Derek Aj Lister presents another profile of influential figures in Bradford’s rock ‘n’ roll history:
The Dakotas stood among Bradford’s leading musical acts throughout the early 1960s, maintaining virtually the same membership until their initial dissolution in 1966.
It took more than three decades before the ensemble reunited, with the original members coming back together in 1994 to perform at charitable events—a tradition that has persisted into the current era.
The band traces its origins to a skiffle outfit established by Terry Lee during the late 1950s, though it wasn’t long before the homemade instruments were abandoned in favor of electric equipment. There were initially one or two roster adjustments, but the classic configuration took shape in 1962, featuring Brian Smith on vocals, Paul White on lead guitar, Terry Lee on bass, and Dave Murgatroyd behind the drums. Dave Cochrane briefly served as the group’s rhythm guitarist.
Stephen Laverack handled management duties without performing as a musician. Dave Arran joined the group for several months during its early period before transitioning to The Crusaders.
During the early 1960s, The Dakotas were regular fixtures at Bradford’s principal dance venues, including the Locarno, Majestic, Kings and Queens, Gaiety, and the Students Club. They also performed extensively at working men’s clubs throughout the surrounding region, competing against bingo, raffles, shellfish vendors, and concert secretaries for the artistic recognition they deserved.
The experience was marked by enjoyment and camaraderie, but by 1966, when groupies had become wives, members had established serious careers, and Billy J Kramer had adopted their name, they chose to exit the music scene gracefully. The group maintained contact and gathered regularly for the next decade, though communication tapered off after Stephen Laverack relocated to Cheshire with his family.
In 1994, Terry, Paul, Brian, and David reconvened for a special performance marking Stephen’s 50th birthday, with Stephen this time participating as a performer. The show received positive feedback and, more significantly, brought great satisfaction to all involved. The remainder unfolded as part of their story.
Their enthusiasm led to continued rehearsals, and with an expanded song list, they accepted their first official booking—a charity event at South Bradford Golf Club. Stephen took on the role of rhythm guitarist.
For a period, they incorporated additional vocal harmony through Paul’s sister Josie (formerly of Jo White and the Bluenites), but following her departure in 2008, the band returned to its classic sound, performing throughout the Bradford region whenever invited to support charitable organizations.
The Dakotas have contributed several thousand pounds to causes including Macmillan Nurses, Cancer Relief, The Candlelighters, and the Royal British Legion. It’s remarkable how five friends continue to cherish their bond and perform music from their younger years, finding receptive audiences for their straightforward rock ‘n’ roll style.
* Derek, alongside collaborator and musician Reuben Davison, highlights singers, bands, and musicians from Bradford’s 1950s and 60s music scene on their website: wwwwhenbradfordrocked.co.uk