Remembering Danny Mayers: The Voice of The Delltones
Danny Mayers, the iconic frontman of the Australian rock and roll band The Delltones, has passed away at the age of 77. His unique voice and unwavering dedication to the stage helped lead The Delltones through some of their most commercially successful years. Mayers joined the band in the early 1980s during a significant transition, ultimately becoming a pivotal figure in their storied history.
The Delltones: A Legacy in Australian Music
The Delltones have been a beloved name in Australian music since the late 1950s. Known for their doo-wop style, the band enjoyed considerable popularity before Mayers joined as a temporary replacement for Sep Martin in 1982. Ian Peewee Wilson, a founding member, discovered Mayers performing at the Palais Royale in Newcastle and was immediately impressed. This marked the beginning of a new chapter for The Delltones, as they sought to modernize their sound while retaining their traditional roots.
A Resurgence in the 1980s
Mayers’ arrival coincided with a crucial period for The Delltones. The band was eager to revamp its image and sound, and Mayers’ voice blended seamlessly with their musical style. His presence became a driving force behind their resurgence, leading to the release of the album Bop Til Ya Drop. This commercial hit achieved gold status and reached number two on the Kent Music Report Albums Chart in Sydney, propelling The Delltones back into the limelight.
During the 1980s, the band enjoyed a sixteen-week residency at Kinselas in Sydney and participated in significant events like the Anti-Nuclear Rally and the Adelaide Festival of Arts. Their live album, Out in the Open, recorded in front of an audience of 28,000 at the Toowoomba Showgrounds, and the hit single "Papa Oom Mow Mow" were highlights of this successful era.
A Journey of Comebacks
Mayers briefly departed from The Delltones in 1985 but returned a decade later in 1995. His comeback was instrumental in reconnecting the band with its original surf music identity, a hallmark of their sound since the 1960s. During this period, they released The Sunshine Club, an album celebrating Australian surf culture and life-saving clubs.
Mayers’ tenure with The Delltones was marked by a series of comebacks and departures. He left in 1998, rejoined in 2000, and finally departed again in 2011. Despite these changes, he remained a consistent and trusted voice within the group, helping to preserve The Delltones’ legacy in Australian music.
A Solo Career and Lasting Impact
Outside of his work with The Delltones, Danny Mayers continued to perform as a solo artist, captivating audiences at clubs and music events. His performances featured both original songs and classic Delltones hits, ensuring that the spirit of the band lived on for both long-time fans and new listeners.
Mayers’ dedication to live music and his ability to connect with audiences made him a beloved figure in the Australian music scene. Even as the band underwent various lineup changes, his commitment to The Delltones and their music remained steadfast, allowing them to continue performing decades after their initial hits.
Danny Mayers will be remembered not just for his contributions to The Delltones, but for his enduring influence on Australian rock and roll. His legacy will continue to resonate with fans and musicians alike, ensuring that the sound of The Delltones remains a cherished part of Australia’s musical heritage.
