The Ozark Mountain Daredevils is the debut album by the Country rock & Southern rock band The Ozark Mountain Daredevils. Sporting a patchwork quilt cover that gave some indication of its eclectic musical content, this album became the band’s most popular. It introduced the group’s unique mixture of rock, country, bluegrass and pop to the world and is still the favorite of many fans.
Springfield’s Home Grown Band
The Ozark Mountain Daredevils formed in 1972 in Springfield, Missouri. With six original members, all Springfield native sons, they began playing venues in Springfield, Kansas City and St. Louis. The 
band in 1975 is shown here. From left: Buddy Brayfield, John Dillon, Larry Lee, Mike ‘Supe’ Granda, Randle Chowning, Steve Cash. After establishing a cult following the band recorded a demo at Springfield’s Top Talent studios. This demo tape eventually caught the attention of A&M Records staff producer David Anderle. A&M Records was looking for an Eagles country rock type of band to place on the label. Consequently, the Daredevils were signed to A&M on May 1, 1973 and sent to England to record their first record at Olympic Studios in London during that June and July.
Hickman Family Connections
Piano Lessons
Mom taught piano lessons in the 1960s to supplement our family income. Two of her students were Cyndi and Patty Herrick, stepsisters of Larry Lee. He wrote and sings lead vocals on today’s songs. I couldn’t decide which song I liked better so I decided to include both of my favorites from this album.
Shakey’s Pizza
In high school we spent Friday nights at Shakey’s Pizza. Nothing better than pizza, billiards, and live music. The house band during those years was a pair of singer songwriters named Nick and Ruell. We always enjoyed visiting with these two between sets. Ruell Chappell joined the Daredevils in the fall of 1976.
Loon Rangers
My brother Brian is the bass player for this band. The guitarist, Dave Painter is a current member of the Ozark Mountain Daredevils. Brian also played with Dave Painter in a band called the Bluesberries.
One of my favorite concerts during college! I remember the Drury choir came filing into Hammon’s center in their choir robes., The auditorium was dark and they were carrying candles . They were singing something, but you couldn’t quite figure out what they were saying. All of the sudden, the place went crazy when people started realizing it was ‘Chicken Train’ and then you heard the familiar twang of the Jew’s harp!
David (bert) “made” me a cassette tape of the daredevils for my 9th bday. He recorded it from one of his records. I can still remember chicken train Lol. Also my father in law played music with nick at the hee haw opry in Branson and makes commercials with nick. Jason makes commercials for nick and now Jacob is playing steel for commercials.
I’ve always loved the Daredevils. I spent many hours listening to their albums in the 70s and beyond. My very first date was to a free concert in Central High School in Springfield. It’ll Shine When It Shines is my fav. Looking forward to seeing you and Linda soon!
How unique! We had Shakey’s Pizza down here and it was the only place to go after football games or for church youth group outings. Good times in the ’70s! Thanks Brad!
Pingback: Long Road Out of Eden: Eagles Final Chapter - Brad's Music Room