The Excels were a prominent rock band from Michigan's Upper Peninsula in the 1960s, renowned for their dynamic performances and regional hits. Formed in 1963, the group included members from Iron County: Dick Manning, Carl Holm, John Zielinski, Steve Contardi, Terry Quirk, and later Garry Stockero. Their music blended rock and roll with rhythm and blues influences, leading to five singles produced by the legendary Ollie McLaughlin on his Carla Records label. In 2025, the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Internet Hall of Fame honored The Excels as Historical Inductees, recognizing their significant contribution to the state's musical heritage. ([zeta.creativecirclecdn.com](https://zeta.creativecirclecdn.com/mmc/files/20250403-114443-44d-Iron%20County%20Reporter_2017-7-12.pdf?utm_source=openai))