TAMPA, Fla., December 4, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- The hit musical duo Jan & Dean, known for their surfing tunes in the '50s, '60s and beyond, are still recognized as two superstars of their time. However, many people don't know their inspiring off stage story. Author Mark Thomas Passmore tells Jan Berry and Dean Torrence's complete story, including their discovery as teenagers, their numerous hits and the devastating car crash that left Jan, the creative arm of the group, near death in Dead Man's Curve and Back: The Jan & Dean Story (now available through 1stBooks).
Jan and Dean rocketed to super stardom after they were discovered in the late 1950s. Their California good looks brought a new image to the industry, and their consistent hits won the hearts of thousands of fans. With early hits such as "Baby Talk" and "Heart and Soul," they quickly gained celebrity status.
Jan's songwriting abilities and his talent for producing got the duo noticed, and they soon began collaborating with stars such as Brian Wilson. Both college students, they continued to climb the ladder of fame, recording hits like "The Little Old Lady From Pasadena," "Ride the Wild Surf," "Surf City" and "Sidewalk Surfin'."
One hit song, "Dead Man's Curve," would later become all too prophetic. After a New York City show in 1966, Jan plowed his Corvette Stingray into a parked truck at 90 mph, putting him in a coma for a month and paralyzing him. His recovery was grueling, but his determination to make music again was strong. Dean attempted to keep the Jan & Dean name going, but decided to utilize his college training and opened a graphic design business.
In 1971, Jan was back. He began making music again and could sing better than he could talk. As the duo got back together, they faced a new "Dead Man's Curve." Their musical relationship had changed, and Dean was now in the driver's seat.
A story of success, tragedy and recovery, Passmore's book offers a rare glimpse into the lives of these music legends. A 1979 TV movie brought their story to the limelight once again, but Dead Man's Curve and Back provides captivating inside information about this duo with hundreds of photographs, a complete discography and production information.
A spontaneous meeting with the duo in 1980 prompted Passmore to write Dead Man's Curve and Back, his first book. He is an accountant by trade and enjoys reading, painting and collecting.
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