the rix mix

In 1966, when I joined a rock & roll band, there were only two really popular songs that showcased the shaky technique of a teenage kid learning to play cheesy organ; "House of the Rising Sun" & "96 Tears." The latter was the easier of the two. Recorded by ? & The Mysterians for a small Michigan label, the record caught on & went #1 nationally. It was the band's only big hit. But "96 Tears" is now considered a classic proto-punk record & in a strange way it also presaged the more artsy minimalist new wave. ? & the Mysterians still exist & perform. Their hit song didn't make them rich, ? doesn't even own the rights to it.

Two weeks ago the uninsured home of ? (a.k.a. Rudy Martinez) burned down, killing his 4 beloved Yorkshire terriers & a cockatoo & destroying all his possessions, including his Gold Record for "96 Tears" & an organ reputed to have been used by Pink Floyd.

Benefits are being planned.