The 50s Flyers

Fronted by Brian Grayson (vocals, formerly of White Lightnin’), of New Moston, North Manchester and originally formed in 1982, The '50s Flyers play mainly 1950s style Rock 'n' Roll & Rockabilly, with Sun artists, such as Billy Lee Riley and Warren Smith being big influences. The original line-up also included Jimmy Cottle (originally from The Rockin’ 1% a Manchester Teddy Boy band). This line-up released the band’s first single, a version of Vince Taylor’s 'Brand New Cadillac' and Hank Williams’ 'Setting The Woods on Fire' as the ‘B’ side. Over the years the line-up changed to include Paul Murphy (also of White Lightnin’ and The Crawdads) on guitar, Andy Sykes on bass and Dave Machin (The Renegades, The Rhythmaires) on drums. This line up released an EP featuring the tracks ‘You Know What I Mean’ and ‘Lonesome Tears’. The band decided to go their separate ways in 1995 to pursue other projects and spend time with family. After spending some time working as a solo artist, Brian reformed The '50s Flyers in 2005 with Jimmy Cottle. The current line up in 2009 now includes Ged Fern on slap bass, Tim Sykes on drums, Jumpin’ John Cowan and Michaela Sykes on saxes.