Diplomatics

• Formed: 1966, Indianapolis, IN
• Disbanded: 1972, Indianapolis, IN
• Genres: Rock

Biography

Instrumental soul combo the Diplomatics formed in Indianapolis in 1966. The original lineup -- guitarist Jerry "Boing-Boing" Miller, bassist Rodney Vorhis, pianist Rodney Stepp, and drummer Bobby Gayheart -- founded the group to perform at their school's talent show, and ranged in age from 14 to just 11 at the time of their formation. Originally called "the Diplomats" -- a name modified when a Washington, D.C. group with the same moniker made itself known -- the Diplomatics won said talent contest and soon added two new members, saxophonist Richard Gamble, and trumpeter Maurice Taylor. The group would go on to back artists including Patti LaBelle, the Dells, and Joe Tex during their respective Indianapolis tour stops -- the Spinners were so impressed that they poached Miller and Vorhis for the remainder of their dates. Miller returned to the Diplomatics six months later, while bassist Miles "Butch" Loyd replaced Vorhis in addition to teaming with Stepp to compose the group's lone single, 1970s "Hum-Bug." Issued on the local LAMP label, the song was a major Indianapolis-area hit, but was not licensed for national distribution, and the Diplomatics dissolved in 1972. The members later reformed as Jazzie Cazzie and the Eight Sounds to record a single for Knaptown. ~ Jason Ankeny, All Music Guide