Artist page

**Bio of The Tranells** The Tranells were a musical group formed in 1962, primarily consisting of members from McCaskey High School in Lancaster. The group originated in a house on Christian Street owned by “Uncle Herbie” Lynch. Founder Chet Stewart, who had a brief stint with The Crystalaires, was joined by his younger sister Joanie, Jimmy Jackson, and later Howard Washington as singers. The band initially included Ernie Jamison on lead guitar, followed by Harold Sheetz, with Clyde Lucas on keyboards, later replaced by David McPhail. The lineup also featured Harry Wilkerson on bass, Al Gates on saxophone, and Buddy Gantz on drums. Originally known as the Phoenicians, the group adopted the name The Tranells, which was chosen for its appealing sound rather than any specific meaning. The Tranells embodied Central Pennsylvania's version of a Motown act, characterized by a polished, clean-cut image—always well-dressed, polite, and punctual, with a strict no smoking or drinking policy.

For any edit requests, please reach out to info@rovr.live