The Wailers, often referred to as "The Fabulous Wailers," played a pivotal role in the garage rock and Pacific Northwest sound, laying the groundwork for what would later become known as rock 'n' roll. Originating from Tacoma, Washington, the band formed in 1958, with a lineup famously including John Greek (guitar, trumpet), Rich Dangel (lead guitar), Mark Marush (tenor saxophone), Mike Burk (drums), Kent Morrill (piano, vocals), and Buck Ormsby (bass). They gained early notoriety with their instrumental hit "Tall Cool One" and were among the first to cultivate the raucous energy that characterized grassroots rock music.
Their influence extended beyond their regional popularity as they impacted the broader cultural tapestry through national tours and recordings. Over the years, The Wailers shared their platform with various artists, leading to collaborative releases such as "The Wailers & Co." and "The Fabulous Wailers at the Castle," which stands out with contributions from Rockin' Robin and Gail Harris. Albums like "Out of Our Tree" and "Wailers Wailers Everywhere" further showcase their gritty sound and reflected a raw musicianship that inspired future generations of rock bands. Despite lineup changes, The Wailers maintained their distinctive sound and continued to enchant audiences, securing their legacy as forerunners of the rock movement.
Join them and feed your new music addiction, and add the artists you love!
Get Started