Skip to content

1967-08-05 – The Town Talk

Girls Review Hermits Performance

Redemptorist Football Stadium in Baton Rouge was filled with a capacity crowd of more than 6,000 when Herman's Hermits, and Blues Magoos and the Who rocked the stands with their latest hits.

The impatient crowd screamed for Herman as Debbie and the Lads started the concert with "Harlem Shuffle." The crowd was asked to sing along as she led in "Double Shot." The Lads closed out with "Respect."

The Inn Crowd

A more popular group with the Baton Rouge audience was the Inn Crowd who started off with "Mercy, Mercy, Mercy" as the Swingsville Sweethearts danced.

The Blues Magoos shocked the crowd as they climbed on stage with their psychedelic uniforms that flashed red and green lights as the night set in. The audience reacted well as Peppy sang "I Wanna Be There", their new single which is to be released soon. They finished up with "We Ain't Got Nothin' Yet," which drew the most reaction.

Pink Bellbottoms

The audience got the hint that something big was coming on as the Who's 16-piece drum kit was being set up. Then Roger Daltry, lead singer of the Who, walked out in his shocking pink bellbottoms, long silver sash, flowered shirt and tassled beads; he was followed by lead guitarists Pete Townshend who wore solid white Bass guitarists, John Enwistle wore striped pants and a jacket made to resemble the British flag. Drummer, Keith Moon, the fastest 19-year-old drummer in the world, was dressed in blue jeans and a "69" football jersey.

They started out with "u'stitute," a song which was banned in the United States and made in England. This was followed by other English hits and then their first American hit, "Happy Jack," and what they hope will be the spectacular follow-up, "Pictures of Lily."

They ended their set with "My Generation," during which they proceeded to live up to their reputation and demolish the stage. Pete Townshend smashed his guitar and kicked over the amplifiers, causing an explosion on stage and the release of smoke bombs. At this point only the security guards could hold back the wild audience who attempted to rush the stage.

After intermission, the highlight of the program was the Hermits, Barry Witwam, Derek LeKenby, Keith Hopwood, and Karl Greene. The audience could hardly be contained when Peter Noone (Herman) stepped on stage in his blue-flowered pants and started singing "A Little Help From My Friends," followed by "A Must to Avoid," and "Happy Together."

During "Mrs. Brown, You've Got a Lovely Daughter," the audience joined in clapping and singing. His closing hits were barely audible as the crowd made surging attempts to get on stage.