The Purple Gang (American band)
| Company type | Rock band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1965 |
| Founder | Bob Corff, Alan Wisdom, Mark Landon, Marty Tryon, Harry Garfield, Tom Atwater |
| Defunct | 1967 |
| Headquarters | Los Angeles, California , United States |
Area served | United States |
| Products | Music recordings, singles |
The Purple Gang was a rock ensemble originating from Los Angeles, California, active between 1965 and 1967. They issued multiple singles under the MGM label, with their most notable song being "Bring Your Own Self Down," written by Tandyn Almer. Their music has appeared on compilations including Just for Kicks Volume 1, released by Misty Lane Records in 2004.
History
Established in late 1965 in North Hollywood, The Purple Gang was primarily composed of students from North Hollywood High School. Their name was derived from the infamous Chicago gang known by the same title. The founding lineup featured Bob Corff (vocals), Alan Wisdom (guitar), Mark Landon (guitar), Marty Tryon (bass), Harry Garfield (keyboards), and Tom Atwater (drums). Their musical style was influenced by groups such as the Beatles, the Byrds, and Love. Vocalist Bob Corff introduced the band to L.A. promoter Tony Richland, who took on their management and later collaborated with Harry Nilsson. Prior to joining The Purple Gang, Wisdom and Tryon had been members of the local band the Tegrams.
A signature aspect of their image was each member wearing a single purple glove, a concept originated by bassist Tryon who was inspired by a character from an old western film. This distinctive accessory was later adopted by guitarist Mark Landon during his tenure with The Music Machine, noted for their black glove style. The Purple Gang played at venues such as Filthy McNasty's and Pandora's Box but are chiefly remembered for their recorded output.
Their initial single, "Answer the Phone," was launched on Jerden Records in early 1966. After signing with MGM, they released "Bring Your Own Self Down," composed by Tandyn Almer, who would gain recognition for "Along Comes Mary." In 1967, their final MGM release was a rendition of Laura Nyro's "Poverty Train." Additionally, they recorded unreleased covers of Love's songs "Can't Explain" and "No Matter What You Do." The group dissolved by mid-1967.
Following the band's breakup, Mark Landon achieved success as an Emmy-winning make-up artist for television and film. Marty Tryon joined the Lamp of Childhood under ABC Dunhill Records and subsequently worked as a session bassist and production manager for television acts including the Smothers Brothers. Bob Corff transitioned into acting roles within prominent rock musicals and currently teaches acting and vocal performance. Alan Wisdom operates a telephone installation company. Harry Garfield, now known as Harry Ascher, holds the position of Vice President in Universal Studios' Music Department.
The Purple Gang’s tracks have been featured on compilations like Just For Kicks Volume 1 and The Lost Generation, Vol. 3.
Membership
- Bob Corff (vocals)
- Alan Wisdom (guitar)
- Mark Landon (guitar)
- Marty Tryon (bass)
- Harry Garfield (keyboards)
- Tom Atwater (drums)
Discography
- "Answer the Phone" b/w "Answer the Phone" (Jerden 794, 1966)
- "Bring Your Own Self Down" b/w "One of the Bunch" (MGM 13607, 1966)
- "Poverty Train" (MGM, 1967)