The Scorpions

Formed in Birmingham in 1963, the English Scorpions—distinct from the German band that emerged in the seventies—built their following through steady work in the West Midlands. Their name counted among the group’s most striking features, yet commercial chart success remained out of reach throughout their home territory. A recording of “Greensleeves” they issued did, however, reportedly find favor across northern Europe. Bob Barber (guitar, harmonica, percussion, vocals), Jimmy Bowden (lead guitar, lead vocals), John Gwilliam (bass, vocals), and Martin Hill (drums, piano, vocals) concentrated on live renditions of the era’s popular hits. Because all four members sang during performances, the quartet could manage complex harmony parts and deliver credible versions of songs by the Beatles, the Hollies, the Beach Boys et al. Their instrumental command likewise enabled them to handle material associated with the Shadows and to approach American rockabilly convincingly.