The longest running band in pop history is back for one final tour
When John McNally formed the searchers in 1957, aged just 16, he could never have imagined the phenomenal success that his band would enjoy: 50 million record sales, thirteen UK chart hits – including three number ones, and a sound that inspired some of the greatest artists of all time, including The Byrds, Tom Petty and Bruce Springsteen.
This is a chance to experience a truly legendary band, possibly for the last time. Original members John McNally (guitar, vocals) and Frank Allen (bass, vocals) are joined by Spencer James (guitar, vocals – Spencer has been part of the line-up for 37 years) and the newly recruited, highly rated Richie Burns (drums).
Frank said “It’s been four years since our last tour. We all needed a break but now we are ready to come back and do what we do and love best.
“Mind you, I do sometimes shudder at what we’ve taken on – 43 dates in three months – that’s quite a schedule for a band of a certain age! But I’m really up for it as are the rest of the guys.”
John said: “I set this band up in 1957 and so far things have worked to plan. I thought we would probably do a 43-date UK tour 66 years later. I’m joking of course! Who would have imagined that we are still able to do this – touring the best towns and cities in the UK and still playing to thousands of fantastic fans. I can’t wait.”
The band has chosen to call this the ‘Thank You Tour’ as a mark of respect and appreciation for the legions of fans who have supported them over the years. Fans will be treated to a full set of The Searchers’ best-loved songs, including ‘When You Walk In The Room’, ‘Goodbye My Love’, ’Sugar & Spice’, ‘What Have They Done To The Rain’ as well as their three UK No.1 hits ‘Sweets for my Sweet’ (1963), ‘Needles and Pins’ (1964) and ‘Don’t Throw Your Love Away’ (1964).
Also included will be material from the 70s and 80s, when the Searchers were signed to Sire Records, becoming label-mates with some of the hippest acts around including Talking Heads, The Cure, Madonna and The Ramones – who covered ‘Needles and Pins’.
This was one of the band’s favorite creative periods and saw them recording at Rockfield Studios in Wales (famous for Queen’s recording of Bohemian Rhapsody). Keep an ear out for gems including ‘Hearts in Her Eyes’, ‘Love’s Melody’, ‘Infatuation’ and ‘It’s Too Late’.
The Searchers are the longest running band in pop history. They have been in constant demand for 66 years. Not even The Rolling Stones can match that: they’ve only been going for 61 years!
The Searchers Thank You Tour runs 13th April – 17th June 2023, with 43 dates across England. ‘The Ultimate Collection’ (3CD) is out now on BMG. Tickets, dates and info: www.the-searchers.co.uk
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