BILLY J KRAMER 


& THE DAKOTAS

Billy J. Kramer was a British Invasion /

Mersey-beat singer. He is known today

primarily as the singer of various Lennon-

McCartney compositions that The Beatles did

not use. The performing name Kramer was

chosen at random from a telephone directory.

It was John Lennon’s suggestion that the “J” be

added to the name to further distinguish him

by adding a ‘tougher edge’. Billy soon came

to the attention of Brian Epstein, ever on the

look-out for new talent to add to his expanding

roster of local artists. Kramer turned

professional but his then backing band, The

Coasters were less keen, so Epstein sought out

the services of a Manchester based band, The

Dakotas, a well-respected combo then backing

Pete MacLaine.

Band Members

Billy J. Kramer

Frank Farley

Mick Green

Mike Maxfield

Ray Jones

Robin McDonald

Tony Mansfield

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