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

JJ Burnel of The Stranglers

JJ Burnel of The StranglersSongwriter Interviews

JJ talks about The Stranglers' signature sound - keyboard and bass - which isn't your typical strain of punk rock.

Frankie Valli

Frankie ValliSong Writing

An interview with Frankie Valli, who talks about why his songs - both solo and with The Four Seasons - have endured, and reflects on his time as Rusty Millio on The Sopranos.

James Williamson of Iggy & the Stooges

James Williamson of Iggy & the StoogesSongwriter Interviews

The Stooges guitarist (and producer of the Kill City album) talks about those early recordings and what really happened with David Bowie.

Tom Keifer of Cinderella

Tom Keifer of CinderellaSongwriter Interviews

Tom talks about the evolution of Cinderella's songs through their first three albums, and how he writes as a solo artist.

Trans Soul Rebels: Songs About Transgenderism

Trans Soul Rebels: Songs About TransgenderismSong Writing

A history of songs dealing with transgender issues, featuring Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Morrissey and Green Day.

Bob Dylan Lyric Quiz

Bob Dylan Lyric QuizMusic Quiz

Think you know your Bob Dylan lyrics? Take this quiz to find out.