The Why Four were another of the highly accomplished British migrant beat groups to come out of the Elizabeth area in South Australia. They began life in 1964 as instrumental band The Vikings, but by year's end had added Colin Byford on vocals and renamed themselves Colin Ford and the Vikings. Other members of the band at that time were Roy Clayton on rhythm guitar, Bob Harris on bass, Jonquil Phillipson drums, and John Walstrom on lead guitar. They changed their name to The Why Four in 1966, and recruited a new lead guitarist, Ricky Coburn, who had been a member of Liverpool band The Coins and had played at The Cavern Club. The Why Four released their only two singles in 1966, ''Ability / Evergreen Tree'' and ''Keep A Hold Of What You've Got / Honey And Wine'' on Columbia Records. Roy Clayton and Bob Harris left the band in March 1967, so with Ian Ferguson, (ex-The Moods), on bass, they continued as a four-piece band, but by December 1967 it was all over. The Why Four's demise was announced with the news that Colin Ford was joining the Raymond Parker Occupation. They were noted for their excellent harmony work.
Members
Colin Byford (vocals), Rick Coburn (guitar), Bob Harris (bass), Jon Phillips (drums), Roy Clayton (guitar), Ian Ferguson (bass)
SINGLES
''Ability / Evergreen Tree'' 1966 Columbia''Keep A Hold Of What You've Got / Honey And Wine'' 1966 Columbia
References
Hi Kimbo Colin Byford is my cousin. Thank you for this about the Why? 4. I was just wondering about him and his band. Thought I'd see if there was anything about him and his band and found your great blog. Great memories of seeing him perform at the Octogen in Elizabeth and going back stage much to the surprise of fans waiting to get a glimpse of the band. Thank you so much.
ReplyDeleteMy pleasure. If you have anything to add please comment
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