Who Were The Wrecking Crew? – America’s Top 40 Hit Machine!

Do you know who were the Wrecking Crew? The Wrecking Crew was one of America’s top 40 hit-making teams of the 1960s and 1970s. The music industry of the 1960s and 70s saw a revolution in sound. It may come as a surprise to learn that behind the scenes, some of America’s best-known top 40 hits were made possible by a band of studio musicians known as The Wrecking Crew.

While their names may not widely known their names, this tight-knit group of talented individuals was responsible for hundreds of classic hits over the years. This article will explain who were The Wrecking Crew?. And why they impacted America’s Top 40 hits during this era.

I had no Idea at the Time!

If I told you that for about 20 years, something very peculiar was taking place in the world of American sound recording, record-making, and marketing, would you be shocked? What if I said it was a secret so big that I had no idea at the time? Well, buckle up because what I tell you will leave you in awe. When I was in high school, music was a big part of my life. I had no idea then, but the guitar lessons and the hours spent practising some of the biggest names in rock, blues, and jazz gave me an invaluable skill set.

Riff by riff, I began progressing on the instrument – a process that would eventually lead to professional success. I had no idea then, but some of my favourite songs from the 1960s were recorded by a group of Los Angeles studio musicians known as The Wrecking Crew. This group comprised talented session musicians who worked on many famous recordings in the era.

These musicians provided the instrumentals for hundreds of hit records and played behind an impressive roster of singers and performers. During this process, singers added their vocal tracks to complete each song. When I think back to the exciting days of the 1960s music scene, I had no idea at the time how many iconic bands and hit singles were about to be born. The Monkeys, for example, were one of the most famous acts in their era, whose catchy songs and dance moves made them an instant hit.

The Plot Thickens:

The Monkeys were a beloved group of primates that made their television debut in 1966. The show was an instant hit, and the four members of the group – Dave, Peter, Micky, and Michael – became household names.

They went on to enjoy a long career filled with memorable shows and chart-topping songs.
But many people need to learn that the Monkeys had a seemingly unlimited supply of merchandise to accompany their show. From lunchboxes to action figures, there were plenty of collectables for Monkey fans to enjoy.

Regarding Jimi Hendrix’s brief opening act gig was replaced by the legendary guitarist with a more suitable band after only eight performances. Late Jimi Hendrix was one of the greatest guitar players of all time. His influence on rock and roll music was undeniable, and his legacy lives on. To learn more about the life and works of this legendary musician, a visit to the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame is in order.

Before going on concert tours and releasing their albums, many famous musicians were taught how to play their instruments. It was standard practice for record companies seeking to ensure their stars had the best possible chance of success.

A Musical Force to be Reckoned With:

The late 1970s brought a new and innovative force of studio musicians to the music industry. Known for their raw talent and ability to play various instruments, these musicians quickly gained recognition as a musical force to be reckoned with. Many older, more conservative players nearing the end of their careers felt threatened by what they saw as an invasion from these young artists.

These seasoned veterans feared that the arrival of these studio musicians would hurt their chances of continuing in the business for years to come. They began voicing their objections about them publicly and attempted to discredit them whenever possible. But regardless of whatever opposition they faced, these studio musicians remained in their pursuit and continued making waves throughout the music industry — eventually becoming some of its most beloved figures.

Despite having yet to meet all at once or form an official band together, these session players worked exceptionally well together. They became known as ‘the musicians that could play absolutely anything and get it done. Generally speaking, their superpower was the ability to create or modify the music to a song so that it would become a smash hit on the radio and streaming platforms.

They were renowned for their ability to take any track they touched and make it into something special.
The Wrecking Crew was a musical force. A group of session musicians provided instrumental backing to some of the most iconic and successful Top 40 hits in American pop music history. But despite their incredible contributions, the members were only sometimes credited with the songs they helped create – leading many people to refer to them as America’s best-kept secret.

Who Were the Wrecking Crew Members?

The Wrecking Crew was a famous rock band that consisted of guitar players, drummers, percussionists, keyboardists, brass, and woodwinds. However, many people are still determining who were the band members. Some people believe that there were only guitar players in the band, while others believe that the band also had a membership of drummers, percussionists, keyboardists, and brass players.

It is unknown which group made up the Wrecking Crew. There is no doubt that this group formed in the early 1960s and played a significant role in rock and roll. There is no strict membership definition when it comes down to it, but there was an impressive roster of notable regulars.

Guitar Players:

Tommy Tedesco is a guitar player who has had some success in the music industry. His latest album, “The Best of Tommy Tedesco,” was released in 2013 and has been well-received by fans and critics. Al Casey is a guitarist and composer who has worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry. In addition to his guitar playing, Al composed popular songs for film and television.

Bill Pitman is a guitar and bass guitar player who has played for over 20 years. Pitman has played with some of the biggest names in popular music, including the surviving members of Yes and Led Zeppelin.
Ray Pohlman, a guitarist and composer, has played in the music industry for over 25 years. Pohlman is known for his heavy metal, progressive rock compositions, and guitar work.

Bill Aken is a guitarist and composer who has been in the music industry for over 30 years. He started playing the guitar at six and has become one of the world’s most accomplished and well-known guitarists. He has played with some of the most famous musicians in history, including The Beatles.

Doug Bartenfeld, Guitar Player and Songwriter, has been playing and writing music for over 30 years. He has collaborated with many talented musicians, including Randy Rhoads, Gregg Allman, and John Lee Hooker. Glen Campbell was a guitar player for many of the biggest rock and roll bands of the ’50s and early ’60s. He is known for his powerful and beautiful solo work and his work with The Beatles, The Stones, The Kinks, and other famous acts.

Carol Kaye is a powerful and versatile player. With over 20 years of experience, she knows how to play all types of music, from acoustic to electric. She can also play the bass guitar, keyboards, and percussion. Billy Strange is one of the most well-known and successful guitar players in recent history. He has played with some of the biggest names in rock and roll, including Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Kiss.

Mike Deasy is back in the studio working on new music. Deasy is a multiple Grammy winner and has played with some of today’s top guitarists, including James Hetfield of Metallica and Slash. Howard Roberts has played the guitar for over 30 years and is considered one of the world’s most experienced and respected guitar players. He has worked with some of the biggest names in rock music, including Bon Iver, The Darkness, Oasis, and The Black Keys.

Louis Shelton is a key figure in the guitar-playing world. He has played the instrument for over 30 years and helped shape the sound of modern-day guitar players. Irv Rubins is a guitar player and instructor who has helped musicians of all levels improve their playing skills. He has taught at various music schools and universities, including the Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA.

Bass Guitar And Double Bass Players:

Lyle Ritz is an accomplished bass guitar and double bass player. His skills have led him to play with some of the most famous bands in the world, including Aerosmith, Whitesnake, Ozzy Osbourne, and many more. Jerry Cole is a bass player and double bass player who has played in many bands throughout his career. He has worked with some of the biggest names in rock and metal and has learned to play both instruments easily.

He is a skilled musician who knows how to make your band sound better. Carol Kaye is a well-known bass guitarist who has played with some of the biggest names in the music industry. She has toured Europe with artists like Roger Waters, David Bowie, and The Kinks. Red Callender is a bassist who specializes in playing the double bass. In addition to his bass, Red also plays the guitar and has developed a successful career as an acoustic artist.

Jimmy Bond, a bass guitar and double bass player is famous in metal music. His playing has been featured on numerous albums by some of the biggest names in metal, including Slayer. Bond has also been cited as one of the best bass players in the business. Max Bennett is a double bass player who has been playing since he was 8. He has collaborated with several artists, most notably the band ZZ Top.

Joe Osborn is a bassist and double bass player who has been playing for over 20 years. Osborn’s experience as a bassist allows him to play in a wide range of styles, from blues to funk. Chuck Berghofer is a bass guitar and double bass player who has played for over 25 years. He has worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including John Lennon, Ringo Starr, and The Beatles.

Bass Guitar and Double Bass Players: Some of the Names You Can Imagine! There are some scorching bass guitar and double bass players out there, and if you recognize some of their names, it’s not difficult to imagine how hot they sounded working together as an elite team. They were responsible for some fantastic music projects, and their playing was incredible. Bass Guitar and Double Bass Players is a perfect choice.

Carol Kaye – A Very Special Woman!

Carol Kaye was a key musician in The Wrecking Crew. She added so much to the group as a guitar and bass guitar player that it is difficult to overstate her impact. Her skill with the instrument and her ability to communicate with others made her an integral part of the band. Contributions were undoubtedly an essential factor in The Wrecking Crew’s success. Carol Kaye, a bassist who has won many awards for her music, was equally well-known on both instruments.

But her innovative bass lines became particularly well-known. She is considered one of the most talented bassists in the world. The vocalist for Mission: Impossible, Carol Kaye, has a particular moment in each television episode and movie. For example, in the first instalment of the series, “Mission: Impossible II,”
Featured vocalist on the track “A Very Special Woman.” In subsequent instalments, her tune becomes more prominent. The song is so catchy that you want to hum it with it!

While many people know about the iconic bass line played by Brian Wilson for The Beach Boys’ tune California Girls, only some know that Carol Kaye also contributed to the song. Carol Kaye, a very special woman in rock music, primarily played a Fender Precision bass through a Fender Super Reverb Amp and played various 6-string guitars when they sat. She often compared her unique style to that of The Kinks. She even sang on some of their tracks.

Carol Kaye, a singer and songwriter who has written and performed with Sonny And Cher, demonstrates how she transformed an extraordinarily mundane and boring bass line for the song “The Beat Goes.” Carol’s transformation is impressive, as she devised a new and innovative way to use the Bass Line.
This video clip is an excellent example of how artists can use creativity to improve their work.

Tommy Tedesco – Guitar Player Extraordinaire!

Tommy Tedesco is a guitar player dubbed “the best sight reader in the business” by Guitar Player Magazine. In his monthly column, Studio Log, Tedesco takes on lead guitar duties for some of rock’s most famous and respected names. His ability to scan material with precision is an asset to any band or musician. Tommy Tedesco is one of the most recorded guitarists in history.

Tedesco is a guitar player dubbed “the best sight reader in the business” by Guitar Player Magazine. In his monthly column, Studio Log, Tedesco takes on lead guitar duties for some of rock’s most famous and respected names. Many people may need to learn that Tommy Tedesco also made an iconic contribution to classic television. His musical skills were featured on the ‘dah-dah-dah-dah, dah-dah-dah-dah’ sound effects from Rod Serling’s Twilight Zone series.

Also played countless theme songs – such as Bonanza, The Munsters, and MAS*H – that became staples across generations. He was a legendary guitar player who set the bar for the generation of sidemen. With his unique blend of playing styles, he worked with some of music’s greatest icons, such as Aretha Franklin, Sam Cooke, and Neil Diamond. Tommy was a guitar player extraordinaire! His skill with the instrument was unparalleled, and his collection of guitars reflected his impressive capabilities.

Tommy’s collection was an eclectic mix of vintage and modern instruments, each handpicked for its unique qualities. Tedesco chose guitars worldwide, from Gibson Les Pauls to Fender Telecasters to Guild acoustics. He combined this variety with different amplifiers, effects pedals, and other gear to create a sound that was as vibrant as it was diverse. Some of the more exciting instruments that Tommy would play:

1971 balalaika mandolin
A balalaika (Russian triangular-shaped 3-string instrument)
1950s 6-string lute
1920s tenor ukelele
1962 Fender “Mandocaster”
1985 Ibanez IMG2010 Electric Synth Guitar

Bill Pitman – The “Rock And Roll Guy”

When Bill Pitman began his career, he was known simply as ‘The Rock and Roll Guy .’He had first started in the music industry as a session player for popular American jazz and pop singer Peggy Lee. Bill Pitman was a renowned session player from the 1960s who made an indelible mark on the rock and roll scene as part of The Wrecking Crew.

The Los Angeles-based studio musicians played on countless hit records for some of the most popular bands of their era. Bill Pitman is an iconic figure in the history of rock and roll. As a guitarist, he played numerous hit songs by artists such as Jan and Dean, The Everly Brothers, and The Mamas And The Papas.
Referred to by many as ‘The Rock And Roll Guy,’ Bill quickly became recognized for his unique guitar playing and instrumental production style.

If you remember the theme song to the 1965 television series The Wild Wild West, then you have heard Bill Play. Bill Pitman was an American producer, composer, and musician best known for his work with rockabilly and surf bands in the 1950s and 60s. The Wild Wild West was a television series that aired from 1965 to 1969 and became a movie starring Will Smith in 1999. Bill Pitman was the Rock and Roll Guy who made the theme song for this show memorable.

Musically he was known for his versatile playing, but if you ask anyone who saw him play or heard him on record, they’d tell you it was all about the Gibson ES-335. Bill mainly used this guitar with a Polytone amplifier to get his unique tone. He also had a few other favourites that he would bring out depending on the context, namely a Telecaster and Danelectro through a Twin Reverb amp.

Barney Kessel – A Jazz Guitar Legend!

Barney Kessel, a Jazz Guitar Legend, was one of the greatest jazz players ever. He was an active member of The Wrecking Crew, a group of renowned jazz guitarists who set the standard for modern jazz.
Kessel was well-known as a brilliant improviser and was respected by other musicians as one of the finest guitarists ever. Recorded over 50 albums throughout his career, working with various pop and rock artists, adding a unique 12-string guitar influence to these musical genres.

He had an incredible ability to blend styles, creating a unique and timeless sound. His smooth playing style earned him the title “The Jazz Man” by his peers and fans alike. Barney Kessel was a jazz guitarist who left behind a legacy of recordings from Billie Holiday to The Beach Boys. He was an accomplished musician, playing with the cream of the crop in jazz throughout his career.

A jazz guitar legend was known for his incredible playing style and the Gibson guitars he used throughout his career. His signature artist model was a modified ES-350 with a P-90 pickup replaced by a Charlie Christian unit. It was manufactured from 1961 to 1974 and was available in standard and custom models. During live performances, Kessel employed a Gibson GA50 tube amp and a Merson Minimax transistor amp to get the desired warm tube sound.

He also used a Walter Woods solid-state head for additional power with plenty of headroom. He was named the number one guitar player in the Downbeat Magazine Readers Poll from 1947 to 1960 and in Playboy magazine’s poll of readers from 1956 to 1960. In the late 70s, however, he decided to leave studio work and become an exclusive live artist.

The Wrecking Crew Video:

The Wrecking Crew Video is a one-hour, forty-two-minute documentary that chronicles the life and times of some of the most notable musicians in music history. The Video features interviews with over 60 legendary artists and producers, such as Brian Wilson, Leonard Cohen, Cher, Dick Clark, Leon Russell, Glen Campbell, and many others. In one video interview with veteran musician Carol Kaye, she made an eye-opening revelation.

She mentioned that she was making more money than some of the key members of The Wrecking Crew, even though they had been around longer than her. It was surprising given that the work done by The Wrecking Crew is often overlooked since their contributions went uncredited and remained behind the scenes for so long.

The Wrecking Crew is a group of studio musicians who have made up the backbone of American popular music for over five decades. In this Video, Jimmy Webb (composer) calls The Wrecking Crew the stone-cold rock guitarists that helped define the essence of what rock guitar would become. Video is an American documentary film focusing on a group of master session musicians in Los Angeles, the eponymous Wrecking Crew.

The group was formed in the late 1950s and early 1960s and included members such as Tommy Tedesco (guitar) and Carol Kaye (guitar and bass). Much of the movie centres around a reunion organized by one of their members, Denny Tedesco, in 1996. The Wrecking Crew, an iconic group of musicians that shaped American pop music in the 60s, recently got together to reminisce about their 20-year career.

Famous Songs Recorded By The Wrecking Crew

These musical virtuosos delivered some of the greatest rock, pop, surf, and country music ever recorded.
This remarkable collective contributed to hundreds of popular songs and records, providing the backbone for some of the most well-known music in history. Here is just a small representation of their vast catalogue.

• Da Doo Ron Ron (When He Walked Me
  Home)– The Crystals
• Be My Baby – The Ronettes
• Surf City – Jan and Dean
• (They Long to Be) Close to You – The Carpenters
• You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’ – The Righteous Brothers
• Young Girl – Gary Puckett and the Union Gap
• Little Old Lady (from Pasadena) – Jan and Dean
• Strangers In The Night – Frank Sinatra
• The Lonely Bull – Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass
• These Boots Are Made for Walkin’ – Nancy Sinatra
• California Girls – The Beach Boys
• Somethin’ Stupid – Frank And Nancy Sinatra
• I Get Around – The Beach Boys
• Help Me, Rhonda – The Beach Boys
• Everybody Loves Somebody – Dean Martin
• Mr. Tambourine Man – The Byrds
• I Got You Babe – Sonny And Cher
• Mary, Mary – The Monkeys
• Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves – Cher
• Valleri – The Monkees
• Half-Breed – Cher
• California Dreamin’ – The Mamas & The Papas
• River Deep – Mountain High – Ike and Tina Turner
• Monday Monday – The Mamas & The Papas
• Bridge Over Troubled Water – Simon And Garfunkel
• Up, Up and Away” – The 5th Dimension
• Rhinestone Cowboy – Glen Campbell
• Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In – The 5th Dimension
• Galveston – Glen Campbell
• Tiptoe Through The Tulips – Tiny Tim
• Love Will Keep Us Together – The Captain & Tennille
• Dizzy – Tommy Roe
• I Think I Love You – The Partridge Family
• Cracklin’ Rosie – Neil Diamond
• Classical Gas – Mason Williams

Television And Movie Theme Songs

In the 1960s and 1970s, if you had a favourite weekly television show, the chances were high that you heard the music of The Wrecking Crew. This elite group of Los Angeles-based studio musicians worked together to produce some of the most iconic television and movie theme songs for decades. Here are a few of the more popular ones. How many do you recognize?

• Love Boat
• Hawaii Five-0
• Elvis Presley’s ’68 Comeback Special Green Acres
• Bonanza
• Batman (TV series)
• The Pink Panther
• MAS*H
• The Twilight Zone
• Mission Impossible (TV series)
• Barney Miller
• Indiana Jones – The Last Crusade

Final Thoughts on who were the Wrecking Crew?

The Wrecking Crew was a band of session musicians, producers, and engineers who worked out of Los Angeles in the 1960s. They provided backing music for some of the biggest names in pop and rock history, including The Monkees, Beach Boys, and Frank Sinatra. In their time, they revolutionized how records were recorded and produced. The Wrecking Crew played countless hit songs from the mid-sixties to the early seventies. They brought unique sounds to each track that would become iconic parts of popular music culture as we know it today.

From Phil Spector’s Wall Of Sound to Glen Campbell’s jangling guitar style, these skilled musicians changed the landscape of popular music forever. It is unlikely a group like this will ever be duplicated or surpassed due to the sheer breadth of talent that went into creating these timeless pieces.

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