Five Man Electrical Band is best known for their timeless anthem, “Signs.” But their journey as a band stretches far beyond that hit single. Starting in Ottawa during the early 1960s, they experienced modest beginnings, label changes, lineup shifts, and a brief taste of international stardom.
Despite facing years of setbacks, the band managed to make a lasting impact in both Canada and abroad. Their fusion of rock, social commentary, and melodic hooks helped carve a unique space in the 1970s music scene. Here’s the story of how a local Canadian band evolved, rebranded, broke into the U.S. market, and built a legacy that still resonates today.
| Band Name | Five Man Electrical Band |
|---|---|
| Origin | Ottawa, Ontario, Canada |
| Years Active | 1963–1975, 1986–present (occasional) |
| Genres | Rock, Psychedelic Rock, Pop Rock |
| Key Members | Les Emmerson, Ted Gerow, Rick Belanger (Rick Bell), Brian Rading |
| Famous Hit | “Signs” (1971) |
| Labels | Capitol, MGM, Lionel Records |
| Associated Acts | The Staccatos |
Early Years: The Staccatos
The band began in Ottawa in 1963 under the name The Staccatos. The original members included Dean Hagopian (vocals), Vern Craig (guitar), Brian Rading (bass), and Rick Belanger (also known as Rick Bell, on drums and vocals). Hagopian was eventually replaced by Les Emmerson, a talented guitarist and songwriter who would go on to lead the group musically and vocally.
In 1965, The Staccatos signed with Capitol Records Canada. Their single “Small Town Girl” performed well, landing in the Canadian Top 20. The band released their debut album Initially in 1966 and scored a major Canadian hit with “Half Past Midnight,” which peaked at #9 on the national charts.
They even shared a split album with The Guess Who, helping cement their reputation in Canada. Around this time, Rick’s brother, Mike Bell, joined as a second drummer and vocalist. Despite the local success, attempts to break into the U.S. market were met with indifference.
A New Name and Direction
In 1968, founding member Vern Craig left, and keyboardist Ted Gerow entered the scene. As they prepared a new album, Capitol producer Nick Venet suggested a name change to better fit the times. They chose Five Man Electrical Band, a name taken from one of Emmerson’s unreleased song titles.
In 1969, they released their debut LP under the new name. It included modest Canadian chart entries like “It Never Rains on Maple Lane” and “Private Train.” Although not hits, the songs reflected the band’s evolving psychedelic-pop sound.
Still, major breakthroughs remained out of reach. After a string of underperforming singles, the band left Capitol and signed with MGM Records.
The Breakthrough: “Signs”
Things began to change in 1970 when the band released “Hello Melinda Goodbye” with “Signs” as the B-side. Radio DJs flipped the record and gave “Signs” some airplay.
In 1971, Lionel Records reissued “Signs” as the A-side. The song exploded. It hit #4 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and reached #3 in Canada. In Australia, it topped the charts for two months. With its rebellious tone and memorable chorus, “Signs” became an international hit. It sold over one million copies and earned a gold disc award.
The lyrics were socially charged, criticizing conformity, prejudice, and commercialism—resonating with youth during a time of political and cultural unrest.
Riding the Wave
Following the massive success of “Signs,” the band released the album Good-byes and Butterflies. Its original cover art featured a marijuana plant and was quickly replaced to avoid controversy.
The next single, “Absolutely Right,” also became a hit in Canada and reached #26 on the U.S. Billboard chart. Other singles like “Money Back Guarantee” and “I’m a Stranger Here” performed well in Canada but failed to match the international success of “Signs.”
In 1972, the band released Coming of Age, continuing to tour and maintain a solid fan base in their home country. Around this time, Les Emmerson also launched a solo career, releasing singles such as “Control of Me,” which did well in Canada.
Decline and Breakup
By 1973, internal changes disrupted the group’s momentum. Rick Bell left during the recording of their next album Sweet Paradise, and Brian Rading exited soon after.
Despite these losses, the band released “I’m a Stranger Here,” a bluesy, socially aware track that reached #1 on the Canadian charts. It was their final major hit.
Emmerson and Gerow tried to keep the band going with new members. But by 1975, only Emmerson and Gerow remained from the classic lineup. Their last single, “Johnny Get a Gun,” was released that year and peaked at #69 in Canada.
Without strong commercial backing or internal cohesion, Five Man Electrical Band officially disbanded.
Reunion and Legacy
In 1986, Emmerson and Gerow reunited the band for occasional concert and festival appearances. Over the years, they played classic rock revivals and charity shows, keeping the spirit of their music alive.
Les Emmerson retained the legal rights to the band’s name and oversaw several compilation releases, including the 1995 greatest hits album Absolutely Right. The band’s music remained popular on classic rock stations, and “Signs” was covered by the rock band Tesla in 1990, reigniting interest.
Sadly, Les Emmerson passed away in December 2021 due to complications from COVID-19. His death marked the end of an era for the band, though their music lives on.
Cultural Impact
“Signs” became more than just a hit—it became a generational anthem. Its lyrics were featured on posters, t-shirts, and protest signs. In 1990, Tesla’s acoustic cover of “Signs” reached #8 on the Billboard chart, proving its enduring appeal.
The band also helped pave the way for Canadian rock artists aiming to cross over into the U.S. market. Though their success was brief, they proved that Canadian acts could resonate internationally with the right message and sound.
Conclusion
Five Man Electrical Band may have been a one-hit wonder in the U.S., but in Canada, they were respected pioneers. Their journey from The Staccatos to international recognition is a story of persistence, adaptation, and a little bit of luck.
From their early pop-rock charm to their socially conscious anthems, their legacy continues to inspire fans and musicians alike. More than fifty years after its release, “Signs” still feels relevant—a testament to the power of a good song with something important to say.