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The Five Americans was a 1960s American rock band, best known for their song "Western Union",[1] which reached number five in the U.S. Billboard chart and was their only single to chart in the Top 20. In Canada, they had three in the Top 20.

Key Information

Career

[edit]

The Mutineers formed in Durant, Oklahoma, Southeastern State College in 1962.[2] The band members crossed paths at the university, and began performing a repertoire of Bo Diddley and Duane Eddy standards within the campus. In 1963, the band recorded their debut single, "Jackin' Around", in Dallas, Texas, an instrumental which received extensive airplay in their college. The British Invasion influenced The Mutineers to include Beatles numbers to their repertoire, a change in outfitting, and a slight emphasis to vocals.[2][3] However, their most impactful acquisition was their utilization of the Vox Continental electronic organ, a later highlight of the group's sound.[4] While in Dallas, the band achieved prominence playing as a frequent attraction in a venue called The Pirate's Nook. There they came to the attention of Abnak Records, whose president John Abdnor took the group under his wing.[2] Shortly thereafter, the band identified themselves as the Five Americans.[5]

For a short while after their five top singles "I See The Light", "Western Union", "Sound of Love", "Evol - Not Love",[6] and "Zip Code" were released, they toured. However, their manager, Jon Abdnor Sr., owner/president of Abnak Records (and Bankers Management and Services Insurance Co.), was allowed control of their finances. After Abdnor's death in 1996, all rights to their songs should have reverted to the group, but Sundazed Music bought the original tapes. The Five Americans are now receiving their share of the sales and publishing royalties.[citation needed]

"Western Union"

[edit]

In a March 1967 interview that appeared in Michael Oberman's "Top Tunes" column in the Evening Star newspaper (Washington, D.C.), Norman Ezell, guitarist for the group, explained how they came up with "Western Union". "Mike Rabon, our lead guitar player, was just fooling around with his guitar when he came up with a unique sound," Norman said. "It sort of reminded us of a telegraph key. That's when we decided to write 'Western Union.'"[7][failed verification]

Break-up and the deaths of band members

[edit]

The Five Americans broke up in 1969, after several singles only scraped the Billboard Hot 100 ("7:30 Guided Tour" stalled at No. 96) or missed the chart entirely ("Virginia Girl" managed to "bubble under" at No. 133, while a new version of an earlier hit, entitled "I See The Light '69", couldn't even manage that).[8]

Mike Rabon had a successful touring career afterwards, released two albums that sold well[clarification needed] and played guitar for the Tyler, Texas, pop group Gladstone, whose "A Piece of Paper" reached No. 45 in October 1972. He later returned to college, acquired a master's degree in public school administration, and worked in the Oklahoma school systems for 28 years. Rabon married Cara Beth Whitworth in 1979. He died on February 11, 2022, at the age of 78.[9]

John Durrill, the keyboardist, who wrote "Dark Lady" for Cher and "Misery and Gin" for Merle Haggard and was also a member of the band the Ventures,[10] now lives in Los Angeles. As of 2024, he is the group's only surviving member.

Bassist Jim Grant died from a heart attack on November 29, 2004, at the age of 61.[10][11]

Norman Ezell (guitar and harmonica) became a teacher and minister in Northern California.[10] He died of cancer on May 8, 2010, at the age of 68.[12]

Drummer Jimmy Wright (born James Thomas Wright on December 2, 1947) left the music industry to become a freelance photographer. He died at Texoma Medical Center on January 30, 2012, at the age of 64.

Discography

[edit]

Albums

[edit]
  • I See the Light (BB No. 136) – HBR HLP-8503 (mono) / HST-9503 (stereo) (1966)
  • Western Union (BB No. 121, CB No. 66) – Abnak ABLP-1967 (mono) / ABST-2067 (stereo) (1967)
  • Progressions – Abnak ABLP (mono) / ABST-2069 (stereo) (1967)
  • Now and Then – Abnak ABST-2071 (1968)[2]

Singles

[edit]
Year Single Chart positions Label Album
US
Hot 100
[13] 		US
Cashbox 		CAN
RPM 		AU
1965 "Show Me"
b/w "Love, Love Love" 		– – – – ABC-Paramount 10686 Non-LP tracks
"Say That You Love Me"
b/w "Without You" 		- - – - Abnak 106
"I See the Light"
b/w "The Outcast" 		- - – - Abnak 109 I See the Light
1966 "I See the Light"
b/w "The Outcast" (re-release) 		26 41 18 - HBR 454
"Evol-Not Love"
b/w "Don't You Dare Blame Me" (from I See The Light) 		52 68 41 - HBR 468 Progressions
"Good Times"
b/w "The Losing Game" (from I See The Light) 		- - – - HBR 483 Non-LP tracks
"It's You Girl"
b/w "I'm Gonna Leave Ya" 		- - – - Jetstar 104
"I'm Feeling OK"
b/w "Slippin' and Slidin'" 		- - – - Jetstar 105
"Reality"
b/w "Sympathy" 		- - – - Abnak 114 Western Union
"If I Could"
b/w "Now That It's Over" 		- – – – Abnak 116
1967 "Western Union"
b/w "Now That It's Over" 		5 7 3 35 Abnak 118
"Sound of Love"
b/w "Sympathy" 		36 31 20 – Abnak 120
"Zip Code"
b/w "Sweet Bird of Youth" 		36 55 50 89 Abnak 123 Progressions
"Stop Light"
b/w "Tell Ann I Love Her" (from Western Union) 		132 – – – Abnak 125
1968 "7:30 Guided Tour"
b/w "See Saw Man" (from Western Union) 		96 – – – Abnak 126 Now and Then
"No Communication"
b/w "The Rain Maker" (from Progressions) 		- - – - Abnak 128 Non-LP tracks
"Lovin' Is Livin'"
b/w "Con Man" (from Progressions) 		- - – - Abnak 131
"Generation Gap"
b/w "The Source" (Non-LP track) 		- - – - Abnak 132 Now and Then
1969 "Virginia Girl"
b/w "Call On Me" (Non-LP track) 		133 - – - Abnak 134
"Ignert Woman"
b/w "Scrooge" 		- - – - Abnak 137
"I See the Light '69"
b/w "Red Cape" 		- - – - Abnak 139
"She's Too Good to Me"
b/w "Molly Black" 		– – – – Abnak 142

References

[edit]
[edit]
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Five Americans

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The Five Americans were a 1960s American garage rock band formed in Durant, Oklahoma, in 1962 by five local musicians, best known for their 1967 hit single "Western Union," which peaked at number five on the chart. Originating from but relocating to Dallas, , in 1964 to pursue greater opportunities, the band—consisting of Mike Rabon ( and vocals), John Durrill (keyboards and vocals), Norman Ezell (), Jim Grant (bass), and Jimmy Wright (drums)—developed an upbeat sound blending , sunshine pop, bubblegum, and psychedelic elements, characterized by shouted harmonies and prominent organ riffs. Signed to , they achieved early success with "I See the Light" (number 26 on the in 1966) and followed with a string of singles including "Sound of Love" (number 36, 1967), "" (number 36, 1967), and "Evol-Not Love" (number 52, 1966), while releasing albums such as The Five Americans (1967), Western Union (1967), and Progressions (1967). The group toured extensively, sharing stages with notable acts like and , but disbanded in 1969 amid management disputes and exhaustion from constant performances. Their music has since been reissued by labels like Sundazed, earning praise among garage rock enthusiasts for its infectious hooks and period-specific energy.

Formation and Early Years

The Mutineers Era

The Five Americans originated as an instrumental rock group known as The Mutineers, formed in 1962 at in . The band was founded by lead guitarist Mike Rabon, who recruited fellow students including rhythm guitarist Norman Ezell and organist John Durrill, with bassist Jim Grant and drummer Johnny Coble rounding out the initial lineup. Drawing inspiration from the twangy guitar sounds of and the rhythmic drive of , The Mutineers focused on cover versions of popular instrumental tracks, adopting a pirate-themed logo that reflected their rebellious name. During their early years, The Mutineers built a local following through performances at parties, joints, and events around Durant, often playing Monday night gigs at the student union to hone their sound. Durrill, who was working as a high at the time, initially joined only on weekends, contributing keyboards and vocals while balancing his day job. The group's repertoire emphasized tight, energetic s that appealed to college audiences amid the surf and rock instrumental craze of the early , though they occasionally experimented with vocal elements as the began influencing American music scenes. By the summer of 1964, seeking greater opportunities to fund their education and pursue music full-time, The Mutineers relocated to the , Texas, area, where they secured regular gigs at clubs like The Pirate's Nook and Lou Ann's. This move marked a pivotal shift, as the band upgraded their stage presence with mod outfits including pegged pants, Beatle boots, and patterned shirts, adapting to the evolving pop-rock aesthetic. During this period, drummer Johnny Coble was replaced by Jimmy Wright, solidifying the quintet that would soon transition to a new identity. Their performances in gained traction, leading to further recordings including "" at a local studio in 1965.

Signing with Abnak and Rebranding

In the summer of 1964, the band originally known as The Mutineers relocated from Durant, Oklahoma, to Dallas, Texas, to pursue better performance opportunities and fund their college tuition. While playing gigs at local venues like The Pirate's Nook, they caught the attention of John Abdnor Jr., son of Abnak Records founder John H. Abdnor Sr. Impressed by demos recommended by KLIF deejay Ken Dowe, the Abd nors invited the group for an audition, leading to their signing with Abnak Records in July 1964. John Abdnor Sr. not only secured the contract but also assumed management duties, providing the band with studio access and support for their songwriting efforts. As part of the deal, the group underwent a to better position themselves in the music market dominated by the . Abnak's A&R representative, Roger Guegenheimer, suggested changing their name from The Mutineers to The in July 1964, emphasizing a straightforward, patriotic identity to differentiate from the influx of acts with more exotic monikers. This shift highlighted their American roots and clean-cut, college-student image, aligning with Abnak's vision for a marketable rock band. The proved strategic, as it helped the —consisting of Mike Rabon on and vocals, Norm Ezell on and vocals, John Durrill on keyboards and vocals, Jim Grant on bass and vocals, and Jimmy Wright on drums—transition from local obscurity to a label-backed act. Following the signing, the Five Americans recorded their debut singles at Sumet Studios in 1964, including "It's You Girl" b/w "I'm Gonna Leave Ya," released on Abnak's imprint in 1964. Although initial releases garnered limited attention, the label's investment laid the groundwork for national exposure, with John Abdnor Sr.'s guidance fostering their development as self-contained songwriters and performers. This period marked a pivotal professionalization for the band, shifting them from fraternity-circuit performers to a signed ensemble poised for broader success.

Career

Rise to National Recognition

Following their signing with in late 1964, the Five Americans transitioned from local club performances in to a more professional recording setup in , , where label president John Abdnor Sr. provided studio access and guidance. Under the production of , a veteran known for his work on "Suzie Q" by & the Swamp Rooters, the band shifted from covering R&B and rock standards to writing original material, marking a pivotal evolution in their sound. This change was evident in their early Abnak releases on the subsidiary label, including "I'm Feelin' Okay" b/w "Slippin' and Slidin'" in 1965, which gained regional airplay but did not yet break nationally. The band's breakthrough came with their first major single, "," written by guitarist Mike Rabon and vocalist Norman Ezell and self-produced by the group. Released in late 1965 on Abnak (A-109) and leased to Records (HBR-454) for wider distribution, the track climbed to number 26 on the in early 1966, selling over 100,000 copies and earning them their initial national exposure. This upbeat garage-pop song, characterized by its jangly guitars and harmonious vocals, resonated with radio stations across the U.S., leading to increased touring in the Southwest and Midwest, as well as appearances on regional television programs. The success of "" also prompted the release of their debut album of the same name in April 1966 on (HLP-8503), which peaked at number 136 on the , further solidifying their presence beyond local scenes. Building on this momentum, the Five Americans followed with "Evol-Not Love" b/w "Don't You Dare Blame Me" in March 1966 (Abnak AB-112), another original composition that reached number 52 on the Hot 100. "If I Could," released later in 1966, peaked at number 118. Though it did not match the commercial height of their debut single, the track's playful wordplay and psychedelic-tinged arrangement helped expand their fanbase, with strong sales in secondary markets like and . These early chart entries, combined with relentless promotion by Abnak—including one-sheet flyers and DJ outreach—elevated the band from regional act to a nationally recognized pop-rock outfit, paving the way for their subsequent releases and broader media attention. By mid-1966, the group had secured distribution deals that amplified their reach, positioning them for mainstream breakthrough.

Peak with "Western Union"

The Five Americans achieved their commercial breakthrough in early 1967 with the release of "Western Union," a single written by band members John Durrill, Mike Rabon, and Norm Ezell, inspired by the rhythmic telegraph key sounds Rabon replicated on his guitar. The track, featuring its distinctive "dit-da-dit-da-dit" hook mimicking , debuted on the at #81 in March 1967 and climbed steadily, reaching its peak position of #5 on April 22, 1967, where it held for two weeks before descending the chart over a total of 12 weeks. It also performed strongly on other U.S. charts, attaining #3 on the Cash Box Top 100 and #4 on . Internationally, the song charted in several countries, including #3 in , #19 in and the , #15 in , and #55 in the UK. The success of "Western Union" marked the band's highest-charting single and propelled their album of the same name to #121 on the Billboard 200. The single itself sold over one million copies, earning the group widespread recognition as a prominent act in the burgeoning garage rock and pop scene. This momentum led to high-profile media exposure, including performances on national television programs such as The Steve Allen Show, American Bandstand (appearing twice), and Where the Action Is (four times), as well as regional shows like Sump'n Else where they showcased the track alongside follow-up material. Riding the wave of "Western Union," the band released two more singles in 1967 that achieved moderate success but failed to match its peak: "Sound of Love" reached #36 on the , and "Zip Code" also hit #36 later that year. These tracks, produced by , highlighted the group's evolving sound blending jangly pop with psychedelic elements, solidifying their brief but impactful presence in the mid-1960s music landscape.

Decline and Break-up

Fading Chart Success

Following the peak success of "Western Union" in 1967, which reached number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, the Five Americans experienced a marked decline in chart performance with subsequent releases. Their follow-up singles, including "Sound of Love" and "Zip Code," both peaked at number 36 on the same chart later that year, indicating an initial softening of commercial momentum despite continued radio play. By 1968, the single "7:30 Guided Tour" struggled to number 96, reflecting diminishing national visibility and sales. This trend continued into 1969 with "Virginia Girl," which failed to crack the top 100, peaking at number 133 on the Billboard Bubbling Under Hot 100 chart.
YearSingle TitleBillboard Hot 100 Peak
1967Sound of Love36
1967Zip Code36
19687:30 Guided Tour96
1969Virginia Girl133
The band's inability to replicate the innovative, hook-driven formula of "Western Union"—which sold over one million copies—contributed significantly to their fading success, as later tracks received less promotional support from their label, . Guitarist and co-writer Mike Rabon later attributed much of the decline to exploitative management practices by Jon Abdnor Sr., the label's president, who reportedly retained the majority of royalties, leaving the group financially strained despite their earlier earnings. Exhaustive touring schedules in the wake of their hit exacerbated internal burnout, further hindering creative output and cohesion as the band navigated shifting musical trends toward harder rock and in the late . These factors collectively eroded their chart presence, setting the stage for the group's eventual dissolution.

Dissolution in 1969

By the late 1960s, the Five Americans experienced a series of lineup changes that signaled internal instability. Keyboardist John Durrill and guitarist Norman Ezell departed in 1968, replaced by vocalist-keyboardist Lenny Goldsmith and guitarist Bobby Rambo, respectively. These shifts occurred amid declining commercial success, as follow-up singles such as "7:30 Guided Tour" (1968) achieved only minor chart placements, peaking at No. 96 on the Billboard Hot 100. In 1969, the band released their fourth and final album, Now and Then, a double LP credited to Michael Rabon & the Five Americans to reflect the leadership of guitarist Mike Rabon and the altered roster. The album compiled earlier hits alongside new psychedelic and tracks, but it failed to revive their momentum, marking the end of their recording output with . Management issues with label head Jon Abdnor Sr., combined with the rigors of constant touring and creative differences, ultimately led to the group's dissolution later that year. The Five Americans performed their last shows in 1969, after which the members dispersed: Durrill joined and later became a songwriter, while Rabon briefly pursued solo work before transitioning to education.

Band Members

Original Line-up

The original lineup of The Five Americans, which performed together from their formation as The Five Americans in 1965 until changes in the late 1960s, consisted of five members who met as students at in . These musicians initially played together in a group called The Mutineers before rebranding and signing with . Mike Rabon served as the lead guitarist, lead vocalist, and primary songwriter, providing the band's driving force and melodic hooks. Born in , and raised in , Rabon led the group from its early days and contributed to their signature sound through his guitar work and compositions. John Durrill handled keyboards and backing vocals, adding the band's distinctive organ and elements that defined their pop-rock style. A native raised in , Durrill was known for his songwriting prowess even early on, later expanding his career to write hits for major artists. Norman Ezell played rhythm guitar and provided backing vocals, contributing to the harmonic layers and songwriting. Originally from and raised in , Ezell brought a steady presence to the band's live performances and recordings. Jim Grant was the bassist, anchoring the rhythm section with a solid foundation that supported the group's energetic influences. A native of , Grant also excelled in visual arts, creating promotional materials for the band during their college years. Raised in , still in high school when he joined in 1964—replacing an earlier —Jimmy Wright rounded out the lineup on , delivering the powerful beats that propelled their hits like "." Wright's local reputation as a skilled percussionist helped solidify the band's professional transition to .

Post-Band Activities

After the Five Americans disbanded in , the members pursued diverse paths in music, , ministry, and . Mike Rabon, the band's lead guitarist and vocalist, returned to , earning degrees in speech education and public school administration. He taught high school English and later served as a school principal in , before retiring as an educator. Rabon formed the group Michael Rabon and with drummer Jimmy Wright, achieving regional success with tours across the in the mid-1970s and releasing two albums that performed well locally. Post-retirement, he authored five books, including the memoir , reflecting on his music career. Rabon remained active in music until his death on February 11, 2022, at age 78. John Durrill, the keyboardist, relocated to and joined as their organist, touring and recording with the group during the early 1970s. He transitioned into a prolific songwriting career, penning over 2,000 songs for more than 75 artists, including notable hits such as "Dark Lady" for (1974, reaching No. 1 on the ) and "Misery and Gin" for (1980, peaking at No. 3 on the chart). Durrill's compositions have been recorded by artists like and have appeared in films. As of 2017, he continued working in the music industry, collaborating with and contributing to movie soundtracks from his home in . As of 2025, Durrill continues to release music, including the album The Good Guys and the Bad Guys. Norman Ezell, the rhythm guitarist and occasional lead vocalist, moved to California after the breakup, where he became a born-again Christian and founded Gloryland Ministries, establishing two churches. He produced several gospel albums and taught special education in the public school system. Ezell authored a memoir titled Road Runner detailing his life and career. He resided in Lodi, California, until his death from cancer on May 8, 2010, at age 68. Jim Grant, the bassist, entered the advertising industry in , leveraging his artistic talents to design album covers for the Five Americans' releases and create logos and posters for clients. He later founded his own company, focusing on and commercial work. Grant died of a heart attack on December 1, 2004, at age 61. Jimmy Wright, the drummer, remained in Oklahoma and occasionally recorded commercial jingles while reconnecting with Rabon for performances. He became an ordained minister, founding several church plants and ministries in southeastern Oklahoma. Wright served as a lighting director, videographer, and media director, traveling internationally to Africa and Haiti, as well as domestically to support ministries led by figures like Tommy and in , in , and in . He resided in , until his death on January 30, 2012, at age 64.

Musical Style and Influences

Core Sound Elements

The Five Americans' core sound was characterized by high-energy infused with elements of and bubblegum, driven by prominent organ riffs and layered vocal harmonies. Their music featured a "pumping" organ attack, often using a model, which provided bubbling, melodic lines that anchored tracks like "" and "Sound of Love." This organ-centric approach, combined with driving rhythms, created an upbeat, radio-friendly propulsion that distinguished them from more R&B-influenced contemporaries. Vocally, the band emphasized clean, shouted harmonies delivered by lead guitarist Mike Rabon, guitarist Norman Ezell, and keyboardist John Durrill, producing saccharine yet energetic layers that evoked a sense of youthful exuberance. These multi-part vocal arrangements, often call-and-response in style, added a frat-rock to their songs, as heard in the hook of "," where the harmonies build a over simple chord progressions. Bassist Jim Grant and drummer Jimmy Wright provided a solid, understated foundation, allowing the guitars—ranging from jangly cleans to fuzz-driven edges—to weave in psychedelic tinges without overpowering the pop core. Instrumentally, electric guitars played a dual role, alternating between bright, folk-rock in ballads like "The Losing Game" and aggressive fuzz grooves in uptempo numbers, reflecting early experiments in country-rock and . This blend prioritized catchy, hook-laden melodies over complex arrangements, aligning with the AM pop radio landscape of the mid-1960s while incorporating garage rock's raw edge. Overall, their sound captured a transitional moment in , bridging influences with homegrown optimism.

Key Influences

The Five Americans emerged in the mid-1960s amid the dominance of the , which profoundly shaped their early development as a band. Formed initially as the Mutineers in , the group began by covering British acts, incorporating numbers into their sets to align with the prevailing trends sweeping American music scenes. This exposure to the energetic, harmony-driven rock of bands like the and other groups influenced their adoption of jangly guitars, tight vocal harmonies, and upbeat rhythms, elements that became hallmarks of their sound. As the saturated the charts from 1963 to 1967, the band consciously differentiated themselves by emphasizing an "American" identity, both in their name and songwriting. Lead guitarist and vocalist Mike Rabon recalled the era's British saturation, noting, "Everything was so British. That was the thing to be," but their manager encouraged crafting "American songs" as a fresh alternative. This reactive influence led to original compositions like "," blending pop hooks with telegraphic sound effects, while retaining the Invasion's melodic accessibility without direct imitation. Their style evolved into a mix of garage rock's raw energy and pop polish, standing out against the foreign-dominated market. Instrumental rock also played a role in their formative years, particularly through the surf and twangy guitar sounds of . Keyboardist John Durrill, who later joined , brought an appreciation for their clean, riff-based approach, which subtly informed the band's early instrumental passages and rhythmic drive before their vocal-focused . This blend of influences contributed to their hook-laden tracks, bridging garage rock's grit with more structured pop arrangements.

Discography

Studio Albums

The Five Americans released four studio albums between 1966 and 1969, primarily through Hanna-Barbera Records and Abnak Records, capturing their evolution from garage rock roots to more psychedelic and pop-oriented sounds. These recordings highlighted the band's tight harmonies, innovative guitar work by Mike Rabon, and songwriting contributions from members like Norman Ezell and Kenn Ellsworth. Their debut, I See the Light, arrived in 1966 on Hanna-Barbera Records, marking the band's transition from regional acts to national attention. The title track, a buoyant garage rock anthem with a memorable guitar riff, became their breakthrough single, peaking at No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album blended covers like "Twist and Shout" with originals such as "The Losing Game," reflecting the raw energy of mid-1960s rock while showcasing the group's vocal interplay. It served as a snapshot of 1966's rock landscape, emphasizing catchy hooks and youthful exuberance. In 1967, the band signed with and issued , an anchored by their biggest hit, the No. 5 single "Western Union," which used a telegraph motif to explore communication themes in relationships. The record mixed originals like "Sound of Love" (No. 36 on ) with covers including The Zombies' "If I Could" and The Spencer Davis Group's "Gimme Some Lovin'," demonstrating the band's ability to infuse folk-rock and pop elements into their sound. It captured their commercial peak, with polished production enhancing their harmonious style. Later that year, Progressions followed on Abnak, pushing the band toward experimentation with psychedelic tinges amid sunshine pop and bubblegum influences. Tracks like "Stop Light" and "Con Man" featured intricate arrangements and introspective lyrics, while maintaining the group's signature vocal stacks. The album represented a creative progression, blending folk-rock structures with emerging 1967 trends, though it received less commercial attention than its predecessor. The band's final studio effort, Now and Then (billed as Mike Rabon & The Five Americans), emerged in November 1969 as a on Abnak, reflecting lineup changes and the era's shifting musical landscape. The "Now" disc leaned into soul-rock with tracks like "A Taste of Livin'," while the "Then" side revisited earlier harmony pop styles, including re-recordings of hits such as "." It encapsulated their late-period versatility, incorporating elements, but arrived amid declining chart success and internal tensions.
AlbumReleasedLabelKey Tracks
1966Hanna-Barbera Records"I See the Light," "The Losing Game," ""
1967Abnak Records"Western Union," "Sound of Love," "Gimme Some Lovin'"
Progressions1967Abnak Records"Stop Light," "Con Man," "Black Is White Day Is Night"
Now and Then1969Abnak Records"Medusa," "A Change on You," "" (re-recording)

Singles

The Five Americans began releasing singles in 1964 on the small label, with early efforts like "It's You Girl" b/w "I'm Gonna Leave Ya" (1964) and "I'm Feeling O.K." b/w "Slippin' and Slidin'" (1965) gaining regional airplay in and but failing to chart nationally. These initial recordings featured raw energy and close harmonies, reflecting their origins as a college band from . By 1965, after signing with , they issued "Say That You Love Me" b/w "Without You" and experimented briefly with ABC-Paramount on "Love, Love, Love" b/w "Show Me," neither of which achieved widespread success. Their breakthrough came in late 1965 with "I See the Light" b/w "The Outcast," reissued on both Abnak and HBR labels in , which peaked at number 26 on the and marked their first national hit. This single highlighted their shift toward polished pop-rock with jangly guitars and optimistic lyrics, helping establish their sound. Follow-ups on HBR, including "Evol - Not Love" b/w "Don't Blame Me" (peaking at number 52) and "Good Times" b/w "The Losing Game," built momentum but stayed outside the top 40. Returning to Abnak in , "Reality" b/w "Sympathy" and "If I Could" b/w "Now That It's Over" further refined their style without immediate chart impact. In 1967, the band achieved peak commercial success with "Western Union" b/w "Now That It's Over," which soared to number 5 on the , driven by its innovative telegraph-mimicking guitar hook and becoming their signature song. A on Hip Pocket Records followed later that year. "Sound of Love" b/w "" reached number 36, while "Zip Code" b/w "" also hit number 36, both exemplifying their knack for memorable, radio-friendly hooks amid the trend. Later 1967 releases like "Stop Light" b/w "Tell Ann I Love Her" (peaking at number 132) and "7:30 Guided Tour" b/w "See Saw Man" (number 96 in 1968) showed , as the band incorporated more experimental elements like sound effects and social commentary. By 1968 and 1969, singles such as "No Communication" b/w "The Rain Maker," "Lovin' Is Livin'" b/w "Con Man," "Generation Gap" b/w "The Source," "Virginia Girl" b/w "Call On Me" (peaking at number 133), "Ignert Woman" b/w "Scrooge," and "I See the Light '69" b/w "Red Cape" reflected a more mature, introspective phase but largely failed to chart. "She's Too Good to Me" b/w "Molly Black" served as one of their final original singles before the band's 1969 dissolution. A 1981 reissue of "Western Union" b/w "Do It Again a Little Bit Slower" on Lifesong Golddiggers underscored the enduring appeal of their early hit. Overall, the Five Americans released 24 singles across various labels from 1964 to 1969, with five entering the Billboard Hot 100, emphasizing their brief but impactful run in mid-1960s pop.
YearTitleB-SidePeak Billboard Hot 100Label/Catalog
1966I See the LightThe Outcast26Abnak A-109
1966Evol - Not LoveDon't Blame Me52HBR HBR-468
1967Western UnionNow That It's Over5Abnak AB-118
1967Sound of LoveSympathy36Abnak AB-120
1967Sweet Bird of Youth36Abnak AB-123
1967Stop LightTell Ann I Love Her132Abnak AB-125
19687:30 Guided TourSee Saw Man96Abnak AB-126
1969Virginia GirlCall On Me133Abnak AB-134

Legacy

Cultural Impact

The Five Americans' music, particularly their 1967 hit "Western Union," captured the pervasive anxiety of mid-1960s American , where receiving a telegram from the service often signaled devastating news such as military draft notices or casualty reports during the escalating . The song's lyrics depict a protagonist dreading the "bad news in his hand" delivered by the telegraph messenger, mirroring the real-life dread associated with these hand-delivered messages, which the U.S. military routinely used to notify families of service members' fates from through . This thematic resonance contributed to the track's commercial success, peaking at number 5 on the and selling over a million copies, while its innovative use of a guitar mimicking telegraph key clicks added a novel sonic element to pop-rock production. Beyond immediate chart performance, the band's garage rock-infused sound—blending British Invasion harmonies, organ-driven melodies, and proto-psychedelic experimentation—positioned them as exemplars of the regional American garage scene emerging from Oklahoma and Texas. Their inclusion of "I See the Light" on the seminal 1998 Nuggets: Original Artyfacts from the First Psychedelic Era, 1965–1968 box set, curated by Rhino Records, cemented their role in documenting and reviving interest in 1960s underground rock, influencing later garage revival movements and collectors' appreciation for overlooked acts. This compilation, which highlighted raw, energetic singles from the era, underscored the Five Americans' contribution to the transition from garage rock to psychedelia, with tracks like "Sound of Love" showcasing bubblegum-pop accessibility alongside edgier folk-rock undertones. In the broader cultural landscape, the Five Americans exemplified the democratizing effect of independent labels like , enabling Midwestern bands to break into national consciousness through AM radio and television appearances on shows like . Their legacy endures in reissues and compilations that highlight 1960s pop's diversity, fostering ongoing recognition among music historians for bridging clean-cut aesthetics with the raw energy of , though they remain somewhat overshadowed by more enduring contemporaries.

Member Deaths

Several members of the Five Americans have passed away since the band's dissolution in , with deaths occurring over the subsequent decades due to natural causes. Bassist Jim Grant, a core member of the original lineup, died of a heart attack at his home in , , on November 29, 2004, at the age of 61. Rhythm guitarist and vocalist Norman Ezell, another founding member, succumbed to cancer on May 8, 2010, at the age of 68, while residing in , where he had worked as a school teacher after leaving music. Drummer Jimmy Wright, who joined the band early in its career and contributed to its hit recordings, passed away on January 30, 2012, at Texoma Medical Center in , at the age of 64; he had transitioned to a career as a professional photographer following the band's breakup. Lead guitarist, vocalist, and band founder Mike Rabon died on February 11, 2022, at the age of 78, in , his hometown; after retiring from music and education, he remained connected to the band's legacy through occasional performances and songwriting. As of 2025, John Durrill remains the sole surviving original member, continuing to engage in music production and songwriting.

References

  1. https://www.musicvf.com/The+Five+Americans.songs
  2. https://www.classicbands.com/fiveamericans.html
  3. https://sundazed.com/c/137-Five-Americans-The.aspx
  4. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1744465/bio/
  5. https://www.ntxe-news.com/artman/publish/article_104595.shtml
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  9. https://www.discogs.com/release/9677620-The-Five-Americans-Its-You-Girl
  10. http://badcatrecords.com/FIVEamericans.htm
  11. https://pophits.org/songs/the-five-americans-i-see-the-light
  12. https://pophits.org/songs/the-five-americans-evol-not-love
  13. https://bestclassicbands.com/five-americans-western-union-mike-rabon-obituary-2-18-22/
  14. https://www.billboard.com/charts/hot-100/1967-04-22/
  15. https://sacharts.wordpress.com/2024/06/07/western-union-five-americans/
  16. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt28517415/
  17. https://meminc.org/mikerabon/
  18. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/the-five-americans-mn0000051063
  19. https://www.discogs.com/release/3837126-Mike-Rabon-The-Five-Americans-Now-And-Then
  20. https://www.allbutforgottenoldies.net/five-americans.html
  21. https://www.namm.org/library/oral-history/john-durrill
  22. https://www.musicvf.com/songs.php?page=artist&artist=John%2BDurrill&tab=songaswriterchartstab
  23. https://john-durrill.bandcamp.com/album/the-good-guys-and-the-bad-guys
  24. https://www.lodinews.com/news/article_1ab9b262-d3f4-525f-8d18-4c510e29b189.html
  25. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/141188618/james-grant
  26. https://www.holmescoffeymurray.com/obituaries/James-Thomas-Wright?obId=29362321
  27. http://www.classicbands.com/FiveAmericansInterview.html
  28. http://www.classicbands.com/fiveamericans.html
  29. https://www.discogs.com/artist/252496-The-Five-Americans
  30. https://www.musicvf.com/song.php?title=I+See+the+Light+by+The+Five+Americans&id=42767
  31. https://sundazed.com/p/1167-The-Five-Americans-I-See-the-Light-LIMITED-EDITION-MONO-LP.aspx
  32. https://sundazed.com/five-americans-the-western-union-gold-vinyl-lp.aspx
  33. https://sundazed.com/five-americans-the-progressions-cd.aspx
  34. https://rateyourmusic.com/release/album/the-five-americans/now-and-then/
  35. https://www.discogs.com/master/1099036-Mike-Rabon-The-Five-Americans-Now-And-Then
  36. https://www.45cat.com/artist/the-five-americans
  37. https://www.musicvf.com/song.php?title=Western+Union+by+The+Five+Americans&id=42769
  38. https://blogs.loc.gov/folklife/2015/02/beyond-i-regret-to-inform-you/
  39. https://pophits.org/songs/the-five-americans-western-union
  40. https://store.rhino.com/products/nuggets-original-artyfacts-from-the-first-psychedelic-era-1965-1968-50th-anniversary-5lp
  41. https://sundazed.com/five-americans-the-progressions-lp.aspx
  42. https://obits.dallasnews.com/us/obituaries/dallasmorningnews/name/james-grant-obituary?id=51068110
  43. https://www.discogs.com/artist/2118394-Jim-Grant-4
  44. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/84380783/james_thomas-wright
  45. https://www.discogs.com/artist/2118395-Jimmy-Wright-3
  46. https://www.praterlampton.com/obituaries/Michael-Lee-Rabon?obId=29233990
  47. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/237572001/michael_lee-rabon
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