SENSATIONAL EPICS
Columbia SC
The Sensational Epics were formed in 1963 as a five-piece group based in Columbia, South Carolina. They played primarily for high school and college fraternity & sorority functions, performing what is now known as "Beach Music". In the early 60's, when this history was being made (of which the EPICS were an integral part), they called it "Rhythm & Blues" and "SOUL" music.
In 1965, the EPICS evolved into a nine (9) piece "Show & Party" band, featuring five (5) horns along with a very talented rhythm section. Their on-stage antics, choreography, and dynamic sound made them an instant favorite of the college fraternity circuit across the southeast. Most of the guys have been with the group since their very first hit entitled "I've Been Hurt" was released nationally on Cameo record label.
The Epics were formed in 1963 and quickly became a hit on the southeastern fraternity circuit. They had hits such as "I've Been Hurt" on Cameo Records, the orginal version of "Be Young, Be Foolish, Be Happy" and "You Warp My Mind" on Warner Brothers Records and "All My Hard Times" & "Play It By Ear" on Capitol Records. They are currently recording on Ripete Records and their recent releases were a CD entitled "Been There, Ain't Done Yet" and several compilation CDs with such songs as "Freedom Trilogy" and "Because of You". They have two new releases coming out this spring. The Epics reformed in 1999 after a lay off (due to careers and satisfying military obligations. They have most of the original members back and their onstage antics and choreography will impress and entertain you to the max. They have a 6 piece horn section that is second to none and Mike Tronco's voice is superb!
| Larry Clark | Saxophone, Flute, Backup Vocal |
| Jimmy Davis | Guitar, Backup Vocal |
| Buster Elrod | Trumpet, Backup Vocal |
| Phil Frazier | Keyboard & Bass |
| Tommy Graham | Drums |
| Bob Michalski | Saxophone, Backup Vocal |
| Fred Perry | Saxophone, Backup Vocal |
| Fred Pugh | Baritone Sax, Backup Vocal |
| Mike Tronco | Lead Vocal |
Give The Girl A KissThe Sensational Epics began with five Dreher High School students playing for high school dances and parties. Mike Tronco was their vocalist, and within a year they had grown to nine pieces and had a recording contract with Cameo Records. They traveled the southeast on the college circuit and shared the stage with all the big time rock and roll stars, such as The Drifters, Gladys Knight, and James Brown.
In time, the members graduated from college and began their careers. Some went to the Viet Nam War, and the band broke up. The band reassembled in 1999, with all but one of their original members to play for a high school reunion. It was so successful they are still playing and recording. They are recognized as an integral part of music history and creation of the South's beloved beach music.
Performing with Charles Pope and "Little Joe" of the Tams
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In time, the members graduated from college and began their careers. Some went to the Viet Nam War, and the band broke up. The band reassembled in 1999, with all but one of their original members to play for a high school reunion. It was so successful they are still playing and recording. They are recognized as an integral part of music history and creation of the South's beloved beach music.
Meet the Sensational Epics: website
Listen to the tunes of the Sensational Epics: