The Why Four were one of the standout British migrant beat groups to emerge from the Elizabeth area in South Australia. They started in 1964 as an instrumental outfit called The Vikings, but by the end of that year had brought in Colin Byford on vocals and renamed themselves Colin Ford and the Vikings. The lineup then included Roy Clayton on rhythm guitar, Bob Harris on bass, Jonquil Phillipson on drums, and John Walstrom on lead guitar. In 1966, they rebranded as The Why Four after discovering another band named Peter Briggs and The Vikings in Melbourne, also bringing in new lead guitarist Ricky Coburn, a former member of Liverpool’s The Coins who had played at The Cavern Club. That year they released their only two singles on Columbia Records: ''Ability / Evergreen Tree'' and ''Keep A Hold Of What You’ve Got / Honey And Wine''. In March 1967, Clayton and Harris departed, and with Ian Ferguson (ex-The Moods) on bass, they carried on as a four-piece until disbanding in December. News of their breakup came with the announcement that Colin Ford was joining the Raymond Parker Occupation. They were especially known for their strong harmonies.
Members
Colin Byford (vocals), Rick Coburn (guitar), Bob Harris (bass), Jon Phillips (drums), Roy Clayton (guitar), Ian Ferguson (bass)
''Ability / Evergreen Tree'' 1966 Columbia
''Keep A Hold Of What You've Got / Honey And Wine'' 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
DeleteHi Kimbo i knew Colin and Kicky in the late 60s.I often wonder what ever happend to the both of them.I remeber going to a lot of gigs with them and partys back at their house on Goodwood road which was also their second hand shop.Great times great people great memories.....Craig
ReplyDeleteThe ashes of Y?4 morphed into Adelaide band Macarthur in the early 70s. Members were Rick Coburn, Roy Clayton, Bob Harris and Dean Semmons. Numerous lineup changes after 75. Very popular on the Adelaide circuit throughout the 70s ( Sergios/ Sams/ Multiplication/ Arkaba/ PJs/ Largs Pier/ Swinger/ etc. Specialised in Hollies harmonies.
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