Benefit Concert Plans to Rock the Elks

The rock ‘n roll oldies band “Double Play” is set to perform a concert tomorrow night at the to benefit the Universalist New Orleans Service Trip in April. The show will feature local performers Jimmy Merrick and Peter Previte, with special guest Barry Nelson on drums.

Jimmy Merrick, also known as “Mr. Rock n’ Roll” formed his first band by age 15, and later formed “Jimmy and the Jesters”, playing shows all around New England. Merrick and his wife Elaine began performing as a duo act at many clubs and functions in and around the Merrimack Valley through the 1990’s.

Peter Previte, also known as “The WildMan” has been singing and performing for 47 years. His unique style on the keys and strong vocals has attracted audiences and entertained people all over the country for decades.

“I put my first band together when I was 14 and we were called ‘Peter and the Wolves," said Previte. “We practiced in my folk's basement in Chelmsford.”

Previte has performed with many artists including Golden Joe Baker, 'Elvis' Kelly, Dean Clark, Leon C. & Illusion, Freddie and the Maybellines, Rick Larrimore, and Annie and the Orphans. He and Merrick met when they were both still just starting out in the music world.

“We first played together over 35 years ago,” said Previte.

Previte coaxed Merrick out of semi-retirement because he felt there was an audience out there that they could reach, and the duo “Double Play” was officially formed. They set out to perform for people that still enjoyed hearing and dancing to oldies from the 50’s and 60’s and vintage Country music.

 ”Some of the songs we’ll be performing on Saturday night include "Let's Go To The Hop" by Danny & the Juniors, "Pretty Woman" by Roy Orbison, "Wonder Of You" by Elvis and "Great Balls Of Fire" by Jerry Lee Lewis,” said Previte.

Johan Mackenzie, one of the organizers of the benefit concert and a member of the First Parish Church, reached out to Previte to get him and Merrick on board to perform for the fundraiser.

“It will be an evening people will never forget,” said Previte. “We put on quite a show, including some comedy, and lots of dance music.”

The Rock ‘n Roll Oldies Show is tomorrow at 7 p.m. at the Chelmsford Lodge of Elks. Tickets are $20 and a cash bar, coffee and light snacks will be provided. For ticket information contact Johan MacKenzie at 978-761-5622 or Lynne Cole at 978-251-7966.