Chicago's Celebrity Hangout

   
 

Jeff Szynal

Nice to see the man who makes all the @whitesox players look good! White Sox scoreboard operator Jeff Szynal stopped in for some records today. Do you think Reinsdorf read our suggestion to install a record player in CF?

 

Herman Roberts

The legendary Herman Roberts stopped by to share some stories and but some dusties. Nice to see you Herman and happy 95th Birthday!

Johnny Rogers

Rock 'N' Roll Legend Johnny Rogers stopped in to say "Hi" during his Busy Buddy & Beyond Tour. We are hoping Johnny can add more Chicago area stops to his tour, and we are looking forward to seeing him at the Surf in February!

Find out more about Johnny here

 
 

Billy McGregor

Chicago dusties legend & "Mr. Shy" himself, Billy McGregor, stopped in to buy a few of his old 45s. He was not pleased when Dan told him how much they sell for now! Jack was happy though. Thanks for stopping in Billy!

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Tony Marsh

Original drummer for the 60's UK rock and roll group, The Coasters stopped by to see us during his US tour. As always Tony found what he was looking for, an original copy of the Coasters album, It Ain't Sanitary.

UPDATE: Tony Marsh on the right enjoying A crisp January 1964 day in New Brighton during a photo shooot for FAB magazine.

 

 
 

Levi Triplet

Chicago dusties legend Levi Triplet of the Triplet Twins thought he could just waltz into Beverly Records and not be recognized.Sorry Levi you are a legend in these parts! Levi dropped off a cassette of some orignal songs for repair. We had the Magic Touch and got everything fixed for him.

 
 

George McCaskey

Avid Bears fan (and president), George McCaskey stopped in to pick up some long lost copies of Bear Down, Chicago Bears for his collection. Hey George, we bought them from you 30 years ago! George enjoyed his first trip to the record shop and also stopped by Cullinan's Stadium Club for a BOGO Cheesburger special. Thanks for stoppy by George.

 

Greg Rodil

Greg Rodil, Personal photogtapher for Cook County Presideent, Toni Preckwickle stopped in for the first time to find a few titles for his record collection. Greg is a big fan of vinyl and said he will be back... ALOT! Thanks for coming in Greg!

 

Chip Z'Nuff

Chip Z'Nuff of Enuff Z'Nuff stopped by on his way back to Blue Island via Los Angeles to say hi and to check to make sure we have the complete catalog of Enuff Z'nuff recordings in stock. Thanks for stopping by Chip!

 

Abe Thompson

Abe Thompson visited us to pick up some Karaoke discs for one of his legendary parties! Abe is well known in the Music industry and we were very happy to see him again!

 

Claude and Dena Spivey

Claude B. Spivey former member of Parliament & Funkadelic stopped in to share a few stories and buy a few tunes. Claude is currently living in Chicago with his Wife of 20 years, Dena Allen Spivey. Dena a native Chicagoan was a 4 time Apollo winner and currently is working as a vocal coach/trainer. East coast native Claude spends his time with his current project "RHYTHM,BLUES & FUNK FOUNDATION". We are so glad you could make it in to the store!

Like many of us, Claude and Dena have been victims of the current housing crisis. We send our love and prayers.

Romance Watson

Romance Watson, Northern Soul singer & former singer of the gospel group  The Roberta Martin Singers, visited Beverly Records looking for his secular recordings from 1959 on the Coral label.

Lonnie Brooks

Blues Legend Lonnie Brooks took time out from his busy touring schedule while back "in that same old place" to pick up some records and to check on us to make sure we had his new CD "Live from Chicago: Bayou Lightning" in stock. Satisfaction Guaranteed Lonnie! Of course we do. Thanks for stopping by.

Mike Flannery

Longtime Beverly resident, Sox fan, and FOX Chicago politcal editor, Mike Flannery, stopped in after the parade to say Hi. Thanks for coming to see us Mike!

Tridia Clark

Tridia Clark, one of the lead singers for the legendary Bandit Label Group, The Majestic Arrows, made an appearance at our Small Business Saturday celebration. Her voice is still beautiful, as she entertained us with a great rendition of The Mighty Marvellos' "In The Morning"

British Buddy Holly Society

Paul & Dot King from Northampton England paid us a visit on their way home from Clear Lake Iowa. Paul & Dot are charter members of the British Buddy Holly Society and we enjoyed their visit immensely!

Tony Smith

Tony's Back! Beverly Records' regular and legendary performer, Tony Smith came in to say hi and to pick up a few of his favorite songs. Great to see you again Tony and we like the show!

Diane Ellis

Legendary Chicagoan and Soxphonist, Diane Ellis stopped by to say hi and pick up a few albums. You can catch Diane in concert playing with other Chicago legend, Tony Smith. Go see them! A great show and highly recommended by Beverly Records.

Lovehammers

South Sider Marty Casey, lead singer of the Lovehammers, was in town and stopped in to pick up some vinyl and a few 8-tracks, (yes 8-tracks), the other day and to make sure his new record, Heavy Crown, was in stock. His eyes could see that it was indeeed... However not on 8-track good buddy. Thanks for stopping in Marty!

 

Louis Bradley

Frequent customer Louis Bradley of the Eldorados stopped in for a few 45s over the Memorial Day holiday. Bim Bam Boom Louis, don't hurt 'em!

Buckinghams and The Daughters of Eve

Carl Giamarese of the Buckinghams, Carl Bonafede manager, Michele Abrams Publisist, and Little Debi Pomeroy, original drummer for the Daughters of Eve used our store as the backdrop for an article coming out soon in the Sun-Times. Thanks for coming out! Mi record shop es su record shop.

Casper
UPDATE: Casper stepped in a few days ago to tell us about his new play called The Stepper's Story opening October 24th 2009.

On August 31st, Casper, of Cha Cha Slide fame, visited the store with his lovely wife to catch up on some Karaoke titles. If you hear someone doing Cha Cha Slide at your local karaoke club, it might be him!

 
 

Melvin Mason
Melvin Mason, lead singer of the Chicago's R&B super group, The Mighty Marvelows, visited the recently. He regaled us with stories from his touring days in the 60's and 70's on the "Chitlin' Circuit".  He's currently working on a new Gospel single, The Praise Song and Before It's Too Late.  Please contact us if you're interested in purchasing these beautiful songs. 

 
 

Ernie Terrell
Former World Heavyweight Champion and superb musician, Ernie Terrell, stopped in with his friend, Brownie McGee, to say hello. The rig still looks good, doesn't he?

 

Screamin' Wild Man Carl Bonafede
The legendary Screamin' Wild Man Carl Bonafede visited us to introduce his latest project with the great Daughters of Eve and to pick up some memories.  Carl can be found on SUNDAY SUNDAY SUNDAY's at  Chicago's beautiful Maxwell Street!

 

Kevin D. Rowan
Kevin D. Rowan drummer for The Sons Of Slum stopped in for some music and a quick visit. He's working on a new Smooth Jazz project that we hope will be heard soon on WNUA!

 

Greta Pope
"International vocalist Greta Pope came by Beverly Records recently to find some rare recordings.  Greta is the host of radio show "Jazz and More!...with Greta Pope" which airs on Sundays at Noon Eastern Standard time on WRHC Radio Harbor Country in Three Oaks, Michigan. Greta is always looking for interesting music to play on the show and she is always able to find something good at Beverly Records. To get your music played on "Jazz and More!", go to www.gretapope.com/jazzandmore

Fox News Chicago

Fox News Chicago came by to visit August 14th and brought their cameras with them. It was a pleasure having David and the gang join us. Come back anytime!

Link to story

Captain OT
Captain OT from Fort Wayne Indiana writer of the Christmas Yuleblog stopped in to say hi and to pick up a few Christmas records. We all enjoy his writing and we are glad he had a good time. Check out his blog here
Rosia Carter
Rosia Carter paid us a visit to pick up some karaoke music for Christmas and mentioned that she made a record as one of the Heavyweights with boxer Ernie Terrell in 1965 called Dear Abbie. We searched our stock and were able to find it for her! She's still singing and looking and sounding great.

Donald Armistead.
Donald Armistead who recorded under the Name Donny Mann in the 70's and Tiny Tim & the Tornados in the 50's, stopped in to check stock on his 45's. Luckily we had some and he was able to take a few home with him!

Update: Donald passed away Friday 10/24/08 from a battle with cancer. The Beverly Records family offers our prayers and sincere condolences to the Armistead Family.

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Alphonse
Alphonse, former lead singer for the Miracles delighted us with a visit recentlyy. When he stops in to see us, he's always happy to sing us a sample of Nolan Strong's The Wind! Alphonse new cd, "Alphonse Sings Smokey" is now available at Beverly Records. For booking call (951) 847-1920
Elzie Butler
Elzie Butler of the Radiants (left) and his two brothers, Richard (center) and Michael (right) came to see us Dec 23 for a nice Christmas surprise. Elzie is living in Minnesota but was in town for the Holidays and we were thrilled to meet him. He was stopping by to make sure we had the full line of Radiants CDs in stock. It Aint No Big Thing, Elzie, of course we did!
Spyder Turner
The one and only Spyder Turner Stood By Me during a visit July 27th before his appearance at the Motown and More Tribute Show. He has a new CD and will be selling them soon on CD Baby and at his shows. We're honored to have him visit and hope he returns next time he's in town!

Wanda Hutchinson
Wanda Hutchinson, of The Emotions and her mother, Lillian, stopped in for some karaoke music on March 12. She is originally from Chicago, but is now based in LA. You Got The Best Of Our Love Too, Wanda!
 
Leslie Baldacci
Leslie Baldacci, famed Chicago author, teacher, columnist, and broadcaster, stopped in March 9th to drop off a copy of her new Sun Times article which features Western Avenue businesses, including Beverly Records! We've been proud to know Leslie since she hosted a show on WLS radio. She's still appearing on radio and TV talk shows and I don't know how she finds time to do so much! What energy!
"Big Ed" Sharpenter
Master craftsman and world renonwned record shop designer "Big Ed" Sharpenter and his lovely fiance Jackie, surprised us after hours with a visit on March 12th! Ed is credited with the "loft" look that is so popular in today's construction techniques. He invented the double decker bin design used at Beverly Records since our major remodel in the early 90's, and has personally moved every record in the store twice.
Rich Renik
Rich Renik, long time friend and DJ on WCCQ Country Radio 98.3FM in Joliet stopped in to add to his collection of obscure songs to stump his listeners. Rich also recorded a CD single with organist Frank Pellico "Yes Virginia, There Is A Santa Claus" that is sure to become a Christmas classic. You can pick up a copy at Beverly Records all year long!
Larry Langford
Renowned radio "man on the scene", Larry Langford, paid us a visit February 24th to replenish his gospel music collection. You've heard Larry reporting the news on WMAQ, WGN, WLS and many other stations. He's now working full time for the Chicago Fire Dept.
Phil Orsi
Legendary USA Records Northern Soul artist, Phil Orsi, stopped in for some karaoke music February 28th. He noticed in the latest price guide one of his 45's with The Thunderbirds is selling for $1000 to $1500! He has a copy is anyone is interested!
Captain Sky
Daryl Cameron, better known as 70's funk artist, Captain Sky stopped in to say hello. He's working on a new CD and is sponsoring a couple of new groups in the Chicago area.
Garland Green & Family
The Green family, Garland, Garfield, and Niya paid us a visit on February 10th. Garland, of course, is world renowned for the song Jealous Kind Of Fella (catalog # 1486). It was a pleasure to meet them all!
Paul Renard
Famed organist, Paul Renard, visited the store on January 27 to pick up the 31st LP he's found here! Paul grew up in New York where he appeared on many radio and TV shows, and was the arranger for the late Hildegarde for over 20 years. He's lived in Chicago for the last 40 years and is having a replica of the Radio City Music Hall organ installed in his living room! He'll soon be making more music which we hope to make available to everyone soon. I told him he should write a book about the adventures of his life so far, and he agreed to think about it.
Tom Jeffers
Tom Jeffers, local Karaoke idol and recording artist, visited us on January 14, sporting his new White Sox World Champion jacket. Tom composed and performed the White Sox tribute song, "We're Die Hard Sox Fans".
Reggie Gordon
Reggie Gordon of The Magnificents paid us a visit on Monday 1/9/06. He's just back from a Detroit concert where he sang with the Moonglows. You'll remember Reggie as the singer who took Sam Cooke's brother L.C. Cooke's place with the Magnificents in the 50's.
Billy Boy Arnold
Chicago Blues harmonica legend, William "Billy Boy" Arnold, came by to pick up a couple of CD's Sept. 27th. He was taught to play the harp by his neighbor, Sonny Boy Williamson in 1948 and played with Bo Diddley in 1955. After many successful releases on VeeJay and Alligator records, Billy is still going strong today and has a new CD arriving October 18th. He is scheduled to make a European Tour in November 2005.
Joe Jammer
Joe Jammer is the internationally renowned Chicago-born guitarist and songwriter whose career spans five decades and has been featured twice in Sports Illustrated issues. He wrote both the Montreal Canadiens and Montreal Expos Theme Songs. He visited Beverly Records with his friend, Bud Monaco, during the Sox-Angels series and attended the games in Chicago. We are proud of his accomplishments and hope to see him again soon!
Sopro Records Recording Artist Joe Jammer has written, recorded and released his new hit song, "White Sox Victory Song !". This outstanding Major League Baseball theme song is a must for all White Sox Fans and all Baseball Fans in North America. That's the 'World Champion Chicago White Sox' were talkin' about.
'Let's Go White Sox'. Joe Jammer is the internationally renowned Chicago-born guitarist and songwriter whose career spans five decades and has been featured twice in Sports Illustrated issues. Joe Jammer wrote both the Montreal Canadians 'Le Bleu, Blanc, Roughe' and Montreal Expos 'Let's Go Expos !' Theme Songs and has now stepped up to the plate again and has hit a game winning, walk off, grand slammer with his beautiful "White Sox Victory Song !". You can own your own CD of this great song by purchasing it at the legendary record store, Beverly Records Call for special group discounts 773-779-0066.
Joe Jammer's legendary musical history spanning five decades (and we do really mean 'legendary' to say the least; read it and you tell us if we're pulling your chain), bio, discography, song sound samples and upcoming
events can be perused at the extensive Joe Jammer website located at Sopro Music.com .

Paul Gallis
Paul Gallis, noted successful Chicago promoter, entrepreneur, and performer, visited the store October 25 with his good friend Nick Noble. Paul is promoting the re-release of the Sox tribute by the American Breed, "Rock With The Sox". We have the CD in stock so give us a call or email if you'd like to get one. Paul reminisced about the song he made, "Boogie Twist" , which was a huge local hit in the 60's-we may even have a few copies of that one around. He's a genuine nice guy!

2/17/12 Update: we are sad to hear of the passing of our dear friend Paul Gallis. Paul always made us smile. Paul died at the age of 88. We will miss you buddy.

Clarissa Smith
Clarissa Smith, sister of the immortal Dinah Washington, stopped in for some karaoke songs originally sung by her sister. Clarissa has a new gospel CD coming out soon called "God Has Got Your Back". We hope to stock it when it's released
Chip Znuff
Fresh from his appearance on the Howard Stern Show (download here), Chip Znuff from nearby Blue Island stopped in to say hello. Chip is considered one of the family here and we are so proud of his accomplishments with Enuff Z'nuff. You can get all their CD's at Beverly including the latest, "?".
Bill Gula
Bill Gula, trumpet/vocalist for the legendary Chicago Polka Band, the Ampolaires, stopped in the get a 45 of Captain Stubby's Let's Go Go White Sox after hearing it again at the White Sox-Dodgers game June 18th. Although Bill's too young to have seen the 1959 Team, he's 100% behind this year's championship edition!


Candye Kane
We were honored June 20th by a visit from the legendary blues singer Candye Kane! Enclosed are pictures of her band, from left to right, Isaiah Mitchell, Candye Kane, Forrest Sequin, and Evan Caleb (CK's son). She picked up some 45's for her jukebox at home in San Diego, some classic vinyl LP's, and some blues cd's to listen to on the way to her next show! Beverly Records stocks her CD's, including the just released, "White Trash Girl". You've got to hear this band!
View pictures of the concert in Des Moines
Read Candye's article" blues survivor" part one

 
Harry Porterfield
ABC 7's Harry Porterfield took a break from his busy schedule to visit us and to buy a few CDs. Harry is the best and we all think he is "Someone You Should Know."
Marshall Thompson
Marshall Thompson of the Chilites, stopped in to say hi a few weeks ago. Marshall & the guys have a new CD out called Chilites 2005. Beyonce, like all of us, is a big fan of the Chi-Lites, she used the cut "Are You My Woman" to come up with her hit "Crazy In Love."
Patti Hamilton
Patti Hamilton, lead singer of Patti and the Lovelites in the 70's, had hits with songs like How Can I Tell My Mom & Dad and My Conscience, and is a regular visitor. She makes sure her greatest hits CD is always in stock at Beverly Records! We love her cheerful disposition and she always brightens our day when she comes through the door! She's now singing Gospel songs and is working on a new CD. We can't wait till she's finished!
Dorothy Prince
Renowned songstress from Chicago's M-Pac label, Dorothy Prince, visited the Karaoke department on January 11th. She is now known as Joydan Prince, and has a local TV show, but recorded 4 successful "Northern Soul" singles in the 60's as Dorothy. She recalled performing in LA when Joe Cocker joined her on stage to sing a duet-he said he couldn't resist the lure of her voice!


Pervis Spann and Marilyn B.
On Saturday, November 27th, the legendary Pervis Spann made an appearance at Beverly Records to sign copies of his new book "The 40 Year Spann of WVON". Mr. Spann is the legendary "Blues Man" DJ of early WVON Radio in Chicago, and is the present owner of the station. Co-Author Linda Walker was also present to greet the fans and talk about their upcoming new book recounting the history of the famous Regal Theater. Talented Jazz and blues singer Marilyn B. entertained us all for 2 hours with her delightful selection of standards from the 40's and 50's. If you ever get a chance to see her, be sure to do so! If you missed the appearance, you can get a copy of the book at Mr. Spann's website, www.pervisspann.com We highly recommend it and thank him and all of his entourage for coming!
 
Bill Smith
BILL SMITH is a music major, and has played drums and sang with artists including: Bobby Helms, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bobby Fuller Four, Chuck Berry, Eddie Clearwater, Dick Henson & Billy Sharpe, Tony Smith, Del-Rays, Harry Kellett, 5 Chords, Stardusters and many more! He gets all his music at Beverly Records!
Brian Parker
Brian Parker, drummer for the legendary Staple Singers, popped in to pick up some CDs' on a break from his busy touring schedule. Brian is from the South Side of Chicago.
 
Robert "Sir" Dobyne'
On October 7, 2004, Sir Dobyne', former lead singer for the Chicago group from Marshall High School, The Artistics, visited us to pick up some Christmas karaoke discs. He mentioned that the Artistics provided background vocals for Major Lance and Marvin Gaye in the 60's.
 
Dr. Tony Willis
On Sept 30, 2004, former member of the popular local group The Accents, Dr. Tony Willis and his wife Alna visited us to reminisce about the good old days. Herb Kent introduced Tony and Alna 38 years ago and they are still happily married.
 

Nick Noble
Beverly resident, Nick Noble, acclaimed crooner of the 50's and 60's visited the store on Sept. 13th to listen to some of his hits and regale us with stories of his days touring with rock legends like Buddy Holly and Chuck Berry in the 50's. Look for his new CD coming out soon! He hasn't changed much, has he?

3 24/12 UPDATE: Sorry to report that our good friend Nick Noble passed away this morning.  He's in crooner heaven now with his buddy Paul Gallis. We'll post wake info soon.

 
Shirley King
Shirley King, daughter of Blues legend, B.B. King, picked up some karaoke discs for her class which teaches the youth of Chicago some of the history of the Blues in Chicago and for her shows at House Of Blues and other local blues clubs. Be sure to see her if you're in the Chicago area!
 
Tony Smith
Over the summer of 2004, legendary Chicago singer, Tony Smith, made a few visits to the store to stock up on some songs for his 50+ year act at many local establishments. This is a show you don't want to miss!
 
Johnny Keyes
On Friday, August 6, 2004, legendary lead singer of the Magnificents, Johnny Keyes, stopped in to get some new tunes. We're always glad to see Johnny-we also carry his Du-Wop book-call for a copy.
 
Ron Smith
On Saturday, July 24, renowned DJ and Music Director at Real Oldies 1690AM, Ron Smith, paid a visit to the store. We were excited to welcome him and hope he returns soon!
 
The De'bonairs
The two surviving members of the Chicago 50's Doo Wop group The De'bonairs, Virgil Talbert and Earl Vanorsby, visited Beverly Records in the fall of 2000. They were recorded on the rare PING label
 
Herb Kent
A few years ago, Hall of Fame DJ and good friend, Herb Kent did an in-store appearance at our former branch in Cicero. Shown here are Herb, Jack from Beverly Records, Marjorie McKinnon Price from Jasmine Advertising, and our own walking computer, Derek!
 
In Memory of Pirkle Lee Moses Jr
Pirkle Lee Moses Jr., lead singer of the Eldorados, passed away in December of 2000. We were honored by his visit to our store where he regaled us in stories of the good ole' days just a few months earlier. Farewell, Mr. Moses, a tear has fallen.
 
   
  
 

Visit this page again soon. Who knows who will show up at
your favorite little Record Shop!





Beverly Records, 11612 S. Western Avenue, Chicago, 1.773.779.0066