Best known for the chiming fuzz-pop cult classic "Open Up Your Door," garage combo Richard & the Young Lions formed in Newark, NJ. The group's roots date to 1963 and the Emeralds, formed by guitarists Marc Lees and Bob Freedman, bassist Ricky Rackin, keyboardist Jerry Raff, and drummer Norm Cohen. While performing at the local YMHA in 1965, the Emeralds were approached by aspiring singer Howie Tepp -- the teen asked if he could perform a few songs, and was so impressive that he was asked to join full-time, a move resulting in the adoption of the name the Original Kounts. In addition to honing a repertoire of British Invasion hits, the bandmembers also grew out their hair, earning the title of Newark's first longhaired rock act.
RICHARD AND THE YOUNG LIONS