SANDON JOINS REMO FOUR.

[13_temple_street]

Dona Andrews and Johnny Sandon were sitting in one of the booths in the coffee bar area of the Storyville Jazz Club situated in Temple Street, Liverpool 2. Dona Andrews was a founder member of a Merseyside ‘Beat group, The Remo Four. he was the self-appointed spokesperson and lively leader of the group. Johnny Sandon became involved with the Searchers, introduced by John McNally, who also suggested Johnny change his name from ‘Billy Beck’ to a name based on a famous public house, ‘The Sandon’, next to the Football Ground in Oakfield Road. He joined the group in late 1960, as this yarn will reveal, he departed in February 1962.
The two musicians conversed, oblivious to the fact that the daily lunchtime sessions had started and finished during the time they were deep in discussion. On their way out, Johnny informed me he was joining the Remo Four, who were going to Germany the following day. The Searchers are at the Cavern tonight. They will announce it.
Johnny remained with the Remo Four for two years. He left to pursue a solo career. David Roberts mentioned in a comment on the Iron Door Site that Johnny performed with his trio. He continued recording with PYE Records, producing three records.
Sadly, many years later, and wracked with the regrets of missed opportunity, Johnny Sandon committed suicide by hanging himself on the 23rd of December 1996 in Rock Ferry. He was just 55 and an unemployed taxi driver at the time of his death. He had failed as a singer and then failed as a comedian on the club circuit, appearing on ITV talent show 'New Faces' on the 6th of November 1976, which was such a shame as he was a talented singer who did have a unique voice to offer, with many predicting success for 'Johnny Sandon and the Remo Four'. Sadly, it never happened, and Johnny never made the grade.