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The Del Renas took their name from a Liverpool shipping line and first formed in May 1958. The original line-up was as follows:

Brian James -Piano, Brian Dean - Drums, Brian Young - Bass, Ray Walker - Vocals. In early 1959, two more members joined the group, Derek Green - rhythm guitar and Terry Fisher - lead guitar.

Ray and the Del Renas as they were often billed at such venues as The Cavern, The Iron Door and Orrell Park Ballroom, were very popular. Ray sang in the style of Roy Orbison and Del Shannon and the group played instrumentals such as Telstar and Red River Rock and were one of the first Merseyside outfits to feature an electric organ. In 1960, Brian Young, original bass player left the group and was replaced by John Withy. On stage John teamed up with Brian James to sing harmonies, similar to those of the Everly Brothers. Ray Walker and Brian Dean both left the group in 1962, Ian Howe joined as the new drummer, making it a five piece outfit. About this time, they decided that a change was now necessary and altered their act to incorporate more ‘rhythm & blues’ and ‘rock ‘n’ roll’ numbers. Brian James, Terry Fisher, John Withy and Derek Green, all gave a hand with the vocals. In March 1963, they were offered work in Germany, at The Star Club in Hamburg but, unfortunatly, not all members were able to accept the offer, Brian James, John Withy and Brian Dean went for the two month contract. When The Beatles return from Germany in 1960, The Del Renas appeared with them at the Litherland Town Hall. Ironically, they also appeared with The Beatles on their last performance at The Cavern in 1963.

The group featured on both ‘This Is Mersey Beat’ albums and continued as the Del Renas until they disbanded in early 1964. Derek Green, Terry Fisher and Ian Howe went on to form The Motifs and continued to play the Merseyside venues until they disbanded in late 1966.

Press ‘Play Button’ to listen to original recording.

Many thanks to Derek Peel of ‘MerseyCats’ for the photograph and information.