SAPPHIRES

Circa:  1960 – 1964
Home town:  Bulawayo
Members:

  • Flo Phillotheou – Lead guitar
  • John Kirkham – Bass
  • Chris Warner – Rhythm guitar & vocals
  • Chad Somerville – Drums

This band was formed by Chris Warner (who had been taught the basics of guitar playing during the 50’s by Father of the RAMBLERS’ Rick Laing) and John Kirkham.  Initially they played popular covers of the day (notably, Shadows material) and gigged at many parties, the Women’s Institute Hall and sports events.  The band saw a number of vocalists pass through its ranks including Howie Clark.  After the band split Chris Warner continued to freelance for a time before going into “retirement” from the world of rock and pop.

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SOARING SAPPHIRES!
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GARDEN PARTY – ROCKIN’ THE NEIGHBOURHOOD TO ITS ROOTS! The Sapphires in 1961