A Southern R and B Beach Band Remembered

2009-09-12T08:22:00.000-07:00

See Photos of The Original Villagers

The Original Villagers, a Rhythm & Blues beach band was formed about 1965 by Jim Woods of Union South Carolina with members from both Union and Whimire, S.C.,. The group traveled with primarily 8 members. The group recorded and released two records, "Tossin' & Turnin' b/w "Send down all your Loving"and "Bye Bye JJ" b/w "Love is the Word". They also recorded other songs that were not released to the public at that time but can be heard now by using the link below to YouTube. Known for their dynamic horn section and entertaining shows, the group performed for most major college and universities in the southeast. They also were a favorite at coastal beach clubs in South Carolina and Florida. The group was later part of a management group that included the Pieces of Eight and were the opening act for the Pieces after they released "Lonely Drifter". They could also be heard back in the sixties providing the music and fronting for THE PLATTERS, THE SHOWMEN, and THE RADIANTS and other well known groups as they toured the south in those days.
Some of the Original Villagers favorite places to perform (and party) were at Williams Lake, Athens, Ga. for the Uni of Georgia and The Red Rooster Beach Club in Panama City, Fla.,.
The bands final performance was at the Uni of Alabama in the fall of 1969 where they called it quits after losing several members to the military draft during the Viet Nam War.

Listen to the Original Villagers on YouTube at: Villagers on YouTube
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Remembering The "Original" Villagers

A Southern R and B Beach Band Remembered