The Tamrons

The Tamrons

Company type	Band
Industry	Music
Founded	1965
Defunct	1968
Headquarters	Concord, North Carolina , United States
Products	Garage rock music, singles

The Tamrons were a 1960s American garage rock group originating from Concord, near Charlotte. During the mid-1960s, they rose to prominence as one of the most favored bands in both Concord and Charlotte, gaining regional acclaim with their single "Wild-Man," paired with "Stop, Look, Listen." This record was produced at Arthur Smith’s studio and issued through his Pyramid label. The band ceased activities in 1968. Since then, their music has attracted appreciation from garage rock collectors and has been included on multiple compilation albums.

Formation

Established in 1965 by students attending Concord High School, the ensemble originally performed under the name Night Raiders. Founding members comprised Lloyd Pettus on lead guitar, Robert Walters handling rhythm guitar duties, and Ted Pettus on drums. Bassist Keith Stacy joined after moving from another local outfit known as the Kings. Phil Walters completed the lineup by playing keyboards with a Farfisa organ. Inspired by British Invasion groups such as the Beatles alongside American acts like Paul Revere & the Raiders and the Byrds, they soon adopted the name Tamrons. Their setlists frequently included covers like the Byrds’ "It Won't Be Wrong." The Concord garage scene was vibrant, featuring bands like the Huns, Fantastik Four, Phantom Raiders, West Wind, Swinging Sensations, Surfmates, and Ravens.

The Tamrons regularly performed in Charlotte, which was home to groups including the Paragons and the Grifs. They participated in battle of the bands competitions and toured within approximately 200 miles of their hometown. Management initially was overseen by Robert Walters’ father but later transitioned to Lloyd Pettus’ father, who provided financial support for touring gear. Early performances included appearances at gas station openings in downtown Concord and live broadcasts on local radio. The band maintained a steady presence at the Green Dragon, a well-known teen club in Concord.

Competition with the Huns and recording sessions

In Concord’s music scene, the Tamrons and the Huns were recognized as its top two bands. While their relationship started amicably, it eventually soured into rivalry. After overhearing the Tamrons rehearse their original track "Genie," the Huns quickly recorded a nearly identical song titled "Shakedown," which was later featured on the 1984 Back from the Grave, Volume 4 compilation. This act provoked significant frustration among the Tamrons, leading them to confront the Huns’ manager directly.

The Tamrons cut their single at Arthur Smith’s Charlotte studio for Pyramid Records, featuring two original songs written by Pettus and Walters. The A-side "Wild-Man" delivered a gritty, provocative sound highlighted by a memorable guitar riff, whereas the B-side "Stop, Look, Listen" presented a melodic ballad at a moderate tempo. Keyboardist Steve Baucom contributed both organ parts and backing vocals. This release enjoyed success locally and regionally across Concord and Charlotte.

In subsequent years, both personnel and musical style evolved within the group. Robert Walters departed to concentrate on football commitments and was succeeded by Bobby Yost from Kannapolis. By 1968, embracing a shift toward soul and R&B influences, they incorporated a horn section featuring Eddie Coble on saxophone along with trumpeters John Sherril and Rick Nash. The Tamrons ultimately disbanded later that same year.

Subsequent developments and enduring impact

Drawing inspiration from Jimi Hendrix, Keith Stacy established the heavy rock ensemble Liquid Nitrogen alongside Butch Yarborough of the Fantastik Four. Stacy's musical journey continued with bands such as Flight, Axis, and Jesse Bolt. Meanwhile, Robert Walters transitioned into a career in professional football, joining the Washington Redskins.

Over the years, The Tamrons' tracks have earned appreciation within the garage rock community. Their composition "Wild-Man" secured the #147 spot on Mike Markesich's Teenbeat Mayhem listing of the top 1000 garage rock songs. Their recordings have been featured on various compilation albums, including "Wild-Man" on Crypt Records' 1984 LP Back from the Grave, Volume 4 and "Stop, Look, Listen" on Manic Mustang Records’ Total Ranch: 100% Boss Garage collection. Reflecting on his experience with the group, Keith Stacy remarked:

Those were truly special times. Playing in a band was commonplace. Those musicians are now professionals like lawyers and airline pilots, but back then in Concord, being in a band was essential.

1965–1967

• Lloyd Pettus (lead guitar)
• Robert Walters (rhythm guitar)
• Keith Stacy (bass)
• Phil Walters (organ)
• Ted Pettus (drums)

1968

• Lloyd Pettus (guitar)
• Bobby Yost (lead guitar)
• Keith Stacy (bass)
• Phil Walters (organ)
• Ted Pettus (drums)
• Eddie Coble (saxophone)
• John Sherril (trumpet)
• Rick Nash (trumpet)

Releases

• "Wild-Man" / "Stop, Look, Listen" (Pyramid 7-7381, January 1967)

References

• There Was a Time: Rock & Roll in the 1960s in Charlotte and North Carolina, Jacob Berger & Daniel Coston, 2014, Fort Canoga Press
• Teenbeat Mayhem, Mike Markesich, 2012, Priceless Info Press

External links

• The Tamrons at Discogs