Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

"When You Walk In The Room" is currently the number one pick of those persons who have responded to the Searchers' Hit Song Pool. Why do you suppose that this song gets the nod over so many others that were hists for The Searchers. Is it the tight harmonies, the classic Rickenbacker 12 string sound or the DeShannon composition?

Mostly the first two for me, Peter. That 12 string is one of rock's greatest sounds in my opinion. The vocals are amazingly tight and well-executed. Furthermore, John McNally's fluid rhythm guitar and the clever use of maracas on the record make this one of the group's best arrangements.

The song itself is nice, but The Searchers' interpretation of it works better than others I've heard. I like Jackie DeShannon, but I feel her original rendition of it is just too intense and, well, hormonal! Conversely, other versions I've heard have been too relaxed. The Searchers did the "Goldilocks" version in my opinion.

The Rickenbacker 12 string signature riff is definitely a hallmark of this great recording. This was done on a beautiful fireglo finish Rickenbacker Model 1993 purchased by Mike Pender in 1965. Pender and Curtis had discussed the importance of the electric 12 string sound prior to their cover of this song. They were certainly right! Sadly, this instrument was stolen shortly after it was received, a roadie asleep at the switch.

SJ: I couldn't resist. Here is a photo of Mike Pender with the "When You Walk In The Room" 12 string.

You've posted that before, Peter! Hehehe........always great to see that guitar. Better to hear it, though.

Have we ever discussed what make/model of guitar Mike Pender replaced that Rick with? I would certainly be interested in knowing.

Sorry SJ. There is a chance I might post the Model 1993 again! Mike replaced the 1993 with a Model 456/12 which had a converter comb that would allow for the playing of either 6 or 12 strings. Most all performers, Mike included, used it as a 12 string. It is a solid body instrument unlike the semi-hollow body 360/12.

Pete,

The things that make the song for me are: the 12 string hook, which was very distinctive, and the first "A" side I heard it on; the "wounded" opening vocal-great emotion, and the fills in the background. I also thought the bass/drum duo at the beginning was distinctive. A signature tune second only to "Needles". Remember, Chris is quoted as saying that you want to grab theaudience in the first few seconds. Room, like Needles does that.

Thanks, Peter. John: I forgot about that intro! Another element that made this record a classic.

What strikes me about the song, particularly The Searchers version, is how uplifting it is.
Despite hundreds of listens over the years, it still has a cheering effect, on me at least.