Billy J. Kramer With The Dakotas The Best Of Billy J. Kramer With The Dakotas -1979 – Beat (rare vinyl)

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He grew up as the youngest of seven siblings and attended the St George of England Secondary School, Bootle. He then took up anengineering apprenticeshipwithBritish Railwaysand in his spare time played rhythm guitar in a group he had formed himself, before switching to become a vocalist. The performing name Kramer was chosen at random from atelephone directory. It was John Lennon’s suggestion that the “J” be added to the name to further distinguish him by adding a “tougher edge”.[1]Kramer soon came to the attention ofBrian Epstein, ever on the look-out for newtalentto add to his expanding roster of local artists. Kramer turned professional but his then backing group, the Coasters, were less keen, so Epstein sought out the services of aManchester-based group,the Dakotas, a combo then backing Pete MacLaine.

Even then, the Dakotas would not join Kramer without arecording contractof their own. Once in place, the deal was set and both acts signed toParlophoneunderGeorge Martin. Collectively, they were named Billy J. Kramer with the Dakotas to keep their own identities within the act. Once the Beatles broke through, the way was paved for a tide of Merseybeat and Kramer was offered the chance to cover “Do You Want to Know a Secret?”, first released by the Beatles on their own debut album,Please Please Me. The track had been turned down by Shane Fenton (later known asAlvin Stardust) who was looking for a career-revivinghit.

Sleeve Condition (Out of 10) ~ 9 one corner has slight wear
Label Condition (Out of 10) ~ 10
Vinyl Condition ~ (Out of 10)
Side 1 -10
side 2 -10
BIN # 135

Label:EMI NUT 9Format:Vinyl, LP, CompilationCountry:UKReleased:1979Genre:RockStyle:Beat

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