The iconic rock band, the Flamin’ Groovies, is set to celebrate its 60th anniversary with a series of concerts in Southern California from November 19 to November 22, 2025. The band, known for its influential sound that blends garage rock and power pop, will perform in San Diego, Hermosa Beach, Yucca Valley, and West Hollywood.
Founded in 1965 by Cyril Jordan, singer-guitarist Roy Loney, guitarist Tim Lynch, bassist George Alexander, and drummer Ron Greco, the Flamin’ Groovies have maintained a loyal following despite periods of inactivity and lineup changes. Reflecting on the band’s early days, Jordan recounts the band’s name changes, initially starting as the Chosen Few before briefly adopting the name the Lost and Found. It wasn’t until after the Beatles’ final concert on August 29, 1966, that they became the Flamin’ Groovies, inspired by a phrase popular in the San Francisco scene.
Jordan, now 77 and the only remaining original member, recalls the vibrant atmosphere of the Haight-Ashbury district during the Summer of Love. “There was a phrase going around at the time that a marijuana cigarette was a flaming groovy,” he explains. “I was so excited after seeing the Beatles that I was running around saying ‘Groovy!’” This exuberance ultimately influenced the band’s name.
The Flamin’ Groovies gained recognition for albums such as 1971’s “Teenage Head” and 1976’s “Shake Some Action.” The latter was celebrated as a significant contribution to the power pop genre and was featured in rock scholar Greil Marcus’s book, “The History of Rock ‘n’ Roll in Ten Songs.” Despite their early success, the band faced challenges, including lineup changes and shifts in musical trends.
After relocating to the United Kingdom, the Flamin’ Groovies found a new audience, playing alongside punk bands like the Ramones. Their first gig in London at the Bickershaw Festival before a crowd of 250,000 marked a turning point in their career. Jordan notes, “We made quite an impression,” as they performed alongside established acts such as the Kinks and the Grateful Dead.
Despite the ups and downs, the band’s legacy continues to resonate. Jordan emphasizes the thrill of being back on the road, stating, “I couldn’t believe how cool it was to do this as an old guy.” The reunion in 2013 came after an offer to tour in Australia, and since then, the band has enjoyed a revival, touring internationally and re-engaging with fans worldwide.
As the Flamin’ Groovies prepare for their upcoming concerts, they reflect on their storied history and the joy of performing together again. With a mix of nostalgia and excitement, Jordan and his bandmates are ready to bring their unique blend of rock and roll to the stages of Southern California once more.
