The Originals (14)

The Originals, with their classic Cleveland sound of rock and blue eyed soul were a top local band becoming the house band at Leo's Casino, where they backed many soul and Motown legends, and also had a regular gig at the Agora Theatre in the late 1960's. The group was formed by members of the top local bands. The original lineup included Mert Madsen (bass), Ron Harkai (drums), and Al Austin (guiitar), formerly of the Outsiders (all three played on "Time Won't Let Me"), and Denny Samsa (sax, vocals) and Tony Liotti (vocals) of the Twilighters. The band was led by Tom Baker (trumpet), who had worked with and played with Lou Ragland and the Outsiders. In addition to those mentioned, the band included Jimmy Vince (formerly of the Proof Sets and Mixed Emotions) on trombone and vocals. Ron Harkai left and was replaced by RIchie Pavlick. Al Austin was sadly killed in a car accident which led to a new lineup, a new guitarist (name unknown) and Tom Baker taking over on bass from the departed Mert. Tony left and Denny and Jimmy did the vocals. They recorded only one single, a cover of the Temptations song "Ain't No Sun" that was a moderate local hit. Denny Samsa was the lead singer. The band broke up in 1970.