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The Cheries, one of Ireland's first
all girls band was formed in 1968. The line-up included two sets of
sisters from very musical backgrounds playing drums, organ, bass, lead
and rhythm guitars, which was practically unheard of in those days. The
Cheries started off playing warm-up to Peter Boy and The Trend Showband
and as their popularity increased, and their fan-base grew, mostly among
the male population might I add, venues opened up to them as the star
attraction because they were unique.
Their musical ability was second to
none with the very talented Gaby Gallagher on drums and her equally
talented sister Mary playing organ and vocals. The bass guitarist was
Lorraine Mallett with sister Vera playing rhythm guitar and other sister
Maureen Mallett on lead guitar. All the girls sang individually as well
as producing beautiful harmonies, and because of their vocal
versatility, could sing an amazing cross section of songs.
They enjoyed playing all types of
venues and were very much in demand for weddings and other social
functions and carried on doing so for a few years until engagements and
weddings started happening. They had two great managers in Bob Barnes
and John McLaughlin who really looked after them and did all the donkey
work and sorted bookings which greatly pleased the two sets of mammies
knowing their daughters were in safe hands! The Cheries set the
precedent for future girl bands and look back fondly on precious
memories of good times together and are delighted to have brought "Girl
Power" to Ireland.
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