Introduction to Barry and the Tamerlanes

In the early 1960s, when doo-wop and soft pop ballads filled the radio waves, one group made a lasting impression with a single heartfelt hit. That group was Barry and the Tamerlanes, best known for their 1963 single “I Wonder What She’s Doing Tonight.” Formed by seasoned songwriter Barry DeVorzon, the group had a brief but memorable career that reflected the era’s love for smooth vocal harmonies and romantic lyrics.

Though their time in the spotlight was short, their legacy continues thanks to one timeless tune and DeVorzon’s later success in film and TV music.

Attribute	Details
Artist Name	Barry and the Tamerlanes
Members	Barry DeVorzon, Bodie Chandler, Terry Smith
Origin	California, United States
Genre	Pop, Doo-wop, Vocal Harmony
Years Active	1963–1964
Label	Valiant Records
Notable Hit	“I Wonder What She’s Doing Tonight”

The Origins of Barry and the Tamerlanes

Barry DeVorzon was no newcomer to music. By the time he formed Barry and the Tamerlanes, he had already been writing and recording songs since 1957. Born July 31, 1934, in New York City, DeVorzon moved to California to pursue his music career. He was inspired by vocal harmony groups like The Cascades, whom he helped discover.

To capture that smooth vocal blend, DeVorzon teamed up with Bodie Chandler (also spelled Jody Chandler in some sources) and Terry Smith. Together, they became Barry and the Tamerlanes.

Their Big Hit: “I Wonder What She’s Doing Tonight”

 

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In 1963, the trio signed with Valiant Records and released their debut single, “I Wonder What She’s Doing Tonight” backed with “Don’t Go.” The song was written by DeVorzon and Chandler.

Chart Success

• Peaked at #21 on the Billboard Hot 100

• Spent 10 weeks on the chart

• Became a nationwide favorite for its gentle harmonies and longing lyrics

Despite its success, the group couldn’t replicate the hit’s impact with later releases.

Follow-Up Singles and Decline

Barry and the Tamerlanes released several follow-up singles throughout 1964, including:

• “Roberta” / “Butterfly”

• “A Funny Thing Happened” / “The Beginning of the End”

• “Lucky Guy” / “I Don’t Want to Be Your Clown”

• “Pretty Things” / “A Date With Judy”

• “Gee” / “Don’t Cry Cindy”

Unfortunately, none of these singles charted on the Billboard Hot 100. By the end of 1964, the group had quietly disbanded. However, their music still holds nostalgic value for collectors and oldies fans.

Later Reissues and Legacy Pressings

Although the group only lasted a few years, their music was reissued on compilations and novelty pressings:

• 1985: Re-released as a B-side to “I Had Too Much to Dream (Last Night)” by The Electric Prunes on American Pie Records

• “Good Old Gold” reissue with Paul Humphrey’s “Cool Aid” on the A-side

These reissues introduced a new generation to their signature song, keeping their name alive in retro playlists and collector circles.

Barry DeVorzon’s Career After the Tamerlanes

Though the group faded, Barry DeVorzon’s career soared. He shifted from pop songwriting to scoring for film and television.

Notable Achievements:

• “Nadia’s Theme” (1971):

  • Originally called “Cotton’s Dream”

  • Used as the theme for the soap opera “The Young and the Restless”

  • Hit #8 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1976

  • Co-written with Perry Botkin Jr.

• “Theme from S.W.A.T.” (1975):

  • Reached #1 on the Billboard chart when recorded by Rhythm Heritage

• Other notable scores:

  • “Dillinger” (1973)

  • “The Warriors” (1979)

  • “Night of the Creeps” (1986)

  • “Bless the Beasts and Children” (1971)

DeVorzon became a respected composer in Hollywood, earning multiple Emmy nominations and a Grammy.

Style and Sound

Barry and the Tamerlanes’ sound blended:

• Doo-wop influences

• Early 60s pop sensibility

• Melancholy and romance

Their music often featured lush arrangements, falsetto leads, and simple but emotional lyrics. Fans of artists like The Cascades, The Lettermen, and The Fleetwoods would find their music instantly familiar.

Discography (Partial)

Valiant Records Releases (1963–1965):

Reissue Records: