THE NEW CHRISTY MINSTRELS

The New Christy Minstrels were originally the vocal group on television's "The Andy Williams Show."

Barry McGuire and Gene Clark are former members of the folk group, which featured Randy Sparks. Larry Ramos, lead guitarist of The Association, is also a previous member, as was Gretchen Christopher of The Fleetwoods. Gayle Coldwell, who wrote the 1968 Frank Sinatra hit Cycles (Reprise 0764), was once a member of The New Christy Minstrels. Peggy Connelly, wife of comedian Dick Martin, was also a member.

 

Nick Woods, a former member of the group, co-wrote Peace of Mind (Dunhill 4299) for Three Dog Night. other former members are Susan Pack (the wife of songwriter Mickey Newbury); John Davidson's wife, Jackie Miller; and actress Karen Black.

 

Hoyt Axton was once turned down for the group because his singing style was too much like member Barry McGuire's. Member Terry Williams' father played trombone and his mother sang with The Tommy Dorsey orchestra

 

Bill Zorn, a previous member, formed The New Kingston Trio in 1974 with Roger Gamble and Bob Shane. In the 1960s writer/singer Kim Carnes was a member of The New Christy Minstrels. Finally, a number of the members of the folk group went on to join Kenny Rogers and The First Edition, including Rogers himself. The group made their movie debut in the 1964 movie Advance to the Rear.