In the early 1970s, a band from Hawaii quietly made its mark on the American easy-listening scene. Liz Damon’s Orient Express combined soft vocals, lush arrangements, and a unique cultural flair. Though their time in the spotlight was brief, their music—especially the hit “1900 Yesterday”—captured hearts across the country.
Let’s take a closer look at the story behind this one-of-a-kind group, their music, and what made them stand out.
| Band Name | Liz Damon’s Orient Express |
|---|---|
| Origin | Honolulu, Hawaii, USA |
| Years Active | 1970 – Mid-1980s |
| Genre | Easy Listening, Adult Contemporary, International Pop |
| Lead Singer | Liz Damon |
| Notable Members | Edda Damon, Meri McPherson, Sydette Sakauye |
| Hit Songs | “1900 Yesterday”, “Loneliness Remembers (What Happiness Forgets)” |
| Debut Album | At the Garden Bar, Hilton Hawaiian Village (1970) |
| Labels | Makaha, White Whale, Anthem, Delilah |
| Final Years | Performing in Las Vegas before disbanding |
Origins in Hawaii
Liz Damon’s Orient Express formed in Honolulu in 1970. At the heart of the group was lead singer Liz Damon, who performed alongside her sister Edda Damon. The band performed regularly at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, where they developed a loyal following.
The name “Orient Express” was a nod to the all-Asian heritage of the supporting musicians. It also hinted at the international flavor of their music, which often featured a smooth, cosmopolitan style ideal for hotel lounges and upscale nightspots.
First Breakthrough with “1900 Yesterday”
The group’s first album, At the Garden Bar, Hilton Hawaiian Village, was originally released on the Makaha label. White Whale Records later reissued the album under the title Liz Damon’s Orient Express, which helped it gain broader distribution.
One track in particular, “1900 Yesterday,” became a breakout hit. The single reached:
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#33 on the Billboard Hot 100
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#4 on the Adult Contemporary chart
The song had originally been recorded by Betty Everett, but Liz Damon’s version brought it into the mainstream with her warm vocals and dreamy arrangement.
Frequent Lineup Changes
While Liz Damon remained the star, the rest of the band’s lineup changed often. Her sister Edda provided backup vocals, joined initially by Sydette Sakauye. When Sakauye left, she was replaced by Meri McPherson, who became a steady presence in the group.
The band’s instrumentalists also shifted over time, but their Asian-American makeup remained consistent, supporting the group’s name and identity.
Continued Recordings and a Second Chart Hit
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After their initial success, Liz Damon’s Orient Express signed with Anthem Records. In 1971, they released their second and final charting single:
“Loneliness Remembers (What Happiness Forgets)”—a Burt Bacharach song originally recorded by Dionne Warwick.
This version became the only one to chart, reaching #29 on the Adult Contemporary chart in early 1972.
Albums and Covers
Throughout the 1970s, the group recorded at least five albums. Three of these mainly featured covers of pop standards and soft rock hits, often performed with a lounge-style polish.
In 1979, they released a comedy album, showing a willingness to experiment. However, it failed to capture the attention their early music had enjoyed.
Later Years in Las Vegas
As their popularity waned, the band moved to Las Vegas. There, they performed for several years in hotels and casinos, maintaining a modest following. They officially disbanded sometime in the mid-1980s.
Though they never achieved major stardom, Liz Damon’s Orient Express left a lasting impression on fans of smooth, elegant pop.
Selected Discography
Here’s a look at some of the group’s key releases:
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Makaha Records (1969)
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A: “1900 Yesterday”
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B: “You’re Falling in Love”
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White Whale Records (1970)
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A: “1900 Yesterday”
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B: “You’re Falling in Love”
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Anthem Records (1971)
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A: “Loneliness Remembers (What Happiness Forgets)”
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B: “The Quiet Sound”
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Delilah Records (1973)
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A: “Sing Me (I’m a Song)”
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B: “Little Song”
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Goldies (1973)
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A: “1900 Yesterday”
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B: “You’re Falling in Love”
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Note: Some later reissues may not be complete or verified.
Musical Style and Legacy
Liz Damon’s Orient Express blended pop, jazz, and international sounds. Their music appealed to adult contemporary listeners, particularly those who favored mellow, lounge-inspired arrangements.
While they didn’t achieve lasting fame, their work—especially “1900 Yesterday”—remains a time capsule of a specific musical moment. It reflects the growing interest in diverse artists and smooth crossover hits in the early ’70s.
Final Thoughts
Liz Damon’s Orient Express may not be a household name today, but their music still resonates with fans of soft pop and nostalgic melodies. Their brief success in the early 1970s, especially with “1900 Yesterday,” is a testament to the timeless appeal of gentle vocals and sentimental lyrics.
If you enjoy discovering lesser-known acts from the past, this Hawaiian band deserves a listen. Their story is a reminder that even short-lived careers can leave a lasting impression.