Rockford

Rockin’ in Rockford: A Tale of Twang, Time, and Hilarious Happenings

Rockford, Illinois, might not be the first city that pops into your head when you think of music history. But this Midwestern hub has a surprisingly groovy past, packed with rockabilly, country, and even some unexpected twists.

The Roots of Rock in Rockford:

• The 50s: Rockford was a hotbed for early rockabilly and country. The city’s iconic Rockford Peaches, a women’s baseball team from the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, were big fans of the genre. You could find them rocking out at the local Eagles Club and The Coliseum to bands like Elvis Presley and Johnny Burnette.
• The 60s: The sound shifted towards a more bluesy, soulful vibe, with groups like The Buckinghams, whose hit song “Kind of a Drag” reached #1 on the Billboard charts, gaining international recognition.
• The 70s: Rockford’s love for rock music continued, with bands like Cheap Trick emerging from the scene. Known for their raw energy and power chords, Cheap Trick’s success helped put Rockford on the map.

Funny Facts and Quirky Tales:

• Cheap Trick’s Bunsen Burner: One funny fact about Cheap Trick is that they used a bunsen burner onstage to heat up their guitar strings during their early gigs. This unusual tactic created a unique, distorted sound that became part of their signature style.
• The Buckinghams’ Strange Obsession: The Buckinghams, despite their pop-rock success, had a rather strange obsession with the song “Happy Birthday.” They performed it at every concert, even claiming it to be their lucky charm.
• Rockford Peaches’ Musical Antics: While known for their baseball prowess, the Peaches also had a knack for music. Rumor has it that their bus driver was also a talented musician and often entertained them with his banjo playing during road trips.

Rockford’s Musical Legacy:

While Rockford might not be a musical mecca like Nashville or New York City, its unique blend of genres and quirky stories have left a lasting impression. The city’s history is filled with rockabilly riffs, bluesy licks, and plenty of laughter – a testament to the power of music to unite and entertain.

So next time you hear a rockin’ tune, remember the city of Rockford, where music history and hilarious happenings collide.