Hi Johanne, Thanks! for your Very kind words. So good to hear you have enjoyed our music! We truly loved doing it-picking the material, writing our own songs, putting together the harmonies, working with the musicians in the studio on background arrangements, and SINGING! A labor of love…it’s always great of hear that listeners enjoy!
Kindest Regards,
The Innocents
Jim & Al
Oh how i love, just LOVE your music!
I can’t believe i only knew a few of your songs till i discovered your albums on line a year ago or so,
The innocents just have the most impeccably sweet, harmonious voices, completely pitchh-perfect and heart-rendering,
as a diehard fan of doo-wop music i now cannot get enough of these beautiful love songs you sang, wow! i may have come to it late in life but it sure is a nice thing to find more delicious oldies to enjoy, this is definitely as good as the most famos to me, so i have to thank you with all my heart for making this incredible music, All the best to you.
JWest
on
March 14th, 2021 9:10 pm
Hello Rosemary,
Al is doing fine and all is well with him, just spoke with him a few days ago-will let him know you inquired-hope that helps- Jim
Rosemary Miller
on
March 14th, 2021 12:48 am
I am a friend of Al’s and have not heard from him in a while. Hoping all is ok.
Hi George,
Done, Passed your info to my current Innocents club contacts-
Please send Best Regards to your dad! What a GIFT to us young guys
was given to us by the original founding members of the Innocents!
George Burtt
on
June 4th, 2020 11:14 pm
Hi, left a comment back in 2005 about my father being one of the original founding members of the innocents car club before he was sent to camp and the club was handed down, thank you for the response. He is 81 years old and kicking, we still live in sun valley, I was good friends with Monty, god rest his soul, an innocent member came to my home years back and gave me a card with a phone number on it, needless to say I lost the card, I’d like to get back in contact with any of them that are still around, I would appreciate it if you forwarded my info to anyone you may know from the club that is still active and in the valley, thanks you!
JWest
on
December 11th, 2018 7:39 pm
Wow! Long time ago. Thank you for your kind comment on our music. Feeling good, hanging in and God Bless back to you!
Jack Grigsby
on
August 28th, 2018 5:54 pm
I remember when you came to Sun Valley Jr. High from Texas then on to Poly. I remember Darron from grammar school and Al from Poly. I really enjoy your music. One thing I can say is getting old is not fun. Hang in there and God bless.
JWest
on
January 25th, 2018 7:08 pm
Hi! Yeah, it has been that long since we lost Darron…Thanks for writing. Al and I are
doing fine. I’m in Ca. now and he is in Florida. We are in touch and all is good! We send
regards and wishes to you for a Happy 2017!
Troy Harris
on
January 11th, 2018 10:06 pm
Hi Jim! Sure you don’t remember me, but we emailed back and forth a few times not long after Darron passed. Can’t believe it’s been that long already. Just wanted to say hi , and hope you and Al are doing well
JWest
on
June 21st, 2017 3:11 am
Hey Mike, Good to hear from you and so glad to hear you have enjoyed our music!
Kind Regards,
Jim & Al
Mike Moore
on
June 21st, 2017 1:42 am
Would like to say how much I have always enjoyed you music,Your songs were a part of the music of my senior year in high school.(1960-1961).Also went to high school with a good friend Duncan Way who was in the Innocents at that time.Keep up the great music and my best to you all.
Linda Sarvey
on
December 1st, 2016 9:44 pm
Looking for my long lost friend Al!!!
EMail me please.
Jim I’ve been trying to get a couple of plaques for my sons they were really close to my dad and he left them each an old car I would like to give them each a plaque I’ve seen a couple on line but they don’t seem to be for sale and I would be interested in a couple of jackets.you can pass my E- mail along to any one at the reunion that was part of the original Innocents or that might have known my dad.Thanks.
Lisa Robley
on
September 22nd, 2015 3:20 am
Thanks, for that info my dad passed away in 2004. Ive been trying to find butch I’m sad to hear he passed. I would love to get a hold of butch’s son I know butch was living in North Dakota Dale Enoch’s passed away before my dad I remember my dad had a green jacket with the innocents logo wish I had it,if you have any pics or anything else about my dad, Butch and Dale. I would appreciate it my dad stayed in touch with butch a lot before he passed if anyone else wants to share about my dad here’s my email tazusa07@msn.com it is cool to here this stuff from you I would love to know more.
JWest
on
September 20th, 2015 5:47 pm
Hi Lisa,
Checked it all out with some of the guys that were early members with me and here goes-
Yes, your dad, Gary Robley and 2 of his friends-Butch Thordson and Dale Ennis used to come by Freddie Piro’s
mom’s liquor store on Lankershim and Tuxford in NH and had decided they were getting older and saw 5 of us hanging out with Freddie there a lot, checked us out, and called a meeting with us to talk it over and then offered to turn over the club to us so it would continue. So…they were the original Innocents Car Club members. We 5 were between 15 and 16 yrs old and it was 1957-summer I recall. They instructed us on how to run the club-with elected officers and meetings and gave us the Great plaque and logo they had designed. Your dad had the I on his hand (can’t remember if the other 2 guys did) and some of us did that too! Heard from Butch Thordsen’s son a while back who said Butch had wanted to get in touch, and he was doing it for him. Dale Ennis owned a muffler shop and he put mufflers on my ’60 Ford Starliner I remember. As the next group of Innocents Car Club we were always grateful for the generosity they showed us! They checked in intermittemtly with us and said they were proud of us. They also told me they took pride in the fact that we had used the name The Innocents when we 3 Innocents club members-Jim, Darron & Al began recording. Many of us still keep in touch, in fact at our high school reunion next Sunday we will have an Innocents table for the guys!
Lisa Robley
on
September 19th, 2015 10:13 pm
My dads name was Gary Robley.
JWest
on
September 19th, 2015 4:57 pm
Hi Lisa,
Is Robley your maiden name? What was your dad’s name? Sounds familiar. Will get back with more info after I hear back from you-thanks, Jim West
Lisa Robley
on
September 19th, 2015 4:07 am
My father was from Burbank lived there in the 50s he belonged to a car club called the Innocents he had a capitol (I) tattooed on the inside of his palm was this the same car club.
Steve Lehman
on
March 13th, 2015 5:22 pm
Dear Jim West, are you the same Jim West that recorded in the late 70’s at Mama Jo’s recording studio in North Hollywood with a different band name under the production of Freddie Piro? I used to help you guys out. At the time I was working for the band Ambrosia. I still work for them today. I would like to know what ever happened to that album you recorded. My contact info is above.
Sincerely,
Steve Lehman
Hello Steve, Yes I am the same Jim West and I surely do remember you! The Fortress album “Hands in the Till”
was released on Atlantic Records in 1980. Didn’t have much traction, the guys that signed us left the label
and support was in short supply afterwards. The album has been licensed and is available on CD by Wounded Bird Records and also in England by RockCandy Records and has been well received. Ace Records put together The Innocents “Classic Innocents” as shown on the site.
Please say hello to the Ambrosia guys and send my regards!
Nice to hear from you.
Jim
JWest
on
January 8th, 2015 10:59 pm
Hello Hank,
Great to hear from you. Thank you so much for your very kind comments-It is a wonderful honor and a family treasure for each of us.
It was a great disappointment to me personally to not be able to attend and perform our songs and back up Kathy with our harmonies as was
requested-(I had a previous committment that I just could not get out of!) So glad that Al and Darron’s daughter could represent us!
The best part for The Innocents has always been Making The Music and connecting with folks like You who have enjoyed it!!
Kind Regards, Jim West
HANK GILHOOLY
on
January 7th, 2015 6:17 pm
Dear Kathy Young and The Innocents
I would like to say I was honored to be brought up on stage at what was a highlight for me at your induction into the Doo Wop Hall of Fame Of America in October 2014 by producer Harvey Robbins and I must say it was one of the biggest thrills to be on stage with Kathy ,Al Candelaria and one of the deceased Innocents daughters to receive your well deserved plaques for giving us many years of listening pleasure with the song A Thousand Stars In The Sky and I just wanted you to know that it was such an honor to be present and there on that stage with you at that time and wish you a Happy Birthday in person, Thanks for The Memories it is something I will never ever forget.
Hank Gilhooly
JWest
on
November 16th, 2014 8:46 pm
Hello Bob, Thanks for the kind words! We are truly honored! Our last CD for The Innocents is “Classic Innocents”-28 songs compiled
material we did after we left Indigo and recorded on Reprise, Decca and Warner Bros., studio out takes, 45 releases and more along with
a well done Ace booklet with in depth history of the group and the music scene in LA at the time we were recording. Their last release was “The Complete Indigo Recordings” which was the 25 songs we did when we recorded on Indigo Records. Those 2 CDs comprise the complete work The
Innocents did as a group in the early 60’s. There is also “Midnight Snack” recording I produced of 4 songs we did together in “82-Darron
thought it was some of the best work we did-it’s available on cdbaby and amazon. You probably are aware of these, if we put out any
more new CDs I will let you know personally. Kind regards, Jim West
BOB SABO
on
November 16th, 2014 5:32 am
CONGRATS ON YOUR INDUCTION. LONG TIME OVERDO. WISH YOU COULD BE DOING YOUR SONGS AT AN OLDIE SHOW NEAR NAPLES, FLORIDA. LET ME KNOW WHEN YOU HAVE ANY NEW CDS.
JWest
on
October 17th, 2014 2:20 am
Many Thanks Joe. Coming from “one of the guys” mean so much. Jim & Al (& Darron).
Joe Martinez
on
October 17th, 2014 12:52 am
DOO WOP HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES- OCT 12 2014 – MY HATS OFF TO YOU GUYS, CONGRATULATIONS, JIM & AL, DARRON HAS A SMILE ON HIS FACE.
JOSEPH INTENZO
on
October 9th, 2014 3:37 pm
GREAT JOB ON THE WEBSITE JILL.WISHING YOU AND JIM THE BEST
CONNIE HALPERT INTENZO
on
October 9th, 2014 3:32 pm
VERY NOSTALGIC AND A VERY SMALL WORLD INDEED
Mike Pyatt
on
October 18th, 2013 8:20 pm
Jim:
Saw you three back in early 60’s at University of Wyoming in Laramie. Just heard “Gee Wiz” on sirius radio. Love your sound. I’m from Indiana originally. Moved back to Wyoming in 1999. Retired and still love the oldies. Am a columnist for Wyoming Press-writing what I want.
Saw you on PBS with Kathy Young. Like most of us old guys-we don’t look to bad-yet.
Regards
Sande Sanford Fast
on
July 18th, 2013 4:52 am
Will you guys ever be in Washington? You should come to Sequim. It’s a active retirement town where most everyone is about our ages. They like music there. There is a restaurant called the Oasis that has a stage and live music. People would love it.
Dan O'Lear
on
July 10th, 2013 7:41 pm
I’m glad Doug Hamilton gave me the info. I used to attend some of your parties around Poly High (being from San Fernando High and a different Car Club, I had to go with “Polyite” friends, Like Danny Grey or Joe Intenzo) . Some of my “old folks” friends will love having this sent to them.
Hope to see you guys up at Hot August Night again. Danny O’Lear
Jon Wenkalman
on
July 10th, 2013 3:54 am
Glad the show went well. Now you got to bring it to SoCal.
Sande Sanford Fast
on
July 10th, 2013 2:00 am
There is and never will be again music like this. Brings back so many great memories.
Doug Hamilton
on
July 9th, 2013 11:33 pm
Glad you guys had a great show @ the Beacon Theatre in NYC. Joe said he had a blast singing with you guys again.
Sharon Van Hooser Thompson
on
June 21st, 2013 2:31 am
Hi guys, I graduated in 1960 from Poly – so proud to know that you were my class mates – I have always loved all of your songs and never realized that you went to my school, I knew the names Jim West and Darron – good luck – keep singing – love, love your music
Sharon
Wayne edwards
on
December 10th, 2012 12:41 am
Hi Jim just got a ipad ,now that I have time to play, hope yoy are doing ok.went to a meeting on Fri talk to the old guys Buckey and the old Innocents,we have new coates had a good time. I hope you get this .
Ellie
on
November 15th, 2012 6:29 pm
Hi-I’m looking forward to the new cd-I love your harmonies and the leads!
I’ll keep checking to see when it’s available-
I love the Innocents! Brings me back to a more simple time. Puts me in a great mood (not so much busy-mind thinking). Thanks for adding the songs to the discography so that I can check out other songs I haven’t heard before. 🙂
Jason
on
May 28th, 2012 8:38 pm
I’m a fan of R&R, but these harmonies and the feel knock me out. A different generation, but a fan!
Mike Krogan
on
February 26th, 2012 8:36 pm
I’m a big fan of Kathy Young and The Innocents and The Innocents, will always be! Had recent contact with Jim West. He is a good man. Very generous with his
time. I appreciated it.
THANK YOU MIKE, IT WAS GOOD TO HEAR FROM YOU!
JIM WEST
Jack McMurphy
on
December 3rd, 2011 8:30 pm
I discovered the Kathy Young site, but was wondering why you are not mentioned
there having to do with her music!?
I have always really enjoyed The Innocents music and your sound-both with and without Kathy.
JACK, THANKS.
WE WERE CONTRACTED BY INDIGO RECORDS TO ARRANGE AND SING ALL THE BACKGROUND HARMONIES FOR KATHY’S SINGLES AND HER ALBUM, OUR GOAL BEING TO MAKE A STRONG CONTRIBUTION TO THE SOUND. SO GLAD YOU HAVE ENJOYED THE MUSIC!!
JIM AND AL- THE INNOCENTS
Country Paul Payton
on
June 21st, 2011 8:20 pm
I bought your wonderful Ace CD, but my super all-time fave innocents song (of so many) isn’t there: “Tick-Tock” (Good Night my Darling) on Transworld. Any chance of it finding its way onto CD? It’s a masterpiece! You also don’t mention the “Bobby James” 45 on Indigo, “5000 Tears Ago”. What a great side! I assume that was you JIm. By the way, 2 songs on the CD were absolute revelations: “Two Young Hearts” and “It Was A Tear”. Why those never came out (perhaps in a more “finished” form) is a mystery to me. Your sound-the velvet voices, the perfectly blended harmony-was one of the most influential sounds of my popular music development. So many great tracks-I look forward to your new endeavors!
Kim Horrell
on
May 5th, 2011 12:00 am
I love the pix in your photos-“Just before the first show”. Can I get a copy???
Email me and I will send you my address. I wish I has more pictures and memory material to show Darron’s grandkids…these are great!
Kim
Denny McConnell
on
June 11th, 2010 1:47 am
Hey Jim Rockit Radio DJ Denny here. Thanks for listening to the MUSIC OF YOUR MIND SHOW on ROCKIT RADIO. NET. Can’t wait to get more of your songs. will play them as soon as I receive them.
THANKS AGAIN DENNY and remember KEEP ON ROCKIN CAUSE YOU ONLY ROCK ONCE!
Bob Sabo
on
May 28th, 2009 1:43 am
BEING A COLLECTOR OF OVER 10,000 45’S FOR OVER 50 YEARS, THERE ARE ONLY TWO SELECT GROUPS WHO BEST ILLUSTRATED HARMONIZING, THE FLAMINGOS AND ESPECIALLY THE INNOCENTS. I AM SURE THERE WILL NEVER BE ANOTHER GROUP OR GROUPS THAT CAN EVER COME CLOSE TO YOUR SOUND AND FEEL–
Suzanne
on
March 28th, 2009 1:40 am
I just received the 2 cds-thanks for the quick turnaround, and Thank You for the music-we love it-many hours of enjoyment. Very romantic!
jason
on
September 30th, 2008 9:57 pm
I heard “My Heart Stood Still”. I am really looking forward to a new cd that will include your great version of this song!
Paul Allen
on
February 22nd, 2008 9:55 pm
Thanks for all the memories. You guys and Kathy Young sounded great on the PBS
special. Darron Stankey will be missed….
Gus
on
September 22nd, 2007 9:53 pm
gdgd! damn this is good!
Rick Kiernan
on
August 6th, 2007 9:51 pm
I have the PBS tapes frm 2002. Kathy Young w/The Innocents r grt. Watch the tapes all the time. Gd stuff. Keep the music coming. huge fa. thx.
Lynne Ingallis
on
June 7th, 2007 9:49 pm
I remember when Al threw me in the swimming pool behind the Pink Cafe. I didn’t
know how to swim, and Charlie A. had to fish me out. I was sorry to hear about
Darron’s passing. He was always nice to me! Glad to see you guys are still rocking.
Jim Schroer
on
May 9th, 2007 9:45 pm
I just received in the mail the CD of The Sound of Kathy Young and backup group
The Innocents. What great music. Their sound will last forever. God Bless You.
john brooks
on
February 10th, 2007 9:43 pm
I watched a PBS Special fundraiser and just want to say thank you to you and
Kathy for doing that show. It brought back many memories.
Henry J. Cooper
on
December 15th, 2006 8:21 pm
Last month I re-watched the Time Life Doo-Wop CD collection I had gotten a while
back, then got on-line this week just to see if Kathy Young had a website (she does). there I saw that Darron is no longer with us and saw the link to The Innocents website. Wanted to say how sorry I am to find this out and let you know how much I like your music-thank you for it.
Rick Martin
on
October 21st, 2006 8:17 pm
I am not very familiar with Kathy Young and The Innocents, but I get goose bumps when I listen to A Thousand Stars. Oh, to have been alive back in that day to enjoy such wonderful music on the radio and in the clubs. It makes me want a jukebox and a record player!
Kin
on
September 3rd, 2006 8:15 pm
Just watched the PBS special again…it is always like a dream-catcher experience. Those days were the best. The so-called “music” of today is pathetic compared to the real harmonies, melodies and vocal stylings we loved when we were kids. I hope The Innocents keep giving us your music!
Suzan Green-Singh
on
August 22nd, 2006 8:12 pm
I remember you, Al Candelaria, and a 65 pound Black Diamond Watermelon and no reflection on Robertson Boulevard.
Bob Vargo
on
August 17th, 2006 8:10 pm
I wish I had a dollar for every time I danced to “A Thousand Stars” in the early 60s.
A real masterpiece. The passing of Darron Stankey is a tragedy, but at least we have the memories and the music including your recordings of “Honest I Do” and “Gee Whiz”. That
will live on forever.
junnigh carrasco
on
April 12th, 2006 8:07 pm
Sorry to hear about Darron, my father coke carrasco used to manage the innocents years ago (while they were on Indigo records). he talks about those old times alot, he will be 73 years old this year. Maybe you can say hi sometimes.
Country Paul Payton
on
February 7th, 2006 8:05 pm
I just learned today via Kathy Young’s website of Darron Stankey’s passing. and am
very sad. May his soul and his survivors find peace. The Innocents (with and without Kathy Young) have always been very high among my favorite artists in popular music-
Johnny Christian
on
January 26th, 2006 8:02 pm
Jim, I was on the internet the other day and was looking up music and came across The Innocents and was thinking back in the days of the Marine Corps when we served together.
PC1 Patrick James McKenna, USMC
on
December 2nd, 2005 8:22 pm
Back in 1969, my twin brother and I acquired the 45RPM single “A Thousand Stars” by Kathy Young & The Innocents. As a 15 year old who was a beginner on the guitar and the electric bass, I was intrigued with the arrangement (along with the countless other hits you guys on your own and with Kathy did). A real plus for me as I was learning to play–
George Burtt
on
November 4th, 2005 8:17 pm
Hi my name is George Burtt, my dads name is Greggory Marshal Burtt. He attended Walter Reed middle school and Hollywood High. My dad was in the car club he had a 1946 oldsmobile. My grandfather George Burtt made the devil symbol for the innocents car club logo.
“WOW GEORGE- YOUR DAD MUST HAVE BEEN IN THE ORIGINAL INCARNATION OF THE CLUB THAT WAS HANDED OVER TO US IN THE LATE
1950’S. THE ART WORK YOUR GRANDFATHER DID OF THE LOGO WAS ONE OF THE BEST OF ALL THE CAR CLUB LOGOS IN MANY OPINIONS–INCLUDING MINE-JIM WEST”
Dutch and Lani
on
November 3rd, 2005 7:59 pm
Being that we’ve listened to your great records, since your very first and loved them all since then. Was saddened by the passing of one of the greats.
Sincerely,
Dutch & Lani
Alfred Archuleta, Jr.
on
October 28th, 2005 7:57 pm
So sorry to hear of the passing of Darron Stankey. I saw your group in the fall of 2002 at the Universal Ampitheatre, with other oldies acts such as the Edsels. Your music lives forever and will never be forgotten. Also, my best regards to Kathy Young.
Chris Gonzalez
on
October 24th, 2005 7:55 pm
Hi Guys,
I just hear the tribute show on rock-it radio for Darron Stankey, and it sure brought back a lot of memories. I was born and raised in L.A. and the valley in the 50’s and 60’s I always loved the harmonizing sound of The Innocents and was so sorry to hear of your loss-
Rick Yocum
on
October 19th, 2005 7:52 pm
I’ve had this site bookmarked for a long time, but just caught Dave Justice’s tribute to The Innocents and to Darron, specifically. Thanks for a bunch of memories, both from 2005 and the early 60’s, when I first “discovered” you guys. I don’t think I’ve ever heard such sweeeet harmonies!
Jay Eshbach
on
September 25th, 2005 7:49 pm
I just found this site. I was shocked to hear that Darron had passed away.
When I was in high school, i used to hang out at Darrons house on Wednesday nights when they had the jam sessions.
It was great to watch someone you knew wind up on TV singing!
David Busekrus
on
July 2nd, 2005 7:46 pm
Sorry to hear of the passing of Darron. I have always been a fan of Kathy Young and The Innocents. Thought you were the hit of the PBS special. Your music and harmony bring back many wonderful memories. Makes you glad to be a part of that wonderful time.
attn. jim west and al candelaria, i was saddened to hear of darron’s passing. kathy had called me to let me know and i did a segment on my show which i do on sunday nights from 6-10 on watr 1320 a.m. in waterbury. i have been playing kathy’s and your songs for so long. always get requests, my listeners love them-
Cassondra L Raef "Stankey"
on
June 29th, 2005 10:39 pm
My Dad was a Loving & Kind Man who had a playful side and beautiful eyes that sparkled when he sang with “The Innocents” I don’t have words to explain how much I miss him. I am grateful for his music because that will live forever-and every time I listen to it and hear his voice it warms my heart!
Hans-Joachim Krohberger
on
June 27th, 2005 10:36 pm
C.W. "Butchie Boy" Olmstead
on
June 12th, 2005 10:34 pm
So very saddened to learn of Darron’s passing. Gods rest to this good man…and comfort to his family and all concerned. I’m one of the DooWop DJ’s at “Rock-it Radio”, 99FM Ventura and our global internet broadcast (www.rockitradio.net)-
always love playing The Innocents and their very special harmony tunes.
Kim Horrell
on
June 11th, 2005 10:30 pm
It is hard to find the words to express how much I will miss my Dad…It has been exactly 1 month today since he left us, his journey in life was a gift to all of us.
He is the hero of my heart. I will miss his sense of humor, his big hugs and his
Beautiful smile-
Doug 'Chilo' Hamilton
on
June 3rd, 2005 10:27 pm
JUST A FINAL FAREWELL TO DARRON, A FRIEND I HAVE KNOW SINCE OUR DAYS AT FERNANGELES ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN THE ’50’S. THE TRIBUTES AT THE FUNERAL DESCRIBED THE DARRON I KNEW.
DOUG HAMILTON
Lynette Stankey
on
May 25th, 2005 10:25 pm
To a great Father, Husband and Musician. We miss you!
Leslie and Penny
on
May 20th, 2005 10:23 pm
How sad to lose Darron Stankey. The tributes at his funeral by fellow bandmates
Jim West and Al Candelaria and Kathy Young were a great comfort to wife Lily, his children and grandchildren. He will be greatly missed.
Bebe
on
April 28th, 2005 4:27 am
Hi! I just got your Ace Records compilation-Wow! That is some SWEET harmony-I am really enjoying it-I will order the “midnight snack” cd too- Is there a meaning to the pix on the cover of it? (it looks like there are 2 crackers and a pinto bean on the snack plate)
Thanks,
Bebe
herb
on
March 20th, 2005 4:24 am
greetings from hamburg to the innocents, love your tunez herb
Frank & Francesca
on
January 18th, 2005 4:05 am
Happy Birthday Jim, heard Dave Justice playing The Innocents “When I Become A Man” as a request and he sent you birthday wishes. We wanted to wish you well and thank you and the guys for some fine harmonies and vocals!
Suzette Warmby
on
January 11th, 2005 4:03 am
I received both your CD’s this Christmas and I really love listening to both of them!
I am hoping you will be releasing a CD with your Warner Bros. song “My Heart Stood Still”. I’ll keep checking for it–
Country Paul Payton
on
May 17th, 2004 3:59 am
I posted a note at http://www.spectropop.com re: “Tick Tock” and your new EP, which I
have. The sound is a bit different, but still a great blend. Maybe I can help stir up the correspondents to this amazing site and help to encourage you to bring out more music!
Rod Irwin
on
April 8th, 2004 3:56 am
It was my pleasure to meet Darron and Al in 1977.
I have been a fan since “Gee Whiz”.
I am looking forward to getting my CD. Darron, the autographed album cover of
“Innocently Yours” you gave me on my visit is the most treasured part of my collection.
Herb/DoowopKing
on
April 4th, 2004 3:54 am
HI,
just surfed in and must say this is a great Website, i love your music and play from time to time your songs when it is my part to play for listeners pleasure, keep on this great work.
Herb (Team Doowopdream)
Tom Mcguire
on
February 27th, 2004 3:51 am
Hi Guys,
I just heard some of your stuff on the bopping JohnnyG internet radio show. Loved it and its great to hear some new recordings that still have that zing.
Keep up the good work
patricia deline
on
January 30th, 2004 3:18 am
I just wanted you to know i think you guys are the best. i have never been to an oldies concert but if i could have one wish and have it come true it would be to go to an oldies concert oldies are #1 and will live on forever
RON WILLOUGHBY
on
January 14th, 2004 3:16 am
HEY JIM, REMEMBER ME? 1 OF THE KAHNS, COME TO OUR “OLD GEEZERS” LUNCHES SOMETIME LOTS OF THE OLD GUYS STILL AROUND AL. C WAS AT OUR ROUND UP 2003 DEC. YOU ALL STILL SOUND GREAT.
LAYTER, RON
Rosemarie
on
December 25th, 2003 3:13 am
Have a Great Christmas
With Love from everyone at the Eddie Rambeau Web Site xxxx
Dan and Penny Verble
on
December 4th, 2003 3:11 am
Good Music and Good Friends, like good wine, only get Better. Congrats and
Way to Go!!!
Derrek
on
October 28th, 2003 3:10 am
Jim, Al, and Darron… I just heard the new CD while updating your website….it is great!!!
Bob Zahn
on
September 20th, 2003 3:53 pm
I saw The Innocents and Kathy on PBS and it was wonderful. It brought back alot
of memories. In your bio you mention a record on the Andex label called “Time” and “Dee Dee Di Oh”. I have the record but it’s by the Echoes. Did you change your groups name?
Sue and Don Anglen
on
September 1st, 2003 3:50 pm
Thanks for all the Great music! Looking forward to hearing the new music and will continue to check your site so we can order when released-
JOE ARMETTA
on
July 11th, 2003 2:05 am
*BEEN A LOYAL FAN FOR YEARS* ALL THE BEST ROCK & ROLL IS HERE TO STAY
Bruce and Sharon Waffen
on
July 3rd, 2003 2:04 am
Sharon and I had dinner with Kathy and Kara in Newport last weekend…four hours of good wine and great people. And back in the ’60s I liked Kathy’s sound
so much that I got your album too. What a great sound! Enjoyed seeing you guys on PBS…good luck with everything you may do-
Jack Grigsby
on
June 26th, 2003 2:00 am
Poly seems like a million years ago. Sun Valley Jr. and Glenwood as well. We are getting old guys but the music is still great!!!
Ed Onori
on
May 11th, 2003 1:58 am
Thanks Kathy, Al, Darron and Jim for the pictures and autographs at the PBS taping in Pittsburgh. What a great addition to my collection. Also, thanks for the
unique sound; may it last for a long time.
Gary G. Moore
on
April 19th, 2003 1:53 am
While growing up in Northridge, Ca. during the 50’s and 60’s, one afternoon I was extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet Kathy Young and hang out all day. Then of recent, there she was on PBS with The Innocents. Wow!
That was excellent!
Tom W.
on
March 19th, 2003 1:40 am
Jim, Thanks so much for sending me the lyrics to Gee Whiz-like I wrote you, it
confirmed that my long ago flame that I am now seeing again was right! I saved
the very nice note you sent along with the lyrics for her to see. Good luck, please
put me on your mailing list-
Linda Eastwood
on
January 17th, 2003 9:57 pm
Hello. We saw you perform at Universal Amphitheatre-it was great-Thanks for the great harmony sounds. (“Gee Whiz” is one of our favorite songs, sure brings back
memories for me and my husband).
Colin
on
January 15th, 2003 9:54 pm
I ordered your disc and WoW! Sounds great. These songs are sure to bring back a lot of memories. Hope to see a lot of updates soon on your site.
Cassondra Raef
on
December 6th, 2002 9:53 pm
Way to go Dad!, Al, Jim & Kathy! All who shine on stage!
Marty
on
October 7th, 2002 9:51 pm
You guys have still got it! I saw that wonderful DooWop show in March. Missed the Sept one but will make sure I catch future shows.
The music never dies…sigh
Hilary
on
September 8th, 2002 9:49 pm
Sounds great guys – and I love the site. Hope to hear you live some time.
Jane
on
September 2nd, 2002 8:40 pm
i saw you perform at the DooWop show in March. It was great! Really a unique sound. I hope you will be releasing more music for those of us that love those romantic, yearning songs you do!!
Derrek
on
September 2nd, 2002 8:37 pm
Music has certainly changed thru the years. Al, Darron, and Jim have captured the essence of youth, innocence, and fun through their music. thanks!
JWest
on
February 17th, 2002 3:40 am
Jeanie! What great times we all had! And Yeah! of course we remember Jim Leck!!! Jim Leck had a thing for you Jeanie, but you had a
thing for Mike Switzer. I bought a basket case Harley from Leck in 1965, that was the last time I saw him-do you know what happened to him?
Love from Jill, Jim & Al
Jeanie Hague {Hundt}
on
February 17th, 2002 1:56 am
What a lovely website, it is so amazing to see The Innocents after all these years. I wish you well and much success in whatever you are up to. Oh, do I remember Freddies Liquor Store and all the fun I had with The Innocents. I want to say hi to Jill, Jim and Al. We were all so lucky…..
I live in northern California, in McKinleyville and love it here but do miss the valley desert air.
Love to you all,
Jeanie
PS Do you remember Jim Leck?
Innocently Yours
Midnight Snack
Indigo Recordings
Kathy Young & The Innocents
,Classic Innocents
Hi Johanne, Thanks! for your Very kind words. So good to hear you have enjoyed our music! We truly loved doing it-picking the material, writing our own songs, putting together the harmonies, working with the musicians in the studio on background arrangements, and SINGING! A labor of love…it’s always great of hear that listeners enjoy!
Kindest Regards,
The Innocents
Jim & Al
Oh how i love, just LOVE your music!
I can’t believe i only knew a few of your songs till i discovered your albums on line a year ago or so,
The innocents just have the most impeccably sweet, harmonious voices, completely pitchh-perfect and heart-rendering,
as a diehard fan of doo-wop music i now cannot get enough of these beautiful love songs you sang, wow! i may have come to it late in life but it sure is a nice thing to find more delicious oldies to enjoy, this is definitely as good as the most famos to me, so i have to thank you with all my heart for making this incredible music, All the best to you.
Hello Rosemary,
Al is doing fine and all is well with him, just spoke with him a few days ago-will let him know you inquired-hope that helps- Jim
I am a friend of Al’s and have not heard from him in a while. Hoping all is ok.
Thanks David! Glad you feel that way 🙂
keep singing
Hi George,
Done, Passed your info to my current Innocents club contacts-
Please send Best Regards to your dad! What a GIFT to us young guys
was given to us by the original founding members of the Innocents!
Hi, left a comment back in 2005 about my father being one of the original founding members of the innocents car club before he was sent to camp and the club was handed down, thank you for the response. He is 81 years old and kicking, we still live in sun valley, I was good friends with Monty, god rest his soul, an innocent member came to my home years back and gave me a card with a phone number on it, needless to say I lost the card, I’d like to get back in contact with any of them that are still around, I would appreciate it if you forwarded my info to anyone you may know from the club that is still active and in the valley, thanks you!
Wow! Long time ago. Thank you for your kind comment on our music. Feeling good, hanging in and God Bless back to you!
I remember when you came to Sun Valley Jr. High from Texas then on to Poly. I remember Darron from grammar school and Al from Poly. I really enjoy your music. One thing I can say is getting old is not fun. Hang in there and God bless.
Hi! Yeah, it has been that long since we lost Darron…Thanks for writing. Al and I are
doing fine. I’m in Ca. now and he is in Florida. We are in touch and all is good! We send
regards and wishes to you for a Happy 2017!
Hi Jim! Sure you don’t remember me, but we emailed back and forth a few times not long after Darron passed. Can’t believe it’s been that long already. Just wanted to say hi , and hope you and Al are doing well
Hey Mike, Good to hear from you and so glad to hear you have enjoyed our music!
Kind Regards,
Jim & Al
Would like to say how much I have always enjoyed you music,Your songs were a part of the music of my senior year in high school.(1960-1961).Also went to high school with a good friend Duncan Way who was in the Innocents at that time.Keep up the great music and my best to you all.
Looking for my long lost friend Al!!!
EMail me please.
Thanks Mark! Appreciate your kind thought-
Thank you for the memories …………
Mark (from Sun Valley)
Thank You!
Lisa, will be glad to get back to you on all. Jim
Jim I’ve been trying to get a couple of plaques for my sons they were really close to my dad and he left them each an old car I would like to give them each a plaque I’ve seen a couple on line but they don’t seem to be for sale and I would be interested in a couple of jackets.you can pass my E- mail along to any one at the reunion that was part of the original Innocents or that might have known my dad.Thanks.
Thanks, for that info my dad passed away in 2004. Ive been trying to find butch I’m sad to hear he passed. I would love to get a hold of butch’s son I know butch was living in North Dakota Dale Enoch’s passed away before my dad I remember my dad had a green jacket with the innocents logo wish I had it,if you have any pics or anything else about my dad, Butch and Dale. I would appreciate it my dad stayed in touch with butch a lot before he passed if anyone else wants to share about my dad here’s my email tazusa07@msn.com it is cool to here this stuff from you I would love to know more.
Hi Lisa,
Checked it all out with some of the guys that were early members with me and here goes-
Yes, your dad, Gary Robley and 2 of his friends-Butch Thordson and Dale Ennis used to come by Freddie Piro’s
mom’s liquor store on Lankershim and Tuxford in NH and had decided they were getting older and saw 5 of us hanging out with Freddie there a lot, checked us out, and called a meeting with us to talk it over and then offered to turn over the club to us so it would continue. So…they were the original Innocents Car Club members. We 5 were between 15 and 16 yrs old and it was 1957-summer I recall. They instructed us on how to run the club-with elected officers and meetings and gave us the Great plaque and logo they had designed. Your dad had the I on his hand (can’t remember if the other 2 guys did) and some of us did that too! Heard from Butch Thordsen’s son a while back who said Butch had wanted to get in touch, and he was doing it for him. Dale Ennis owned a muffler shop and he put mufflers on my ’60 Ford Starliner I remember. As the next group of Innocents Car Club we were always grateful for the generosity they showed us! They checked in intermittemtly with us and said they were proud of us. They also told me they took pride in the fact that we had used the name The Innocents when we 3 Innocents club members-Jim, Darron & Al began recording. Many of us still keep in touch, in fact at our high school reunion next Sunday we will have an Innocents table for the guys!
My dads name was Gary Robley.
Hi Lisa,
Is Robley your maiden name? What was your dad’s name? Sounds familiar. Will get back with more info after I hear back from you-thanks, Jim West
My father was from Burbank lived there in the 50s he belonged to a car club called the Innocents he had a capitol (I) tattooed on the inside of his palm was this the same car club.
Dear Jim West, are you the same Jim West that recorded in the late 70’s at Mama Jo’s recording studio in North Hollywood with a different band name under the production of Freddie Piro? I used to help you guys out. At the time I was working for the band Ambrosia. I still work for them today. I would like to know what ever happened to that album you recorded. My contact info is above.
Sincerely,
Steve Lehman
Hello Steve, Yes I am the same Jim West and I surely do remember you! The Fortress album “Hands in the Till”
was released on Atlantic Records in 1980. Didn’t have much traction, the guys that signed us left the label
and support was in short supply afterwards. The album has been licensed and is available on CD by Wounded Bird Records and also in England by RockCandy Records and has been well received. Ace Records put together The Innocents “Classic Innocents” as shown on the site.
Please say hello to the Ambrosia guys and send my regards!
Nice to hear from you.
Jim
Hello Hank,
Great to hear from you. Thank you so much for your very kind comments-It is a wonderful honor and a family treasure for each of us.
It was a great disappointment to me personally to not be able to attend and perform our songs and back up Kathy with our harmonies as was
requested-(I had a previous committment that I just could not get out of!) So glad that Al and Darron’s daughter could represent us!
The best part for The Innocents has always been Making The Music and connecting with folks like You who have enjoyed it!!
Kind Regards, Jim West
Dear Kathy Young and The Innocents
I would like to say I was honored to be brought up on stage at what was a highlight for me at your induction into the Doo Wop Hall of Fame Of America in October 2014 by producer Harvey Robbins and I must say it was one of the biggest thrills to be on stage with Kathy ,Al Candelaria and one of the deceased Innocents daughters to receive your well deserved plaques for giving us many years of listening pleasure with the song A Thousand Stars In The Sky and I just wanted you to know that it was such an honor to be present and there on that stage with you at that time and wish you a Happy Birthday in person, Thanks for The Memories it is something I will never ever forget.
Hank Gilhooly
Hello Bob, Thanks for the kind words! We are truly honored! Our last CD for The Innocents is “Classic Innocents”-28 songs compiled
material we did after we left Indigo and recorded on Reprise, Decca and Warner Bros., studio out takes, 45 releases and more along with
a well done Ace booklet with in depth history of the group and the music scene in LA at the time we were recording. Their last release was “The Complete Indigo Recordings” which was the 25 songs we did when we recorded on Indigo Records. Those 2 CDs comprise the complete work The
Innocents did as a group in the early 60’s. There is also “Midnight Snack” recording I produced of 4 songs we did together in “82-Darron
thought it was some of the best work we did-it’s available on cdbaby and amazon. You probably are aware of these, if we put out any
more new CDs I will let you know personally. Kind regards, Jim West
CONGRATS ON YOUR INDUCTION. LONG TIME OVERDO. WISH YOU COULD BE DOING YOUR SONGS AT AN OLDIE SHOW NEAR NAPLES, FLORIDA. LET ME KNOW WHEN YOU HAVE ANY NEW CDS.
Many Thanks Joe. Coming from “one of the guys” mean so much. Jim & Al (& Darron).
DOO WOP HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES- OCT 12 2014 – MY HATS OFF TO YOU GUYS, CONGRATULATIONS, JIM & AL, DARRON HAS A SMILE ON HIS FACE.
GREAT JOB ON THE WEBSITE JILL.WISHING YOU AND JIM THE BEST
VERY NOSTALGIC AND A VERY SMALL WORLD INDEED
Jim:
Saw you three back in early 60’s at University of Wyoming in Laramie. Just heard “Gee Wiz” on sirius radio. Love your sound. I’m from Indiana originally. Moved back to Wyoming in 1999. Retired and still love the oldies. Am a columnist for Wyoming Press-writing what I want.
Saw you on PBS with Kathy Young. Like most of us old guys-we don’t look to bad-yet.
Regards
Will you guys ever be in Washington? You should come to Sequim. It’s a active retirement town where most everyone is about our ages. They like music there. There is a restaurant called the Oasis that has a stage and live music. People would love it.
I’m glad Doug Hamilton gave me the info. I used to attend some of your parties around Poly High (being from San Fernando High and a different Car Club, I had to go with “Polyite” friends, Like Danny Grey or Joe Intenzo) . Some of my “old folks” friends will love having this sent to them.
Hope to see you guys up at Hot August Night again. Danny O’Lear
Glad the show went well. Now you got to bring it to SoCal.
There is and never will be again music like this. Brings back so many great memories.
Glad you guys had a great show @ the Beacon Theatre in NYC. Joe said he had a blast singing with you guys again.
Doug Hamilton
Jim
My brother Dan and I lived in Sun Valley in the 50’s and 60’s, he is a poly grad. We lived just behind the Pink Café-Motel and hung out with Monty and Russ. We remember the times at “The Pink” listening to your music. I still enjoy hearing the music on Pandora and have all of the albums you have released so far. Dan now lives in Phoenix and I live in Florida in the Orlando area. Looking forward to the new album. Thanks for the memories, the live on through you and Al’s efforts. Keep it going.
Gary Archer
Hi guys, I graduated in 1960 from Poly – so proud to know that you were my class mates – I have always loved all of your songs and never realized that you went to my school, I knew the names Jim West and Darron – good luck – keep singing – love, love your music
Sharon
Hi Jim just got a ipad ,now that I have time to play, hope yoy are doing ok.went to a meeting on Fri talk to the old guys Buckey and the old Innocents,we have new coates had a good time. I hope you get this .
Hi-I’m looking forward to the new cd-I love your harmonies and the leads!
I’ll keep checking to see when it’s available-
I love the Innocents! Brings me back to a more simple time. Puts me in a great mood (not so much busy-mind thinking). Thanks for adding the songs to the discography so that I can check out other songs I haven’t heard before. 🙂
I’m a fan of R&R, but these harmonies and the feel knock me out. A different generation, but a fan!
I’m a big fan of Kathy Young and The Innocents and The Innocents, will always be! Had recent contact with Jim West. He is a good man. Very generous with his
time. I appreciated it.
THANK YOU MIKE, IT WAS GOOD TO HEAR FROM YOU!
JIM WEST
I discovered the Kathy Young site, but was wondering why you are not mentioned
there having to do with her music!?
I have always really enjoyed The Innocents music and your sound-both with and without Kathy.
JACK, THANKS.
WE WERE CONTRACTED BY INDIGO RECORDS TO ARRANGE AND SING ALL THE BACKGROUND HARMONIES FOR KATHY’S SINGLES AND HER ALBUM, OUR GOAL BEING TO MAKE A STRONG CONTRIBUTION TO THE SOUND. SO GLAD YOU HAVE ENJOYED THE MUSIC!!
JIM AND AL- THE INNOCENTS
I bought your wonderful Ace CD, but my super all-time fave innocents song (of so many) isn’t there: “Tick-Tock” (Good Night my Darling) on Transworld. Any chance of it finding its way onto CD? It’s a masterpiece! You also don’t mention the “Bobby James” 45 on Indigo, “5000 Tears Ago”. What a great side! I assume that was you JIm. By the way, 2 songs on the CD were absolute revelations: “Two Young Hearts” and “It Was A Tear”. Why those never came out (perhaps in a more “finished” form) is a mystery to me. Your sound-the velvet voices, the perfectly blended harmony-was one of the most influential sounds of my popular music development. So many great tracks-I look forward to your new endeavors!
I love the pix in your photos-“Just before the first show”. Can I get a copy???
Email me and I will send you my address. I wish I has more pictures and memory material to show Darron’s grandkids…these are great!
Kim
Hey Jim Rockit Radio DJ Denny here. Thanks for listening to the MUSIC OF YOUR MIND SHOW on ROCKIT RADIO. NET. Can’t wait to get more of your songs. will play them as soon as I receive them.
THANKS AGAIN DENNY and remember KEEP ON ROCKIN CAUSE YOU ONLY ROCK ONCE!
BEING A COLLECTOR OF OVER 10,000 45’S FOR OVER 50 YEARS, THERE ARE ONLY TWO SELECT GROUPS WHO BEST ILLUSTRATED HARMONIZING, THE FLAMINGOS AND ESPECIALLY THE INNOCENTS. I AM SURE THERE WILL NEVER BE ANOTHER GROUP OR GROUPS THAT CAN EVER COME CLOSE TO YOUR SOUND AND FEEL–
I just received the 2 cds-thanks for the quick turnaround, and Thank You for the music-we love it-many hours of enjoyment. Very romantic!
I heard “My Heart Stood Still”. I am really looking forward to a new cd that will include your great version of this song!
Thanks for all the memories. You guys and Kathy Young sounded great on the PBS
special. Darron Stankey will be missed….
gdgd! damn this is good!
I have the PBS tapes frm 2002. Kathy Young w/The Innocents r grt. Watch the tapes all the time. Gd stuff. Keep the music coming. huge fa. thx.
I remember when Al threw me in the swimming pool behind the Pink Cafe. I didn’t
know how to swim, and Charlie A. had to fish me out. I was sorry to hear about
Darron’s passing. He was always nice to me! Glad to see you guys are still rocking.
I just received in the mail the CD of The Sound of Kathy Young and backup group
The Innocents. What great music. Their sound will last forever. God Bless You.
I watched a PBS Special fundraiser and just want to say thank you to you and
Kathy for doing that show. It brought back many memories.
Last month I re-watched the Time Life Doo-Wop CD collection I had gotten a while
back, then got on-line this week just to see if Kathy Young had a website (she does). there I saw that Darron is no longer with us and saw the link to The Innocents website. Wanted to say how sorry I am to find this out and let you know how much I like your music-thank you for it.
I am not very familiar with Kathy Young and The Innocents, but I get goose bumps when I listen to A Thousand Stars. Oh, to have been alive back in that day to enjoy such wonderful music on the radio and in the clubs. It makes me want a jukebox and a record player!
Just watched the PBS special again…it is always like a dream-catcher experience. Those days were the best. The so-called “music” of today is pathetic compared to the real harmonies, melodies and vocal stylings we loved when we were kids. I hope The Innocents keep giving us your music!
I remember you, Al Candelaria, and a 65 pound Black Diamond Watermelon and no reflection on Robertson Boulevard.
I wish I had a dollar for every time I danced to “A Thousand Stars” in the early 60s.
A real masterpiece. The passing of Darron Stankey is a tragedy, but at least we have the memories and the music including your recordings of “Honest I Do” and “Gee Whiz”. That
will live on forever.
Sorry to hear about Darron, my father coke carrasco used to manage the innocents years ago (while they were on Indigo records). he talks about those old times alot, he will be 73 years old this year. Maybe you can say hi sometimes.
I just learned today via Kathy Young’s website of Darron Stankey’s passing. and am
very sad. May his soul and his survivors find peace. The Innocents (with and without Kathy Young) have always been very high among my favorite artists in popular music-
Jim, I was on the internet the other day and was looking up music and came across The Innocents and was thinking back in the days of the Marine Corps when we served together.
Back in 1969, my twin brother and I acquired the 45RPM single “A Thousand Stars” by Kathy Young & The Innocents. As a 15 year old who was a beginner on the guitar and the electric bass, I was intrigued with the arrangement (along with the countless other hits you guys on your own and with Kathy did). A real plus for me as I was learning to play–
Hi my name is George Burtt, my dads name is Greggory Marshal Burtt. He attended Walter Reed middle school and Hollywood High. My dad was in the car club he had a 1946 oldsmobile. My grandfather George Burtt made the devil symbol for the innocents car club logo.
“WOW GEORGE- YOUR DAD MUST HAVE BEEN IN THE ORIGINAL INCARNATION OF THE CLUB THAT WAS HANDED OVER TO US IN THE LATE
1950’S. THE ART WORK YOUR GRANDFATHER DID OF THE LOGO WAS ONE OF THE BEST OF ALL THE CAR CLUB LOGOS IN MANY OPINIONS–INCLUDING MINE-JIM WEST”
Being that we’ve listened to your great records, since your very first and loved them all since then. Was saddened by the passing of one of the greats.
Sincerely,
Dutch & Lani
So sorry to hear of the passing of Darron Stankey. I saw your group in the fall of 2002 at the Universal Ampitheatre, with other oldies acts such as the Edsels. Your music lives forever and will never be forgotten. Also, my best regards to Kathy Young.
Hi Guys,
I just hear the tribute show on rock-it radio for Darron Stankey, and it sure brought back a lot of memories. I was born and raised in L.A. and the valley in the 50’s and 60’s I always loved the harmonizing sound of The Innocents and was so sorry to hear of your loss-
I’ve had this site bookmarked for a long time, but just caught Dave Justice’s tribute to The Innocents and to Darron, specifically. Thanks for a bunch of memories, both from 2005 and the early 60’s, when I first “discovered” you guys. I don’t think I’ve ever heard such sweeeet harmonies!
I just found this site. I was shocked to hear that Darron had passed away.
When I was in high school, i used to hang out at Darrons house on Wednesday nights when they had the jam sessions.
It was great to watch someone you knew wind up on TV singing!
Sorry to hear of the passing of Darron. I have always been a fan of Kathy Young and The Innocents. Thought you were the hit of the PBS special. Your music and harmony bring back many wonderful memories. Makes you glad to be a part of that wonderful time.
attn. jim west and al candelaria, i was saddened to hear of darron’s passing. kathy had called me to let me know and i did a segment on my show which i do on sunday nights from 6-10 on watr 1320 a.m. in waterbury. i have been playing kathy’s and your songs for so long. always get requests, my listeners love them-
My Dad was a Loving & Kind Man who had a playful side and beautiful eyes that sparkled when he sang with “The Innocents” I don’t have words to explain how much I miss him. I am grateful for his music because that will live forever-and every time I listen to it and hear his voice it warms my heart!
Thx for your nice music!
Hans-Joachim from Germany
http:// http://www.epoche-3.de
So very saddened to learn of Darron’s passing. Gods rest to this good man…and comfort to his family and all concerned. I’m one of the DooWop DJ’s at “Rock-it Radio”, 99FM Ventura and our global internet broadcast (www.rockitradio.net)-
always love playing The Innocents and their very special harmony tunes.
It is hard to find the words to express how much I will miss my Dad…It has been exactly 1 month today since he left us, his journey in life was a gift to all of us.
He is the hero of my heart. I will miss his sense of humor, his big hugs and his
Beautiful smile-
JUST A FINAL FAREWELL TO DARRON, A FRIEND I HAVE KNOW SINCE OUR DAYS AT FERNANGELES ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN THE ’50’S. THE TRIBUTES AT THE FUNERAL DESCRIBED THE DARRON I KNEW.
DOUG HAMILTON
To a great Father, Husband and Musician. We miss you!
How sad to lose Darron Stankey. The tributes at his funeral by fellow bandmates
Jim West and Al Candelaria and Kathy Young were a great comfort to wife Lily, his children and grandchildren. He will be greatly missed.
Hi! I just got your Ace Records compilation-Wow! That is some SWEET harmony-I am really enjoying it-I will order the “midnight snack” cd too- Is there a meaning to the pix on the cover of it? (it looks like there are 2 crackers and a pinto bean on the snack plate)
Thanks,
Bebe
greetings from hamburg to the innocents, love your tunez herb
Happy Birthday Jim, heard Dave Justice playing The Innocents “When I Become A Man” as a request and he sent you birthday wishes. We wanted to wish you well and thank you and the guys for some fine harmonies and vocals!
I received both your CD’s this Christmas and I really love listening to both of them!
I am hoping you will be releasing a CD with your Warner Bros. song “My Heart Stood Still”. I’ll keep checking for it–
I posted a note at http://www.spectropop.com re: “Tick Tock” and your new EP, which I
have. The sound is a bit different, but still a great blend. Maybe I can help stir up the correspondents to this amazing site and help to encourage you to bring out more music!
It was my pleasure to meet Darron and Al in 1977.
I have been a fan since “Gee Whiz”.
I am looking forward to getting my CD. Darron, the autographed album cover of
“Innocently Yours” you gave me on my visit is the most treasured part of my collection.
HI,
just surfed in and must say this is a great Website, i love your music and play from time to time your songs when it is my part to play for listeners pleasure, keep on this great work.
Herb (Team Doowopdream)
Hi Guys,
I just heard some of your stuff on the bopping JohnnyG internet radio show. Loved it and its great to hear some new recordings that still have that zing.
Keep up the good work
I just wanted you to know i think you guys are the best. i have never been to an oldies concert but if i could have one wish and have it come true it would be to go to an oldies concert oldies are #1 and will live on forever
HEY JIM, REMEMBER ME? 1 OF THE KAHNS, COME TO OUR “OLD GEEZERS” LUNCHES SOMETIME LOTS OF THE OLD GUYS STILL AROUND AL. C WAS AT OUR ROUND UP 2003 DEC. YOU ALL STILL SOUND GREAT.
LAYTER, RON
Have a Great Christmas
With Love from everyone at the Eddie Rambeau Web Site xxxx
Good Music and Good Friends, like good wine, only get Better. Congrats and
Way to Go!!!
Jim, Al, and Darron… I just heard the new CD while updating your website….it is great!!!
I saw The Innocents and Kathy on PBS and it was wonderful. It brought back alot
of memories. In your bio you mention a record on the Andex label called “Time” and “Dee Dee Di Oh”. I have the record but it’s by the Echoes. Did you change your groups name?
Thanks for all the Great music! Looking forward to hearing the new music and will continue to check your site so we can order when released-
*BEEN A LOYAL FAN FOR YEARS* ALL THE BEST ROCK & ROLL IS HERE TO STAY
Sharon and I had dinner with Kathy and Kara in Newport last weekend…four hours of good wine and great people. And back in the ’60s I liked Kathy’s sound
so much that I got your album too. What a great sound! Enjoyed seeing you guys on PBS…good luck with everything you may do-
Poly seems like a million years ago. Sun Valley Jr. and Glenwood as well. We are getting old guys but the music is still great!!!
Thanks Kathy, Al, Darron and Jim for the pictures and autographs at the PBS taping in Pittsburgh. What a great addition to my collection. Also, thanks for the
unique sound; may it last for a long time.
While growing up in Northridge, Ca. during the 50’s and 60’s, one afternoon I was extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet Kathy Young and hang out all day. Then of recent, there she was on PBS with The Innocents. Wow!
That was excellent!
Jim, Thanks so much for sending me the lyrics to Gee Whiz-like I wrote you, it
confirmed that my long ago flame that I am now seeing again was right! I saved
the very nice note you sent along with the lyrics for her to see. Good luck, please
put me on your mailing list-
Hello. We saw you perform at Universal Amphitheatre-it was great-Thanks for the great harmony sounds. (“Gee Whiz” is one of our favorite songs, sure brings back
memories for me and my husband).
I ordered your disc and WoW! Sounds great. These songs are sure to bring back a lot of memories. Hope to see a lot of updates soon on your site.
Way to go Dad!, Al, Jim & Kathy! All who shine on stage!
You guys have still got it! I saw that wonderful DooWop show in March. Missed the Sept one but will make sure I catch future shows.
The music never dies…sigh
Sounds great guys – and I love the site. Hope to hear you live some time.
i saw you perform at the DooWop show in March. It was great! Really a unique sound. I hope you will be releasing more music for those of us that love those romantic, yearning songs you do!!
Music has certainly changed thru the years. Al, Darron, and Jim have captured the essence of youth, innocence, and fun through their music. thanks!
Jeanie! What great times we all had! And Yeah! of course we remember Jim Leck!!! Jim Leck had a thing for you Jeanie, but you had a
thing for Mike Switzer. I bought a basket case Harley from Leck in 1965, that was the last time I saw him-do you know what happened to him?
Love from Jill, Jim & Al
What a lovely website, it is so amazing to see The Innocents after all these years. I wish you well and much success in whatever you are up to. Oh, do I remember Freddies Liquor Store and all the fun I had with The Innocents. I want to say hi to Jill, Jim and Al. We were all so lucky…..
I live in northern California, in McKinleyville and love it here but do miss the valley desert air.
Love to you all,
Jeanie
PS Do you remember Jim Leck?