The Five Americans are best recalled for their 1967 US Top 10 single, "Western Union". The band formed at South Eastern State University in Durant, Oklahoma, USA in the early 60s. They comprised Mike Rabon (vocals/guitar), Norman Ezell (guitar), John Durrill (keyboards), Jim Grant (b. James Grant, 29 July 1943, Hugo, Oklahoma, USA, d. 29 November 2004, Dallas, Texas, USA; bass) and Jimmy Wright (drums). They evolved out of an instrumental band called the Mutineers, but decided to add vocals after hearing the Beatles. They moved to Dallas, Texas, in 1964 and began building a following at the clubs there. They first recorded in September 1964 for the Jetstar label. Further efforts did not see any action until their single "I See The Light", originally recorded for Abnak, was picked up by HBR Records and made number 26. After one further single for that label, they had their biggest hit in 1967 with "Western Union". This was one of three singles of theirs that was produced by Dale Hawkins of "Suzie-Q" fame. The band fragmented in 1968 and by the following year Rabon was the only original member left. The Five Americans broke up in 1969.

Listen to The Five Americans at Finetune.

• Western Union
• I See The Light

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