The Royal Guardsmen, hailing from Ocala, Florida, are best known for their 1966 hit "Snoopy vs. the Red Baron," which soared to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and sold nearly three million copies. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snoopy_vs._the_Red_Baron_%28song%29?utm_source=openai)) Formed in 1966, the band comprised Bill Balough (bass), John Burdett (drums), Chris Nunley (vocals), Tom Richards (guitar), Billy Taylor (organ), and Barry Winslow (vocals/guitar). ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Royal_Guardsmen?utm_source=openai)) Their unique blend of rock and pop, infused with novelty themes, led to a series of Snoopy-inspired tracks, including "The Return of the Red Baron" and the holiday favorite "Snoopy's Christmas." ([music.apple.com](https://music.apple.com/us/artist/the-royal-guardsmen/210478812?utm_source=openai)) Despite their novelty origins, the Guardsmen's catchy melodies and engaging storytelling have left a lasting imprint on the 1960s music scene.