Wally Read & The Goldtones: A Legacy in Music
Wally Read & The Goldtones were a beloved musical group based in Regina, Saskatchewan, who brought joy and vibrant energy to audiences from 1957 through the mid-1960s. Known for their energetic performances and incredible versatility, they played a mix of rock and roll, rockabilly, and even polkas. They also performed waltzes, blues, country and something called "Mexican Style." Their performances featured a mix of instrumentals and vocal tracks, captivating listeners and dancers alike.
Band Members
- Wally Read – Piano and Bass Guitar
- Merv Lowey – Bass Guitar
- Gord Ruschiensky – Vocals and Rhythm Guitar
- Wally Gurka – Drums
- Gord Magel – Lead Guitar (early years)
- Vern "Butch" Apperley – Lead Guitar (later years)
- Jim Lowey – Saxophone
- Stu Dodd – Saxophone
- Dave Yuen – Vocals and Trumpet (early years)
A Soundtrack for Every Occasion
The Goldtones built their reputation with a repertoire that included popular covers, like "Tequila" by The Champs and "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On" by Jerry Lee Lewis, as well as original compositions and a variety of instrumental pieces. Other memorable performances included "Night Train," "Ghost Riders in the Sky," "Papa Loves Mambo," and "Hello Mary Lou." They had an uncanny ability to read the room at dances and take requests, showcasing both musical skill and showmanship with occasional choreographed moments that added a touch of flair. Dave Yuen stood out for his exceptional renditions of Louis Armstrong, both vocally and on the trumpet. Louis Prima's lively music was another favorite for the band to cover.
Radio Sessions and Live Performances
Their recordings, as provided on this webpage, span from 1959 to 1966 and capture the magic of their sound. These include tracks recorded at local radio stations like CKRM and CKCK. The band also had regular live appearances at iconic venues such as Temple Gardens in Moose Jaw, where they became a cherished part of Saskatchewan's live music scene. In Regina, they frequently performed at the Trianon Ballroom, further solidifying their legacy.
Honoring Their Members
Sadly, several members of Wally Read & The Goldtones have passed on, leaving behind a rich musical legacy:
- Wally Read passed away peacefully on July 7, 2021.
- Gord Ruschiensky passed away on April 14, 2018.
- Vernon "Butch" Apperley passed away on March 13, 1999.
We honor their contributions to the band's history and their impact on the lives of their fans and loved ones.
Preserving Their Legacy
This website is dedicated to celebrating Wally Read & The Goldtones—a band that played an integral role in shaping the local music scene of their time. Whether you're revisiting fond memories or discovering their music for the first time, we invite you to explore their recordings, photos, and history. We also welcome contributions from anyone with additional recordings, photos, or stories about the band. Please contact us using the form at the bottom of the webpage or via the email provided to share your memories of the Goldtones with us.
