In the 1950's and 1960's, there was a man working behind the scenes in the music business. This man, while having another public persona that made him a household name, was also the head of artists and repertoires for Columbia Records.

In that position he had tremendous control over who recorded, what they recorded and what was promoted by the company. He controlled the hit machine at Columbia.

This man was a fan and a proponent of classic pop music -- Frankie Lane, Patti Page, Tony Bennett. When rock and roll came rushing onto the scene in 1955, this music veteran did not hold the new sound in high regard.

Enter the first rock band signed to Columbia: Paul Revere and the Raiders. Their first release was Louie Louie, which became a classic for another band. Most critics believe the Raiders did a better job than the Kingsmen. A big reason for the lackluster performance of their song was Columbia did not promote it. The company was focusing on Steve Lawrence and Andy Williams at the time.

Yes, it is time for Twin-Pick. It is your chance to determine which ogre was lurking behind the scenes at Columbia, making it hard to be a rock and roller. This works like it always does. Get it right and you will see an award winning performance by the party in question. Get it wrong and you will be razzed by my assistants.

Question: Which of the individuals, listed below, was the director of artist development for Columbia and, over the years, earned a reputation for shunning or ignoring the rock artists?

A. Gene Autry

B. Mitch Miller

C. Ed Sullivan

D. Col. Tom Parker

E. Milton Berle

F. Soupy Sales

For more "Stories Behind the Music" click on the guitar

Steven L. Smith

Bellingham WA Home Inspections