About
The Association is an American pop band from California. During the late 1960s, the band had numerous hits at or near the top of the US Billboard charts (including "Windy", "Cherish", "Never My Love" and "Along Comes Mary") and were the lead-off band at 1967's Monterey Pop Festival. They are known for intricate vocal harmonies by the band's multiple singers (a style said to be influenced by The Hi-Los and The Lettermen). Their best-known lineup included Terry Kirkman (vocals Read more on Last.fm
Genres
- bubblegum pop
- classic garage rock
- country rock
- folk rock
- mellow gold
- singer-songwriter
- soft rock
- sunshine pop
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happened to the Association Singing group?
- What happened to the Association Singing group? The Association, formed in 1965 in California, became one of the most popular sunshine pop and soft rock acts of the late 1960s. Over the decades, the group experienced numerous lineup changes and periods of inactivity, but never officially disbanded. Their popularity peaked in the late "
- What was the Association's greatest hit?
- What was the Association's greatest hit? The Association's greatest hit is arguably "Cherish,"
- Who played the music for the Association?
- Who played the music for the Association? The Association's music was performed by its talented members, who were both vocalists and multi-instrumentalists. The original lineup included Terry Kirkman, Jules Alexander, Russ Giguere, Brian Cole, Ted Bluechel Jr., and Jim Yester. Each member contributed to the band's signature sound by playing a variety of instruments, including guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, and woodwinds. Occasionally, especially on studio recordings, the group collaborated with renowned Los Angeles session musicians from the famed "Wrecking Crew"
- Did the Association play their own instruments?
- Did the Association play their own instruments? Yes, The Association played their own instruments both in the studio and during live performances. Unlike some vocal groups of the era that relied solely on session musicians, The Association's members were accomplished multi-instrumentalists. Each member brought unique musical skills, handling guitars, bass, drums, keyboards, and wind instruments. Their ability to perform complex vocal harmonies while playing intricate arrangements set them apart in the 1960s rock and pop scenes. However, for certain studio recordings, especially when aiming for a fuller sound, they occasionally enlisted the help of top-tier session players like those from the "Wrecking Crew."
- Who is in the Association now?
- Who is in the Association now? The Association's current lineup continues the band's legacy, blending original members with newer musicians to keep their classic sound alive. As of 2024, Jim Yester, an original member, still performs with the group. Other longstanding members include Jules Alexander (who rejoined after periods away) and Del Ramos (brother of late member Larry Ramos), along with Bruce Pictor, Paul Holland, and Jordan Cole (son of founding member Brian Cole). This lineup honors The Association's signature harmonies and musicianship, performing timeless hits at concerts, festivals, and nostalgia tours across the country. While the roster has evolved over time due to retirements and the passing of original members, the current band maintains the spirit and sound that made The Association legendary. Fans can still experience live renditions of their greatest songs, connecting generations through music.