The Young Ages

Overview

The Young Ages were known as Charlotte's first "Hard Rock" band. Formed in 1966, we were tight, and had our own distinct sound, with great harmonies and diverse playlist. Our fans always had a lot of fun at our concerts. At that time, most local bands played either beach, soul or teeny bopper music. The Young Ages were the first to play Rolling Stones, Doors, Animals, Cream, Vanilla Fudge. The local venues loved us because of the fans that supported us. The Spyder Web (teen club at Morehead YMCA) was one. We also did the premier concert for The Purple Penguin (Charlotte's first Hard Rock Club) and held the attendance record at 1500+. The Penguin was busted one night and the cops found out that some of us were underage, and we couldn't play there anymore. With bookings every weekend at clubs, colleges, or private parties, we would pack our gear into an old painted up potato chip truck and go play. Our hard rock version of "Reach Out" landed the band a contract with Decca records. We had just won the "Big WAYS" teen contest, giving us a shot to perform on a national TV show. At the time, the Vietnam war was going strong and caused our break-up in 1969, as some of the guys were called to serve. In February, 2006, I was contacted via e-mail by Mark Myers, now residing in Atlanta. I had not talked with Mark since 1982. The subject of a reunion came up. One thing led to another and over the next few weeks, we were able to contact ALL of the original members of the band, Johnny Barkley (lead guitar/vocals), Dickie Carrigan (12 string rhythm guitar/vocals), Mark Myers (lead vocals), Ronnie Phillips (drums), Mike Raper (bass guitar/vocals), Bob Robinson (keyboards), David Long (harmonica/moral support/roadie/photos). The Young Ages reunion was in the works. Although some of the guys had not played much in over 30 years, at our first rehearsal, the chemistry and harmony were still there. Man, we had a blast! I think we laughed more than we jammed. We worked hard over the next couple of months and got ready to take the stage again for the first time in 40 years. Our reunion show was on July 22, 2006 at the American Legion in Huntersville, NC. The place was packed to capacity. One side note, a 12 year old kid, Rusty Barkley, used to always be in the shadows at rehearsals and in the studio. Little did any of us know that he was also learning to play the guitar. We've now added him to the line-up. Without his help, this gig would be nearly impossible. - John Barkley