The Four Preps bringing oldies back to Downey

DOWNEY - The Four Preps, an all-male quartet that amassed eight gold singles and three platinum albums over a career that has spanned several decades, will perform at the Downey Theatre on Sunday, April 14. The Four Preps have performed in front of sold out audiences around the world but for band member Bob Duncan, the Downey performance is something extra special.

"Coming back to Downey is really a sentimental journey for me," Duncan said. "A great part of my young life unfolded in this town."

In 1967, fresh from four years as a regular on the "Lawrence Welk Show," Duncan assumed the post of youth minister and choir director at First Baptist Church of Downey.

During his time at the church, Duncan created the "Living Christmas Tree," which has become an annual tradition and regional draw. Through the church, he forged dozens of lifelong friendships and, most importantly, met his wife-to-be, the former Judy Lehmann, a graduate of Warren High. Duncan left First Baptist in 1974 and relocated to Camarillo, embarking on a 20-year stint as leader of The Diamonds, performing their smash hits "Little Darlin'" and "Silhouettes" for audiences around the globe.

Then in 2007, Duncan was approached by Bruce Belland, co-founder and lead singer of The Four Preps, about joining his re-formed edition of the group. Duncan readily accepted.

The collaboration led to a featured spot on the PBS special "Magic Moments" and has taken the Preps to renewed heights of popularity and performances from coast to coast.

It all brings Duncan full circle to the Downey Theater on April, when the Preps will perform a two-hour show featuring their own classic hits as well as a host of other beloved oldies, including "Unchained Melody," "At the Hop," "Earth Angel," "Come Go With Me," "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" and "Sh-Boom."

"And maybe we'll throw in a version of 'Sentimental Journey' just to salute the occasion," joked Duncan. Tickets to see The Four Preps are $28 and can be purchased by calling the Downey Theater box office at (562) 861-8211 or online at downeytheater.com.

The matinee show begins at 2 p.m.

********** Published: March 21, 2013 - Volume 11 - Issue 49