The Big Three was a popular rock and roll group from Liverpool, England, during the 1960s. Formed in 1959, the band consisted of three talented musicians – Johnny Hutchinson on drums, Johnny Gustafson on bass, and Adrian Barber on guitar and vocals. Although they never achieved the same level of fame as some of their contemporaries like The Beatles or The Rolling Stones, The Big Three played a significant role in shaping the Liverpool music scene.
During the early 1960s, Liverpool was a thriving hub for aspiring musicians, and The Big Three quickly became one of the most prominent bands on the local circuit. They gained popularity for their energetic live performances, which often featured Barber’s distinctive guitar playing and powerful vocals. Their repertoire consisted of a mix of rock and roll covers, rhythm and blues, and original compositions.
The Big Three’s rise to fame coincided with the emergence of The Beatles, another Liverpool group that would go on to become one of the most influential bands in history. In fact, The Big Three and The Beatles often performed together in the same venues, such as The Cavern Club, which further solidified their place in the Liverpool music scene.
In 1963, The Big Three signed a recording contract with Decca Records, a major label at the time. They released a few singles, including “Some Other Guy” and “By the Way,” which showcased their energetic and raw sound. Although their records received positive reviews from critics, they failed to achieve commercial success on a larger scale.
Despite their talent and early promise, internal conflicts within the band began to take a toll. In 1965, Johnny Gustafson left The Big Three to join another Liverpool group, The Merseybeats. This departure marked the beginning of the end for the band, as they struggled to find a suitable replacement and maintain their momentum.
By the late 1960s, The Big Three disbanded, and its members went on to pursue various musical endeavors. Johnny Gustafson, in particular, enjoyed a successful career as a session musician and played with bands like Roxy Music and Quatermass. Although their time together was relatively short-lived, The Big Three played a crucial role in shaping the Liverpool music scene and contributed to the city’s rich musical heritage.
Today, The Big Three remains a beloved and respected group among music enthusiasts and collectors. Their energetic performances and raw sound continue to captivate audiences, and their influence on the Liverpool music scene of the 1960s should not be overlooked.