KIP TYLER

Biography

Kip Tyler, born Elwood Westerton Smith on May 31, 1929 in Chicago, Illinois, was a pioneering American rock and roll singer and bongo player whose energetic style helped shape the West Coast rockabilly scene of the late 1950s. Tyler began his musical journey as the lead singer of The Sleepwalkers during his time at Union High School, later joining forces with rival musicians from Fairfax High School to form the early incarnation of Kip Tyler and the Flips[1][2][4]. His dynamic stage presence, often featuring black leather and a motorcycle, quickly made him a local favorite, especially at the legendary El Monte Legion Stadium where his band became a staple act[2][5].

In 1957, Tyler's career took a significant turn when arranger Joseph Gershenson recruited him for a project connected to the film "Rock, Pretty Baby." Tyler provided the voice for the movie's main character, Jimmy Daley, and subsequently adopted the persona to form Jimmy Daley and the Ding-A-Lings, recording his first album at Decca Records[1][2][4]. Despite early promise, the sequel "Summer Love" faltered, prompting Tyler to return to his own name and form Kip Tyler and the Flips. The group released several singles, including "Jungle Hop" (later covered by The Cramps), "She's My Witch," and "Let's Monkey Around," which showcased his raw, driving rockabilly sound[1][2][4].

After the Flips disbanded in 1959, Tyler pursued a solo career with limited success, releasing his final single in 1965. Though he largely avoided discussing his rock 'n' roll days in later years, Tyler's influence on the California rockabilly scene was substantial, with several of his bandmates going on to become prominent session musicians. He passed away on September 23, 1996 in Los Angeles, California[1][2][4].

Fun Facts

• Kip Tyler frequently performed on stage dressed in black leather and sometimes rode a motorcycle onto the stage, enhancing his rebellious image[1][2][5].
• He provided the singing voice for the character Jimmy Daley in the film 'Rock, Pretty Baby,' and briefly adopted the character's name for his band[1][2][4].
• Tyler was reluctant to discuss his rock 'n' roll career in later years, reportedly refusing interviews about his musical past[1][3].
• Several members of his backing band, The Flips, became highly successful session musicians, contributing to major acts in the 1960s and beyond[1][2].

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Joseph Gershenson - Arranger and film music director who hired Tyler for the 'Rock, Pretty Baby' project, providing early professional guidance. (Rock, Pretty Baby (film project), Jimmy Daley and the Ding-A-Lings recordings) [1957]

Key Collaborators

• Jim Horn - Member of Kip Tyler and the Flips; later a renowned session musician. (Kip Tyler and the Flips singles (e.g., Jungle Hop, She's My Witch)) [1957-1959]
• Larry Knechtel - Band member; later a celebrated session musician and member of Bread. (Kip Tyler and the Flips singles) [1957-1959]
• Sandy Nelson - Drummer for the Flips; later achieved solo success. (Kip Tyler and the Flips singles) [1957-1959]
• Mike Bermani, Mike Deasy, Steve Kreisman - Band members in the Flips. (Kip Tyler and the Flips singles) [1957-1959]

Artists Influenced

• The Cramps - Covered Tyler's song 'Jungle Hop,' citing his style as an influence on their psychobilly sound. (Jungle Hop (cover version)) [1980s]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. She's My Witch (Ooh Yeah Baby)
2. Eternity (Ooh Yeah Baby)
3. She Got Eyes (Ooh Yeah Baby)
4. Shadow Street (Ooh Yeah Baby)
5. She's My Witch (Monster Mash)
6. She's My Witch (Frankenstein’s Halloween Jukebox)
7. Jungle Hop (Ooh Yeah Baby)
8. Red Lips and Green Eyes (Ooh Yeah Baby)
9. She´s My Witch (Ooh Yeah Baby! - Red Hot Rock And Roll out of Hollywood)
10. How's About a Little Kiss (Ooh Yeah Baby)

External Links

• Spotify