Showaddywaddy Guitarist Trevor Oakes Dies at 79

Trevor Oakes, a founding member and guitarist of the 1970s rock and roll band Showaddywaddy, has died at the age of 79 following a long illness. The Leicester native passed away peacefully on February 18, with the news confirmed by the band this weekend through a statement expressing great sadness.

Oakes played a pivotal role in Showaddywaddy from its inception in 1973, when the local groups Choise and the Golden Hammers merged in Leicester. As a member of Choise, he joined forces with singer Dave Bartram, bassist Al James, and drummer Romeo Challenger, alongside contributions from the Golden Hammers lineup including guitarist Russ Field, drummer Malcolm Allured, bassist Rod Deas, and vocalist Buddy Gask. The resulting ensemble, known for its double drummers, guitarists, and vocalists, specialized in energetic revivals of 1950s and 1960s hits, blended with original songs that captured a fresh glam rock spirit.

The band's breakthrough came with an appearance on the television talent show New Faces, which propelled them to national fame. Their debut single, "Hey Rock and Roll," hit the UK charts in 1974, launching a string of successes that included 15 top 20 singles and 10 top 10...