Fred.
Thanks for the invite to read your life story & congrats for getting the Web site finished.
Two things struck me after I had finished reading & listening to the music.
1) You prove that life is about the journey & not the destination.
2) You should be tired. I got tired just reading your work all day, play music all night & party in between life style! You are the antithesis of Rip Van Winkle, there had to be a 20-year stretch there where you never slept.
Cheers! Well done!
Mark & Nancy Wilcox |
| Amazing!!! I had this site address forwarded to me by the "address keeper" of the QHS class of 1965 and what a nostalgic trip backwards a whole bunch of years. I "grew up" listening to the Rockers at Turner Hall, The Barn and of course at TNT during the mid and late 60s. I played trombone with Fonza and Shaller (they were a couple years older then me) at QHS as well as Quincy College after they came back from the service and was joined there by Russ Phillips - What a fine bone player!!!! I tended bar one summer when Russ played in a Dixie group with Charlie Winking and others who leased a concrete block building for the summer up on the Quincy bay. Wish I knew what ever happened to him as I Graduated from Q. C. in 1970 - he left town that year or a year later and never new what happened to him. I had no idea what all has transpired with Fred or the band since those glorious years of the 60s.
Dale Waack
Cedar Falls, Ia |
I received a link to your web site from DeeJay K. It was so interesting to read about your journey through those years. Those were our fun years also.
I was so sad to hear about your daughter's passing. I sent it on to my daughter (Michelle Robertson Klem) who was a good friend of Lori's in school. She, Lori and Betsy Nissan were good friends. Please accept our condolences.
Suzanne and Bill Walker |
Fred,
You have had quite an adventure haven’t you? What a great tale! Man, you know how to live.
Keep rockin’!
Thanks for the link.
Jamie Waldron
PORSCHE North Scottsdale |
| Hey Fred! That web site is cool! Sorry I have not talked to you in a while. Hope everything is going alright for you and Gail. Let me know the next time you are in Vegas or lets meet up the next time I visit my parents in Scottsdale.
-Johnny Beck |
Well, well, well.....Freddie Tieken....what a production, I mean your life.....your life story has been an adventure with truly a very happy ending. Good for you....Donna Colvin forwarded me your website and that is how I have spent my Saturday afternoon...it was just great....And of course, I was very happy to ready about my dear friend, Jack Inghram....we have talked on many occasions about his musical inspirations and I know his heart was always with music....we got togther through the Quincy Community Theatre years ago and he has been a big help to me in playing the piano/keyboard for seveeral musicals, as well as playing clarinet and flute in many shows, and acting in several as well..... His daughter, Elizabeth, just got married in New York and is a professional theatre actress, having started in our community theatre. I know he was gloriously happy playing with you and the Rockers..............what a great gig.....continued
happy days and keep that wonderful smile.........
Barbara "Grimmer" Rowell |
| Cool! You're creating quite a stir.
I heard from Charli Winking yesterday.
Later,
Russ |
Fred: Great article,thanks for sharing. My friends & I saw you play at the
old Terrace room many times. Glad you are doing well. Success appeared to be
truly your journey. Congratulations.
Bing Welper. Quincy,Il. |
| Oh my gosh===how I did enjoy your web site..had things to do but could not stop reading it..what memories it brought back....one thing you forgot....to mention the 2 pc chicken and fries for .50 at the barn we all had to have on way home. ..wonder how many bags of that they sold..... I called Vernie Robbins and got her e mail and sent it to her...one of her children Kay. pitched softball for my husband at Quincy High and they won the state championship.
I have sent it on to some ole friends that went to Barn....and to Bill Fessler..
I see your mother in law around town..always see her on 4th of July one of her neighbors has a party and is a friend of mine...
Several years ago Jack Ingram had a cd of ROCKERS and of course I ordered one...put it on at a party and one of the guys there jumped up and said OH that sounds like THE ROCKERS I SAID it is...he could not believe it.. thanks again for sending this.. Dee Jay |
Hi Fred,
What a great story. The year I spent traveling with the band as roadie was one of the more memorable times of my life. People of my generation still speak of you and the band, and what a great time was had by all. You have been blessed with a great life that has touched many people --- perhaps it isn't A BAD thing that Jack's dad made that contract disappear all those years ago.
It is difficult to beat the thrill of performing though. After some 20+ years away from music about 15 years ago I got back into it again, playing clarinet and sax. In fact, Jack and I play together in The Heidelberg German Band. He still pulls out that handkerchief once in a while!! I've also got a clarinet quartet that plays quite a bit. Did you know Bob Sibbing? He was in the Quincy school system music dept for a while and spent most of his career as sax professor at WIU. Great musician and composer/arranger. Bob plays with our quartet and does some arranging for us. We have been invited to perform at Michigan State University for a clarinet symposium in October. That will be our 4th trip to perform at that event.
Anyway, thanks for putting all this information together. It is quite a story. I'm also very sorry to hear about Lemon. If you are in the area, give me a ring. I still hear from The Wop once in a while.
Thanks for the memories,
Rick Bybee |
Fred,
My father is John Moorman from Quincy Illinois. He is playing guitar with you on the stage that says the corral over the top of it. A family member was searching for your music and spotted the image. My dad is doing well he lives in Milton Florida and Las Vegas. Stills plays his guitar. Mostly for himself and or friends. Thank you for the blast into your past and for allowing me to see a piece of my dads life before I was around.
Rob Moorman |
Hi Freddie
My name is Patricia Hooper. I saw the article that was in the Quincy newspaper.
I sure remember going to alot of the dances that you have played at. Reading the article really brought back some good old memories.
I lived in Quincy & went to Gem City College back in the 1960's.
When is your book going to be available?
Take care
Patricia (Pat) Hooper |
HI Fred,
It was great to read your book. It’s good to see someone that grew up in Meyer go so far.
I went to school with Dennis and my parents still own a lot in Meyer. I now live in Chandler, AZ. I saw Dennis a few years ago while visiting my parents in Ursa and he told me about his twins. It’s so great to see how he and his boys have kept rock alive! I would love to know if our Principle from Unity knows what happened to Dennis. Mr. Dobbs was the reason for Dennis to drop out of school because of his harassing about the long hair.
Later,
Janice (Woodworth) Marks |
| I showed up at Turner Hall many a cold stormy nites just to see you guys play in Smokehouse. Probably one of the most prolific, rock n roll bunch of kick ass get down boogie types of good timing fun music types I have every listened too. And I love it all, from rock, blues, country, gospel, jazz, classical, I have it all in my collection. I even have an old Illmo smokehouse tape that a friend got a hold of years ago that I listen to occasionally. You guys rocked my world through in 69 when I got out of the Navy. I remember traveling to a small building in Nauvoo that you guys packed with about 300 people and totally rocked the house down. the best I ever saw smokehouse. I crave for the day I can see them again back at the old Turner Hall. They played several years ago but I had to work. Now I am retired and can do what I want and I sure would like to see those guys do it one more time. Take care Fred, love ya man, Paradise sounds like heaven to me....
Gary Boyd |
Hey Freddie,
Great site, brings back a lot of great memories. Just stories about the old hearse could fill a book.
I was up at Dennis's last summer and photographed twins. There was a bunch of other grey haired seniors in the audience. At 9:30 everyone was yawning and ready to crash. Real party animals. Old age ain't what it was cracked up to be.
I've got 32 years with the same company and I still enjoy what I do. I get to travel a lot and everyday is a new adventure. I'm not ready to retire yet.
Let me know if you get this, I've got a few photos you may not have.
Take care
rick (aka "The Wop") |
We just experienced an incredible journey down memory lane, with Freddie Tieken and the Rockers. We often wondered how you and Gail were doing etc. Your band and music will always be a part of our lives.
Perhaps you might remember us… “Zip” and Donna (Seifert) Iams, from Quincy. Donna’s sister Nel was once married to Denny Juette…She emailed your website to us. We still stay in touch with “Juette” a/k/a/ the “Juice.”
Your website was fantastic…obviously you and Gail have lived an extraordinary life. Enjoy your semi-retirement.
“Zip” and Donna Iams |
WOW!
AWESOME!!!!
you've lived quite a life...and are still living quite a life.
Greg is very impressed as well!
Thanks for sharing.
Hope you are well.
sure we'll see you in the future...
say hello to Gail.
kelly and greg |
Jim Vandament sent us your "Unconventional American Life Story." We were so glad to get it . It's really interesting and great to hear about you and the rest of us. You have really had an interesting career. When you were talking about the "Barn" and my basses, I thought about hanging upside-down from the rafters and playing the bass - what a good time! My wife Florence (Flo) and I will be married 50 years next July and have 3 children; 2 girls, one boy and five grandchildren. The girls are teachers, one teaches 2nd Grade, the other is a Librarian Media-specialist at one of the high schools here in Rogers, Arkansas. Our son works for Wal-Mart and we have lived here since 1974. I still play bass with various groups, and still have my original up-right and Fender."P" Bass that I had with the Rockers I am now playing Big Band Swing music. Flo has also been singing with various bands and is now singing with a different Big Band, which she has for 20 years. That's a short version of a lot of years. Come see us some time and put us on your e-mail list and keep in touch.
Mark Mills---remember? |
| Fred:
The web site is outstanding -- informative without being dull, exciting without being trivial: an online memoir!
I was flattered to be remembered, much less quoted. (Plus, I still believe the comment I made then.)
It must have been a pleasant, but nevertheless "long, strange trip" to backtrack over the years and shape the various anecdotes and memories into a pretty chronological musical travelogue.
I learned some things, recalled other incidents, and re-lived years of music, struggle and fun.
Whatta gift -- another one from you to the world.
Best, always,
Bill Knight |
| Craig Albright here read your bio it brings back alot of good memories. So sorry to here about your daugter it is a sick world sometimes I have been living in kansas city for 11 years alot of good jazz here. I saw Mike W before he died what a great guy. Well just wanted to say hi |
well freddie love your web site wow!!!! you played , all over, here,s some pic,s to you from an old rocker . send my love to all at home, you tiekens have been rockin for a long time, yayyahohooh!!!!!!!!
someones got to do it . love ya all markstat x00x |
Freddie, I'm not sure if you or Gail would remember me, but I know your son Steve, and talked to him earlier this evening by the way. I also know Dennis. You and Gail years ago would allow me and a friend of mine Terry Sparks, into your home to record the reel to reel music from our album collections, for the listening music for the upstairs area of the Catacombs in Quincy. This was approx. 1975-76. I worked at the bar Larry Million owned, and also enjoyed the many bands you booked there, like Cheap Trick, The Steve Gaines Band, Tony Williams Lifetime, and many others. I was always impressed with your tolerance of a young kid, and you trusting us to come to your home and record the music, even when you or Gail were not home. Your influence, as well as your brother and son, were part of my inspiration to gather an interest in doing more than just listen to music. At age 54, I'm currently in a local classic rock and blues band, "Raised on Radio" www.raisedonradiolive.com , have played with several bands in the area, and played in a different band with Ronnie Shumake from 2000-2004. I'm glad you and Gail are doing well. I'm so very sorry to also hear of the loss of your daughter, Steve told me about it just this evening.
I love the autobiography. Take special care, and God bless!
Kevin Blickhan
Quincy |
| Dear Fred and Gail
Thank you so much for sharing an intimate look into your lives. I can't believe all the wonderful experiences you both have enjoyed! Loving the long hair Fred!!! However in all of those stories I don't recall reading anything about your fabulous neighbors and their Halloween party? Hmmmm, should we feel slighted? ha ha Thanks again! I can't wait to read more about the next 50 years....
Love ya guys
Michelle |
Fred,
I sent an email back thru your web site, but since I dont have outlook as my host I was not sure if you received it. I wanted to be sure and let you know how much I enjoyed the site. Great job, your autobiography was great, how interesting your life has been. I am sure that you have touch many lives and careers. I wish I could have heard you play live back then. Take care and say hi to Gail for us. I was sincerely sorry to read about your daughter. the loss of a child is the hardest of all. I know that we dont see each other often but if I can do anything for you or Gail at anytime day or night all you need to do is call. We love you both, please stay in touch. Again your web site is full of history and fun and I know it must be wonderful having so many good memories.
Love Beck and Jim |
Damn Man...I'm sittin' here cryin'...I can't believe you put all that down...WOW!!! It must have taken you years...It is so much of my past too that it overwhelmed me, amazed me, and made me smile. I do remember some of those nights with you and the band, whoever was playing at that time, on any given year back then. To be included in YOUR history is a great honor for me. Thank you.
I lived in Canton from 1948 until 1955. I too was at the Canton Theatre on any given Sat with my brother and would wait to the shows were over to see if we could win prizes with our ticket stubbs. Remember that? We lived on a chicken farm for a couple of years but moved to an apt around the conor from your aunts on Main St over Mary's Beauty Shop next to the Grand Leader where I am sure you might of had an ice cream or two. I remember the spring or '53 cause of the flood and Main St having boats docked up in front of our apt.
In '62 I lived in La Grange and we had one of the few pianos in town and my older brother's friend, Wayne Locket managed a young black singer who's name was Bob Gibson, and said he was Wild Childs cousin. My brother Jim "Jive Time" Hawkins would let them use the piano and I do remenmber a reel to reel being present some days. Mom would bring down cookies and milk to the basement where the piano room was, she loved the music and having people over. I remember a song he was doing alot..."You Can Mess With My Baby But Leave My Wife Alone". It was Jive Time who in his '49 Merc that first took me over to Turner Hall to hear th Rocker's for the first time, cant remember what year that might have been.
I had met Dennis and Ronnie at Rod's house before I went to Viet Nam through Denny Selby(Rod's drummer) who was Gary Bunches cousin. Gary and I started a band in '64 called the "Tor-Kays". I was the singer. So when I came back from the Nam, we all hooked up at Turner Hall at one of your concerts and Eddie told you about me and you hired me on the spot so I had to load the trailer that night...but I was around for some years off and on and remember Gail working in the music store...the night at Fern's...girls waiting outside Mickys apt to take their turn with him...Ron's base stuck in the ice at Little White...Steve singing "I Know a Little"...and some black, Maybe Ted Brooks... bass player from Keokuk sing that song later when Steve was gone ...being way too stoned at the little white house and the likes of the
1%s hangin; too...and Mike always smiling. God I wish he was still here to read this history.
Later I married a girl whose parents were singers and songwriters from Cal and were friends with Leo Fender and Les Paul and his wife Mary...George Van Epps and the other people who I just mentioned would come over for Sun dinner and they would all jam after a BBQ.
Sorry to write so much but you got me thinkin' and I could go on for hours...Hope we can get together the next time I come back...Next summer. I did so enjoy spending some time with you and Gail the last time and I want to drive that new Porcha you have...
To one of the COOLEST dudes to ever walk the face of the earth and help me shape my coolness....and one of my best friends...
Thank You My Man...Thank You!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!...Keep on kepin' on...Love from Terry Lee T-Lee T-Bone Hawk Hawkins.. the Rock in Roll poet...Your friend always!
|
| Wow! I read it all the way through. Great work! Thanks for the mention - I'm honored.
You should hire a ghost writer (me) and publish a book about the early days of rock 'n roll.
Wonderful seeing you guys last weekend. Hope you enjoyed the track and dinner as much as we did.
Take good care and keep in touch.
Jb |
| Fred,
I need to sit quietly and read your site line for line so I can catch up with all the stuff you were doing while I was out of the country in the 60s. ... what a great story and what a creative life ... and thank God we can still do stuff in our old age.
And it was really good to see you at the reunion.
Best,
Joe Conover |
| Hi Fred,
Wow, what a surprise. Great to take a break and re-live the life and times of Freddie Tieken. Amazing to see the old photos and read the text that ties it all together.
Hope Gail and yourself are well.
All the best,
Cary Baker
conqueroo |
HI FRED: THANKS FOR THE REVIEW, IT WAS GREAT. I THOUGHT YOU MIGHT MENTION, WHEN WE USED TO GO TO THE HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL GAMES AND YOU WOULD STAY AT MY PLACE. WE WOULD STOP AT THE SOUTH SIDE TAVERN IN MENDON AND HAVE A FEW CHILI DOGS. THEN YOU WOULD BE UP IN THE NIGHT WITH HEART BURN, EVEN IF IT WAS MINUS 2O BELOW YOU WOULD HAVE THE WINDOW OPEN HANGING YOUR HEAD OUT TO GET MORE AIR.
I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO RECAPTURE MY YOUTH. I HAVE A NEW HARLEY DAVIDSON V-ROD, JERRY, MY OLDEST SON AND I TOOK A 1900 MILE RIDE IN JULY. CHECK OUT killboy.com FOR JULY 14, 2008 PAGE 60. THAT IS THE DAY WE RODE TAIL OF THE DRAGON N.C. THIS GUY TAKES PICTURES ALL DAY, THEN POST THEM ON HIS WEB SITE.
THANKS FOR BEING MY FRIEND.
JOHN H. O'BRIEN |
Thank you for thinking of me with your new web site.
Do you have this in book form? I would like to buy one if available. You’re a big part of our history.
I am having an 85th birthday party on August 7, 2010 and you’ve got the first invitation. I want you there.
Waiting anxiously for your reply.
Gus Traeder |
Hey Freddy!
My mother had sent the email about your website and I laughed so hard at all the old road stories. I was able to put some pieces together that have been shrouded in mystery over the years and I thank you for the trip down memory lane!
I was a guitar player back in Quincy and on the young side of life. I'd been to several concerts at Turner Hall and still remember leaning on the stage in the front row witnessing Neil Peart behind the drums. I had a best friend in high school by the name of Theresa and her step dad was Bob M. who just passed away this last year. Dot passed on about two years ago I guess and I'm sure you know who I speak of. Therese introduced me to a black kid by the name of Rodger and we became really great friends. My parents threatened to take my car away if we were seen hanging out again and this was in the mid 70's!
One day, Micki Free waltzes into the Fine Arts School in Quincy and says his little brother Rodger insisted he come meet me! Micki invited me over to the studio after I got out of school and I then met you and Gail.... I was stunned by this house and your hospitality was heart warming to a young guitar player from the wrong side of the tracks. The pix of the studio really bring back memories and the stories do as well. Thank you again and know that you and Smokehouse were a huge mentor and had a large influence over me.
I moved to Peoria few years later and got a job playing for Craig Moore and then on to the road life for many years. I still play and live in Omaha, NE these days. Quincy was a haven for music and Turner Hall was a true point of inspiration to young budding artists. Bob invited me down to the Speaker Plant to watch Bluebird rehearse one night and I managed to walk from one practice room to another under the guise of being his younger brother. I never said I was, but I looked quite a bit like him and people just mistook me for family. I was honored to do some shows with Rod Hibbart and remember doing a six month stint at the Barn and this was during my junior year in high school!
Nowadays I work at a local proshop selling gear and teach kids how to play music. I perform at nursing homes on my days off and rock out at night doing classic rock tunes from the 70's. I'd spent my years on the road and tired of eating diesel fumes from the bus. Opening for national acts was a gas, but I'm turning 50 this year and I'm happy to stay close to home and my girlfriend. Tell Dennis I said hello and Gail if she remembers me. I'm not sure even you would remember me, but I still remember your graphic design you'd shown me in the office and the flocking on the walls of the basement studio... now I yearn for my old black Les Paul again! LOL
Warmest Regards,
Charlie Glasgow
|
| Fred,
Just got back from vacation and have been going through your Web site. It's
awesome!
I am writing a column for Saturday's paper and we should talk ... Send me
your phone number and a good time to chat and I'll call you.
Also want you to know I have a band here in town called The Funions. We
started at First Union Congregational (where you recorded with Jack Inghram
back in the day) and went from there, First and Union, Funions! We play
classic rock and blues and we have recorded three CDs in town. Jack plays
sax and keyboards for us. Our favorite place to play is your old haunt,
Turner Hall! The owners, Mark Mester and Chris Stevens, have worked hard to
restore it after it went downhill for a while and we've had great shows
there.
I kept thinking of Spinal Tap when reading the web site and I'm glad you
made reference to the movie, my favorite of all time.
Here’s a link to the column I wrote about your Web site.
http://www.whig.com/story/news/RH-Scoop-Column-SAT-8-162008-08-16T14-30-36
Peace!
Rodney Hart
Staff Writer
The Quincy Herald-Whig |
First of all, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your daughter. I cannot imagine losing a child, and especially losing your child to an act of violence. With that said, I would like to compliment you on an incredible web site. Read through the whole thing in one sitting. I received it in an email from Paul Ericson. My name is Jim Weyand and I'm from Quincy but have lived in Ursa for nearly 30 years (in fact, just down the street from Dennis). I don't believe we were ever formally introduced, as I was just a young pup back in the '50s and didn't start gigging till the early 70s, but I remember seeing you around and we certainly know a lot of the same folks from the Quincy area. Anyway, if you don't mind, I would like to add your website to one of many sites and pages that I maintain (and probably my favorite) that features informational resources for musicians & sound techs, as well as links and info on area bands old and new (there's even a scan of your compilation CD in the pics section that's been there for years. It was the last CD I actually purchased at a store). I don't need a link-back or anything, this is a non-profit site that has accumulated enough reciprocal links over the years to at least stay in good standing with Yahoo & Google. Just wanted to get your permission first. Below is the address of the page where I would post your link. Again, great job on the site. Best wishes and continued success in all you do.
Thanks & hope your day goes well.
Jim Weyand
Ursa, IL |
| Thanks Fred! You are a legend and it’s always great talking to you. Peace! - rh |
| Saw you web page and came back goold old memories. On a Wed. night at the barn (1959) I went as usual and this week was my birthday so a lot of friends came. Christine (my wife) came as well and did not know me. I danced with her to your band and the rest is history. I still sing and remember the song “I GOT A GAL NAMED BONEY MARONY? SHE’S AS SKINNY AS A STICK OF MACARONI.” GOOD DAYS. THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES.
Dick Stuart |
FRED…JUST HAD THE PLEASURE OF READING YOUR BIO SENT TO ME BY A FELLOW 63 CLASSMATE…YOUR TALES BRING BACK MANY GREAT MEMORIES FROM THE LATE 50’S THROUGH THE 60’S…ESPECIALLY SINCE I WAS ONE OF THE ONLY MALES AROUND WITH ROCK DANCE MOVES…LES FONZA AND I GO BACK A LONG WAY…WHEN RIVERSIDE AND HIGHLAND SCHOOLS MERGERED WE BOTH STARTED PLYING MUSIC…HIM WITH THE CLARINET AND ME WITH THE SAX…WE PLAYED TOGETHER IN THE SCHOOL BANDS UNTIL MY SOPHOMORE YEAR WHEN I DECIDED TO PLAY FOOTBALL AND WRESTLE…LES STILL PLAYS AND ALL I HAVE IS THE GROOVE INSIDE MY LIP…WENDLING AND JUETTE WERE LONG TIME FRIENDS AND ALONG WITH MY BUDDY KEN GAEBEL, SPENT A COUPLE OF”SMOKEY” NIGHTS IN THAT APARTMENT ON RUSH…ALSO KNEW JACK.. REMEMBER THAT STORY ABOUT HIS DAD WANTING HIM TO BE A LAWYER…THE BARN, TURNER HALL AND THE PLA MOR ON FRI NIGHTS WERE BIG STOPS FOR ME…FIRST MET DENNIS AT THE PLAY MOR…HAD BEEN OUT OF QUINCY SINCE 73, WHEN I MARRIED FOR THE SECOND TIME…BEEN IN TH EXPLOSIVES AND QUARRY BUSINESS EVER SINCE AND WE MOVED BACK TO 216 WALKER, URSA IL IN 2003…TELL TIEKEN CENTRAL, I’M THE GUY WITH THE 56 CHEV “NASTY 56”…THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR GREAT YEARS,FROM WE QUINCY ROCK AND ROLLERS…IF YOU EVER GET BACK TO THE URSA AREA, STOP BY…COLD DRINKS AND LOUD OLDIES ABOUND FROM MY SHOP.
STILL A GREAT FAN,
RON GESKE |
Man, I just read for the second time (some parts) of your web site. I got a stiff neck and a sore shoulder....not sitting in a very comfy chair, cuz I dont ordinarily spend that much time with my lil lap top. That is an amazing story! I remember most %75 of it. Wouldnt that \have made a great movie.
I must admit.....there were parts that made me sad and parts that made me happy. I dont know how any of us managed to stay alive those days. I had some pretty exciting and dangerous happenings myself during my early modeling days. (mostly because I was stupid and naive). I was not the goody two shoes our folks thought I was. Ha! had you all fooled. ANYWAY......that must\ have taken years to put together. I cant believe you saved and found all that stuff. It must have been a S T R O N G~~~~~~ feelng of satisfaction to get that all on paper and finished . I wish I had it in a book form.
Love, your Sis |
Will be doing Phoenix Oct. 14&15 with Ronnie Milsap. We are staying over on a day off on the 16th and flying the 17th.
I lost your number but would love to hang out with you on my day off. Get back to me and I will give you a call before we go out.
P.S. what a great website, and damn I was cute many years ago...
Cheers.
BILL CARLTON
Production Management / Talent Buyer
Booking Entertainment |
| Hey Fred-
I stumbled upon your web site while googling myself (I know - it's vain) and I was just blown away by your story. It was touching to follow your humble beginnings ... and the graphics on your site are fantastic. It's easy to see why you've been so successful. Thank you for including me in your story - I am flattered! And, wow - you and Gail are even more attractive now than you were back in the 70s!! What a beautiful couple you still are. There must be magic in the water out there!
As for me...I have been married to my husband for 26 years. We both worked for the State of Illinois for 30 years, but he retired last year. Yep, I made the unlikely transition from punkster to bureaucrat … We just got our first grandchild and she is making it difficult to move forward with our plan to move up to our summer home in Wisconsin because we can't bear to leave her. Life has been amazingly good and I have also met many wonderful and wacky people along the way.
Thanks again for sharing your story-
Mary Alice |
| Hey Freddie...
Reading this autobiography...I learned a lot of things I didn’t know...been away from Quincy for awhile also...
I know you very well may not remember me....I worked on the road with Rick Chapman for a while setting up equipment and running lights, sound, smoke , bubbles etc...when Micki, Craig, And Dennis were Smokehouse...I was a good friend of Gary, Davey, And Lori...stayed with them alot as a matter of fact at the sixteenth street house where they lived. Had a lot of fun...I was also one of those to young for clubs kids that went to TNT...Man I swear the Rockers were one of my all time favorites to this day...wish I had some of the music...which I am hoping can be downloaded on this site....I have talked to the twins several times on myspace....sound like the boys are going to keep the rock rolling for your family....
I also wanted to tell you....sincerely....that I am so sorry for your loss...Lori....or Lemon was a one of the nicest girls..lady..women I have ever met....we were dear friends...no one probably really will remember how close we were ....maybe Gary and Davey....they were always around...but we were really close...I am so sorry...she loved you and her whole family....I do know that....God Bless your family Freddie...
By the way....I am Jim Shelton.....
I live in Tennessee now...
Please tell everyone hello....
Thanks.... |
| What a wonderful memory trip I just took...This is Jane Keller Hart from Quincy, Ron Olinger just sent me this and my memories are flying out of my head faster than I can think! I can't wait to download some songs. I will be sending this to many of my friends from Quincy and happy to hear all is well and you sure did (aged) really nice(I mean that in the nicest way...ha ha) with wonderful accomplishment though life...what a great life to share with us, and my heart goes out with the lost of your love one
Thanks so much...
Jane Keller Hart |
Fred & Gail,
Came across your site while searching "middendorf". Fred had mentioned Bob
Middendorf and the search engine picked it up. Very nice pictures and put
together very well. I am printing this out for David. So sad about Lemon.
Please take care.
Diane
P.S. Violet is sooo photogenic! |
Fred….a fan sent me your site to check out; your site is killer…I had forgotten all the good times we had….I will be performing again in Phoenix Feb 2009 at Hard Rock Cafe…stay in touch and come see me….I never told you this, but you are a huge part of the Micki Free story..and I love you STILL for it!!!
I will never forget you and Gail…..ever.
Best…..
Micki free |
HOWDY FRED,
I'VE KNOWN DENNIS FOR MANY YEARS, PLAYED MANY SHOWS WITH SMOKEHOUSE BACK IN THE 80,s & HAVE HAD THE PLEASURE OF FRIENDSHIP WITH HIM... I'VE NEVER HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET YOU BUT WOULD LIKE TO SAY THAT YOU HAVE HAD A VERY INTERESTING LIFE & IT MAKES FOR DAMN GOOD READING... ANYTIME A DISCUSSION OF MIDWEST ROCK&ROLL FLARES UP, THE NAME FREDDIE TIEKEN IS ALWAYS INVOLVED. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK & THE FAITH BRO... TAKE CARE...
SKEETER WHITTAKER
"SKEET'S GUITAR VAULT " |
Hello Fred and Gail,
Hope you had a good Thanksgiving and that you’re doing well.
The other night me and Trevin were invited by the Predawn Hour guys to catch their show. Everyone there was raving about your website, they all said they were hooked after the first paragraph. Every few minutes someone would come up to us and start talkin about it, you got alot of young new fans. The site is really puttin everyone in their place, out of nowhere we've all of a sudden gained some new respect. It actually made it pretty fun to go see a band. It’s definitely showing people that the Tieken name has a legitimate history and a place in rock n roll.
And keeping up with the Tieken rock legacy, we’ve been super busy on a bunch of new songs. Trevin is really mastering the art of recording, they just keep sounding better. He can’t wait for you to hear how much he's progressed on these new recordings. Were almost done with three of them that should be finished by new years and the rest completely done by the beginning of next year.
Hope you have a great holiday season.
We love you,
Trevin and Trenton |
Fred,
Thanks for doing the update on your career. It’s nice to get the scoop from “the man” himself. I agree with you, I see all kinds of stuff on the internet about this and that regarding the Quincy music scene and your involvement it in, most of which is pretty fragmented (especially all the stuff that Craig Moore has spread around).
I attended college at Robert Morris in Carthage in 68, 69, and 70. Then Western Illinois for a year. A friend and I spent quite a few weekends loading the Smokehouse gear in and out of venues, and were on the infamous tour bus for a couple of trips to gigs. I don’t know how you guys survived those times….man, there was stuff going on in and around that bus that was lethal!!! Your were always very accommodating and nice to us “freaks “ who liked to hang out with the band. I will always remember your line when you guys were kicking the evening off: “We’re going to turn this shit up so loud it will blow the balls off a brass monkey”!
I ended up actualizing some music after I got my career going in consulting and got two kids raised. I’m having a lot of fun with it. Still have the Ilmo Smokehouse album and converted it over to mp3.
Thanks again for the update.
Robert Johnson |
Fred,
Enjoyed reliving Rockers experiences through your website. I graduated from Quincy High in '56 and one of my buddies (Jim Vasen) dated Janet some. You didn't mention the Zodiac on fifth just North of Locust where we listened to the Rockers' also the Horseshoe in Nauvoo on Sunday nights-- what fun we had.
Years later I ran into Mark and Flo Millspaugh in Mount Pleasant Iowa. Flo was working in the business office at the mental health institute where I did service work as an IBM tech. I always remembered Flo as a stunning beauty.
I've now retired and returned to my roots-- now living on an acreage four miles South of Mendon.
Best wishes,
Bob Huegel |
| Hi Fred,
What a great site. What a great story. I certainly knew some of it from
the Ilmo days and hanging with Steve. Well done. It was interesting to read
the whole story from the beginning.
My condolences on Lemon. What a tragedy.
I saw Steve a couple of years ago in Quincy. He seems to have found his
place in the world and I am happy for him.
All the best,
Kirk Siefkas |
Dear Fred;
I hope I can call you Fred. After reading your amazing bio, I feel like I know you.
What a life, you are truly blessed. I have been a big fan of yours & the Rockers
for many years. I love your music.
My father, William A. McLaughlin was the owner of the Club Laurel, which was
on Broadway, in Chicago. My father past away, on August 4, 2008, he was 83.
He had an interesting and exciting life, also. My sister, Kitty and I, are writing
a book about my father's life, and gathering information for our book. We found
many jazz greats that started out playing the Club Laurel, unfortunately many
are no longer with us. Through our research we know you played there when
you first started with the Rockers. I think it was 1958? I read in your bio, a
story I had not heard before, about the mafia. I guess that's why my dad never
allowed us kids at the club at night. We did get to go listen to the bands
rehearse in the afternoon. We loved the Club Laurel.
I am writing to you, to ask if you have any memorable stories, or perhaps
pictures, you could share with us. We would love to hear about your time
playing at the Club Laurel. We always enjoy hearing stories about our father's
life, during the time he had the club, which was 1951 through 1971. It was a
great era in time, when Jazz was just being heard for the first time. I have talked
with many people who frequent the Club Laurel, back in the day. The one thing
that is always repeated is the energy that the music, and the club had. If you
know of any other musician from this era, that we can contact, we would love
your input. Good, bad or indifferent we would love to hear from you.
Thank you for your time,
Karin M. McLaughlin Berg |
Hey Fred,
I really like this site about you and all you have done, Truly Amazing!! I was in your ATA studio back in 1982 & 83 in a band called The Kaotics. We did a recording were we banged my Lab Series amp on the ground to get a reverb BANG in one song, my idea, but most of the good ideas came from you I remember. You let me use Kevin Lee's amp on another song because my amp stunk. You had some major talent in the studio. I still tell people about your studio, what was the stuff you sprayed on the ceiling and walls? I just recently transfered the 1/4" tapes from ATA to a CD, and they still sound great! You have done a lot of great things in your life, I really like your style of graphic design, and this site is fantastic. I'm really glad you put it together, we had no idea you were so famous and had done so much.
Hope you are enjoying life in Arizona,
Tony Rambow |
| hey fred!
stumbled on your website.
heheheh.. totally enjoyable experience! i like the 1 page time-line thing.
anyway. hope you and Gail and Dennis are all doing well.
thanks for the trip into the glory days.
Rick DiBello
ReCORD Record Company |
Fred,
I was a friend of Steve's back in Quincy when you lived on 16th street, I lived at 16th and Jersey. I met you a few times and had the pleasure of going to Turner Hall, seeing Freddie Tieken and the Rockers and the various versions of Smokehouse. I remember being in awe of your first recording studio and the bus. It was so cool to a 12 year old boy and created memories that stayed with me through the years. I was also extremely impressed by your graphic art work and I think BobMiddendorf was a very smart man.
Reading your entire site brings back a flood of memories and images of many people I have not thought about for 20-30 years or more. It was a real pleasure and quite insightful at times for me. I understand a bit better some of my own history now too. I thank you for taking the time to write it and put it out there.
Best Regards,
Robert Harshman |
| Hi Fred,
I just came across your site and am still truly inspired by your story.
I also wanted to send my most sincere and heartfelt condolences to both you and Gail.
Reading of the loss of your daughter Lemon makes my heart ache.
I wish the best for you and Gail in all that you do.
Warm regards,
David Coven |
Fred,
It was great to hear from you, thanks for writing back. Yeah, that Intruders record still kicks, those were some fun times. It's ironic that the first time you saw us was at the Griggsville fair, because that's the same place I saw you and the Rockers for the first time. You were opening for a singing group that had a hit record called "Bread and Butter". The singer had a falsetto style voice, I believe they were called the Nu-Beats or something like that. I remember thinking to myself that I'd much rather hear you guys than them, I've always loved that R and B stuff you played. Is any of the Freddie Tieken and the Rockers material available on CD? I'll sign off for now, take care and please stay in touch.
Doug Oakley |
Hello, Fred and Gail,
A year or two ago, on a now-defunct Chicago punk forum, someone asked me if the Fred Tieken who recorded the Gary Jones single that I played on was from Freddie Tieken and the Rockers. I replied that he must be, because my Fred played an amazing sax solo on an unreleased Gary Jones track called My Failing Star. I just stumbled onto your web site, and was listening to Uncle John, and I was thinking, “This guy and I played on the same recording! How cool is that?” I just wanted to say hi and hope you’re both in good health.
John Davies, drummer, Gary Jones |
Hi Freddie,
You don't know me but I certainly remember you and Ilmo Smokehouse. Don't ask how or why your name came to me today...I was browsing around on Amazon and for some reason it just occurred to me that I had read somewhere not too long ago that the band that had played my high school prom had released an album back in the day. So I punched Ilmo Smokehouse into my search and sure enough there it was. Amazon indicated where there was only one copy left so I snatched it up. This then spurred my interest even more so I googled "Ilmo" and subsequently came across your wonderful and brilliantly written web site.
A little back history. Ilmo played my senior prom in my hometown of Beardstown, Illinois (where I was born and raised) back in May of 1971. The gig took place during the after hours of our "post-prom" upstairs above our local bowling alley. To be honest I hadn't really heard of your band up until that time but I had begun playing drums in local bands by this time (something I continued to do for over 30 years up here in Northern Indiana) so I was interested in checking out Ilmo. I remember my date for the evening and myself being very impressed...particularly watching Dennis flail away behind the drum kit. I remember to this day the image of him at the end of the gig twirling around on his drum stool and, with his back to the audience, flipping his drumsticks over his shoulder into the crowd. I also recall you playing your sax with a burning intensity. You might laugh at the talk among the kids at that time about you and Dennis being a father/son combination. Something I believed until today when I learned he was your younger brother!
It was very nice reading about people whom I had shared a small but memorable moment of my life with and I thought you might appreciate hearing from someone who still carries a memory of you and your old band
with him. As an aside, Beardstown high school had quite a history with regard to the bands they hired to play their proms back in the early 70's. As indicated, Ilmo played the prom when I was a senior. My junior year the band MY class hired to play was a then little-known outfit you may have heard of....REO Speedwagon. Not bad for a little river town.
Sincerely,
Larry Dyer
Elkhart, Indiana |
Hi Fred,
Just came upon your website and thought I would say hello. This is Jeff / Vocalist from Armadilla (Top Hat?).
Life is good and what strange trips we've all been on, huh?
Good to see you are doing well! Tell Dennis I say Hello,
Best regards,
jeff dziura |
Fred,
Great site! Ronnie told me to read it this past weekend. It is full of interesting tidbits. I was very young when Ronnie played in your band, but I certainly remember it.
Ronnie is semi-retired in Hannibal. He is playing in bands around town there with old friends.
Hope all is well with you and your wife.
Rita Shumake Lindsey
Lawrence, Kansas |
Freddie,
I would like to get one of your books. Please contact me. Thanks Gus |
Fred,
Sure got a kick out of your site… I still have a few old contracts from Gail / Armageddon dated in the 70”s Starr, Swamp Foxx, Smokehouse, Slink Rand…Those were fun times… I’m currently managing a nightclub in the Ameristar Casino is St Charles Mo. The Bottleneck Blues Bar. Sure good to see you and Gail doing so well – I know how hard you both worked.
Warm Regards,
Steve Davenport |
| Hello Fred,
I was feeling nostalgic the other day and "googled" some names from the
past, which led me to your website.
I really enjoyed reading the history of Freddie Tieken and your musical
partners. Your "behind the scenes" stories were fascinating, humorous,
and added a new dimension to some truly legendary Midwestern musicians.
I grew up in the small farming community of West Point, Iowa, I spent
many Sunday evenings watching FT & the Rockers and ILMO Smokehouse "blow
the roof off" of the American Legion hall. It was a blast to see the
ILMO bus parked in the town square. I can still see the curious and
nervous town folk circling the block and driving by slowly to get a view
of the "hippies" inside that they believed were engaged in every act of
total debauchery!
My last contact with Smokehouse was in 1973 or 1974 at Iowa Wesleyan
College where I "booked" the band. I also had the privilege of meeting
your lovely wife around that time. I believe that she had stopped by
the campus to retrieve a contract, and gave me a promo copy of
Thunderpussy, which I still have in my vinyl collection.
Thanks Fred for many hours of great entertainment, and helping this
small town boy "sane" many years ago. Also, congrats to you and Gail on
your continued professional success.
Take care and be well,
Allan Harmeyer |
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