Counts

Websites:  No
Origin: Toronto, Ontario, 🇨🇦
Biography:

Rediscovering The Counts: Toronto’s Forgotten rhythm and blues Gems
Toronto’s music scene in the 1960s was brimming with talent, and among the many acts to emerge was The Counts, a three-piece outfit whose brief but noteworthy career left a lasting impression on Canada’s rhythm and blues history. While their discography consists of a solitary single, its impact resonated far beyond what might be expected for such a fleeting entry into the music world.

Fronted by the talented guitarist Mike Holman, The Counts made their mark in 1966 with a double-sided release that paired two iconic covers: Jerry Butler’s soulful masterpiece “He Will Break Your Heart” and the spirited Leiber/Stoller classic “Searchin’.” Covering such well-loved tracks was no small challenge, but The Counts managed to imbue both with a raw, youthful exuberance and a distinctly Canadian flavor that set their renditions apart.

The undeniable highlight of their release was “He Will Break Your Heart,” a tender and emotive performance that climbed to No. 18 on RPM’s national chart for three weeks, from March 21 to April 4, 1966. The track also caught the eye of Cash Box magazine, which noted that the single was “creating a good deal of interest with some of the leading record firms in the US.” This attention signaled the song’s cross-border appeal and hinted at a broader potential for the band, whose recording debut came under the auspices of the Apex label. Alexander Mair played a pivotal role in this milestone, connecting the band with Tamarac Record Productions, who oversaw the session.

Musically, “He Will Break Your Heart” is a testament to The Counts’ talent. Holman’s evocative guitar work and the rhythm section’s tight, cohesive groove create a sound that bridges melancholy and radio-friendly polish, encapsulating the essence of mid-1960s rhythm and blues. Meanwhile, their version of “Searchin’” adds a playful, up-tempo dynamic, offering a glimpse of the band’s versatility and hinting at an alternate trajectory that could have explored more rock-driven material.

The Counts’ Legacy
While their chart success might seem modest by today’s standards, The Counts’ achievements were remarkable for a Canadian act in the fiercely competitive 1960s music scene, which was dominated by American and British acts. Their single not only charted but also underscored the growing relevance of Canadian talent on the national stage, demonstrating that local artists could hold their own against international heavyweights.

The Counts remain a fascinating piece of Toronto’s musical fabric. Their fleeting moment in the spotlight reflects the challenges and triumphs of Canadian musicians in an era when breaking through was no easy feat. Holman’s leadership, coupled with the group’s evident chemistry and polished sound, speaks to an untapped potential that, if circumstances had been different, might have led to a more sustained career.