Solid Reputation

1969 – 1975 – Geraldton, Ontario

Solid Reputation was sormed by amalgamation of members from two local ‘high school’ bands, the Impalas and the Sonds.

Played a heavy schedule of weekend dance gigs throughout the local area and college dates in Thunder Bay (Port Arthur and Fort William) and Sault Ste.
Marie between early 1969 and the fall of 1971. Recorded ‘Things’ and ‘Brown Eyed Girl’ at DMG Studios, Port Arthur, in 1970.These songs were released on a 45 on the Quality label in February 1971. Went on the road full time at end of 1971 without keyboard player. Returned home a year later when lead singer left to pursue other interests. Continued to jam and play weekend dance gigs until early 1976, then retired to raise their families and pursue other career options.

Where are they today? (2000)

Gord Furlong – remained in Geraldton, became a successful Certified General Account. Now owns two local motels and a restaurant.

Rick Skinner – Remained in Geraldton, became manager of the local LCBO outlet. Now retired and living in Thunder Bay.

Chem Audet – living in Thunder Bay, played with several bands off and on, produced a CD in mid-1990s with Thunder Bay band ‘RAAN’.

Gary Getz – living in Welland, ON since mid-1970s. Employed with General Motors. Has sung casually with a few bands over the years. Currently coaching his teenage daughter as an up and coming vocalist.

John O’Brien – now Personnel Manager with Longlac Wood Industries (Kruger Inc.) and plays bass with local band ‘Hi-Way 584’ out of Geraldton.

Doug Brydges – Became owner, editor and publisher of the local newspaper -the Geraldton-Longlac Times Star in 1981. Joined John and others to play keyboards with Hi-Way 584 in early 1998. Co-produces annual music jamboree in Geraldton.

Hi-Way 584 – currently self-producing original material in own studio, playing 8 to 12 weekend dance gigs and community festivals per year.