The Chantells

Chantells Century Custom 45 Break-DownThe Chantells came from Richmond, Virginia, where they attended Manchester High School. I love records like this but I didn’t know a thing about these guys until some comments came in below.

Their first single was the instrumental, “I Thought You Would” backed with a cool vocal original, “Who Meant The World To Me”, released in January 1965 on Century Custom 20135.

Their second single came later that year on Century Custom 20445. “I’m Leavin’ Here Today” was the slow top-side, written by Tommy Woodcock. More to my taste is the flip, “Break-Down”, a cool bluesy rocker with sax, organ and a fine guitar solo. The singer’s got the right voice for this kind of song, and the drummer really stands out. This side was written by Deets, Tom Woodcock and Long.

Rex Hawley managed the Century Custom Recording Service franchise in Richmond.

8 thoughts on “The Chantells”

  1. The Chantells were from Richmond, Virginia. The band was probably during the years 1963 – 1965. They released two 45’s. I’m Leaving Here today was probably their best release because Tommy tried to sound British on the song and quite frankly he did a great job.

    1. Looking up the Century numbers the 2nd single is actually their 1st . It is # 20135. Listened to this record this evening.
      Side 1 – I Thought You Would…..is a instumental. Heavily influenced by The Ventures …I would guess.
      Side 2 – Who Meant The World To Me. Very early British invasion type sound…similar to The Animals.
      Eric Burdon style vocals.
      Very cool record.

  2. The Chantells were from Richmond, VA. The other 45 rpm they recorded is on ArtyfactsinWax with Side 1 “I Thought You Would” & Side 2 “Meant the World to Me”. They went to Manchester High School on the southside of Richmond & were very popular in 1964-65.

    1. Just picked up this record today in a store about a mile from “old” Manchester High School. It was manufactured by Century Custom Recording Service which was located in Suffolk, VA. The record # is 20135 which should date it to 1964. It also has their manager/producers name- Rex Hawley, a post office box # in Richmond as well as a phone number …all part of the label.

  3. I knew these guys. I played drums for Little Harvey and His Kings of Soul. Most of our guys went to George Wythe High School in the city of Richmond but with Manchester being the top high school just across the line between Richmond and Chesterfield County, we would see each other from time to time and play so of the same venues such as the Satellite Restaurant on Jefferson Davis Highway. I was fortunate enough to see them play early on at the Bensley Rescue Squad when they were playing there. Several of us “Kings” went down to show our support. Good band, good bunch of guys.

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