Hope (American band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1969 |
| Founder | Wayne McKibbin |
| Defunct | 1972 |
| Headquarters | La Crosse , United States |
| Products | Music albums and singles |
Hope was a Christian rock ensemble originating from La Crosse, Wisconsin, known for releasing a single album and three individual singles.
Jesters III background
Prior to Hope, the band Jesters III was active in La Crosse, Wisconsin (distinct from the group with a similar name based in Gaffney, South Carolina). The members consisted of Wayne McKibbin, Jim Burkhart, and Tom Eisenman, with Eisenman serving as the frontman. This group developed from earlier formations including the Jim and Chuck Duo and the Saffires. By May 1965, Jesters III had completed extensive tours throughout Washington, Nevada, and California. They frequently played at local La Crosse spots such as the U Bar and Hide-Away Bar.
In 1965, they issued the single "Pledge Of Love" with "Say That I’m The One" as the B-side on the Coulee label, produced by Lindy Shannon. The A-side was composed by Jim Burkhart and Chuck Hall, while Ramona Reed wrote the B-side. Throughout 1966 and 1967, Jesters III continued performing at venues like the Student Union "Shindig" and the Varsity Club. Their gigs were regularly promoted in The Racquet, the student publication of Wisconsin State University-La Crosse.
- Band members
- Jim Burkhart – bass guitar
- Wayne McKibbin – guitarist
- Tom Eisenman – drummer
Hope background
Hope was established in 1969 under the leadership of guitarist Wayne McKibbin, featuring James Croegaert on piano, David Klug handling bass duties, Boyd Sibley playing organ, and Jeff Cozy on drums. Prior to forming Hope, these musicians performed at various bars and resorts throughout the Midwest. They built their reputation by playing at revival meetings, college campuses, and festivals across this region.
In April 1970, Hope appeared at the Sound Storm rock festival in Poynette, Wisconsin, sharing billing with notable acts such as The Grateful Dead and Crow. On March 15, 1972, they performed alongside Chase at an event held at Mary E. Sawyer Auditorium.
Their eponymous album Hope was released in 1972 under A&M Records.
The band's final live performance occurred at Esofea Park in Esofea, Wisconsin, where they hosted an all-day gathering featuring a picnic and farewell celebration attended by hundreds of fans and acquaintances.
Subsequent developments
Wayne McKibbin later pursued a vocation as a Protestant chaplain, ultimately becoming head Chaplain at California State Prison in Susanville, CA. Drawing from his own life experiences, he created the "Freedom from Addiction" program. McKibbin died of cancer on July 4, 2005, aged 59.
Tom L. Eisenman became a pastor and writer based in California. Together with his wife Judie, he led bible studies concentrating on marriage and family topics.
James F. Burkhart completed a PhD in physics at the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee in 1973. He served as faculty at Gallaudet University, then chaired the Physics Department at UCCS while directing the Western Regional Radon Training Center. Burkhart earned several teaching distinctions between 1982 and 1995. As of 2019, he holds Emeritus Professor status at UCCS.
Personnel
- Lineup I (1969–72)
- Jeff Cozy – drums, percussion, vocals
- James Croegaert – keyboards, vocals
- Wayne McKibbin – guitar, vocals
- Boyd Sibley – keyboards, vocals
- David Klug – bass guitar, vocals
- Lineup II (1972)
- James Croegaert – keyboards, vocals
- Tom Eisenman – drums, percussion (succeeded Jeff Cozy)
- Wayne McKibbin – guitar, vocals
- Boyd Sibley – keyboards and guitar
- David Klug – bass guitar, vocals
Singles
- The Jesters III - "Pledge Of Love" / "Say That I’m The One" - Coulee 114 (1965)
- Hope - "One Man" / "Where Do You Want To Go" - Coulee C45-134 (1968)
- "Where Do You Want To Go" / "Little Things" - A&M Records 1355 (1972)
Albums
- Hope - Hope - A&M Records SP 4329 (1972)
Compilations
- Jesters III - "Say That I'm The One" featured on Various Artists compilation - Gravel Volume 4 - Kumquat May KMGR 00004 (2007)