The Rivieras - Let's Have A Party 1964

From the LP "Let's Have A Party". Recorded February 1964 on USA Records #102.

Great! That was the reaction to The Rivieras almost a year ago in the town of La Porte, Indiana. It was in La Porte that the group played their first professional performance at the "Tipon Terrace Danceland".

Bill Dobslaw, 21 years old and a native of Sawyer, Michigan, at the request of the group, took over as manager and vocalist when the original singer left for the Marines. The other members of the group, whose ages average 18 and attend high school in South Bend, Indiana, are Paul Dennert, drummer-Otto Nuss, organist-Doug Gean, bass guitar-Jim boal, lead guitar-and Willie Gaut, rhythm guitar.

After their initial performance The Rivieras received many requests for "California Sun", a song which they recorded in Chicago at the prompting of many fans. The record soon found its way on the local charts in Michigan and Indiana and was brought to the attention of Art Roberts, DJ at WLS Radio in Chicago. Thanks to the efforts of that station and many others, the song went on to become an international hit. The overnight success of The Rivieras has left them very appreciative of the many fans who have helped to make them the outstanding new group of 1964.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• Oldies
• Rock
• 45rpm

[BBINGHAM032352]

This must be the best surf band from Indiana. I love this music. I want more and more.

[TUBBERTIM]

I have this LP. I lived in the city where the Rivieras were discovered. LaPorte Indiana at the Tipton Terase. My dad was a police officer at the time and if I remember the story correctly he could have been there that night but chose not to. Oh well. I have always loved this LP and it is still in great condition. Favorites are Little Donna, Let's Have A Party, HB Goosestep and of course California Sun. Great tunes.

[regalbeagleable]

this song rocks

[EbonyBunny1]

@NcicHit I agree. I love Elvis' version, I love Wanda Jackson's version even more, but this is my favorite version so far. I never heard this version until just now. It Rockabilly meets Surf music, and sounds great.

[meljes2]

I was 6 when I heard them and I had a 15 year old brother had their record 45 they were my favorite and still are at 51

[DannyA123]

Also love the version of this song by The Collins Kids, Lorrie and Larry.

[cmf1965]

That would be "The Oneders" Wanda Jackson's version is the original from 1959, or 1960 IIRC...

[EyeMPabo]

Tom Hanks based The Wonders on The Rivieras, if I'm not very mistaken. They were one of the Beatles favorite groups too, I think I remember Paul saying.