LARRY LINDSAY

LARRY LINDSAY has had a music career spanning over 60 years, making him a prominent figure in the greater Niagara Falls, New York, area. He was part of several bands, including Larry & the Lads (59-61), 8 O'Clock Vine (60s), Band from the Fran (60s), The Group (64-72), The Great Escape (72-78) and The Chazz Band (82-83), performing at iconic venues like The Tree House, Palazzos Place, The Stardust, The Club, The Hideaway, The Topper Tavern, Duggars, McVanns, The Main, The Grand Inn, The Rec, Buffalo Memorial Auditorium, and many more.

Larry’s contributions extended beyond performing, as he supported the local music scene by offering opportunities for local bands to perform at his nightclubs, such as The Fran Lounge, The Marlin, and Cruisers. He also performed at many community events, including free outdoor concerts at Darien Lake.

Nationally and internationally, Larry is best known for his role as a drummer and singer in his band The Great Escape, who was the backing band for Grammy-winning and multi-gold and platinum-selling artists, The Coasters, for three years in the 1970s and support acts for legends like Chuck Berry, The Drifters, The Platters, Chubby Checker, Danny & the Juniors, Screamin’ Jay Hawkins, Della Reese and others. He and his band performed across 46 U.S. states, Canada, and Bermuda.

Memorable performances include playing with The Coasters at Kings Row at Fenway Park and backing Chuck Berry on drums at the Tennessee Valley Speedway. In the early 1980s, he continued this trend with The Chazz Band, supporting artists such as Jackson Browne and Stevie Nicks. Larry also managed The Marlin, which hosted world-renowned acts, including Sammy Davis Jr., Tony Bennett, Ella Fitzgerald, and Engelbert Humperdinck.

In 1956, with his band Larry and the Lads, they recorded the songs “Teenage Doll” and “Please Please Baby,” which can still be heard on various music platforms today. Larry’s versatility shines through his roles as a drummer, lead singer, co-vocalist, and his ability to play piano, bongos, and conga drums. His passion for the local music scene helped elevate Niagara Falls’ reputation by collaborating with successful rhythm and blues and rock artists, earning respect and recognition nationwide.

It is a pleasure to welcome Larry Lindsay into the Niagara Falls Music Hall of Fame.