Thursday, November 09, 2006

Butch Mattice-Johnny & The Hurricanes

Johnny And The Hurricanes were one of the most distinctive sounding instrumental groups of the 1950s and '60s. Originally known as The Orbits from Toledo, Ohio, they went on to national and international acclaim with their Top Ten smash Red River Rock. They also had hits with Reveille Rock, Rockin' Goose, Crossfire, and others.

We are saddened to learn of the death of Lionel "Butch" Mattice, the bass player in the group. We send our best wishes and sincere condolonces to the surviving members of Johnny And The Hurricanes: Johnny Paris (saxophone), Paul Tesluk (organ), Dave Yorko (guitar), and drummer Tony Kaye.