madrea
Recreation Center in California. Also on the bill are Barbara
Moyer, who covered Kathy Young's "A Thousand
stars," and the Triodes, featuring Bill Champlin who
later formed the Sons of Champlin.
Mid-June
Jerry Lee Lewis returns to the States
following a successful tour of Europe. Once back in Memphis,
he sets up at the Oriental Club, a private membership
nightspot where he will regularly perform when he is not on
tour.
Remaining in Europe, Roy Orbison leaves England and travels
to Spain for more shows.
A half-hour television documentary on Canadian Paul Anka wins
the top honors at the Canadian Film Awards.
Linda Scott begins a run at the Steel Pier in Atlantic City,
New Jersey.
June 16
In Chicago, WBKB-TV launches a new Sunday
teen-oriented program "Danceville U.S.A." Listed as
appearing on the first two programs are the Four Seasons,
Jimmy Clanton, Ral Donner, Barbara Lewis, Joe Dowell. the
Du-Tones and Ray Stevens. The first two shows are
pre-recorded at Oak Park High School.
June 17
This week, Brook Benton headlines the show at
Pittsburgh's Holiday Inn.
June 19
Johnny Tillotson breaks into the nightclub
scene with a five-day appearance at the Club Elegante in
Brooklyn, New York.
Bobby Vinton takes a swing at summer stock as he opens a
production of "The Music Man" at the Cain Theater
in Cleveland, Ohio.
June 21
Gene Pitney is booked at Mountain Park in
Holyoke, Massachusetts.
Frank Sinatra's daughter Nancy stop by American Bandstand to
talk about her career.
June 22
Connie Stevens flies to London to promote her
records and movies.
June 23
Elvis Presley's 1956-1957 appearances on
"The Ed Sullivan Show" are a highlight of that
program's 15th Anniversary special on CBS-TV.
June 24
Paul Anka is scheduled for a week at the
Holiday House in Pittsburgh.
Neil Sedaka becomes the first performs to appear at
Freedomland for an entire week He will follow this
record-breaker with a five country tour of South America
later in the summer.
Little Peggy March entertains over the weekend at the Steel
Pier in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
On TV, Dion and Joanie Sommers stop by Steve Allen's
syndicated late night show.
Mark Valentino is in Pittsburgh doing promotion work.
June 26
Paul and Paula returns to American Bandstand
to sing "Our First Quarrel."
June 28
Sam Cooke headlines this week's revue at the
Apollo Theater in New York City.
June 29
Rick Nelson performs for the crowd at the
Arkansas Diary Festival and Teen Jamboree in Little Rock,
Arkansas.
June 30
Brenda Lee begins a week-long stay at the
Steel Pier in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
July 3
After fifteen years in the business, LaVern
Baker has first Las Vegas booking, a month-long gig at the
Riviera Hotel.
Connie Francis appears at the Alhambra Theater in Glasgow,
Scotland. Following the show, she flies to Paris for a
two-day recording session where she is set to wax many of her
German hits, then it's back to the States.
The three-day Ray Charles appearance at the Diamond Beach
Club in Wildwood, New Jersey, which was to begin tonight, is
canceled in late June when the promoter sees the size of the
club and decides there aren't enough seats to make Charles'
guarantee fee.
On American Bandstand, Dean Rudolph sings "False
Love."
July 4
Independence Day is celebrated on American
Bandstand as Joey Dee and the Starliters perform "Dance,
Dance, Dance."
July 5
Dee Dee Sharp sings "Rock Me in the
Cradle of Love" on American Bandstand.
July 6
Prior to the Mets game at the Polo Grounds in
New York, Chubby Checker, Dee Dee Sharp, the Earls and the
Percells entertain the fans
.Early July
Elvis Presley spent most of the month
filming "Viva Las Vegas" for M-G-M. To capture the
ambiance of Vegas on the film, the cast and crew traveled to
Las Vegas for two weeks July 15.
July 8
Conway Twitty is booked into the Palm Club in
Lexington. Kentucky.
Earlier in the day, Little Stevie Wonder is welcomed to
American Bandstand as he performs "Fingertips."
July 10
Link Wray and His Raymen make a rare
television appearance on American Bandstand to perform
"Jack the Ripper."
July 11
Connie Francis begins a week's stay at
Freedomland near New York City.
Timi Yuro begins at New York's Copacabana.
Sam Cooke is at the Harlem Club in Atlantic
City through July17.
July 12
On the road Skeeter Davis plays in
Montgomery, Alabama tonight, followed by Jacksonville,
Florida tomorrow,
July 15
The Dick Clark Caravan of Stars sets forth
across the country. The tour will last through August 6.
Performers appearing on one leg or another of the tour
include, Gene Pitney, Paul and Paula, Lou Christie, Barbara
Lewis, the Doves, Bob B. Soxx and the Blue Jeans, Johnny
Tillotson, the Tymes, the Orlons, the Crystals, Dick and
DeeDee, the Dovells, Ruby and the Romantics, Big Dee Irwin
and Bobby Comstock and the Counts. One July 22, they play the
Syria Mosque in Pittsburgh.
In Charlotte, North Carolina, Brenda Lee makes her debut in
summer stock theater as she stars as Dorothy in "The
Wizard of Oz." She will appear in Charlotte for a week.
Mid-July
Ray Charles brings the Raeletts and his
16-piece orchestra to Blinstrub's in Boston for a week.
Neil Sedaka leave for an extensive tour that will take him to
South America, Europe and South Africa.While in Italy, he is
scheduled in the studio to rerecord all his hits in Italian.
He will also videotape a special concert in Rome for Italian
television.. The tour closes in Israel with a special concert
in Tel Aviv.
In his first public appearance in Memphis in three months,
Jerry Lee Lewis is mobbed while performing at the Cadillac
club.
For the fourth time in as many years, Bobby Rydell plays the
Steel Pier in Wildwood, New Jersey.
July 17
Freddy Cannon sings "Everybody
Monkey" on American Bandstand..
Frankie Avalon drops by Steve Allen's late night syndicated
show. He also appears on the show the next two evenings.
July 18
Paul Anka guest stars on NBC-TV's "Make
Room For Daddy."
July 20
Connie Francis opens at the Concord, a resort
hotel In New York's Catskill mountains.
Also in the Catskills, Frankie Avalon plays a one-nighter at
the Laurels Country Club.
At the Apollo Theater in New York City, the Tymes are this
week's headliners.
On afternoon television, Mel Carter, who is still two year
away from his big hit "Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss
Me," offers up "When the Boy Falls in Love"
for the American Bandstand crowd.
July 21
Frankie Avalon is booked for a week at the
Steel Pier in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
July 22
Currently in a middle of a one-nighter tour,
Gene Pitney plays the Syria Mosque in Pittsburgh tonight,
followed by the Memorial Field House in Huntington, West
Virginia (23); Ponce DeLeon Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia (25);
and Memorial Coliseum Winston-Salem, North Carolina
(27).
July 23
Lesley Gore sings "It's My Party"
and "I Wanna Be Loved By You" on the Keefe
Braddelle show.
On Steve Allen's late night syndicated television show, Jan
and Dean perform "Surf City."
July 24
Roy Orbison is the guest host today on
American Bandstand.
July 25
Bryan Hyland takes the reins of American
Bandstand today while singing "I'm Afraid to Go
Home."
Joanie Sommers is the guest on the premier of the
"Lively Ones," an eight-week summer filler on
NBC-TV. The show is hosted by Vic Damone who introduces
guests from various locations. Joanie Sommers is shown in a
Hollywood nightclub as she sings "Hard Hearted
Hannah" and the "Blues in a Night."
July 26
The Four Seasons break in a special nightclub
act during their appearance at the Copacabana in New York
City.
Ronnie and the Hi-Lites entertain the new Hy-lites Teen Club
in Atlantic City.
Jimmy Clanton closes out guest hosting duties on American
Bandstand this week.
August 1
The Dovells are welcomed to America Bandstand
as they sing "Betty in Bermudas."
August 2
Jerry Lee Lewis opens at the Thunderbird
Hotel in Las Vegas for a reported $9,500 a week. It is
concurrently reported that both RCA Victor and Liberty
Records are courting Lewis in anticipation of the September
expiration of Lewis's contract with Sun Records. Liberty is
reportedly offering a five-year contract with a guarentee of
$10,000 per year. Insiders say Lewis is holding out for
$25,000.
Sam Cooke opens for a week at the Regal Theater in his
hometown of Chicago.
Freddy Scott entertains the teens with "Hey Girl"
on American Bandstand.
August 4
Chubby Checker is currently on a major tour
of Europe. Tonight he performs at the Kurhaus in
Scheveningen, Holland.
August 7
Jo Ann Campbell drops by American Bandstand
this afternoon.
Early August
Bobby Rydell ties his hand at summer stock
theater, performing in "West Side Story" for one
week each in Warren and Columbus, Ohio.
August 8
Chubby Checker performs at the Casino in
Taormina, Italy. The club is having its grand opening and
Checker is one of the main entertainers making an appearance
through August 29.
August 9
Steve Alaimo sings "Don't Let the Sun
Catch You Crying" on American Bandstand.
August 12
Ray Charles makes his only Bay area
appearance for the year at the Cow Palace in San Francisco.
August 14
For the second time in as many months, Dick
and DeeDee sing on American Bandstand. Today they sing
"Love is a Once in a Lifetime Thing."
Mid-August
While touring in European Chubby Checker
entertains for a week in Sweden. His first Swedish
performance is at the Johanneshore Ice Stadium in Stockholm.
Checker will also appear on Swedish television before he
leaves the country.
August 19
In the afternoon, American Bandstand welcome
Duane Eddy as he performs "Lonely Boy, Lonely
Guitar" and "Your Baby's Gone Surfin'."
Joanie Sommers makes an appearance on Steve Allen's late
night syndicated television show. She returns on August 21.
August 22
Dick and DeeDee make their national
television debut on American Bandstand as they sing
"Where Did The Good Times Go."
August 23
Lou Rawls is booked for ten days at the
Twenty Grand Club in Detroit.
Frankie Avalon begins a stay at the Black Orchid Club in
Atlantic City, New Jersey. Also opening tonight in the town,
Roy Hamilton is at the Basin Street Club.
Earlier in the day, Barbara Lynn stops by American Bandstan
to sing "(ICried at) Laura's Wedding."
August 25
The Vapor Club in Hot Springs, Arkansas,
welcomes Jerry Lee Lewis for an extended appearance.
Paul Anka begins his Labor Day booking at the Steel Pier in
Atlantic City, New Jersey.
On CBS-TV. Ann-Margret sings "Bye, Bye Birdie' and
"Baby, Won't You Please Come Home" on "The Ed
Sullivan Show."
August 26
Joanie Sommers pays a visit to Steve Allen on
his syndicated l;ate night television show. She returns on
August 28.
August 27
After a successful debut in summer stock on
July 15, Brenda Lee reprise her role as Dorothy in "The
Wizard of Oz" for six days in Warren, Ohio.
On NBC-TV, Sam Cooke performs on the NBC-TV's "Tonight
Show featuring Johnny Carson."
August 29
Fats Domino sings "Red Sails in the
Sunset" on American Bandstand this afternoon.
Chubby Checker begins tour of West Germany that will run
through September 8.
August 30
For the next ten day, Murray the K's Holiday
Revue is at the Brooklyn Fox Theater. Performers
include Ben E. King, Little Stevie Wonder, Jan and Dean, the
Drifters, the Shirelles,Gene Pitney, the Miracles, Paul and
Paula, the Angels, the Dovells, Jay and the American, the
Tymes, the Chiffons and Randy and the Rainbows.
After six years of weekly programs, American Bandstand is
moving to a Saturday-only schedule. Today's final afternoon
show is dedicated to the show's many regulars, teens who have
appeared almost daily on the program over the years.
In Memphis, Jerry Lee Lewis' wife Myra have a baby daughter,
Phoebe Allen. Lewis is still in Hot Springs appearing at the
Vapors.
The Blenders open for a week at the Apollo Theater in New
York City.
August 31
There is a huge rock 'n' roll show tonight at
the Sports Arena in Los Angeles, featuring the Orlons, Dee
Dee Sharp, Little Eva, the Cookies, the Beach Boys, Marvin
Gaye, Dick and DeeDee, the Righteous Brothers, the Olympics,
Darlene Love, Mel Carter, Andrea Carroll, Jackie DeShannon,
Steve Alaimo, Donna Lynn, Johnny Fortune, the Challengers,
Ray Sharpe, Wayne Newton, Soupy Sales and Ray Hall's
orchestra. Jan and Dean's name appeared in the pre-show
publicity, but they were appearing in new York.
Late August
Johnny and the Hurricanes are appearing in
Charlotte, Michigan.
September 1
Brenda Lee sings "All Alone Am I"
and "Just Because" on a rerun of "The Ed
Sullivan Show" on CBS-TV
September 2
On TV, Joanie Sommers is Steve Allen's guest
on his late night show tonight. She returns on September 3
and 6.
Chubby Checker begins two days at the Star Club near Hamburg,
West Germany. He is scheduled to play Berlin just prior to
closing his German tour on September 8.
September 3
In Columbus Ohio, Brenda Lee closes out her
summer stock bookings as Dorothy in "The Wizard of
Oz."
September 4
Diane Ray collapses during a recording
session in Nashville. She is rushed to St. Thomas Hospital
where she will spend a week recuperating from exhaustion. She
had been set to begin a tour next week that would have taken
her from Denver to Chicago.
September 5
King Curtis and his combo entertain for the
next two weeks at Birdland in New York City. This is the
third time the group ha played Birdland sine last March.
After eight tumultuous years, Jerry Lee Lewis' association
with Sun Records of Memphis comes quietly to an end. Within a
month he will sign with Smash Records, an up-and-coming
subsidiary of Mercury Record Company.
September 7
Jerry Lee Lewis is currently playing the
Vapor in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He recently completed a gig
in Las Vegas.
Following a week off the air, American Bandstand, a regular
weekday afternoon feature since it went national on ABC-TV in
August 1957, moves to a Saturday-only schedule at 1:30 p.m.
Today's Labor Day guests are Neil Sedaka singing "The
Dreamer" and the Jaynetts singing "Sally,Go Round
the Roses."
Bobby Rydell is entertaining the crowds at the California
State Fair in Sacramento.
Gene Pitney and Frankie Avalon appear at the Brooklyn Fox
Theater.
Mike Clifford is the headliner at the Steel Pier in Atlantic
City, New Jersey.
Little Peggy March appears at the Fairgrounds Coliseum in
Louisville, Kentucky.
Early September
Annette visits Seattle to participate in
the annual Seafair Celebration.
Del Shannon and his manager Irving Michanik are in London
talking to the owners of the Amy-Mala record company about
his proposed move to that label.
September 8
The Four Seasons perform on "The Ed
Sullivan Show."
Gene Vincent goes from England to West Germany for a 16-day
tour of dance halls.
September 9
In Austin, Minnesota, Timi Yuro starts on a
tour of the Midwest. She is traveling with Warner Brothers
orchestra and there are no supporting acts. The schedule
calls for shows in Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, South Dakota and
Kentucky.
Two days before he is to begin a tour of England, Roy Orbison
loses his voice and can not speak at the London press
conference. He is ordered to bed with a 50-50 chance that the
tour will go on.
September 10
Following his tour through West Germany,
Chubby Checker begins two days of recording in London.
September 11
Fully recovered from his bout with
laryngitis, Roy Orbison begins his second tour of England at
the Adephi Theater in Slough.
September 13
Gene Vincent briefly returns to England from
West Germany as he appears on "Go, Man, Go" a
London television program. Backing him are the Hollies.
September 14
The Beach boys perform at the Memorial
Auditorium in Sacramento, California in a show that benefits
local El Camino High School's senior class.
Gene Pitney performs at the Shell House on Long Island, New
York, tonight and tomorrow.
On TV, American Bandstand presents Dion singing "Donna,
the Prima a Donna" and Major Lance singing "Monkey
Time."
In England, Tommy Roe begins his second British tour in six
months, a three-week, island-wide jaunt.
Also in England this weekend is Freddy Cannon who will be
appearing on British television's "Swinging Time"
and "Thank Your Lucky Stars."
Paul Anka is appearing at the Olympia Theater in Paris.
September 15
Connie Francis appears on "The Ed
Sullivan Show" on CBS-TV.
Mid-September
Ray Charles is currently in Brazil.
performing in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. Besides the
concerts, he is also doing several nationwide television
appearances.
On a Canadian swing, the Marvelettes appear in Chatham,
Ontario.
September 21
The "Summer Show of Stars" tour
completes its run. Headliners were Bryan Hyland and Lou
Christie.
In the afternoon American Bandstand presents Garnett Mimms
singing "Cry Baby."
September 22
Arriving in England, Little Peggy March
begins a ten-day promotional stay in London where she will
meet with record executives and booking agents.
On CBS-TV tonight, "The Ed Sullivan Show" offers
the talents of Cliff Richards via videotape.
September 24
Gene Pitney is currently touring Canada.
Tonight's show takes place in Regina, followed by Prince
Albert (23); Edmonton (26); Calgary (27); Kelowna (28) and
Vancouver (29).
The Beach Boys are guests on "Red Skelton's CBS-TV"
program tonight. They perform "Surfin' U.S.A." and
"The Things We Did Last Summer."
September 26
In the middle of a tour of the South, Sam
Cooke headlines a show in New Orleans. Also on the bill are
Dion, Little Willie John, Bobby "Blue " Bland, Baby
Washington, the Tymes, Freddie Scott and Al Braggs and his
orchestra.
Paul Anka begins tour of Belgium with a show in
Antwerp.
September 28
The Beach Boys perform at the "Surf
Party" presented at San Francisco's Cow Place. Also on
the bill are Jan and Dean, Dee Dee Sharp, Freddy Cannon, the
Coasters, Bobby Freeman, Ray Stevens, the Ronettes, Nino
Tempo and April Stevens, Trini Lopez, the Jaynetts, Dionne
Warwick. the Righteous Brothers, Donna Loren and the
Drifters.
Earlier on American Bandstand on ABC-TV, the Ronettes are
apparently on videotape as they sing "Be My Baby"
and Bobby Rydell makes a semi-regular appearance singing
"Lets Make Love Tonight."
Bobby Vinton opens for two days at the Moon Bowl in
Freedomland near New York City. Vinton is the final performer
of the summer season at the park.
September 29
The Everly Brothers headline a month-long
tour of the United Kingdom. Also appearing are Bo Diddley and
the Rolling Stones. Tonight's opening show is at the New
Victoria Theater in London.
Late September
Joey Dee and the Starliters are currently
touring New Zealand as part of their worldwide jaunt.
Johnny Thunder is currently criss-crossing England.
Chubby Checker performs at the song festival in Taorrmina,
Italy.
October 4
On this afternoon's weekly edition of
American Bandstand on ABC-TV, the guest is Dee Dee Sharp who
sings "Wild!."
October 5
Sam Cooke/Dion tour, plays the Keil Opera
House in St. Louis. Admission runs $2.00 to $3.50.
With four days notice, Little Richard sets sail to England to
join the Everly Brothers tour of the British Isles.
At the Cincinnati Gardens tonight's rock 'n' roll show
features James Brown, Solomon Burke, Little Johnny Taylor,
Theola Kilgore, the Crystals, the Dovells, the Olympics, Ted
Taylor, Bobby Byrd, Lou Christie and Steve Alaimo. The same
performers appear on October 6 at the Cleveland Arena.
Jerry Lee Lewis signs a five-year recording contact with
Smash Records that will guarantee him $10,000 a year.
Gene Vincent winds up his tour of West Germany and moves on
to perform for three weeks in France.
October 6
The Angels sing "My Boyfriends
Back" as they make a television appearance on "The
Ed Sullivan Show."
Roy Orbison and Bob Luman close their tour of England with a
final performance at King George's Hall in Blackburn. During
the tour, Orbinson has a recording session at London's Decca
Studios.
October 7
Link Wray and the Wray Men spend the week in
Pittsburgh promoting their latest single,
"Weekend."
Early October
Dion performs at the Civic Arena in
Pittsburgh.
October 8
The "Biggest Show of Stars for '63"
plays the Forum in Wichita, Kansas. The tickets are $3.00,
$2.20 and $2.00. Headling the revue are Fabian, Brenda Lee
and Duane Eddy. Also on hand are Jimmy Clanton, Freddy
Cannon, Bill Black's Combo, Chubby Checker, Jimmy Charles,
Gary Miles, the Casuals, Bill Beckum and Bobby Vinton and his
orchestra.
In the South, Sam Cooke's tour stops in Shreveport,
Louisiana. That morning, when Cooke tries to check into a
Holiday\y Inn where he has reservations, he is told the rooms
will not be ready until noon. Cooke then went to the Royal
Hotel where most of the black entertainers are staying.
Within minutes, he is arrested and charged with attempting to
procure lodging in whites only motel. Bond was paid with cash
from the previous night's ticket sales. The press picked up
the story and Cooke found himself hailed as a civil rights
spokesperson.
October 13
Lesley Gore is a guest on "The Ed
Sullivan Show. "
Arriving a week before he is scheduled to begin a tour, Brook
Benton makes his first appearance on British TV. He is second
on the bill to the Beatles on the "Sunday Night at the
Palladium" program.
October 15
En route to England, Dion and Timi Yuro join
Neil Sedaka for a performance at the Olympia Theater in
Paris.
Mid-October
Jimmie Rodgers is currently appearing at
the Vapor in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
Jerry Lee Lewis is booked to play the "world's largest
nightclub" the Chez Paris in Chicago. After tears of
neglect as a recording artist, this date, coupled with his
new recording contract with Smash Records, will turn his
career around.
October 17
Gene Pitney and Trini Lopez guest on Steve
Allen's late night TV show.
October 18
After serving 18 months of a three-year
sentence for violating the Mann Act, Chuck Berry is released
on parole from the Federal Medical Center in Springfield,
Missouri. In all, Berry has lost almost four years in front
of the public as a result of the legal proceedings, three
trials and his subsequent imprisonment. He did spend his
incarceration productively, composing some of his best work
("You Can Never Tell, " "Nadine," and
"No Particular Place To Go") as well as starting an
autobiography, which was eventually published in 1987.
Joey Dee and the Starliters appear in Belgium at Haslet and
Bruges, He plans to remain in Europe for more than a month
playing one-nighters.
Otis Redding and Bobby Marchan grace the stage at Hunt High
School Gym in Fort Valley Georgia.
In the afternoon, Little Peggy March sings "I Will
Follow Him" and "Hello Heartache, Goodbye
Love" on American Bandstand.
October 20
England's Cliff Richard and the Shadows
appear on the "Ed Sullivan Show" for the second
time this year. Also featured on the show is Frank Ifield.
October 23
While on tour in England, Bo Diddley
videotapes an appearance for later broadcast on several local
television shows including "Saturday Club," for the
BBC and "Scene at 6:30" for ITV.
October 25
Chubby Checker opens a two month stay at the
Mocambo Club in Toronto.
Paul Anka begins a four-week European tour. His overseas
bookings are so tight, he may not return to the States until
June 1964.
Rick Nelson and his wife Kristen become parents of a
daughter, Tracy.
October 26
Bob Dylan performs at Carnegie Hall in New
York City.
On television earlier in the day, the Busters offer
"Bust Out" on American Bandstand.
Late October
Elvis Presley begins filming "Kissin
Cousins" for M-G-M Studios in Hollywood. Irregardless of
all the outdoor settings for the film, virtually all of the
movie was shot inside the Samuel Goldwyn Studios. The few
outdoor locations used were filmed around the Big Bear
Recreation Area east of Los Angeles.
Dick and DeeDee are currently appearing in Vancouver, British
Columbia.
Paul Anka flies from Paris to London to discuss business with
his overseas agents.
November 1
In California at the Hollywood Bowl, the
Beach Boys headline a YMCA benefit show.
In England, Johnny Burnette begins tour with a performance in
Birmingham.
November 2
The regular edition of ABC-TV's American
Bandstand offers Dale and Grace signing "I'm Leaving It
Up To You."
While touring England, Dion appears on the popular ITV
variety program "Ready, Steady, Go." The show is
similar to American Bandstand." As he is singing Donna,
the Prima Donna," he reportedly became infuriated with
the teenagers dancing all around him and walks off the stage.
November 3
The Everly Brothers/Bo Diddley/Little
Richard/the Rolling Stones tour of England comes to a close
at the Hammersmith Orleon Cinema in London.
Billy J. Kramer and the Dakotas arrive in the United States
on a ten-day promotional tour.They are the first of the
British "beat groups" to make the trip.
November 4
Bobby Rydell and Ann-Margret arrive in
London. The next night, Rydell appears on the British
television show, "Sunday Night At the Palladium."
November 5
In London, Little Richard stars in a
television spectacular that is videotaped to be aired later
date on the Granada network.
Neil Sedaka, Dion and Timi Yuro perform at the Olympia
Theater in Paris.
November 6
Joanie Sommers has a comedy role as she
guests on the "Danny Kaye Show" on CBS-TV.
November 7
In London, Ann-Margret and Bobby Rydell
attend the British premier of the film musical "Bye, Bye
Birdie." The special command showing is for the Queen
Mother, Princess Margaret and Prince Philip is at the Marble
Arch Cinema.
Early November
Kenny Rankin recently signed to Columbia
Records, makes the promotional rounds in Cleveland,
Cincinnati, Akron and Indianapolis. The next week finds him
doing the same in Chicago, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Boston,
Hartford and New York City. Rankin.is promoting his new
single, "Baby, Goodbye."
November 8
Bobby Vee headlines the latest edition of
Dick Clark's "Caravan of Stars". Others on the bill
are Brian Hyland, Paul and Paula, and the Dovells. Tonight's
opening show is held at the Armory in Teaneck, New Jersey,
followed by shows at the at the War Memorial in Utica, New
York and the Bushnell Auditorium in Hartford Connecticut. In
all there will be 31-shows through December 8. One November
15, they made a stop at the Cincinnati Gardens.
Dion (and presumably Timi Yuro and Neil Sedaka) makes a two
day stop in Belgium.
November 9
Bobby Darin appears as part of a two-hour
Jerry Lewis ABC-TV special from the Sands Hotel and Casino in
Las Vegas. Also scheduled to appear are Freddie Bell and the
Bellboys.
Earlier in the day, American Bandstand presents Gene Pitney
singing "Twenty-Four Hours From Tulsa."
Still in the United Kingdom, Tommy Roe returns for a second
tour, beginning this evening at the Odeon Cinema in bolton.
The show's opening acts are Freddy and the Dreamers, the
Tremeloes and the Searchers.
Also in England, Little Richard, the Shirelles and Duane Eddy
begin a concert swing at the Edmonton Regal Cinema in London
with Jerry and the Pacemakers providing the backing. Little
Richard headlines the revue for eight days before leaving and
sailing back to the States.
About this time, Gary U.S. Bonds, whose scheduled tour of
West Germany falls through, joins Duane Eddy/Shirelles tour.
November 12
Neil Sedaka, Dion and Timi Yuro return to the
Olympia Theater in Paris for one final show. Afterwards, Dion
travels to Madrid, Spain, to do promotion work and television
shows. Eventually, Yuro continues on to Rome where she will
record several songs in Italian for the local market.
November 13
At the Apollo Theater, this week's
entertainment is filled by the "Atlantic Caravan of
Stars" headlined by Ben E. King and the Drifter. Other
artists on the bill, all Atlantic Records recording artists,
are Doris Troy, Rufus Thomas, Otis Redding, the Falcons and
the King Curtis combo. On November 16, Atlantic records the
stage show for the album Saturday Night at the Apollo.
Ray Charles plays a date in Houston, Texas.
Mid-November
Trini Lopez is in the middle of a two-week
engagement at the Off Broadway Club in San Francisco.
In Memphis, Dickey Lee crowns the queen at a department
fashion show.
Chubby Checker makes quick trip to London to promote
"What Do Ya Say," a song that he recorded on his
last trip to England in September 1961.
November 16
It is announced Bobby Vinton is busy
syndicating a half-hour musical-variety television show in
which he stars. The pilot has already been shot and
twenty-six episodes are being planned.
Skeeter Davis performs at the Armory in Ashland, Kentucky.
November 17
Gene Pitney is scheduled for a lengthy tour
of England, but after two television appearances and a
cancelled third television show, he decides to beat a hasty
retreat to America without performing a single live show. He
did record two songs on this date that were written by the
Rolling Stones including "That Girl Belongs to
Yesterday."
November 22
In Dallas, President John F. Kennedy is
assassinated.
In New York City, Sam Coke and Mary Wells have just opened a
week-long engagement at the Apollo Theater.
This evening, the Beach Boys give a concert to a packed
Memorial Auditorium in Maryville, California.
November 23
ABC's schedule for this afternoon includes
"The American Bandstand Celebrity Party." Featured
artist include, Annette,, the Beach Boys, Mel Carter, the
Challengers, Johnny Crawford, Dick Dale and the Deltones,
Dick and DeeDee, Shelly Fabares, Connie Francis, Bobby
Freeman, George Hamilton IV, Jan and Dean, Trini Lopez, Donna
Loren, Paul Peterson, the Righteous Brothers, Connie Stevens
and Nino Tempo and April Stevens. Due to the continuing
television coverage of President Kennedy's assassination,
it's likely that this show was postponed.
November 24
Joey Dee is still touring Europe. At this
time he is in southern Holland.
November 26
Charlie Rich ends up his tour of the eastern
half of the country. Along the way, he made numerous local
television appearances, including "The Mike Douglas
Show" in Cleveland. Among the many cities that he
visited were Pittsburgh, Washington DC, Milwaukee, Chicago,
Indianapolis and Cincinnati.
November 27
King Curtis is booked for two weeks at the
Latin Casino in Camden, New Jersey.
November 30
Chubby Checker visited American Bandstand to sing
"Loddy Lo."
Late November
Dee Dee Sharp is scheduled to begin a tour in
Europe. When notified that her grandmother back in Philadelphia
is ailing, she immediately returns home. Although she tells the
producer that she will return, she doesn't. In addition to
skipping the tour, she also failed to show for a major television
appearance.
December 3
Johnny Tillotson heads up the entertainment
at the Mardi Gras Club in Baltimore.
December 4
Gene McDaniels makes a personal appearance on
the Steve Allen's late night Television show.
December 7
Sam Cooke guests on the Jerry Lewis ABC-TV
comedy show.
Early December
After winding up their tour of England, the
Shirelles and Duane Eddy leave for shows in Paris, including
at the Olympia Theater. Also appearing with the group at this
time is Dionne Warwick who replaced one of the married
Shirelles. After a few days in France, they return to England
to resume touring with Gene Vincent.
After much hesitation, Capitol Records, a division of EMI
Records of England, decides to pick up its option to release
in America the records by the Beatles..
December 8
Jerry Lee Lewis and Ace Cannon headline the
Christmas benefit show in New Orleans sponsored by radio
station WNOE. Tomorrow evening, Lewis and Cannon, along with
Charlie Rich will be in Memphis performing for the annual
Goodfellow's' Christmas benefit.
December 9
Jimmie Rodgers is touring through the Far
East. tonight he opens a for two days at the Kosei Nenkin
Hall in Japan.
December 11
Little Stevie Wonder will appear at the
Olympia Theater in Paris through Christmas.
December 14
In her hometown of Detroit, Dinah Washington
known worldwide as the "Queen of the Blues," dies
of an overdose of sleeping pills at the age of thirty-nine.
Mid-December
Nino Tempo and April Stevens return to the
States following a brief, for day trip to Italy to promote
their Italian and German versions of "Deep Purple."
While in Italy, they appear in several television shows and
filmed spots to appear later.
Bobby Vinton is booked to play the Twin Coaches in
Pittsburgh. He had originally been booked to play the Holiday
House. In the end, he plays neither, opting to make an
appearance on television.
Lesley Gore is currently touring in England.
December 21
The regular Saturday afternoon edition of
ABC-TV's American Bandstand is visited by Vito and the
Salutations who sing "Unchained Melody."
This evening, the Beach boys return to play the Sacramento
Memorial Auditorium for the second time in four months. This
evening's concert is taped recorded for release by Capitol
Records as the Beach Boy's first concert album.
December 22
Frank Ifield appears on "The Ed Sullivan
Show" on CBS-TV.
December 25
Murray the K's Christmas revue at the
Paramount Fox Theater features Tommy Roe.
December 27
Little Stevie Wonder makes his first trip to
England to promote his records. He will appear on ITV
programs including the popular music-variety show
"Ready, Steady Go" over the next few days.
Carl Perkins is currently on tour in Florida with a country
package. He appears tonight in Sarasota, Florida, followed by
Orlando, Florida (28) and Orlando, Florida (29).
December 28
Bobby Vee, 20, marries Karen Bergen, also age
20, at the Holy Rosary Church in Detroit Lakes, Michigan, The
couple spend their honeymoon in Acapulco, Mexico.
Connie Francis opens at the Concord Hotel in New York City.
Skeeter Davis is touring through Michigan as part of a
country package that plays Lansing tonight, Saginaw (29),
Muskegon (30) and Grand Rapids (31).
Jimmy McCracklin is playing the Geary Breakfast Club in San
Francisco, California.
Earlier in the day, American Bandstand presents Neil Sedaka
singing "Bad Girl."
December 29
On CBS-TV tonight, Bobby Darin appears on the
Judy Garland show. Darin sings "Michael Row the Boat
Ashore" and "Caanan" and joins Garland on a
duet of railroad songs.
Late December
Nino Temple and April Stevens return to the
States following a four-day trip to Italy for television
appearances.
Late December, As An Era
Winds Down
The Beach boys are preparing for their
first overseas tour. They will be going to Australia.
The Ronettes are scheduled for a January tour of England with
the Rolling Stones. Wheels are turning that will eventually
bring Phil Spector into contact with the Beatles.
The Four Seasons are upset with the business practices of
Vee-Jay Records and soon switch to Phillips Records, a
subsidiary of Mercury Records. Their string of hits continue
without missing a beat.
Just when it looks like the girl group sound has run its
course the biggest girl group of all begins to finally have
hits.The Supremes will offer one of the few alternatives to
the next wave of music.
On May 12, 1964, the Grammys for 1963 are announce The Best
Rock and Roll Recording is "Deep Purple" by Nino
Temple and April Stevens. The Best Rhythm and Blues is
"Busted," the fourth straight win in the category
for Ray Charles. No other rock 'n' roll or rhythm and blues
artist were honored.
