The Ohio Express is indeed from the Buckeye State. They formed in Mansfield, Ohio in the mid 1960’s.
Original group members included Joey Levine (lead vocals), Doug Grassel and Dale Powers (guitars), Jim Pflayer (keyboards), Dean Krastan (bass), and, my guest, Tim Corwin (drums).
Their first hit was a remake of Rare Breed’s Beg, Borrow, and Steal. The single was released on the Cameo-Parkway label and reached #29 on Billboard in 1967.
The band had its breakthrough in 1968 after signing Buddah Records in New York. They were part of a wave of “bubblegum” hits during that era. They hit with Yummy, Yummy, Yummy (#1 in Canada) and Chewy Chewy (#2 in Canada). Other hits included Down at Lulu’s and Mercy.
The Ohio Express, with Tim Corwin on lead vocals, is still active. They continue to release new material on Cleopatra Records. He still has passion for the music of the Ohio Express.
During the Sit Down, we spoke about the band’s history, including a Canadian tour when they opened for The Who (!), their current recordings, and their time at Buddah Records.
Portions of the interview aired recently on Oldies Without Borders.
Copyright Peter J. Maurin, The Vinyl Professor. Published under Creative Commons License: Attribution/Non-Commercial Use.
