Orleans is a pop-rock band best known for its smooth harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and classic soft rock hits like “Dance with Me” and “Still the One.” Formed in the early 1970s in New York, the group combined the musical talents of experienced session musicians and rising artists. Their unique blend of pop, rock, and light R&B quickly gained them a devoted following.
Despite lineup changes, label struggles, and personal tragedy, Orleans continues to perform and carry on its musical tradition today.
| Band Name | Orleans |
|---|---|
| Formed | 1972, New York City, New York |
| Founding Members | John Hall, Larry Hoppen, Wells Kelly |
| Genres | Soft Rock, Pop Rock, Adult Contemporary |
| Breakthrough Hits | “Dance with Me,” “Still the One,” “Love Takes Time” |
| Labels | ABC Dunhill, Asylum, MCA, Infinity, Radio Records |
| Years Active | 1972–present |
| Most Successful Albums | Let There Be Music (1975), Waking and Dreaming (1976) |
| Notable Members | John Hall, Larry Hoppen, Lance Hoppen, Wells Kelly, Jerry Marotta |
| Current Lineup | John Hall, Lance Hoppen, Lane Hoppen, Dennis Amero, Charlie Morgan |
Origins and Early Years
Orleans formed in 1972 when guitarist and songwriter John Hall, drummer Wells Kelly, and guitarist/vocalist Larry Hoppen teamed up in New York City. Hall, a seasoned session player, had already written songs with his wife Johanna, including “Half Moon,” which appeared on Janis Joplin‘s posthumous Pearl album. Meanwhile, Hoppen and Kelly had been part of a band called Boffalongo.
The group began performing in clubs and on the college circuit, gradually honing their melodic rock sound. Larry’s younger brother Lance Hoppen soon joined as the bassist, rounding out the core lineup.
Early Recordings and Struggles
Orleans signed with ABC Dunhill Records and released their self-titled debut album in 1973. Recorded at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Alabama and produced by Roger Hawkins and Barry Beckett, the album showcased the band’s blend of harmonies, pop hooks, and rock grooves.
In 1974, they recorded a second album, Orleans II, at Bearsville Studios in New York. Unfortunately, ABC Dunhill rejected the record for lacking commercial appeal, and the label dropped the band soon after.
Breakthrough with Let There Be Music
Things turned around when Asylum Records picked up Orleans and released their third album, Let There Be Music, in 1975. The title track became a modest hit, but it was the second single, “Dance with Me,” that propelled the band into stardom.
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“Dance with Me” reached #6 on both the Billboard Hot 100 and Adult Contemporary charts.
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The song became a radio staple and solidified Orleans’ smooth soft rock style.
To support their growing success, drummer Jerry Marotta was added to the band, allowing Wells Kelly to shift to keyboards and vocals.
Waking and Dreaming and “Still the One”
In 1976, Orleans released their fourth album Waking and Dreaming. It featured their signature hit:
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“Still the One” peaked at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100.
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Ironically, ABC Television adopted the song as a promotional theme—even though ABC Records had once dropped the band.
The album confirmed Orleans’ place in mainstream music. But behind the scenes, creative tensions were rising.
John Hall Departs and “Love Takes Time”
By 1977, friction within the group led John Hall to leave and pursue a solo career. Orleans pressed forward, now signed to Infinity Records, a subsidiary of MCA.
Their first Hall-less album, Forever (1979), produced one of their biggest hits:
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“Love Takes Time” climbed to #11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was their last Top 40 hit.
However, things took a downturn when Infinity Records went bankrupt. MCA absorbed the label but failed to promote Orleans’ 1980 self-titled album effectively. The band’s momentum stalled.
Label Woes and Tragedy
In 1982, Orleans signed with a small imprint called Radio Records, releasing One of a Kind. But with minimal promotion and a rapidly changing music landscape, the album failed to revive their career.
By 1984, Orleans returned to club performances. On a tour stop in Bermuda, Larry Hoppen lost his voice and returned home to recover. Meanwhile, Wells Kelly tragically died of a heroin overdose in London in October 1984.
The band was shaken, and for a time, Orleans’ future seemed uncertain.
Reunion and Political Detour
During the 1990s, John Hall rejoined the band. Orleans resumed touring and released several albums including:
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Ride (1996)
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Dancin’ in the Moonlight (2005) — a nod to the Boffalongo classic
In 2006, Hall stepped away again—this time to pursue public office. He successfully ran for a U.S. Congressional seat representing New York’s 19th district. Hall served two terms before being defeated in the 2010 election.
Meanwhile, Orleans continued to perform, occasionally with Hall rejoining for concerts and recordings.
The Death of Larry Hoppen
On July 24, 2012, tragedy struck again when Larry Hoppen died suddenly at age 61. The cause was not publicly disclosed, though it was widely reported as unexpected. Larry had been the band’s primary vocalist for decades, and his passing left a significant void.
Despite the loss, the remaining members chose to continue the Orleans legacy, keeping the music alive for old fans and new audiences alike.
Recent Activity and Current Lineup
Today, Orleans remains active with a new lineup that honors its roots. The current members include:
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John Hall – vocals, guitar
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Lance Hoppen – bass
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Lane Hoppen – keyboards
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Dennis Amero – vocals, guitar
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Charlie Morgan – drums (formerly with Elton John)
The band continues to perform live, celebrating over 50 years in music. Their setlists include all the classic hits along with newer material, keeping their sound fresh while honoring their legacy.
Legacy and Impact
Orleans never tried to be flashy. Their music focused on harmony, warmth, and sincerity. With just the right blend of folk, pop, and rock, they became a go-to band for feel-good love songs and introspective lyrics.
Songs like:
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“Dance with Me”
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“Still the One”
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“Love Takes Time”
…remain timeless soft rock standards, often featured in film, TV, and wedding playlists.
While they never reached superstar status, Orleans has earned respect as one of the most reliable and consistent acts of their genre. Their story is one of persistence, creativity, and heart.
Final Thoughts
Orleans carved out a unique space in American music—bridging the gap between singer-songwriter intimacy and polished pop-rock appeal. Through lineup changes, industry upheaval, and personal loss, they continued to make meaningful music. Decades later, they’re still the ones we dance with, sing with, and remember.