Early Rock and Roll - From Chicago to New York

Dad's Flight To The Hospital

2011-04-27T10:30:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone! This is Holly - Willy's daughter. I am making this post for him as he is in the hospital and I wanted you all to know what's up.

I received a call on Saturday afternoon and jumped in the car with my family - destination Chicago: Christ hospital where my dad was air lifted to after a fall.

How did this happen?

Turns out the barn had experienced some wind damage - roof had openings of some sort.

So Dad - age 70 - decides to fix this himself.

He leans a ladder up to the right side of our barn (yellow arrow).

Ladder begins to slip, Dad preps for fall, getting into a crouching position to help jump down.

Thing is - Dad is jumping onto concrete on this side of the barn - as he breaks his fall he breaks both ankles.

THANKFULLY he keeps his Cell in his pocket so he was able to call 911....for as you can see from the barn photo - our home is out in the middle of no where.

Result?

One ankle is compound and broken in 3 places - other the outside metatarsal is broken along with all ligaments torn....fortunately Dad has no other injuries.

He is okay and recovering quite quickly. He's already been through 2 surgeries and now has a total of 8 rods in the ankle that was broken in 3 places and cast on the other.

He's already been moving around with assistance and is now looking at options for rehab and recovery. I will hop on over and post an update on his recovery soon.

Thanks for the well wishes!

~ Holly

Jimmy McHugh

2011-02-11T07:44:00.000-08:00

This is an early photo of Jimmy McHugh, probably the late 50s. Jimmy played lead/rhythm guitar in the "Jeepers" band. After leaving our group to attend Drake University, he recorded "I Don't Want Everything" for Success Records. Today, playing the keyboard, he is still active at various venues in N. W. Indiana and the Chicago area. Love that guitar!!
Jimmy and Tobin

Excerpt from Blitz - The Rock & Roll Magazine For Thinking People...

2010-11-05T07:04:00.000-07:00

Tobin Matthews made a number of significant contributions to rock and roll. Born Willy Henson in Calumet City, Illinois, Matthews interned as a member of the Rhythm Rockers and Jimmy and the Jeepers in the late 1950s before embarking on a six year solo career in 1960 that included stops at USA, Columbia and Warner Brothers Records.

One of the highlights was Matthews' 1963 "Little Waterfront Girl" single (Warner Brothers 5455), which combined the best elements of such recent chart successes as the Essex's Easier Said Than Done (Roulette R-4494) and the Drifters' On Broadway (Atlantic 45-2182). But as was the case with Gibbs, Teensville again opted for the flip side, which in this case is Matthews' uptempo, Mark Dinning/Ed Rambeau-like "Don't Make Faces". In recent months, Tobin has been developing a web site, in which he intends to chronicle the highlights of his remarkable career.

My New Grandson - Alex - Oct. 15th, 2010

2010-11-04T09:53:00.000-07:00

My new grandson Alex, Grandad and my daughter Holly.
Humming a lullaby.
A grandfather is someone with silver in his hair and gold in his heart.
My daughter Holly & Alex.

Tobin Matthews and the All-Stars

2010-10-13T10:18:00.000-07:00

This picture of the band and I was taken in 1961 after performing at a record hop. Pictured with me are Don Smith, Frankie Gage, Danny Pawlak and Jerry Rose.

Bobby Vinton & Tobin Matthews

2010-10-12T05:07:00.000-07:00

THEN - This was taken in New York, in a Columbia Records office, in 1962.
NOW - This picture of Bobby and me was taken in 2007.

"Little Waterfront Girl" Record Label

2010-06-04T10:20:00.000-07:00

Tobin Matthews: "Little Waterfront Girl"

2010-06-04T10:04:00.000-07:00

I recorded "Little Waterfront Girl" on Warner Bros. Records, in New York, in 1963. The song was co-written by Jerry Keller and Artie Wayne. Both Jerry and Artie have contributed a lot to the music industry with their writing and recording talents. My "Little Waterfront Girl" recording session was arranged and conducted by Alan Lorber and produced by the great Al Kasha. I've always liked this song a lot.

Jerry Keller

2010-06-04T09:40:00.001-07:00

Jerry Keller, co-writer of "Little Waterfront Girl". Jerry had a smash hit in 1959 with "Here Comes Summer" on Kapp Records, a song he wrote and recorded. I first met Jerry in 1959 in Cedar Lake, Indiana at a ballroom on the lake. We were the warm-up band before the main artists came on stage. The only acts I remember on the main bill is Jerry and Dickey Doo and the Don'ts. The next time I saw him was in New York when we got together after I found and wanted to record "Little Waterfront Girl". He is a great guy.

Artie Wayne

2010-06-04T09:09:00.000-07:00

Artie Wayne, co-writer of "Little Waterfront Girl". Artie wrote "Midnight Mary", the hit recording by Joey Powers on Amy Records in 1963. Artie is a prolific song writer and has written songs for numerous artists, including Cher, Ricky Nelson, Paul Anka and many others.

Lighthouse Cafe: Fisherman's Wharf

2010-06-04T08:57:00.000-07:00

This is a menu and card from "The Lighthouse Cafe" on Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco. It's the place I sang about in my recording of "Little Waterfront Girl". It is now known as Nick's Lighthouse.

Tobin Matthews: Promo Picture

2010-06-04T08:40:00.000-07:00

Tobin Matthews & Tony Orlando at Jilly's

2010-05-11T09:39:00.000-07:00

Tony Orlando was a good friend and a great guy. We both had the same press agent, Bob Corcoran. We got together quite often, whether it was in Bob's office, Jilly's, Palasades Park or some show we were doing. We talked a lot about the music we were recording and appreciated each others opinion. This picture was given to me by Tony many years ago. The signing reads - "To Tobin, There should be more guys like you in this Biz. Your Pal, Tony"

Here are a couple of magazine clippings about Tony and I performing at JILLY'S in Orange, New Jersey. Tony and I loved the club and appeared there several times. The owner of this teen night club was the nephew of the man who owned JILLY'S in New York, which was a frequent hang-out of Frank Sinatra.

Tobin Matthews Collection CD

2010-05-11T09:19:00.000-07:00

These are pictures of one of the many CD's I'm making here at home for my family and friends. It shows the inserts in the jewel case and the CD. Each one is personalized for the individual and the disc is autographed.

Tobin Matthews: Columbia Records Trade Ad

2010-05-11T09:15:00.000-07:00

Norby King: Drummer Boy From Illinois

2010-04-26T11:09:00.000-07:00

Norby King was my drummer in several of my bands and on all my Chicago recordings. He was originally from Calumet City, Illinois. We lived a block away from each other and when I needed a drummer, he was my first choice. When he sat down behind his drums, he put on a show, he was exciting. Norby was a great musician and even more than that, a close friend. I could always count on Norby to be there when I needed him. Sadly, Norby passed away several years ago shortly after his 60th birthday. I'm sure he's a drummer in a band in a better place.

Tobin Matthews: A Hot Fan At The Hop

2010-03-25T11:28:00.000-07:00

This is a very short video for all you guys around my age. My friend Tom, who was taping this show at the MBC Museum in Chicago, spotted this girl while I was singing the Gene Vincent tune, "Be-Bop-A-Lula" and said he just had to get her on my video. When he showed me the tape, we both agreed she was hot!! He was so shook up he got her out of focus a couple of times. Hope you guys like her as much as we did.

Tobin Matthews: On tour in Virginia

2010-03-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken in the early 60s in Virginia while I was on multi-state tour in the eastern part of the US. The pretty young lady was the Virginia Junior Miss. I'm sorry, but I can't remember her name. If she sees this or if anyone recognizes her, please contact me and I will put her name in this post.

Tobin Matthews: WXYZ - Detroit, Michigan - Paul Winter & Fred Wolf

2010-03-25T10:55:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture taken in Detroit, Michigan in 1962 during the Toys For Tots show. In the photo with me are Paul Winter and Fred Wolf, two broadcasters from radio station WXYZ.

Tobin Matthews: "Teen Life Magazine" 1963

2010-03-25T10:50:00.000-07:00

Tobin Matthews: Old Stage Jacket

2010-03-25T10:37:00.000-07:00

This is a recent picture taken when I was visited by two old friends and former band members, Don Smith and Danny Pawlak. This is a jacket I wore on stage in the early 1960s and it still fits!! The same jacket is shown in a few black and white pictures posted earlier.

Willy And The Jeepers: "Where Ya Been"

2010-02-24T10:05:00.000-08:00

This song, "Where Ya Been", is one of the first songs I ever recorded. This was about 4 years before I took the name "Tobin Matthews". It was recorded with the Jeepers band in Frank McNulty's home studio near Chicago. I was about 17 years old and the guys in the band were 15 and 16 years of age. "Where Ya Been" was written by Jimmy McHugh who played guitar in the group. Now, when I listen to it, I realize the bass was way too far up front. At that time we thought it was great. We were green and had no clue about recording. We would do one or two takes and thought that was good enough. "Where Ya Been" was our opening song at Popples Under 21 Club, record hops and other places we played. The kids loved it. I guess that's what counts.

Tobin Matthews: Hi-Teen Magazine

2010-02-24T09:52:00.000-08:00

This was a full page picture from "Hi-Teen" magazine in 1963.

Tobin Matthews & Ian Ziering - Beverly Hills 90210

2010-02-24T09:36:00.000-08:00

This is me and Ian Ziering, who played Steve Sanders in the TV show "Beverly Hills 90210". It was taken in California. 90210 was one of the top TV shows at that time. When I got home with two pictues personally autographed by Ian for each of my daughters, Holly and Carrie, I was a hero in Indiana.

Tobin Matthews: Autograph Session in Detroit

2010-02-24T09:26:00.000-08:00

This picture was taken in Detroit during an autograph session. To my left is Roger Smith from the TV show "77 Sunset Strip". To his left is Soupy Sales.

Tobin Matthews: "Raining In My Heart"

2010-02-04T15:34:00.000-08:00

"Rainin' In My Heart" was originally recorded by "Buddy Holly". We recorded this version during the early 60s in New York for an album fill. The recording session was produced by "Al Kasha". This version was never released.

Tobin Matthews: Newspaper Article

2010-02-04T15:28:00.000-08:00

Tobin Matthews: A Date In Manhattan

2010-02-04T15:15:00.000-08:00

"They say the neon lights are bright on Broadway. But, looking at them just gives me the blues." Well, I certainly didn't have the blues that night. This is a date in Manhattan on a chilly winters night. The girl is Nancy Meyers. Nancy was a secretary at Columbia Records, where we met. We dated for about a year.

Cash Box: Looking Ahead Chart

2010-02-04T15:05:00.000-08:00

This is part of the Cash Box Looking Ahead record chart. These were listing of up and coming records ready to break in to the Cash Box top 100 nationally.

Tobin Matthews: At Home In NYC

2010-02-04T14:56:00.000-08:00

This picture was taken at my apartment in Greenwich Village in 1963.

A Tribute To My Friend - Jan Gabriel - 1940 - 2010

2010-01-16T04:03:00.000-08:00

Jan Gabriel and I were friends for over 50 years. What a great friendship it was. The places we went, the things we did and the memories I have would fill a book. We were like brothers. The friendship we had was rare. I consider myself to be fortunate to have had someone who was always there, through the good times and the hard times. Sadly, Jan passed away earlier this month. This left a void in my heart that will be there for the rest of my life. May God bless you and keep you my friend. --- I would like to thank "Neil Diamond" for recording such a great song that says exactly what I wanted to say in my tribute to Jan. - The video clip and a few of the photos I used in this post are courtesy of Peggy Poppel.

Jan Gabriel - Mr. Sunday! Sunday! Sunday!

2010-01-16T02:44:00.000-08:00

Jan was the legendary motor sports announcer known for his signature phrase "Sunday! Sunday! Sunday!" used to promote the US 30 Drag Strip events in Northwest Indiana. He created, produced and hosted the nationally syndicated TV show "The Super Chargers" which ran from 1982 to 1994. Jan called the action at Santa Fe Speedway in Hinsdale/Willow Springs, Illinois from 1968 to 1982. He established and was president of his production company, TV One Inc. He founded the "Team Demolition Association" in 1999 and was running demo events in Joliet at Route 66 Raceway til the time of his passing. That is just part of Jans active career. There is more about Jan on one of my earlier posts.

Song: "Cowboy Hats and Cadilacs"

2009-12-26T10:28:00.000-08:00

Sung by Donel Austin, writtnen by Willy Henson. I wrote this song, "Cowboy Hats and Cadilacs", several years ago. I did collaborate a little with a friend of mine, Ron Lane. The tune had a country feel so I wanted a country singer to record it. A friend of mine knew a guy who was signed to a label and he introduced us. His name was Donel Austin. Donel came to my house for a meeting. I sang the song for him, he liked it and wanted to record it. He went to Nashville for the session. I wish I would have been there because I was disappointed with the finished product. He took too much liberty with my lyrics, changing and adding words. I would have also liked to have heard some better instrumentation and a better voice. Well, enough is enough. I guess it is what it is. The main reason I'm posting this song is because I wrote it. Maybe some good country singer will hear it and want to put it on an album or even cut single release. If done right, it's a pretty good country song with a nice message.

Tobin Matthews: Cashbox Magazine Article

2009-12-26T10:23:00.000-08:00

Bobby Brooks Fashion Shows

2009-12-26T09:39:00.000-08:00

Meet Claire Affens, New York Fashion Director for "Bobby Brooks" the popular young girls clothing line. Claire came up with the great idea of having a rock 'n roll singer appear at her "Bobby Brooks" fashion shows that introduced their new clothes for the season. Her thought was that having a recording artist included in her shows would help increase the attendance. She was right. I was lucky enough to be that singer. We did hundreds of shows throughout the country. As a result of her ingenuity, Claire won several awards from the fashion industry. She was quite a woman.
These teasers were placed in the fashion department of the various stores prior to the show.

These paper ribbons were given to the fans as they entered the show so they could pin them on their blouse.

Indy Pace Car

2009-12-26T09:29:00.000-08:00

This is a promo shot in the Indy 500 Pace Car for a show I did in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Tobin Matthews: Willowbrook Ballroom - Compilation

2009-12-04T15:16:00.000-08:00

Here is a four song compilation from "1991" at the "Willowbrook Ballroom" in Willow Springs, just outside of Chicago. It was recorded with a single mike VHS home recorder, so the sound and picture quality is what it is. This copy was recorded and given to me by Louie Kiefor, a good friend of mine for mamy, many years. Louie and I went to grade school and high school together. He is a lawyer in Calunet City, Illinois, which is good for me, in case I ever get in trouble!!!

Tobin Matthews: Autograph Session

2009-12-04T15:07:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of an autograph session after a Bobby Brooks show up east.

Tobin Matthews & Barbara Ann Gloede (Miss New York) 1963

2009-12-04T14:45:00.000-08:00

Barbara and I were invited to Eldridge Amusement Park in New York to crown the King & Queen of the park for that year. It was a fun time. After the ceremonies the two of us hit the rides. The newspaper article above shows us riding the roller coaster.

Bob Corcoran: Press Agent

2009-12-04T14:29:00.000-08:00

Bob Corcoran was my press agent. He put me in more teen magazines than I had ever hoped for. More than that, he became a good friend. To have a friend and someone who believes in you is a very special thing. Some of the other artists Bob represented were, Dion, Tony Orlando, Anita Bryant, Bobby Vinton and several others. Bob passed away several years ago but, I will always cherish our friendship.

"Toys For Tots" Benefit in Detroit, Michigan

2009-12-04T14:17:00.000-08:00

This was a 1962 post in Cash Box, a music trade magazine, telling about the "Toys For Tots" show.

Tobin Matthews: "Special Way"

2009-11-13T22:44:00.000-08:00

I wrote "Special Way" many years ago. It was recorded in Chicago. Norby King and I rounded up some local musicians who were friends of ours and we hit the recording studio to record several songs. This song is short and was the last one we recorded. I probably should have written another verse or bridge, but we ran out of studio time. There is something I have always liked about this little song.

Tobin Matthews: Answering Fan Mail

2009-11-13T22:30:00.000-08:00

This picture of me answering my fan mail was taken in my apartment in Greenwich Village, New York. I always answered all the mail I received. I sent a letter and included a picture. The fans were great.

Tobin Matthews: Cash Box Magazine

2009-11-13T22:21:00.000-08:00

A picture published in Cash Box magazine in 1963.

Tobin Matthews Caricature Drawing

2009-11-13T21:58:00.000-08:00

This caricature drawing of me was drawn by one of the guys who worked in the Columbia Records art department. I got a kick out of it when he gave it to me. Love the way he did the cleft in my chin.

Tobin Matthews & Tony Dow

2009-11-13T21:44:00.000-08:00

This picture of Tobin and Tony Dow was taken in Florida. Most of us from the 1950's remember Tony played Wally, Beavers brother, on the TV show "Leave It To Beaver". Check out that beautiful Chevy.

Jimmy McHugh: "I Don't Want Everything" - Success Records

2009-10-28T16:13:00.000-07:00

Jimmy Mchugh, from Hammond, Indiana, originated "The Jeepers Band". I joined them soon after they got together. Jimmy left the band after a few years to attend college, Drake University. It was while he was there that he wrote and recorded "I Don't Want Everything" for Success Records out of Des Moines, Iowa. The song was released in 1963 as a single and was also on an album titled "Only For Teenagers and Real Swinging Adults". This compilation album featured Jimmy McHugh, The Blendtones, The Extensions, The Martinels, Oscar Boyd and Cicero Blake. The tune "I Don't Want Everything" was one of Pittsburg's Favorites and received a lot of radio air play in that great town. Jimmy is a special friend and the two of us have kept in touch through all these years.

Success Record Album - Featuring Jimmy Mchugh

2009-10-28T15:52:00.000-07:00

Above are front and back pictures of the "Success Records" album, S-LP 1011MX, that included Jimmy's song "I Don't Want Everything".
This is a mini bio from the back of the "Success Records" album.

Jimmy McHugh

2009-10-28T15:43:00.000-07:00

Jimmy having a good time on stage.

"Jeepers" Reunion

2009-10-28T15:30:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken at "The Jeepers" 30 year reunion thrown by Jan Gabriel. Pictured, left to right are - Jimmy McHugh, Ron Lane, Norby King, Tobin and Frankie Gage.

My "50" Year Class Reunion

2009-10-23T12:24:00.000-07:00

I know this has nothing to do with singing but, it was a very special evening to me and part of my life. This picture was taken at my "50" year class reunion, Septerber, 2009. Pictured with me in front of a beautiful lighted fountain outside the reunion hall are Bonnie (Hart) and Chuck Ferczok. They have been married for more years than I can remember. Bonnie and I went to grade school and high school together and Chuck and I were high school classmates. Bonnie, God Bless Miss Hall. Secret note to Chuck - That SOB photographer was lucky we didn't carry out our plans about what we were going to do with him and the fountain!!! Love you and I'm glad you were a part of my life.Jay Kapers, me, Rich Berwanger and George Gruich. Rich Lukowski, me and Rich Berwanger at an earlier class reunion. Rich (Birdy) Berwanger and me. Cold beer and food on the grill on an autumn day in Indiana. Birdy is probably my oldest friend. We met in grade school and have kept in touch on a regular basis through all these years. Friendship isn't a big thing - it's a million little things.

Tobin Matthews: "Don't Make Faces"

2009-10-12T15:23:00.001-07:00

I recorded this song, "Don't Make Faces", in New York on Warner Bros, Records in the early 60s. It was written by "Bob Gaudio" one of the "Four Seasons". Bob wrote most of the great "Four Seasons" hits. It was produced by "Al Kasha" and arranged & conducted by "Denny Randell". "Frankie Valli" came to my session to help in any way he could with the recording of the song. Frankie is actually doing that foot-stomping sound you hear in the background and he came up with some other ideas that we were glad to use. I was honored to have him there.

Tobin Matthews: Record Label & Review

2009-10-12T15:17:00.000-07:00

Tobin Matthews: Doing a TV Record Hop Show

2009-10-12T14:57:00.000-07:00

Clair Affens, "Bobby Brooks" fashion coordinator, and I being interviewed by the host of a TV Record Hop Show before I performed, singing with my record.

Tobin Matthews: Greeted At Small Airport

2009-10-12T14:49:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken up east where I flew from one small town to another, in a small plane, during a series of one nighters. The fans were always there which made me feel great. I thank them all.

Tobin Matthews & Sally Struthers

2009-10-12T14:28:00.000-07:00

This picture of "Sally Struthers" and me was taken in her home in California. As you probably know, Sally played Gloria in the hit TV show "All In The Family". We are in her neat little bar where I had a few beers but, not enough to become "Meat Head"!! Great time!!!

Tobin Matthews: Sun Records

2009-10-12T13:41:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken in the Sun Records Studio. The people who owned Sun Studios, at the time I was there, told me that THAT microphone was THE mike that "Elvis" used when he recorded at Sun. Well, I had to sing a little using that original mike, even though it wasn't hooked up. The mike in the picture behind me sure looks like the same one I'm singing into.

Live Video from MBC Show - Compilation

2009-10-02T12:59:00.000-07:00

This is a small compilation of a video taken by Tom Barnhart, of Music Lab, with a home video camera, so the picture and sound quality is what it is. Tom also supplied the instruments and sound equipment for the band and I. It was recorded in the early 1980s in Chicago at the Museum of Broadcast Communications, (MBC) for a show we did for Jim Lounsbury when he was inducted into the Broadcasters Hall of Fame. The guys in the band were, Ron Lane - guitar, Ronnie Lass - Guitar, Norby King - drums, Dave Spanier - bass, and Eli Rios - keyboard. This was the first time my daughters, Holly & Carrie, saw me perform live. I was happy and proud that they could be there on this special night.

Fun at the Museum

2009-10-02T12:34:00.000-07:00

Dancing in the foreground are Nick Nobel, and Joni James. They both had hit records in the early 1950s. I can't name then all but, Nick had "The Bible Tells Me So" and Joni had "Why Don't You Believe Me" & "Have You Heard".
My daughters, Carrie & Holly with me, Jim & Helen.
Tom & Sharon Barnhart with Tobin & Jim.
This was taken after the show that night. Pictured are Tobin, Norby, Jim, Dave, Ronnie, Ron, Eli and Helen.

Tobin Matthews & Reggie Jackson "Mr. October"

2009-10-02T12:19:00.000-07:00

This picture of Reggie and me was taken in Oakland, California at his warehouse where he stores his great collection of "Muscle Cars". We also went to his home in Oakland where I was lucky enough to see a lot of his baseball awards. Sadly, he lost that home to an Oakland fire. Reggie was a real down to earth person, just like one of the guys.

Tobin Matthews: Detroit, Michigan

2009-10-02T12:06:00.000-07:00

Tobin signing autographs for teen fans during a U.S. Marines "Toys For Tots Jamboree" held at Edgewater Park in Detroit, Michigan in the early 1960s.

Tobin Matthews: "Susan" (single voice version)

2009-09-17T08:49:00.001-07:00

Very few people have ever heard this single voice version of "Susan". This is the initial recording before I over dubbed my harmony and unison and before we added a little more instrumentation, did some mixing and had our finished product. Hope you enjoy this rare and unreleased recording of "Susan".

Tobin Matthews Autograph Session

2009-09-17T08:40:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken when I was on tour up east. We are in a record store signing pictures and records for the fans.

Tobin Matthews & Anita Bryant

2009-09-17T08:34:00.000-07:00

These two pictures were taken in Columbia Records studio in New York during one of Anita's recording sessions.

Tobin Matthews Promo Photo

2009-09-17T08:29:00.000-07:00

This is a Columbia Records promo picture taken in 1962.

Tobin Matthews: "Can't Stop Talkin' About You"

2009-08-20T11:51:00.000-07:00

"Can't Stop Talkin' About You" was written by "Carole King" & "Gerry Goffin", the great early 60s writing team fron New York's acclaimed Brill Building. Carole King later went on to become a popular singing star with her "Tapestry" album plus many other recordings.
"Can't Stop Talkin' About You" was my first release for Warner Bros. Records. We recorded it in New York in "1963". The session was produced by "Al Kasha", arranged and conducted by "Alan Lorber"

Comment From: Tom Diehl

Tobin Matthews is from Calumet City, Illinois and he recorded so many great records over the years.... I have never heard a bad one! Why wasn't this record a smash hit?? This is one of the best records I've heard in a long time. I find myself playing it multiple times over just because it is fantastic! It was written by Gerry Goffin and Carole King and was later recorded by Steve Lawrence & Eydie Gorme... but this is the definitive version to me. This is a smash hit in my book and I hope you dig it even a little bit! You can hear killer records like this one live every night on www.topshelfoldies.com!

Al Kasha & Tobin Matthews

2009-08-20T11:45:00.000-07:00

This picture of Al Kasha and me was taken during the recording session of "Can't Stop Talkin' About You". I couldn't have asked for a better guy to work with. He was a real pro!!

Carole King & Gerry Goffin

2009-08-20T11:33:00.000-07:00

Carole and Gerry wrote "Can't Stop Talking About You" a song I recorded for Warner Bros. This successful writing team also wrote "Will You Love Me Tomorrow", "Take good Care Of My Baby", "Every Breath I Take", "The Loco Motion", "One Fine Day", "Up On The Roof" and many other smash hits.
This is a 1963 record review of "Can't Stop Talkin' About You" by Peter Aldersley who wrote for Pop Weekly, a music magazine, out of London, England. I thank you Peter for the great review.

Tobin Matthews & Fess Parker (Davy Crockett)

2009-08-20T10:58:00.000-07:00

This was a real thrill for me!! When Fess Parker starred in the hit TV show "Davy Crockett", I was in 8th grade. Now, about 7 years later, I'm in Detroit, Michigan doing a couple of live shows with Fess Parker on the bill. I was like a kid at Christmas, the same kind of excitement. We were doing a U.S. Marines "Toys For Tots Jamboree", with the cooperation of WXYZ radio and television. We performed for over 22,000 people who attended the outdoor shows at Edgewater Park.

Tobin Matthews: Museum of Broadcast Communications

2009-08-20T10:48:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken in Chicago, at the Museum of Broadcast Communications. It was a special show for Jim Lounsbury after his induction into the museums Hall of Fame. Pictured are, Tobin, Ron Lane on guitar and in the rear, Dave Spanier on bass guitar.

Tobin Matthews: "Sunshine High"

2009-08-04T09:55:00.000-07:00

I wrote this song many years ago and recorded it in Chicago at "Pumpkin Studios". I have included a slide show of my Grandchildren, Cam, Ty, and Payge. They are my "Sunshine High". I thank my daughters Holly and Carrie for these three treasures.

Tobin Matthews & Jimmy McHugh

2009-08-04T09:47:00.001-07:00

Jimmy McHugh, on guitar, and me performing at a show in Indiana in 1969.

Tobin Matthews: Sings at Civic Center

2009-08-04T09:42:00.001-07:00

Willy and the Jeepers: 30 Year Reunion

2009-08-04T09:30:00.000-07:00

This is a picture taken at our 30 year reunion in Merrillville, Indiana at the Holiday Star Hotel. We were telling stories about funny things that happened at various record hops. Pictured left to right are - Jimmy McHugh, Ron Lane, Frank (Gajewski) Gage, Tobin, Norby King and Jan Gabriel.

Tobin Matthews: "Special Angel" Live Rehearsal

2009-07-22T17:46:00.001-07:00

I really didn't want to post this rehearsal because I thought it was kind of boring, but several friends of mine requested that I put it on. They thought it was interesting to watch us learning a new song. This rehearsal took place in "1987" at "The Music Lab" in lansing, Illinois, thanks to Tom and Neal Barnhart. A couple of the guys in the band were having a little trouble with some of the chords, especially Jimmy, my keyboard player. "Special Angel" was originally recorded by "Bobby Helms". I wanted to learn this song for someone special in my life at that time. Unfortunately I wasn't satisfied with our final results. Something just wasn't clicking. We never did perform the tune live on stage.

Tobin Matthews - Airport Reception

2009-07-22T17:26:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken as I disembarked from a United Airlines flight up east. I was there to do a show at Sears for Bobby Brooks, a popular girls clothing line. The girls were a great welcoming committee.

Tobin Matthews & Claude Akins

2009-07-22T17:07:00.000-07:00

This picture of Claude and me was taken at Malibu Beach in California. Claude appeared in many TV shows, Bonanza, Gunsmoke, and way too many to list. He also had his own shows, "Movin' On" & "Sheriff Lobo". He truly was one of the nicest guys I've ever met.

"Willy & The Rhythm Rockers"

2009-07-22T16:43:00.000-07:00

This is my first band, "Willy & The Rhythm Rockers". If I remember, after all these years, the pictures were taken in Markham, Illinois. I was 17 years old. This was the band the Poppel brothers, Bob & Dick, and Erma J. Nelson set me up with after singing at Poppel's Under 21 Club.

Tobin Matthews: "It Doesn't Matter Anymore"

2009-07-08T13:54:00.000-07:00

This is a cover song of "It Doesn't Matter Anymore". It was originally done by "Buddy Holly" in 1959 on the Coral Records label. The song was written by "Paul Anka". We recorded this in New York for Columbia Records in 1962 in hopes it would be used on a future album. It was never released as a single. The session was produced by "Al Kasha".

Willowbrook - Chicago - Jim Lounsbury Special Show

2009-07-08T13:30:00.000-07:00

This was a special show we did for Jim Lounsbury, "Welcome Back Jim", at the Willowbrook Ballroom in Chicago. I rounded up three of the old Jeepers, Jimmy McHugh - keyboards, Norby King - drums, and lead guitarist, Ron Lane. We added Dave Spanier - bass, and Jerry King - rhythm guitar with the help of Tom Barnhart, owner of "The Music Lab" in Lansing, Illinois. Tom also provided the instruments, sound system and his personal crew to set everything up on stage, and let us rehearse at Music Lab the day before. What a guy!!!

Tobin Matthews & Soupy Sales

2009-07-08T13:09:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of Soupy Sales and me at a show we did in Detroit, Michigan in 1962. My record "Susan" was getting great air play and Columbia Records flew me to Detroit to do this show, radio interviews, TV Record Hops and to help promote the record as much as possible. Soupy was the Master of Ceremonies. You couldn't have met a nicer guy. He offered to help me anyway he could, and he did. His word was as good as gold. Thanks Soupy!!

Tobin Matthews - Washington, DC

2009-07-08T13:02:00.000-07:00

Performing with a local band in Washington, DC.

Pix For Your Scrapbook

2009-07-08T12:55:00.000-07:00

This is a page from a teen magazine in 1963.

Tobin Matthews: "Come On Lady" - A Song For Bonnie

2009-06-25T12:41:00.000-07:00

I wrote and recorded this song for my wife, Bonnie, many years ago. We went to the same high school, met at our ten-year class reunion and were together for over 32 years We had two beautiful daughters, Holly and Carrie. One day she took a trip to see our daughters and never came home again. Why, I still don't know to this day. I wish it never would have happened. She was the love of my life. -- Love's season is brief, As brief as a russet leaf, As brief as a butterfly on wing, As brief as the song I sing, Love's season is brief, Only a lifetime, Never enough.

2009-06-25T12:22:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken by Bonnie while I was recording "Come On Lady" at Pumpkin Studios, located in a southern Chicago suburb.

Tobin, Bonnie and Joey Dee

2009-06-25T11:23:00.000-07:00

This picture of Bonnie and me with Joey Dee, who had the hit record, The Peppemint Twist, was taken at a Jim Lounsbury show on the south side of Chicago.

Two Old Friends Come For A Visit

2009-06-25T10:54:00.000-07:00

"THE GALAXIES" Pictured from left to right are - Terry Gunderson, Don Smith, Danny Pawlak and Bruce Novak.

Tobin and Don Smith in my Indiana front yard. What a great time we had during this visit. We talked about all those good old days of us playing music, remembering special stories and having a few beers. Don played lead guitar in the band after Ron Lane left. Before joining my band, Don was the lead guitarist in "The Galaxies", a well known Chicago band that played a lot of record hops and ballrooms. Other members of their band were, Danny Pawlak, Bruce Novak and Terry Gunderson. Don now lives in Billings, Montana.
This is Tobin and Danny Pawlak. Danny, who lives in Illinois, played drums in the band the times Norby King couldn't make the show. He is best known for being the drummer for "The Galaxies", a popular Chicago band in the late 50's and early 60's. Danny, thanks for keeping the beat.
"THE GALAXIES" Pictured left to right are - Don Smith, Bruce Novak, Danny Pawlak and Terry Gunderson.

Tobin Matthews: "Break It Easy"

2009-06-07T11:04:00.000-07:00

This record was recorded in New York on Columbia Records in "1963". It was produced by Al Kasha, arranged and conducted by Alan Lorber. "Break It Easy" was written by Jerry Naylor, who became the lead singer for "The Crickets" after the death of Buddy Holly. This song has always been one of my favorites.

Jerry Naylor: Writer of "Break It Easy"

2009-06-07T10:31:00.000-07:00

Pictured, left to right are, Sonny Curtis, Jerry Allison, Jerry Naylor and Glen D. Hardin. The Crickets.
After the death of Buddy Holly, Jerry Naylor joined "The Crickets" in 1960. Their goal was to re-form the group. This project turned out to be very successful. They did an album with Bobby Vee, "Bobby Vee Meets The Crickets". Jerry Naylor was the lead singer on most of the Liberty/EMI recordings and the "Cricket" concert dates until he left the group for a solo career in 1965.
Jerry Naylor wrote "Break It Easy", which turned out to be one of my favorite recordings. I had the great opportunity to meet Jerry when he was playing at a Club just south of Chicago. I had already recorded the song and he liked what I had done. After his show, the two of us sat in a booth, had a few beers and talked about the Crickets and Buddy Holly. I was awe struck. It was a super night and Jerry Naylor couldn't have been nicer. He was just like one of the guys.

Tobin Matthews: Harrisburg, Pa.

2009-06-07T10:20:00.000-07:00

Tobin at a Night Club up east.

"Palisades Park" in New Jersey

2009-06-07T09:35:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of "Cousin Brucie", Bruce Morrow, who had a very popular top 40 Rock 'N Roll radio show on WABC in New York, "Zackerly", who was the host of a late night horror movie show on WABC TV in New York and Tobin Matthews. The photo was taken at "Palisades Park" in New Jersey and used in Teen Life magazine, 1962. "Palisades Park" was a great place. They had a canopy covered stage and a large seating area for the fans. Popular DJs would host the show, singers of the day would lip-sinc their records, sign autographs and perform for the fans. Occasionally other celebrities would also make the show to entertain the crowd.

Video: Happy Birthday Carrie, Love Dad

2009-05-26T09:03:00.000-07:00

I recorded this song for my daughter Carrie's 16th birthday. I rewrote the lyrics of the Tune Weavers song, "Happy Happy Birthday Baby" and made it a personal birthday song for Carrie. It is similar to the one I did for Holly but, the words are different and we used a little echo. My friend, guitarist and keyboard musician, Jimmy McHugh and I did it at his home, in Indiana, so the sound quality is not as good as being in a studio. I know Carrie loved it and it helped make her day just a little more special.

Tobin Matthews: New York Promo Picture

2009-05-26T08:59:00.000-07:00

Ruth Buzzi

2009-05-26T07:40:00.000-07:00

I moved to New York as Tobin Matthews in 1962 and arrived in Greenwich Village on Easter Sunday. My press agent, Bob Corcoran, had a friend, Rod Warren, who was having an Easter get-together at his home. Bob and I decided to attend. That was where I met Ruth Buzzi. We became instant friends and after a while, we began dating. We dated for about a year. Buzzi was a wonderful and caring person. I don't think I've ever had as much fun with one person. I was just starting out in New York and Buzzi had been there for a while. She was doing Off-Broadway and summer stock. She might not realize it but, she taught me a lot. We all lived in the Village during a special time. It was the age of the flower children, the Peace Movement and you guessed it, hippies. Buzzi and I have tried to keep in touch through the years, although lately I've lost track of her. Buzzi, if you see this, email or call me.
In the sub-ways of New York in the 60s, they had a monthly beauty contest. On the inside of the cars would be a poster with a picture and bio a beautiful girl titled "Meet Miss Sub-Ways". New Yorkers would then vote for the one they liked the best. This card is Buzzi's take-off on that contest. This is her famous Gladys Ormphby way before her fame on "Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In".
This is a picture of Ruth Buzzi holding my daughter Holly and I am to the right holding my younger daughter Carrie.

Tobin Matthews: Greeted by fans at airport

2009-05-26T07:31:00.000-07:00

Video: Tobin Matthews - "One Of These Days"

2009-05-07T11:41:00.000-07:00

This Tobin Matthews record was recorded on Columbia Records in New York in 1962. It was produced by Al Kasha and arranged and conducted by Alan Lorber. "One Of These Days" was written by J. Gluck, C. Bayer and S. Harway. It was the flip side of "Susan". This side did get some air play but, nothing like the play "Susan" received.

Al Kasha: Producer, Writer & Friend

2009-05-07T07:49:00.000-07:00

Tobin Matthews in the office of Al Kasha, at Columbia Records, New York, 1962. Al and I discuss the songs we are going to record and make some last minute changes before going into the studio for the "Susan" recording session.
Al was my A&R man and produced all the recordings I did in New York. Being a young recording artist, I couldn't have had a better or more knowledgeable person to work with. He was more than a record producer. He was a mentor, he believed in me and he was a great friend. Thanks Al!!!
Al Kasha, along with co-writer Joel Hirschhorn, won two Oscars at the Academy Awards for writing Best Song of the Year. The first in 1972 for "The Morning After" from the movie "The Poseidon Adventure" and another in 1974 for "We May Never Love Like This Again" from the movie "The Towering Inferno". Both songs were recorded by Maureen McGovern. They have also received two Tony nominations, two Grammy nominations, an Emmy, four Golden Globe nominations and a Peoples Choice Award. During his career, Al has worked with Jackie Wilson, Aretha Franklin, Neil Diamond, Steve Lawrence and many other artists.

"Tobin Matthews Signs With Columbia Records"

2009-05-06T07:50:00.000-07:00

Video: Tobin Matthews - "Susan"

2009-04-19T12:45:00.000-07:00

This recording of "Susan", was my first Columbia Records release. It was recorded in New York at Columbia Studios in 1962. The "Susan" session was produced by Al Kasha, arranged and conducted by Alan Lorber. The song was written by J. Gluck & B. Raleigh. This song will always hold a special place in my memory.

Tobin Matthews: Recording "Susan"

2009-04-19T12:29:00.000-07:00

Tobin, at the mike, recording "Susan" in Columbia Studios.
One of the background singers discussing their vocal parts with Tobin.