What happened to Bay City Rollers? Discover the intriguing story of what happened to the Bay City Rollers, from their rise to fame to their eventual journey in this captivating TV program airing tonight.
Bay City Rollers
The Bay City Rollers are a magnificent Scottish pop rock band that burst onto the scene in the glorious 1970s, capturing the hearts of teenagers all around the world. These extraordinary individuals were hailed as the “tartan teen sensations from Edinburgh,” their vibrant music and irresistible charm spreading like wildfire. With a fervor unparalleled, they were even deemed as one of the most sensational groups since the legendary Beatles themselves.
Throughout their illustrious journey, the Bay City Rollers witnessed various changes in their lineup, as they strived to create magical melodies that resonated with their adoring fans. However, it was during their pinnacle of fame that the ensemble boasted a lineup that was truly iconic. The mesmerizing sounds of guitarists Eric Faulkner and Stuart Wood intertwined flawlessly, while the powerhouse vocals of the incomparable Les McKeown pierced the air, captivating all who heard. Supporting them with an unrivaled rhythm were the skilled hands of bassist Alan Longmuir and the dynamic beats of drummer Derek Longmuir.
Today, in a magnificent revival of their glorious legacy, the Bay City Rollers continue to ignite the hearts of their devoted followers. The current lineup, which took flight in 2018, showcases the indomitable Stuart “Woody” Wood, the embodiment of their original guitar prowess. With his commanding presence, singer Ian Thomson sets the stage ablaze, while bassist Mikey Smith masterfully weaves a musical tapestry that resonates deep within the soul. And to complete this extraordinary ensemble, the rhythmic foundations are fortified by the exceptional skills of drummer Jamie McGrory.
The Bay City Rollers, their name synonymous with passion and adoration, remain an everlasting testament to the power of music. Their timeless melodies have enthralled generations, and their unwavering spirit continues to captivate all who have the privilege of experiencing their resplendent performances. From the very depths of their souls, the Bay City Rollers have gifted the world with an enduring legacy of passion, talent, and the eternal magic of rock and roll.
What Happened to Bay City Rollers?
The Bay City Rollers emerged onto the music scene with a lineup that underwent numerous changes over the years. However, it was the classic roster, featuring guitarists Eric Faulkner and Stuart Wood, singer Les McKeown, bassist Alan Longmuir, and drummer Derek Longmuir, that propelled them to worldwide teen idol status in the 1970s. Hailing from Edinburgh, Scotland, they quickly gained the reputation as the “tartan teen sensations” and captured the hearts of fans across the globe.
A Quest for Musical Sophistication
As the Rollers’ popularity began to wane, the band experienced further transitions and struggles. Guitarist Eric Faulkner and others in the group yearned to explore more sophisticated musical styles. Determined to evolve their sound, they enlisted the renowned producer Harry Maslin, known for his work with David Bowie. This marked a turning point for the band as they embarked on a journey to redefine their musical identity and push the boundaries of their pop rock roots.
It’s a Game: Triumphs and Transformations
In August 1977, the Bay City Rollers released their album “It’s a Game” as a four-piece group consisting of McKeown, Wood, Faulkner, and Derek Longmuir. Produced by Harry Maslin, the album showcased their growth and experimentation with a more mature sound. It yielded their final UK Top 20 hit, a cover of String Driven Thing’s “It’s a Game,” which surprisingly became their highest-charting German hit. The album’s success brought them continued recognition, and their subsequent tour, recorded at Japan’s Budokan Hall, was released as the celebrated live album “Rollerworld: Live at the Budokan 1977” in 2001.
The Rollercoaster of Hits and New Directions
Following the release of “It’s a Game,” the Bay City Rollers aimed to sustain their momentum with subsequent releases. Their follow-up single, “You Made Me Believe in Magic,” became their final major success, reaching No. 10 in the U.S. and No. 34 in the UK. However, the band faced challenges in maintaining their chart success and struggled to find a clear direction for their music. Despite their dedication to exploring new musical territories, they experienced diminishing commercial returns as the 1980s approached.
Television Stardom: The Bay City Rollers Show
The Bay City Rollers’s popularity extended beyond the music charts. They found themselves in the spotlight with their own television show, initially known as “The Krofft Superstar Hour” and later renamed “The Bay City Rollers Show.” This hour-long program captivated audiences from September 1978 to January 1979, showcasing the band’s infectious energy, captivating performances, and youthful charm. The television exposure further solidified their status as teen idols and enhanced their cultural impact during their peak years.
The Rollers’ Evolution: New Wave and Rock-Oriented Sounds
By the end of 1978, the Bay City Rollers experienced significant changes. Les McKeown left the band, leading to a decision to pursue a more new wave and rock-oriented sound. Renaming themselves simply as “The Rollers,” they enlisted South African-born Duncan Faure as their new lead vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter. With Faure, the band ventured into uncharted musical territories, releasing albums such as “Elevator” (1979), “Voxx” (1980), and “Ricochet” (1981). These albums showcased their artistic growth and experimentation, yet their commercial success didn’t match their earlier triumphs.
The Legacy of “Elevator,” “Voxx,” and “Ricochet”
Despite the critical acclaim received by albums like “Elevator,” “Voxx,” and “Ricochet,” the Bay City Rollers faced challenges in replicating their earlier chart-topping success. The albums presented a blend of pop, new wave, and rock influences, highlighting the band’s versatility and willingness to embrace new musical styles. However, the changing musical landscape and shifting tastes of the audience impacted their sales and popularity. Nevertheless, these albums stand as testaments to the Rollers’ artistic evolution and their commitment to exploring diverse sounds.
Sporadic Tours and the Reunion Album
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the Bay City Rollers embarked on sporadic tours, reconnecting with their dedicated fanbase. In 1982 and 1983, seven past members reunited for highly anticipated concerts in Japan. A reunion album titled “Breakout” was released in Japan and Australia in 1985, featuring contributions from various band members. Despite these endeavors, the commercial success they once enjoyed remained elusive, leading them to gradually reduce their touring activities by the late 1980s.
The New Rollers: A Different Era
In the late 1980s, a new iteration of the band emerged under the name “The New Rollers.” Led by guitarist Eric Faulkner and featuring vocalists Karen Prosser, Jason Medvec, bassist Andy Boakes, and drummer Mark Roberts, this lineup embarked on extensive tours across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. They also released an independent EP titled “Party Harty,” showcasing their continued commitment to performing and engaging with their loyal fanbase.
The Classic Lineup Reunites
In 1990, the classic Bay City Rollers lineup, including Stuart Wood, Alan Longmuir, and Eric Faulkner, joined forces once again under the band’s original name. They toured extensively and released several CDs featuring re-recordings of their classic hits. The reunion brought joy to fans who longed for the nostalgic sounds and energetic performances that defined the Rollers’ earlier years. The enduring chemistry among the original members was evident as they took to the stage, reigniting the spirit of Rollermania.
A Farewell to Edinburgh Castle: The Last Official Concert
In a momentous event, the classic Bay City Rollers lineup, with the exception of Derek Longmuir, performed a special New Year’s Eve millennium concert in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle in Scotland. The concert marked their last official performance as a group, bringing closure to an era defined by their infectious music and devoted fanbase. It served as a fitting tribute to their legacy and a heartfelt farewell to their fans, encapsulating the essence of their journey.
Rekindling Interest and Chart Success
Following the turn of the millennium, interest in the Bay City Rollers resurged, fueled by various television documentaries recounting their rise to fame. The release of the television-advertised compilation album “Very Best of the Bay City Rollers” in 2004 further propelled their comeback. It entered the UK Albums Chart at No. 11, reaffirming the enduring appeal of their timeless hits and reintroducing their music to a new generation of listeners.
Ian Mitchell’s Independent Endeavor
During the late 2000s, Ian Mitchell, a former member of the Bay City Rollers, led his own band under the name “Bay City Rollers.” Although this endeavor was not considered an official reunion, Mitchell, alongside lead vocalist Kyle Vincent, continued to captivate audiences with their spirited performances. Their dedication to keeping the Rollers’ music alive and engaging with fans served as a testament to the lasting impact of the band’s music.
The Cycle of Hope and Loss
The Bay City Rollers faced moments of hope and loss as their journey unfolded. In 2015, the band reunited, featuring McKeown, Wood, and Alan Longmuir, and performed a show in Glasgow. However, challenges arose, leading to the end of the reunion. Tragedy struck with the passing of Alan Longmuir in 2018, followed by the untimely deaths of Ian Mitchell in 2020 and Les McKeown in 2021. These losses served as poignant reminders of the band’s enduring legacy and the impact they had on generations of fans worldwide.
The Bay City Rollers’ Enduring Spirit
Despite the challenges and changes they experienced, the Bay City Rollers will always be remembered for their youthful exuberance, catchy melodies, and the joy they brought to countless fans. Their music remains a cherished part of pop rock history, continuing to resonate with listeners who appreciate their timeless sound. The journey of the Bay City Rollers stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of passion, camaraderie, and the power of music to create lasting memories.
Which Bay City Rollers Have Died?
Two members of the Bay City Rollers has paved their path to heaven. Let have a look at them:-
Alan Longmuir
Alan Longmuir was the founding member of the Bay City Rollers Known as the “original Roller,”. At the young age of 17, he established the band in 1966 alongside his brother Derek, who played the drums. Their musical journey began with the band’s original name, the Saxons, before later adopting the moniker Bay City Rollers to better suit their rock ‘n’ roll sound.
Seeking a more American sound, the band chose the name Bay City Rollers. Interestingly, they arrived at “Bay City” by throwing a dart at a map and letting fate decide. The dart landed on Bay City in Michigan, providing them with their distinctive name that would soon become synonymous with their energetic music and dedicated fanbase.
As part of one of the world’s first boy bands, Alan Longmuir achieved great success with the Bay City Rollers. However, despite their fame and fortune during the band’s peak, Alan faced financial struggles later in life. After the band disbanded, he experienced losses due to poor investments, including a Scottish hotel purchase. These setbacks led him to return to work as a plumber, earning a modest income of around £30,000 per year.
Alan’s life was filled with remarkable experiences. He had breakfast with the legendary Barbra Streisand, celebrated his birthday with the presence of actress Britt Ekland, and shared the stage with iconic acts like the Bee Gees and Elton John. These encounters reflected the extraordinary journey he embarked on as a member of the Bay City Rollers, leaving behind lasting memories and a vibrant legacy.
Alan Longmuir passed away in 2018 at the age of 70, leaving behind a rich musical legacy. His death occurred after contracting a mysterious illness while in Mexico, adding to the challenges he had faced in his later years. He left behind his wife Eileen, stepsons Nik and Kyle, and son Jordan from his previous marriage. In a statement released by his family, they described him as a humble man who considered himself “just a plumber from Edinburgh who got lucky.” They expressed gratitude for the time they had with him and acknowledged the profound impact he had on their lives.
Alan Longmuir’s contributions as the original member of the Bay City Rollers will forever be cherished, as his music continues to resonate with fans who were fortunate enough to experience the infectious energy and youthful spirit of the band’s iconic sound.
Les McKeown
Les McKeown became the lead singer of the Bay City Rollers in 1973, just before the band skyrocketed to fame. With his charismatic presence and captivating voice, he quickly became the heartthrob of the group, adored by fans around the world. His striking looks and magnetic stage persona made him the most lusted-after pin-up of the era, solidifying his status as a teen idol.
Les McKeown’s life was not without its share of challenges and scandal. He grappled with issues of substance abuse, engaging in excessive drinking and drug use. Additionally, he found himself entangled in various controversies, including affairs with both men and women and several encounters with the law. These turbulent experiences would shape his personal journey and add complexity to his public image.
In 1975, Les McKeown was involved in a tragic accident that resulted in the death of an elderly neighbor due to reckless driving. Although he was cleared of causing her death, the incident, coupled with an alleged assault by Bay City Rollers’ manager Tam Paton, took a toll on his mental and emotional well-being. It sent him into a downward spiral, leading him to grapple with issues of addiction and self-destructive behavior.
Following his departure from the band at the age of 22, Les embarked on a solo career, finding success particularly in Japan. He married his Japanese girlfriend Peko and became a father to a son named Jubei. However, as time passed, he publicly revealed that he identified as a “secret bisexual” and had engaged in numerous gay affairs throughout his marriage, shedding light on his complex and multifaceted personal life.
In 2015, Les McKeown reunited with the Bay City Rollers, rekindling the band’s magic and embarking on a series of tours. His return to the stage allowed fans to relive the band’s iconic hits and experience the enduring energy of his performances. Tragically, Les passed away in 2021 at the age of 65, succumbing to a heart attack at his home in London. His contributions as the dynamic frontman of the Bay City Rollers and his ability to captivate audiences will forever be remembered, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the realm of pop rock.
Bay City Roller Members
Know about the stories behind the members of the living Bay City Rollers Stuart ‘Woody’ Wood, Eric Faulkner, Derek Longmuir, and their manager Tam Paton. From their rise to fame and musical successes to personal struggles and legal battles, explore the fascinating journeys of these iconic musicians who left a lasting impact on the music industry.
Stuart ‘Woody’ Wood
Stuart ‘Woody’ Wood joined the Bay City Rollers at the young age of 15, despite having limited guitar skills. Despite this, he became an integral part of the band’s ‘classic’ lineup. Unfortunately, the band faced numerous internal conflicts and disagreements, leading to their eventual breakup. These tensions were fueled by financial disputes, particularly regarding the alleged mismanagement of funds by their manager, Tam Paton.
One of the major points of contention among the band members was the significant amount of money they believed they had been swindled out of by their manager, Tam Paton. It was speculated that the amount reached an astonishing £5 billion in today’s currency. This financial controversy added to the already strained dynamics within the band.
After the breakup of the Bay City Rollers, Stuart Wood continued his career in music. He faced a transition from performing in sold-out concerts at massive venues to smaller clubs and pubs. Eventually, he established a Scottish music label and began performing his own version of the Bay City Rollers’ songs.
Eric Faulkner
Guitarist and Songwriter Extraordinaire Eric Faulkner, hailing from Edinburgh like his bandmates, played a pivotal role as the guitarist and songwriter for the Bay City Rollers. He contributed to some of their biggest hits and was an essential creative force within the band. During the band’s heyday, Eric Faulkner faced personal struggles and was reported to have attempted to take his own life through a drug overdose.
Fortunately, he survived the ordeal and persevered through the challenges that came his way. Eric Faulkner continued his musical journey beyond the Bay City Rollers. He formed the band The Eric Faulkner Co-operative and collaborated with other musicians, including performing with 3 Men & Black. Additionally, he explored a solo career and graced the stage at prestigious events such as Glastonbury.
In 2007, Eric Faulkner, along with five other former Bay City Rollers members, initiated a lawsuit against Arista Records for alleged breach of contract and unpaid royalties. Although the case was eventually settled out of court in 2016, the monetary compensation each member received was significantly less than what they believed they were owed.
Derek Longmuir
Derek Longmuir, the younger brother of founding member Alan, joined the Bay City Rollers as a teenager in the 1960s. However, after the band’s breakup in the 1970s, Derek took a different path and pursued a career as a nurse at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. In 2000, Derek Longmuir found himself in legal trouble when he was arrested for possessing child abuse imagery.
Despite claiming that the materials belonged to an acquaintance, he pleaded guilty to avoid media attention surrounding the case. Derek’s foster son, Jorge, alleged that he had been framed by an obsessed American fan who sent anonymous discs to Derek’s home prior to his arrest. Although Derek initially lost his job as a nurse, he was later reinstated.
Tam Paton
Tam Paton, often referred to as the ‘Sixth Roller,’ served as the Bay City Rollers’ manager and played a pivotal role in their rise to fame. However, his management was marred by allegations of financial misconduct and a disturbing personal history. Former lead singer Les McKeown accused Tam Paton of drugging and raping him during the 1970s. Another band member, Pat McGlynn, also claimed to have been abused by Paton.
These accusations cast a dark shadow over the manager’s reputation. Tam Paton faced legal consequences for his actions. In 1982, he was convicted of gross indecency involving two teenage boys who were below the legal age of consent at the time. He served a one-year prison sentence. Additionally, he was fined for drug-related offenses in later years.
Despite the accusations against Tam Paton, some allegations, including those made by Pat McGlynn, did not result in sufficient evidence for prosecution. As a result, certain claims remained unresolved, leaving a lingering sense of unease regarding the manager’s conduct.
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Source: HIS Education