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**Bio: Tonto & The Renegades** Tonto & The Renegades were a 60s garage band hailing from Grand Ledge, MI. Formed in 1964, the band consisted of Gary “Tonto” Richey (bass/vocals), Terry Slocum (guitar/vocals), Tom Kirby (drums), Bill Ford (guitar/vocals), Jeff Keast (organ), and later, Dave Pung (organ). Inspired by the Beatles' performance on Ed Sullivan, Slocum traded his clarinet for a guitar, leading to the band’s formation and practice sessions in Richey’s parents’ basement. The band quickly gained popularity in the Michigan teen circuit, winning numerous battles of the bands and performing at local venues, including The Sceen, a popular teen club. They recorded 45s under the Sound of the Sceen label, with their single “Little Boy Blue” becoming a sought-after item among garage vinyl collectors. The song, written by Slocum for his then-girlfriend, was later featured on the influential “Back From the Grave” compilation. Initially, Tonto & The Renegades primarily performed cover songs, which were essential for gaining acceptance from audiences. As their popularity grew, they began to incorporate their original compositions, including “I Knew This Thing Would Happen,” which charted locally on WILS. The band’s second and final single featured polished tracks
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