The Rip Chords

Hey Little Cobra and Other Hot Rod Hits / Three Window Coupe The Rip Chords

Digitally remastered two-fer. The Rip Chords? For many, it brings to mind producer Terry Melcher (Doris Day's son) and Bruce Johnston, who would go on to join the Beach Boys. But the real story is a lot more fascinating than merely talking about a collaboration between these two high profile talents. The band was started by Ernie Bringas and Phil Stewart in 1957, landing a deal with the Columbia label in 1962. Melcher, then just 20 years old, was assigned to produce the duo's first single in '63, titled 'Here I Stand', which reached #51 on the national charts and was quickly followed by a second single, 'Gone'. It was at this time, Johnston was brought in. What they've left behind is a real cameo of a great time for music and their role in the development of what became known as 'The California Sound' should not be underestimated, as is proven in the enduring worth of these albums.