While he’s not a household name, Randy Barlow has had quite a career, and a life, in the entertainment business. Randy was born on March 29, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan. His musical influences were the Rock’n Roll of the 1950’s, Country, Blues and, of course, Detroit soul. By the age of 15, Randy was playing guitar and singing in teen bands, as well as writing songs. After graduation from Garden City High School in 1961, Randy headed to Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green. Many paths were presented to the young entertainer, which would offer a conservative and secure future. But, Randy had other plans. Opportunity came calling when Dick Clark’s Caravan of Stars show arrived in Bowling Green in 1964, for a one night appearance. Acting as booking agent for a charity organization, Randy was responsible for the show being at WKU. The show had lost it’s road manager and emcee, so Randy left with the show, filling both positions. After just 3 months, Randy returned to school, more so to show his appreciation to his parents for all their sacrifices than for the education. His parents, however, knew he had a dream to be part of the entertainment industry and they encouraged to follow that dream. Thanks to Mrs. Brown And Her Lovely Daughter, Peter Noone and Herman’s Hermits was one of the biggest acts of 1965, and were the headliners of the Caravan of Stars tour. Due to the crowds and security requirements at that time, all the performers rode the same bus. Peter and the Hermits were so popular, however, they couldn’t travel with the rest of the show. The tour managers called on Randy to take care of Herman’s Hermits, and he became their road manager and bodyguard for the remainder of the tour. When the tour ended, Randy had a serious decision to make. A life changing decision. Stay in school, graduate and get a ‘real’ job, or do another tour and head for Hollywood? Hollywood’s call won out, beginning the next chapter of Randy’s journey toward fame: Life in California. A whole new world opened up for Randy in California. [Randy’s activities in Hollywood lasted 8 years included working clubs, writing songs, recording and most importantly, learning the business of the Music Industry. These years, as well as the experience he accumulated led him to Fred Kelly in 1973, who became Randy’s manager and record producer. A deal with Capitol Records in 1974 initiated the move eastward, in 1977, to begin another chapter in Randy’s journey toward fame. Welcome to Music City and Life in Nashville. Beginning in the mid-70’s, with Fred’s total commitment, Randy had 4 Top 10 Country singles and charted 20 singles in the Top 20 from 4 albums. Randy and Fred’s partnership and friendship, which began in 1973, forged a bond between them as close as brothers. In addition he was the executive producer for all of Randy’s albums. He was on the road with Randy for a period of time, taking care of all the business and finances that go along with breaking a record to radio. However, for both Randy & Fred, songwriting is their first love. Fred’s wife, Barbara was the primary force in the promotion of Randy’s music to radio. Now in his 60’s, Randy Barlow is still on that journey toward fame, writing his autobiography, Who’s Randy Barlow? A Journey Toward Fame. For anyone who grew up in the 1950’s and survived the 1960’s, this book will be nostalgic, personal and fun. It will also serve as an inspiration for young artists who always dream of “making it”. Randy still lives in Nashville, with his wife and business manager, Rebecca. And, for Randy, the best is yet to come. All content © Randy Barlow & Rowena Publishing.