The Esquires

Biography

The Esquires were a pioneering Canadian pop band formed in Ottawa in 1962 by high school friends Clint Hierlihy and Gary Comeau. Drawing inspiration from British acts like Cliff Richard and the Shadows, they quickly developed a strong local following and became known for their energetic live performances. Managed initially by Ottawa journalist Sandy Gardner, The Esquires soon found themselves sharing stages with some of the era's biggest stars, including The Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys, the Dave Clark Five, and Roy Orbison.

In 1963, The Esquires became the first Canadian pop band to sign with a major label, Capitol Records, releasing a string of singles and their album 'Introducing The Esquires.' Their 1964 single 'So Many Other Boys' became their biggest hit and earned them the RPM Award (a predecessor to the Juno Awards) for Best Vocal and Instrumental Group, marking them as recipients of the first Juno Award in Canadian music history. The band's lineup saw several changes, with notable members including Don Norman, Brian Lewicki, and later Bruce Cockburn. Despite early success, internal disputes and lineup changes led to their breakup in 1967, but their influence endured, with members going on to join other significant Canadian acts.

Musically, The Esquires blended elements of doo-wop, early rock and roll, and the emerging pop sounds of the 1960s, helping to lay the groundwork for the Canadian pop and rock scene. Their legacy is cemented not only by their chart successes and awards but also by their role in fostering the careers of future Canadian music luminaries and contributing to the development of the country's music industry.

Fun Facts

• The Esquires are credited with having the first Canadian music video, for their song 'The Man From Adano.'
• They were the first Canadian pop band to sign with a major label (Capitol Records).
• Their 1964 RPM Award for Best Vocal and Instrumental Group was the first Juno Award ever given.
• The band once opened for The Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys, and Roy Orbison during their peak years.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Cliff Richard and the Shadows - The Esquires modeled their early sound and stage presence after this influential British group. (General stylistic influence, especially in early performances.) [1962-1963]

Key Collaborators

• Don Norman - Lead vocalist, replaced Bob Harrington and later left to form Don Norman & The Other Four. (Singles including 'So Many Other Boys', live performances.) [1963-1965]
• Bruce Cockburn - Later member, guitarist and vocalist, who went on to a significant solo career. (Live performances, late period recordings.) [1966-1967]
• Brian 'Lewis' Lewicki - Bassist, guitarist, and vocalist, replaced Norman as lead vocalist. (Singles and live performances.) [1963-1967]
• Gary Comeau - Co-founder, lead guitar and vocals, later joined Don Norman in The Other Four. (All major singles and performances.) [1962-1967]

Artists Influenced

• The Staccatos / Five Man Electrical Band - Ted Gerow, former Esquires member, joined The Staccatos, which evolved into the Five Man Electrical Band. (Transition from The Esquires to The Staccatos and later hits.) [Late 1960s]
• Bruce Cockburn - His tenure with The Esquires helped launch his acclaimed solo career. (Early professional experience and exposure.) [1966-1967]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Get On Up (Get On Up And Get Away)
2. Get On Up (Get On Up)
3. And Get Away (Get On Up And Get Away)
4. Sadie's Ways
5. I Fell in Love
6. Listen to Me (Get on up and Get Away)
7. Why Must I Love You
8. Get on Up - Stereo Single Version (Ultimate Oldies & Goodies - One Hit Wonders of the 50s & 60s)
9. Get on Up (Rerecorded)
10. Muista minua

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia