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The Jaggerz are an American rock band from Pittsburgh. They came to national attention with their single "The Rapper" which was released on the Kama Sutra label. "The Rapper" was No. 1 in the Record World Charts and No. 2 in the Billboard Hot 100 in March 1970.[1] Having sold over one million copies, the recording received a gold record awarded by the R.I.A.A.[2]

Key Information

The band's name derives from the Western Pennsylvania English term, "jagger," meaning any small, sharp-pointed object, typically thorns, spines, and prickles. They were managed by The Skyliners manager, Joe Rock.

History

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Early years and debut album (1964–1969)

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While attending Slippery Rock State College, now known as Slippery Rock University, Donnie Iris (birth name Dominic Ierace) started a band called the Tri-Vels. The band became known as Donnie and the Donnells when the line up increased from three members to four. Shortly after dropping out of college, Iris found out that a band called Gary and the Jewel Tones of which Jimmie Ross was a member, needed a new guitarist. This gave birth to a new band called the "Jaggers". Forming around 1964, they began playing night clubs and other venues for the next few years gathering a respectable following in the region. The lineup consisted of Iris, Allen George, Benny Faiella, and Kenny Koodrich.

In 1968, the Jaggers signed with Gamble Records. The Philadelphia soul music team of Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff produced their debut album which was recorded in Philadelphia. While in the early stages of recording the album, Jimmie Ross saw a magazine advertisement featuring another band called "The Jaggers". In order to avoid confusion, manager Joe Rock suggested that the "s" in "Jaggers" be changed to a "z". In 1969, their debut album, Introducing the Jaggerz, was released. It is a blue-eyed soul album featuring the Jaggerz original song "(That's Why) Baby I Love You", the Ken Gamble tune "Together" and "Gotta Find My Way Back Home", written by Melvin & Mervin Steals who later wrote "Could It Be I'm Falling in Love" for the Spinners.[3] Achieving most of its airplay in the group's native western Pennsylvania, it was a moderate success.[4]

Second album and success with "The Rapper" (1970–1973)

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In its November 22, 1969 article, Record World said that Buddah Records had reactivated its Kama Sutra label and The Jaggerz along with The Sir Men had been signed to Kama Sutra.[5] So by 1970, the Jaggerz had left Gamble and signed with Neil Bogart's Kama Sutra label. There they recorded their second album, We Went to Different Schools Together, which was released in 1970.

One of the singles from We Went to Different Schools Together became the group's first chart-topping hit. "The Rapper", written by Donnie Iris, was released to the Pittsburgh market in December 1969. It quickly rose on the KQV Top 40 singles chart reaching No. 1 on the week of January 5, 1970. It was No. 1 on KQV for four straight weeks during January 1970.[6] Released nationally "The Rapper" reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 on March 21, 1970. It was on the Hot 100 chart for 13 weeks[7] and was certified gold by the RIAA. Another track from the album reached the Hot 100: "I Call My Baby Candy" peaked at No. 75 and "What A Bummer" (a non-album track) climbed to No. 88. The album went to No. 62 on the Billboard Top 200 chart.[8] The album’s classic R&B tune "Memoirs of a Traveler" written by Benny Faiella and Donnie Iris was sampled by Wiz Khalifa, The Game, Slum Village and seven other hip hop artists.[9]

The Jaggerz continued to release singles through Kama Sutra until 1973, when they moved to the RCA subsidiary Wooden Nickel Records. In 1973, the Jaggerz performed on the Wolfman Jack novelty album Through The Ages that was released on Wooden Nickel Records. They backed up DJ Wolfman Jack on ten songs including "The Rapper".[10] The Jaggerz also produced and recorded with Bobby Rydell and James Darren.

Third album, new lineup and disbandment (1974–1977)

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Singers Bill Maybray and Jimmie Ross left the Jaggerz. Ross was recruited by the Jaggerz manager Joe Rock to join the Skyliners. Keyboard player and singer Frank Czuri and songwriter/keyboard player Hermie Granati joined the band for the album Come Again that was released by Wooden Nickel Records in 1975. The single "2 + 2 / Don't It Make You Wanna Dance" was also released in 1975 but did not reach the charts. The Jaggerz were dropped from Wooden Nickel in 1976.

Sometime after being dropped from Wooden Nickel, the Jaggerz' original band members began leaving. By late 1977, Benny Faiella was the only original member left. He was joined by Gene and Robert Vallecorsa (lead guitar and keyboards, respectively), Sam Ippolito (lead vocals), and Mark Zeppuhar (saxophone). Even though they were now only playing at nightclubs, Faiella believed that the lineup was the strongest it had been in twelve years and that they would return to the charts. However this proved not to be and the Jaggerz finally broke up around 1977.[11]

Separate projects (1978–1988)

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Dominic Ierace, the band's guitarist and vocalist, joined Wild Cherry. By 1976, they had been together for six years and had just recently risen to prominence with "Play That Funky Music." While in the group, Ierace met keyboardist Mark Avsec. Ierace (continuing to use his "Donnie Iris" nickname more and more) engineered Wild Cherry's third album I Love My Music and appeared playing guitar on their fourth album Only the Wild Survive. But Wild Cherry's fate seemed to be similar to the Jaggerz and they broke up in 1979. Iris then went solo with the help of Avsec, first with the non-album singles "Bring on the Eighties" and "Because of You." These singles proved to be of little influence and Avsec and Iris decided to put a band together. The lineup consisted of Iris, Avsec, Marty Lee Hoenes, Albritton McClain, and Kevin Valentine. The new band, called Donnie Iris and the Cruisers, released their first album in 1980, Back on the Streets. The album's first single, "Ah! Leah!", began a series of successful albums and singles. Iris had 10 singles in Billboard top 100 lists. He released ten albums with the Cruisers, five of which made it to the Billboard top 200 list. Donnie Iris and the Cruisers are still together to this day.

Ross joined the Skyliners in 1975 after two of the original members left. Joe Rock, who managed both the Jaggerz and Skyliners, advised Ross to leave the Jaggerz. He sang with the Skyliners original members Jimmy Beaumont and Janet Vogel. The Skyliners appeared in 1950s revival shows around the country. In 1977, Ross recorded with the Skyliners on their Tortoise International Records album release titled “The Skyliners”. Singer Cathy Cooper joined the Skyliners after the death of Vogel in 1980. Ross sang with the Skyliners through 1982. In 1982 Cooper and Ross left the Skyliners to form the singing duo Cooper and Ross. They signed with Sweet City Records / MCA and released the album "Bottom Line". Cooper and Ross became a fixture in the Atlantic City casinos with a 36-week appearance at the Trump Plaza and extended engagements at Harrah's. They worked together for five years.[4]

Frank Czuri became the lead singer for the CBS recording act the Silencers who appeared on the first ever broadcast of MTV. In 1980 the Silencers single "Shiver and Shake" reached number 81 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Hermie Granati formed the Granati Brothers, recorded the 1979 album G-Force on A&M Records and opened 78 shows for Van Halen during the early 1980s. Drummer James Pugliano toured and recorded with Leon Russell, Roger Miller, J.J. Cale, Willie Nelson, and Mel Tillis.

Regrouping (1989)

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The original members (sans Iris) reunited in 1989 to perform live. The reunited band included the original members Pugliano, Faiella, and Maybray along with organist Fred Dulu, sax player Robbie Klein and vocalist Donnie Marsico. Their first appearance was at a 25-year reunion concert on June 23, 1989, at the Beaver County College Golden Dome. The band with differing line-ups has played 20 to 25 shows a year since then.

And the Band Played On (1998)

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The Jaggerz released their fifth album, And the Band Played On... in 1998. AllMusic said it was "heartfelt soul music". Performing on the release were Ross, Faiella, Pugliano, Dennis McAbee, and Jamie Peck. Granati rejoined the band writing the orchestrations, performing on keyboards and vocals, and co-producing the album with Ross.

Re-Rapped by Request (2001)

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The Jaggerz released their sixth album Re-Rapped by Request in 2001. It features a mix of the most requested songs that they have performed over their career including "Dancin' in the Streets", "Some Kind of Wonderful", "The Love I Never Had" and a live version of the "Rapper" recorded at the A.J. Palumbo Center.

"Memoirs of the Traveler"

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The melody of "Memoirs of the Traveler" from the Jaggerz' album We Went to Different Schools Together has been sampled by various hip hop artists. In 2008, rap artist The Game released a track "Letter to the King", produced by Hi-Tek, from his album, LAX, that sampled the song. Other hip hop musicians who have sampled the song on their releases include Rollin' Up by Curren$y and Wiz Khalifa (2009), 1, 2 by Slum Village (2005) Dilated Peoples in the 1990s and, more recently, Pede B (Denmark).

Membership changes

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Original lead vocalist and bass player Maybray (born William R. Maybray on May 14, 1944) died on December 5, 2004, at age 60.[12] He wrote and sang the group's debut single, "That's Why Baby I Love You". The original drummer Pugliano (born James Pugliano on December 4, 1946) died on June 15, 2010, at age 63.[13][14]

Original members Ross and Faiella continue to perform as members of the Jaggerz. The current roster of the Jaggerz also includes vocalist and keyboardist Granati, guitarist McAbee, saxophonist Chris Patarini, and drummer Paul Martello.

The Walk (2014)

[edit]

In 2014, The Jaggerz returned to their blue-eyed soul roots releasing the album The Walk. Led by singer Ross, the Jaggerz brought their five part harmonies to the arrangements of eight R&B classics and two updated recordings from their 1969 Introducing the Jaggerz album: the Gamble & Huff tune Together and The Jaggerz original That's Why Baby I Love You. Ross' voice and the Jaggerz harmonies appear on the love ballads Love Won't Let Me Wait, The Whole Town's Laughing at Me and That's Why Baby I Love You. Donna Groom, of the Skyliners, guest stars on a duet with Ross on the medley arrangement of It's Gonna Take a Miracle/ I'm On The Outside. Five time Grammy winning producer/engineer Jay Dudt of Audile Images engineered the album for co-producers Granati and Ross.[15]

Members

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Current

[edit]
  • Jimmie Ross - lead vocals, bass guitar (1965–1976; 1989–present)
  • Benny Faiella - guitar (1965–1977; 1989–present)
  • Hermie Granati - keyboards, vocals, arrangements (1975–1976, 1998–2003, present)
  • Buddy Schneider - guitar
  • Paul Martello - drums, percussion, vocals
  • Chris Patarini - saxophone, trumpet, percussion, vocals

Former

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  • Dominic Ierace - guitar, lead vocals (1965–1976)
  • Bill Maybray - bass, vocals (1965–1973; died 2004)
  • Thom Davies - piano (1965–1973)
  • Kenny Koodrich - drums (1965)
  • Jim Pugliano - drums (1965–1976; 1989–1998; died 2010)
  • Frank Czuri - keyboards (1973–1976)
  • Sam Ippolito - lead vocals (1976–1977)
  • Gene Vallecorsa - guitar (1976–1977)
  • Robert Vallecorsa - keyboards (1976–1977)
  • Mark Zeppuhar - saxophone (1976-1977)
  • Ron Levi - trumpet
  • Rich Mansfield - sax
  • Mike Caporizzo - sax

Discography

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Albums

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Singles

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  • 1966 - "Feel So Good" / "Cry" (Executive) (released as "The Jaggers")
  • 1968 - "(That’s Why) Baby I Love You" / "Bring It Back" (Gamble G-218)
  • 1969 - "Gotta Find My Way Back Home" / "Forever Together, Together Forever" (Gamble G226)
  • 1969 - "Together" / "Let Me Be Your Man" (Gamble G238)
  • 1970 - "Higher And Higher" / "Ain't No Sun (Since You've Been Gone)" (Gamble G 4008)
  • 1970 - "The Rapper" / "Born Poor" (Kama Sutra KA 502) US No. 2, CAN No. 3, AUS No. 32[16]
  • 1970 - "I Call My Baby Candy" / "Will She Believe Me?" (Kama Sutra KA 509) US No. 75, CAN No. 47
  • 1970 - "What a Bummer" / "Memories Of The Traveler" (Kama Sutra KA 513) US No. 88
  • 1971 - "Need Your Love" / "Here's a Heart" (Gamble G 4012)
  • 1971 - "Let's Talk About Love" / "I'll Never Forget You" (Kama Sutra KA 517)
  • 1971 - "Wise Up!-Why Dope?" (The Pennsylvania Jaycees JZ 550)
  • 1973 - "Ain't That Sad" / "Let's Talk About Love" (Kama Sutra KA 583)
  • 1974 - "The Streaker" / "The Streaker (Part 2)" (Jaggerz JZ101)
  • 1974 - "I Can't Make It Without You" / "A Certain Girl" (Jaggerz JZ102)
  • 1975 - "2 + 2" / "Don't It Make You Wanna Dance" (Wooden Nickel WB-10194)
  • 2014 - "The Walk" (JRD Records)

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

The Jaggerz

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Jaggerz are an American rock band from , , formed in 1964 and best known as a for their 1970 single "The Rapper," which reached number two on the and was certified gold by the RIAA for sales exceeding one million copies. Originally emerging from the local music scene, the band began as the Tri-Vels in the early , led by vocalist and guitarist Dominic Ierace (who later achieved solo success as ), before renaming themselves the Jaggerz in 1964—a name derived from slang for a thorny bush. The original lineup included Ierace on vocals and guitar, Benny Faiella on guitar, Jimmie Ross on bass, Allen George on keyboards, and Kenny Koodrich on drums, with the group blending elements of rock, pop, and R&B during their formative years at . They signed with Gamble Records in 1968, releasing their debut album Introducing the Jaggerz in 1969, followed by a move to Records for their breakthrough second album We Went to Different Schools Together (1970), from which ""—written by Ierace—served as the lead single. Over the next several years, the Jaggerz recorded additional albums on Wooden Nickel Records, including Come Again (1975), though none matched the commercial success of their signature hit, leading to their disbandment in 1977. Ierace departed in 1971 to pursue a solo career under the name Donnie Iris, scoring six Top 100 singles between 1980 and 1985, while core members Ross and Faiella kept the band sporadically active through reunions, including a full reformation in 1989 and the release of new material like the 2014 album The Walk and the 2025 album It's All Been a Dream. As of 2025, the Jaggerz continue to perform live, maintaining a legacy as Pittsburgh rock pioneers with over 11 singles and seven albums in their discography.

History

Formation and early career (1964–1969)

The Jaggerz evolved from the Tri-Vels, a band started by vocalist and guitarist Dominic Ierace (later ) in the early 1960s while attending . The group was formed around 1964–1965 in , near , by local musicians including bassist and vocalist Jimmie Ross, drummer Jim Pugliano, and guitarist Benny Faiella. They were joined by multi-instrumentalist Bill Maybray on drums and vocals, as well as Ierace and keyboardist Thom Davies after auditions during a summer gig at . Originally named the Jaggers, the band changed to The Jaggerz—spelled with a "z"—inspired by Western Pennsylvania for a thorny bush after seeing a magazine advertisement. Throughout the mid-to-late 1960s, The Jaggerz built a strong following in the Pittsburgh area by performing frequently in local clubs, college circuits, and venues such as Club Naturale and Mancini's, often playing six nights a week. Their high-energy shows featured R&B and soul covers with synchronized dances, microphone tosses, and multi-part vocal harmonies in a style reminiscent of Las Vegas revues. The band gained regional prominence by opening for major acts including The Beach Boys, The Temptations, The Supremes, and The Four Tops, occasionally headlining smaller events and earning up to $2,000 per night by 1968–1969 across the tri-state area. This period marked the band's initial lineup stability, as the core members remained consistent while honing their live presence in the competitive local music scene. In 1968, The Jaggerz signed with Gamble Records, the Philadelphia-based label run by Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, who were pioneering the Philly soul sound. This deal led to the release of their debut album, Introducing the Jaggerz, in 1969, which showcased their evolving style blending roots with influences, tight harmonies, and original material. The album included tracks like "The Little Girl" and "Gotta Make You Mine," which achieved regional hits in the market and helped solidify their reputation before transitioning to a national label.

Breakthrough success (1970–1973)

Following the lackluster performance of their 1969 debut album on Gamble Records, the Jaggerz signed with Kama Sutra Records, a label known for its promotion of pop and rock acts. This move positioned the band for broader national exposure, culminating in the release of their second album, We Went to Different Schools Together, in March 1970. The LP blended , , and psychedelic elements, showcasing the band's evolving sound with extended tracks and covers like a six-minute rendition of ' "With a Little Help from My Friends." The album's lead single, "The Rapper," written by guitarist and co-vocalist Dominic Ierace (later known as ), became the band's signature hit. Released in late 1969 but peaking in early 1970, it climbed to No. 2 on the for two weeks in March, held off the top spot only by Simon & Garfunkel's "," and reached No. 1 on the Cash Box Top 100. The track's infectious rhythm and satirical lyrics about a smooth-talking seducer resonated widely, earning RIAA gold certification for sales exceeding one million copies. Other notable album cuts included "I Call My Baby Candy," which charted at No. 75 on the , and the introspective "Memoirs of the Traveler," later sampled by hip-hop artists and The Game. Buoyed by the single's success, the Jaggerz embarked on extensive promotional tours across the and made high-profile television appearances, including on Dick Clark's in early 1970, where they performed "The Rapper" for a national audience. These efforts propelled We Went to Different Schools Together to No. 62 on the , marking the band's commercial peak. However, mounting creative differences within the group persisted through their 1971 album Runnin' After You on , which did not chart significantly. Ierace remained until 1976, but the band experienced declining success with subsequent singles by late 1973. The label shift that followed underscored the challenges of sustaining their breakthrough amid evolving music industry trends.

Final album and disbandment (1974–1977)

Following the moderate success of their second album, We Went to Different Schools Together, The Jaggerz underwent significant lineup changes ahead of their third release. In 1975, the band added vocalist Frank Czuri, keyboardist Hermie Granati, and drummer Tray Elliott to the core group of on guitar and vocals, Jimmie Ross on bass and vocals, Bill Maybray on keyboards and vocals, and Benny Faiella on guitar. This refreshed ensemble recorded Come Again, released that year on Records, a subsidiary of RCA. The album featured a shift toward an R&B and soul-infused , evident in tracks such as "I'll Be Okay in the Morning" (co-written by Granati and Iris's wife Linda) and "Love Music," which incorporated funkier rhythms and smoother vocal harmonies compared to their earlier pop-rock style. Despite the stylistic evolution, Come Again achieved poor commercial performance, failing to produce any charting singles and receiving limited promotion from the label. Sales were dismal, marking a stark contrast to the national breakthrough of in 1970, and the band was subsequently dropped by in 1976. This lack of support exacerbated internal tensions, leading to further departures; guitarist and vocalist exited in 1976 to pursue other projects, while bassist and vocalist Jimmie Ross had left in 1975 to join the doo-wop group . The Jaggerz attempted to continue with a revised lineup featuring lead vocalist Sam Ippolito, guitarist Gene Vallecorsa, keyboardist Robert Vallecorsa, and saxophonist Mark Zeppuhar, performing sporadically through 1976 and into 1977. However, mounting financial difficulties from declining bookings and album revenue, coupled with members seeking individual opportunities, culminated in the band's official disbandment around 1977. The group's inability to recapture their early momentum highlighted the challenges of sustaining success after a one-hit phenomenon like "The Rapper."

Individual pursuits (1978–1988)

Following the disbandment of The Jaggerz in 1977, guitarist and vocalist Dominic Ierace, professionally known as , joined the funk band Wild Cherry as a from 1978 to 1979, contributing to their I Love My Music released in 1979. He then launched a solo career with the 1980 Back on the Streets, produced by , which featured the single "Ah! Leah!", co-written by Iris and Avsec and peaking at number 29 on the chart. The track also reached number 19 on the Mainstream Rock chart, establishing Iris as a prominent figure in the rock scene during the early . Bassist and vocalist Jimmie Ross, who had joined in 1975 prior to the Jaggerz's breakup, continued performing with the doo-wop group through 1980 and contributed vocals to their 1978 The Skyliners. In 1982, Ross formed the funk duo Cooper & Ross with singer Cathy Cooper, signing with and releasing the Bottom Line, which included tracks like "You're the One". The duo's work blended R&B and elements, reflecting Ross's versatility as a performer and songwriter in the post-disco era. Drummer Jim Pugliano worked as a session musician during this period, accompanying notable artists including John Davidson, Willie Nelson, Tony Orlando and Dawn, and Mel Tillis on tours and recordings. Guitarist Benny Faiella and vocalist Bill Maybray also remained involved in the Pittsburgh-area music community through local performances and projects, though without major national endeavors. Maybray continued his multi-instrumentalist career locally until his death from cancer in 2004 at age 60.

Reunions and revival (1989–2001)

In 1989, The Jaggerz reunited for live performances, bringing together original members Jimmie Ross on lead vocals and bass, Benny Faiella on guitar, Bill Maybray on bass and vocals, and Jim Pugliano on drums, augmented by new additions such as Fred Dulu on keyboards and Robbie Klein on . The impetus for the reunion stemmed from a casual gathering at Maybray's daughter's , where a DJ played the band's hits, inspiring the members to perform together and leading to a sold-out debut show that drew over 10,000 attendees. This regrouping marked a revival of their sound, focusing on nostalgic appeal without the commercial pressures of their era. Following the reunion, The Jaggerz maintained a steady schedule of 20 to 25 live shows annually through the late , primarily at Pittsburgh-area venues like the Golden Dome in Beaver County and on regional circuits. In 1997, they staged a special full-original lineup performance—including a brief appearance by former member —at Jerry's Curb Service's 50th anniversary celebration in , where they reprised hits like "" for the first time in over two decades. These outings emphasized their enduring local popularity and allowed the band to refine re-recorded versions of classics, such as an updated take on "" that highlighted their evolved harmonies. The reunion culminated in studio releases that blended retrospection with fresh material. In 1998, they issued And the Band Played On via independent label Get It Out Music, featuring re-recorded staples alongside new songs performed by Ross, Faiella, Pugliano, McAbee on guitar, Peck on keyboards, and Hermie Granati on keyboards and vocals; critics praised its "heartfelt " vibe. This was followed in 2001 by Re-Rapped by Request, a fan-driven covers narrated by radio , which included renditions of requested tracks like "Dancin' in the Streets" and "Some Kind of Wonderful."

Later releases and activities (2002–present)

The band's activities continued after the passing of founding member Bill Maybray from cancer on December 5, 2004, at age 60, which prompted adjustments to their lineup. In 2014, The Jaggerz released The Walk, their first original in nearly four decades, featuring Jimmie Ross and produced by Hermie Granati and Jay Dudt. The record marked a return to the band's influences, with tracks like the title song and covers of classics such as "(That's Why) ." This release came amid significant lineup changes, including the death of longtime drummer Jim Pugliano on June 15, 2010, at age 63 in his Harmony Township home. Following Pugliano's passing, the band recruited Paul Martello on drums and percussion to maintain their rhythm section. The current configuration includes founding bassist and vocalist Jimmie Ross, keyboardist Hermie Granati, guitarist Buddy Schneider, bassist Ray Falcsik, saxophonist Chris Patarini, and Martello, emphasizing a stable ensemble for live work. The Jaggerz have sustained activity as a legacy act through consistent touring on the oldies and rock circuit, performing hits like "The Rapper" at regional venues across Pennsylvania. Notable appearances include the Pure Black & Gold Oldies concert at Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center in June 2024, alongside acts like The Skyliners and Pure Gold, and a co-headlining show with KC and the Sunshine Band at Timber Rock Amphitheater on July 19, 2025. Founding member Jimmie Ross also participated in the Pittsburgh All-Star Oldies Show at The Palace Theatre in Greensburg on April 27, 2025, performing with multiple groups including The Jaggerz, The Skyliners, and Pure Gold. Since The Walk, the band has not issued major new studio albums but remains active with occasional live recordings and singles, prioritizing performances that celebrate their Pittsburgh rock heritage into 2025.

Band members

Current members

As of 2025, The Jaggerz continue to perform with a lineup centered on its surviving founding member Jimmie Ross, supported by longtime musicians who help recreate the band's and R&B sound through tight harmonies and energetic live sets. This configuration emphasizes the group's roots while adapting to contemporary touring demands, with members contributing to both instrumental precision and vocal layers that define hits like "The Rapper."
  • Jimmie Ross (bass, vocals; founding member since 1965): As a core architect of the band's early sound, Ross provides rhythmic foundation and backing vocals, anchoring live performances with his enduring stage presence.
  • Hermie Granati (keyboards, vocals; longtime member since the 1970s): Granati adds keyboard textures and lead vocals on select tracks, enhancing the group's soulful arrangements for modern audiences.
  • Buddy Schneider (lead guitar, vocals; joined 2025): The newest addition, Schneider brings dynamic guitar work and vocal support, introduced during early 2025 shows to refresh the band's live energy.
  • Paul Martello (drums, percussion, vocals; joined post-2010): Martello drives the rhythm section with percussion and occasional vocals, ensuring a solid backbone for the band's high-tempo sets.
  • Chris Patarini (saxophone; longtime member): Patarini contributes horn accents that evoke the band's 1970s soul-rock blend, particularly prominent in live renditions of their catalog.
  • Ray Falcsik (bass guitar; longtime member): Falcsik provides additional bass support, contributing to the band's rhythmic depth in live performances.

Former members

The Jaggerz have seen several lineup changes over their six-decade history, with numerous musicians contributing to recordings and tours before departing. Below is a chronological overview of key former members, highlighting their roles, tenures, and notable contributions.
  • Dominic Ierace () (guitar, vocals; 1964–1975): A founding member, Ierace served as and , co-writing and performing on the band's breakthrough hit "," which reached No. 2 on the in 1970. He contributed to the debut album We Went to Different Schools Together (1970) and early singles, as well as the 1975 album Come Again. After leaving, he pursued a successful solo career, scoring hits like "Love Is Like a Rock," which peaked at No. 37 on the in 1981.
  • Bill Maybray (vocals, bass; 1964–2004): An original member who played bass and provided vocals, Maybray was part of the core lineup during the band's early R&B-influenced phase and breakthrough era. He contributed to live performances and recordings, including drumming on "The Rapper." Maybray remained with the band through reunions until his death from cancer on December 5, 2004, at age 60.
  • Jim Pugliano (drums; 1964–2010): Joining as an early member, Pugliano provided the rhythmic foundation for the band's 1960s club circuit performances and recordings, including the debut album and hit single "." He participated in the 1989 reunion and subsequent tours. Pugliano died on June 15, 2010, at age 63.
  • Benny Faiella (guitar, vocals; 1965–c. 2024): A founding member, Faiella delivered signature guitar riffs and harmonies, maintaining the band's original blues-inflected style through various eras and reunions, including the 2014 lineup.

Musical style and influences

Core sound and evolution

The Jaggerz's core sound revolves around a fusion of and , marked by guitar-driven riffs, soulful lead vocals, and rhythmic grooves that emphasize accessibility and energy. Their debut album, Introducing the Jaggerz (1969), produced by , showcased an R&B-infused style with keyboard contributions from session musicians like Thom Davies on organ, creating a polished yet energetic foundation rooted in influences adapted for a rock audience. This instrumentation supported catchy hooks and upbeat rhythms, as exemplified in tracks like "Gotta Find My Way Back Home," which highlighted the band's tight ensemble playing and harmonious backing vocals. Signature elements of their sound include the infectious, hook-laden choruses and driving percussion that propelled their breakthrough hit (1970) to commercial success, blending soulful phrasing with pop-rock accessibility to capture a sense of playful urgency. The track's structure, with its bold guitar lines from Dominic Ierace (later known as ) and Benny Faiella, underscored a guitar-centric approach that balanced raw energy with melodic precision, often evoking the vibrant, street-smart vibe of their origins. This combination of elements defined their mid-career output on Kama Sutra Records, where the sound evolved toward brighter, more radio-friendly arrangements without losing the underlying soulful . Over their career, the band's sound transitioned from the relatively raw, R&B-heavy debut to the more refined pop-rock polish of their 1970s hits, reflecting label shifts and commercial pressures that amplified their melodic hooks and rhythmic drive. By the time of their 1975 album Come Again, the style incorporated subtler psychedelic touches in songwriting, though the core remained guitar and vocal-focused. In later reunions from the 1980s onward, particularly with the 2014 release The Walk, the Jaggerz returned to their blue-eyed soul roots, emphasizing five-part harmonies, horn sections, and keyboards in covers of R&B classics, evoking a nostalgic yet revitalized evolution that prioritized ensemble warmth over earlier pop sheen. In 2025, they released the compilation album It's All Been a Dream, featuring 15 songs spanning their career from 1965 to present.

Key influences and genre blend

The Jaggerz drew significant inspiration from the and R&B scenes, incorporating soulful harmonies and rhythmic grooves reminiscent of acts like and into their early sound. Band member Benny Faiella highlighted their soulful orientation, noting influences from R&B groups that shaped their performances in the late . This Motown-infused approach was evident in their roots, where they emerged from a vibrant local R&B scene that blended regional talent with national soul trends. Their genre fusion created a distinctive style, merging accessible pop structures with rock edges and R&B depth, a blend that anticipated similar acts like . As a Pittsburgh-based group, the Jaggerz toured alongside in the early 1970s, showcasing their shared affinity for soul-inflected pop before the duo's breakthrough. This hybrid sound positioned them as pioneers in white artists delivering authentic R&B flavors, often produced by Philadelphia soul legends Gamble & Huff, who signed them early on. The band's 1970 hit "" epitomized the phenomenon in 1970s rock, capturing fleeting success amid a landscape of soul-rock crossovers but struggling for sustained recognition. This trajectory connected directly to frontman Donnie Iris's later solo career, where he transitioned into with hits like "Ah! Leah!" in 1980, carrying forward the Jaggerz's melodic accessibility into the new wave era. In Pittsburgh's regional music history, the Jaggerz hold a lasting legacy as ambassadors of the area's revival, frequently performing in ensembles like the Pittsburgh All-Stars alongside acts such as and . Their enduring presence in local circuits underscores their role in preserving soul-rock for new generations, with recent releases reaffirming their foundations.

Discography

Studio albums

The Jaggerz have released six across their career, spanning , , and R&B influences. Their debut, Introducing The Jaggerz, was issued in 1969 by Gamble Records and garnered regional success in the area, though it did not chart nationally. Key tracks include "Gotta Find My Way Back Home" and "(That's Why) ". The band's breakthrough came with We Went to Different Schools Together in 1970 on Records, which peaked at No. 62 on the Billboard 200. The album's lead single "The Rapper" reached No. 2 on the and was certified gold by the RIAA for sales exceeding one million copies. Other notable tracks are "Memoirs of the Traveler," "I Call My Baby Candy" (No. 75 on the Hot 100), and "What a Bummer" (No. 88 on the Hot 100). Come Again, released in 1975 by Wooden Nickel Records, failed to chart but showcased the band's evolving R&B sound with a reduced lineup. Key tracks include "I'll Be Okay in the Morning" and "Love Music". Following a period of inactivity, the group reunited and issued And the Band Played On... in 1998 on independent label JRD Records. The album blends originals and covers, with standout tracks like "Together" and "Move Across the River". In 2001, Re-Rapped by Request appeared on JRD Records, consisting of re-recorded fan favorites and covers such as "Dancin' in the Streets" and updated takes on "". The most recent studio effort, The Walk, was released in 2014 on JRD Records, returning to the band's soul roots with tracks like the title song "The Walk" and "".

Singles

The Jaggerz released their first single, "Feel So Good," in 1966 on Executive Records, marking the band's early forays into regional rock scenes before signing with Gamble Records in 1968. Their Gamble era produced several singles, including "Gotta Find My Way Back Home" in 1968, which gained local airplay in but did not chart nationally. Subsequent 1969 releases on Gamble, such as "(That's Why) " backed with "Bring It Back," "Let Me Be Your Man" with "Together," and the promotional "Here's A Heart" with "Need Your Love," helped build a following in the Midwest and East Coast, though none achieved national chart success. The band's breakthrough came after signing with Kama Sutra Records in 1969, leading to their most commercially successful singles in 1970. "The Rapper," written by vocalist and released as a single from their We Went to Different Schools Together, peaked at No. 2 on the for two weeks in March 1970, reached No. 1 on the chart, and earned a certification from the RIAA for over 1 million units sold. Follow-up singles included "I Call My Baby Candy" in May 1970, which reached No. 75 on the , and "What a Bummer" in August 1970, peaking at No. 88 on the with "Memoirs of the Traveler" as its B-side. Another 1970 Kama Sutra single, "I'll Never Forget You," received promotional push but failed to chart. The band also issued a promotional single "Higher and Higher" on Gamble that year. In 1971, The Jaggerz released the anti-drug promotional single "Wise Up! -- Why Dope?" on Pennsylvania Jaycees Records, aimed at audiences without commercial chart impact. By 1973, after moving to independent Jaggerz Records, they issued "I Can't Make It Without You" backed with "A Certain Girl," followed by "Ain't That Sad" with "Let's Talk About Love" on . The 1974 single "The " (Part 1 and Part 2) on Jaggerz Records capitalized on the novelty trend of streaking but did not chart nationally. Their final major-label single, "" backed with "Don't It Make You Wanna Dance" on Records in 1975, closed out the original lineup's output. Over their career, The Jaggerz released approximately 15 singles and EPs, primarily on small regional labels early on and major labels like during their peak, with B-sides often featuring original compositions like "Bring It Back" and "Memoirs of the Traveler." Post-reunion in the late , the band focused more on albums than standalone singles, though digital reissues of "" appeared in 2023, including sped-up versions for streaming platforms. None of the later reunion-era tracks, such as those from their 1998 album And the Band Played On..., achieved verifiable national chart positions, though they received regional radio play in the Northeast.
YearSingle (A-Side / B-Side)LabelPeak Chart Position
1969(That's Why) / Bring It BackGamble-
1970 / Born Poor#2 ; #1 Record World
1970I Call My Baby Candy / Will She Believe Me?#75
1970What a Bummer / Memoirs of the Traveler#88
1973I Can't Make It Without You / A Certain GirlJaggerz-
1975 / Don't It Make You Wanna Dance-

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