Tony explained the roots that would become the foundation of his musical style with The Searchers. The American influence became immediately apparent. His favourite artists included: Elvis Presley; Buddy Holly; Little Richard; Jerry Lee Lewis; and The Everly Brothers. He spoke of being a rhythm guitarist, however, soon after joining the group he became a bassist. He emphasized "I am completely self-taught and can't read a note of music." John McNally also credits American influences and Buddy Holly in particular (McCormack, 2000a).
Tony Jackson considered that "The Searchers were a wee bit like the Everly Brothers" and this was based, in part, on The Searchers' harmonies. He indicated that the group "quite liked Jackie DeShannon" and hence their cover of "Needles and Pins." Jackson's tenor voice was most distinctive among Liverpool artists of the day and he mentioned that, to a number of fans, he was known as "John Lennon of The Searchers." He was tenuous in making this comment, for fear that it may sound more than a little bit boastful. He offered it, however, to illustrate that for a time his voice was well recognized in Liverpool. He hastened to add, however, that he and Mike Pender shared the vocal spotlight with The Searchers. Remembering the early days he explained the close relationship between them. "When we first started, Mike and I would go to the football games on Saturday, go out afterwards for a couple of drinks and then gig at night."
July 21, 2002
