Wilmer & The Dukes

Formed in 1957, Geneva, NY, United States Members were : Wilmer Alexander Jr. (vocals, saxophone), Ron Alberts (drums), Ralph "Duke" Gillotte (keyboards, vocals), Monte Alberts (bass), Doug Brown (guitar) Originally known as Wilmer Alexander Junior and the Dukes, by the mid-1960s the racially integrated band included bassist Monte Alberts and lead guitarist Doug Brown. With a broad array of cover tunes and a couple of originals in their repertoire they'd also become staples on the New York club and college circuit, as well as an in-demand opening act for national pop, rock and soul acts touring the region. The band's brush with national success came in 1968 when they signed a contract with the small Buffalo, New York-based Aphrodisiac label.