The Controversial Front Men of the 1960s: Gary Lewis, Keith Relf, and Davey Jones

When discussing the front men of popular bands in the 1960s, opinions can often vary widely. While some artists are celebrated for their charisma and stage presence, others are criticized for their vocal styles and personae. This article delves into the stories of Gary Lewis, Keith Relf, and Davey Jones, exploring their impact on their respective bands and the lasting impressions they left on the music industry.

Gary Lewis: The Playboy's Vocal Shortcomings

While many music fans enjoy the songs of Gary Lewis and the Playboys, some question the quality of Gary's singing. His voice is often described as flat and uninteresting, leading to mixed reviews from critics. Not surprisingly, Gary took responsibility for his vocal struggles, admitting, 'I was singing flat and sharp with no confidence. I’m embarrassed for anyone to hear that…'. This confession highlights the challenges that even sons of famous figures like Gary’s father, Jerry Lewis, faced in the music world.

Keith Relf of the Yardbirds: A Voice That Failed to Enhance the Sound

The Yardbirds were an outstanding and influential British Blues Rock band, known for their exceptional musicianship and innovative sound. However, as the story goes, Keith Relf's voice did little to enhance the band's already strong overall performance. His thin, reedy nasal voice detracted from the group's otherwise impressive lineup, which included Eric Clapton, Robert Plant, and Rod Stewart.

Keith’s unique vocal style, while perhaps fitting for certain songs, ultimately hindered the band's ability to connect with listeners in the same way that his colleagues did. This chapter of the Yardbirds' history is a reminder that even in a band filled with phenomenal musicians, individual voices can sometimes clash with the group's identity.

Davey Jones of the Monkees: The Television Star’s Musical Limitations

Davey Jones of the Monkees is perhaps best remembered as a television star rather than a musical front man. The band was originally created for a TV series, and Davey was chosen in part because of his physical appearance and his nationality as a foreign actor. However, his musical abilities left much to be desired. His singing style was described as shallow and nasally, effectively limiting his contribution to the band.

While Michael Nesmith and Peter Tork of the Monkees were credible musicians, Davey struggled to keep up. Nesmith was particularly vocal about his dissatisfaction with the band's musical direction, which may have been a factor in his eventual decision not to tour with the band.

Conclusion: The Impact of Vocal Choices in the 1960s

The examples of Gary Lewis, Keith Relf, and Davey Jones demonstrate that the 1960s were a time of great musical experimentation and innovation. While these front men brought unique elements to their respective bands, their vocal approaches also presented challenges that ultimately affected the bands' success and legacy.

These stories serve as a reminder that even in an era of fiercely competitive musician talent, individual strengths and weaknesses play a crucial role in the overall success of a band. Whether a front man is celebrated or criticized, their impact on the music industry is undeniable.