The Sugar Shack Chronicles: Managing Rock Bands in the 1960s

After an extended break, I'm back to share stories from my days running the Sugar Shack in Chillicothe, Illinois, during the early 1960s. I'm currently writing a book about my experiences called "Rock and Roll Nights: Memories of 1963 at the Sugar Shack."

• The Trademarks, a band playing around Bradley University in 1964, asked me to be their manager after performing at the Sugar Shack
• They wanted me to be their Brian Epstein, opening doors for their career beyond local shows
• Despite my enthusiasm, I lacked connections to book them in major cities or secure record contracts
• Through a friend's connection, we arranged an after-hours recording session at WEEK-TV without formal permission
• We recorded after Johnny Carson's Tonight Show ended and the station went dark
• The TV studio wasn't built for rock music but provided an exciting backdrop for the band
• Though nothing came of the recording, I learned my strength was creating venues for bands rather than managing them
• The Sugar Shack was my true stage and contribution to the music scene

Be sure to check me out on 40's Stateside Radio on Live 365. Go to genres, search for "40s" and you'll find me there. Also, look for my upcoming book "Rock and Roll Nights: Memories of 1963 at the Sugar Shack."

Support the show