The Preachers
| Industry | Music |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1964 |
| Headquarters | Los Angeles, California , United States |
| Products | Garage rock music, singles |
The Preachers emerged as a garage rock ensemble from Los Angeles, California, established in 1964. Drawing strong inspiration from the British Invasion, particularly the Rolling Stones and the Dave Clark Five, their sound fused vigorous American R&B elements with an energetic edge. Throughout their short-lived tenure, the group produced three singles, with their most acclaimed recording being a spirited rendition of Bo Diddley's "Who Do You Love?".
History
The band's members, all seasoned performers on the local college rock scene, connected during auditions for a backing band in 1964. The lineup consisted of Richard Fortunato (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Hal Tennant (lead guitar), Zeke "Jim" Camarillo (bass), Rudy Garza (piano), and Steve Lagana (drums). They quickly built a following in Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley, frequently playing at Herman Hovers teen dance club and supporting groups such as the Byrds, the Seeds, and the Leaves. This rising prominence secured them management under Jerry Fonarow.
Utilizing their industry ties, The Preachers signed with Moonglow Records. Their initial release was an intense cover of Bo Diddley’s "Who Do You Love?", distinguished by assertive vocal harmonies, surf-style guitar interludes, and unique keyboard sounds. The band promoted this single on the television show Shivaree, highlighting Fortunato’s powerful singing and their stage outfits inspired by clerical attire. Despite this success, Moonglow Records removed Fortunato following the single’s launch before the group could finalize their next track, "The Zeke".
Fortunato subsequently joined the folk rock outfit the Vejtables, contributing as co-writer to their last single, "Shadow", while the remaining members transitioned into the Mojo Men. Collaborating with folk vocalist Burk Reynolds, The Preachers released two additional singles that did not achieve significant success before Reynolds was replaced by John English. By late 1965, adopting a grittier punk-influenced sound, they rebranded as John English and the Lemon Drops for their final single release titled "Moanin'". The band dissolved in early 1966. Their version of "Who Do You Love?" secured a lasting place within garage rock collections and inspired other bands such as the Woolies to cover it. This track appeared on compilations including Pebbles, Volume 1 and Teenage Shutdown! Jump, Jive & Harmonize. In 2002, the Moanin' EP gathered all recordings from their four singles into one release.