South Dakota Rock and Roll Music Association - Inductee "Marlys Roe and The Talismen"

Marlys Roe and The Talismen

Marlys Roe and The Talismen got their start in 1960 in Brookings, South Dakota when guitarist John Murphy and Jeff Ferrell started compiling a song list. They soon added Pat O'Connell on drums and Tom Hoy on bass guitar. Initially the guys played school functions, fairs, and street dances. Next they added Bob Tries on sax, later to be replaced by horn player Dennis Gerald. The first few years they were booked by the legendary Jimmy Thomas. By 1966 they were known as Marlys Roe and the Talismen with the band consisting of Murphy, Gerald, O'Connell, Wynn Kanten on bass, Mike Cannon on keyboards, and Marlys Roe doing vocals.

Marlys Roe and The Talismen recorded at IGL Studios in Iowa and also in Minneapolis. Songs recorded included the popular "Remember September" and "Walking Proud" as well as "Whole Lotta Happiness" and "Missing Parts of my Heart and Soul". In 1968 several members of the group left but Marlys Roe and The Talismen continued to perform with numerous lineup changes into the 80's. 2010 marks the 50th anniversary of this phenomenal group.