The Shadows, an emblematic English rock & roll ensemble, often find themselves linked to Cliff Richard’s early career. From 1958 to 1968, Richard was backed by The Shadows, initially known as The Drifters.
The Drifters transformed into The Shadows due to a name collision with the American soul group famous for hits like “Under the Boardwalk.” In the captivating BBC 4 documentary, “The Shadows At Sixty” (2020), their journey is revisited, with a special focus on “Apache,” their groundbreaking hit. Originally composed by Jerry Lordan and first recorded by Bert Weedon, the song found its iconic rendition with The Shadows.
The documentary delves into The Shadows’ legacy, with a glimpse into their old rehearsal space, showcasing their timeless chemistry and musical prowess. Hank Marvin, the lead guitarist of The Shadows, particularly shines as he demonstrates the legendary riff of “Apache.” Marvin’s virtuosity has served as a source of inspiration for countless guitarists across various genres, solidifying The Shadows’ influence in the annals of music history.
