Ray Columbus and The Invaders
In the '60s, few figures were bigger or more respected on the New Zealand rock scene than Ray Columbus. A strong singer and a dynamic frontman, Columbus was the first NZ artist to land a number one single in another country. Columbus was also one of the first Kiwi acts to make a dent in the American music scene, and went on to a long, successful television career.
Raymond John Patrick Columbus was born and raised in Christchurch, New Zealand, and became a rock & roll fan after landing a job selling ice cream at a movie theater. The swagger and charisma of Elvis Presley in Jailhouse Rock had a powerful impact on young Ray, and he formed his first band at age 14. In 1960, Columbus became the lead singer with a combo called the Downbeats. The group landed gigs at an American military base, where they picked up on U.S. rock and R&B hits of the day that were little known in the Antipodes. The Downbeats' sound toughened up as they gained a stronger R&B edge, and they evolved into Ray Columbus & the Invaders. By 1962, they had become the most talked about band in Christchurch, and landed their own show on NZ television, Club Columbus.
Jangles, Spangles And Banners
Now You Shake
(The Definitive Beat R&B Pop Psych Recordings 1963 - 1969)
Every Nite
Original Numbers
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