THE DELLTONES: Australia's Ian "Pee Wee" Wilson shares

One of Australia’s longest surviving vocal groups, the Delltones were formed in 1959. Comprising Ian ‘Pee Wee’ Wilson, Noel Widerberg, Brian Perkins and Warren Lucas.

The band performed at dances, as part of backing bands for artists such as Johnny O’Keefe. Occasionally performing a cappella covers of songs they heard on the radio, the band was influenced by 50s doo-wop vocal groups. The accidental death of Noel Widerberg, in 1962, did not deter the group from continuing.

With replacement Col Loughlan, they proceeded to tour and record, with singles such as ‘You’re The Limit’, ‘Get A Little Dirt On Your Hands’, ‘Come A Little Bit Closer’ and ‘Hangin’ Five’, all reaching the Top 5 in Australia. Later, the band took responsibility for the instrumental side of their act, and when beat music became popular, they turned to the clubs and pubs where they appeared regularly.

The band went to the UK in the late 60s, where they performed on the club circuit and recorded an album. They returned to Australia to find that they no longer had an audience, and disbanded in 1971.

They re-formed in 1981 with only one original member; the band toured often and recorded several albums, but hit singles have eluded them. They finally disbanded in 2016.

Our guest today is founder Ian “Pee Wee” Wilson. Pee Wee shares a lifetime of stories and amazing music.

To learn more about The Delltones head for their website: https://www.delltones.com/

If you have feedback, comments or suggestions for future guests on A Breath of Fresh Air feel free to contact me through my website https://www.abreathoffreshair.com.au