Gerry & the Pacemakers

Gerry & the Pacemakers Artistfacts

  • 1950s-1966
    Gerry MarsdenGuitar/vocals
    Freddie MarsdenDrums
    Les MaguireKeyboards
    Les ChadwickBass
  • Gerry & the Pacemakers was a "beat group" from Liverpool, England. They had a number of hits in both Britain and the US before Beatlemania took hold. >>
    Suggestion credit:
    Joshua - Twin Cities, MN
  • The band was managed by Brian Epstein, who also managed the Beatles.
  • In 1965, they starred in a movie named after their song "Ferry Cross The Mersey." The film documents the Merseybeat scene. >>
    Suggestion credit:
    Bertrand - Paris, France
  • They were originally named Gerry Marsden and the Mars Bars. The name was intended to get sponsorship from the confectionary company, who instead complained and insisted they change it.
  • Gerry & The Pacemmakers were the first act to reach #1 in the UK Singles Chart with their first three single releases. Their record was equaled by fellow Liverpool band Frankie Goes to Hollywood and beaten by the Spice Girls, whose first six singles all got to the top position.
  • In 2003, for his services supporting the victims of the Hillsborough disaster in which 96 football fans died, Gerry Marsden was awarded an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honors List.

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Alan Merrill of The Arrows

Alan Merrill of The ArrowsSongwriter Interviews

In her days with The Runaways, Joan Jett saw The Arrows perform "I Love Rock And Roll," which Alan Merrill co-wrote - that story and much more from this glam rock pioneer.

Dave Mason

Dave MasonSongwriter Interviews

Dave reveals the inspiration for "Feelin' Alright" and explains how the first song he ever wrote became the biggest hit for his band Traffic.

Peter Lord

Peter LordSongwriter Interviews

You may not recognize his name, but you will certainly recognize Peter Lord's songs. He wrote the bevy of hits from Paula Abdul's second album, Spellbound.

Rock Stars of Horror

Rock Stars of HorrorMusic Quiz

Rock Stars - especially those in the metal realm - are often enlisted for horror movies. See if you know can match the rocker to the role.

Bill Withers

Bill WithersSongwriter Interviews

Soul music legend Bill Withers on how life experience and the company you keep leads to classic songs like "Lean On Me."

Al Kooper

Al KooperSongwriter Interviews

Kooper produced Lynyrd Skynyrd, played with Dylan and the Stones, and formed BS&T.