Sex Execs
| Company type | Music group |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1981 |
| Defunct | 1984 |
| Headquarters | Boston, Massachusetts , United States |
| Products | Music recordings, live performances |
Sex Execs was a new wave music group originating from Boston, Massachusetts, active between late 1981 and mid-1984. They performed extensively in bars and college venues throughout the Northeastern United States. Although their self-produced recordings were limited in number, they achieved enduring recognition mainly due to their notable members. The band's rehearsal space doubled as a foundational studio for producers Paul Q. Kolderie (bass) and Sean Slade (rhythm guitar). Additional lineup members featured Jim Fitting on saxophone (later harmonica), drummer Jerome Deupree (who subsequently joined Morphine), and saxophonist Russ Gershon.
Musical Style and Public Response
Sex Execs found a following on college radio stations, particularly with their track "My Ex." Their most significant exposure occurred in 1983 during the fifth annual Rock 'n' Roll Rumble hosted by WBCN (FM) radio. After besting the Del Fuegos in the semi-final round, they ultimately placed second to 'Til Tuesday. The Boston Globe characterized both finalists as "style conscious," describing Sex Execs as "witty" and "wry." Judges commended the band’s precise execution of intricate arrangements and frontman Walter Clay's compelling stage presence.
In contrast to 'Til Tuesday, who secured a major label contract, Sex Execs were perceived as somewhat lacking in songwriting depth but were recognized for being "slick, stylish, and tight," frequently incorporating brass elements into their dense arrangements. By this period, the ensemble had expanded from six to eight members with the addition of two horn players. Their live performances, featuring suits and ties, evoked comparisons to Robert Palmer, who was present at that year's Rumble final.
Previously, the Boston Globe noted Sex Execs’ penchant for "overeducated in-jokes" yet acknowledged them as an intriguing group experimenting with various styles. Their repertoire included covers such as Hayley Mills' "Let's Get Together" and Annette Funicello's "Jo Jo the Dog Faced Boy." Their original compositions spanned from straightforward pop tunes to jazz-influenced dissonance.
Rock critic Dave Marsh famously described their "concept funk" piece "Sex Train" as reminiscent of "David Byrne flashing a hard-on."
Influence on Music Production
In a 2015 interview, Paul Kolderie reflected on acquiring recording skills in the Dorchester, Boston residence where most of the Sex Execs lived. This location was equipped as a rudimentary studio that attracted other local bands. As Sex Execs’ profile rose, they moved on to professional facilities such as Syncro Sound, owned by The Cars, where Kolderie gained valuable experience as an engineer.
Three years later, Sean Slade confirmed that their initial production work originated at the Sex Execs’ house using a four-track reel-to-reel recorder purchased in New York. Kolderie, Slade, and Fitting—who all attended Yale University—went on to establish Fort Apache Studios, maintaining the DIY production spirit cultivated during their time with the band. Founder Joe Harvard remarked that Fitting joined as a fourth partner to balance expenses evenly, dubbing them "the most grossly overeducated recording crew in history."
Band Members
- Walter Clay – lead vocals
- Sean Slade – guitar, saxophone, vocals
- Paul Kolderie – bass
- Jim Fitting – baritone saxophone
- Russ Gershon – saxophone
- Andrew "Andre" Barnaby – guitar
- Ted Pine – keyboards, vocals
- Dan Johnsen – drums
- Jerome Deupree – drums (successor to Johnsen)
Recordings
- Sex Execs (1982) – EP featuring four tracks
- "My Ex" / "Ladies' Man" (1983) – 12-inch vinyl single
- "Sex Train" / "Strange Things" (1984) – 12-inch vinyl single