The Peddlers formed in Manchester in April 1964, as a trio of Roy Phillips (vocals and organ), Tab Martin (bass) and Trevor Morais (drums, previously of Faron’s Flamingos and Rory Storm and the Hurricanes).
Their first performance together was at the CIS building in Manchester where Roy Orbison, Wayne Fontana and Herman’s Hermits were also on the bill. By the end of their first song, they managed to clear almost the entire hall.
In 1967 they were given a one-month residency at the Pickwick club in London frequented by big named stars including Frank Sinatra, Richard Harris and Sarah Vaughan who were all forthcoming with advice for the group.
Their residency was extended to eighteen months leading to a recording contract with Philips.
Three prominent DJ’s at the time, Pete Murray, John Peel and Dave Cash promoted their music on the radio and helped turn them into a much in demand act.
By 1969 they’d moved to CBS where they achieved their biggest hit single with Birth followed by Girlie in the same year.
Drummer Trevor Morais left the trio during an Australian tour in 1972 and was replaced by New Zealander Paul Johnston.
The Peddlers disbanded in 1976.
Roy Phillips
Vocals, keyboards
Tab Martin (Alan Brearey)
Bass
Trevor Morais
Drums
Paul Johnston
Drums
