Tommy James was born Thomas Jackson in Dayton, Ohio and started his pop group The Shondells when he was only 12 years old. Their first single, Hanky Panky, was recorded for a small independent label, Snap, in 1963. Roulette Records purchased the original master recording and issued it on their own label. It took three years for the song to become a hit when it finally reached the top of the charts in 1966. As the song was climbing the charts, Tommy James recruited the Pittsburgh group The Raconteurs to become the official Shondells. From 1966 to 1973, they hit the charts an incredible 31 times; during which time they enjoyed 7 Top Ten hits, including a Gold Record.
This week on Treasure Island Oldies, Voice Your Choice spotlights Tommy James And The Shondells with two of their hits for your votes: I Like The Way and Sweet Cherry Wine.
Have a favourite of the two? Come to the Voice Your Choice page and cast your vote. We'll play the winning tune on next week's show.
