Story of a Band with Ron Moody

On Saturday, May 10th at 11:00 am Book People welcomes Ron Moody founding member of the band Ron Moody and the Centaurs and host of the syndicated radio shows YOUR Saturday Night Beach Party and Retro Rock and Soul – The Music & The Memories. In addition to all his musical endeavors, Ron has authored his first novel Forever the Constellations.

Back in the 60’s, five high school friends form a band, cut a local record, and through a combination of talent and good fortune, are signed to a national record label. Never expecting such good luck, the five boys are immediately cast into that juggernaut known as the music business, and this story chronicles their lives as they maneuver the trials and triumphs of the industry.

After going their separate ways, they are once again reunited years later for the funeral of their beloved, Aunt Ru. Reminiscing on their time in the national spotlight, the five rekindle their estranged relationship. Then, out of nowhere, an opportunity arises for them to re-form the band, after decades apart, as part of an “Oldies” tour. What happens next is an unbelievable series of events…

Ron Moody is unique in the world of music. He is that rare individual who has spent his entire life immersed in both sides of the music industry, having been involved with creativity and with commerce. There are many who have a perspective from either the business side or from the creative side, Ron has both.

Starting in the early 70’s, Ron began his business career in Atlanta with ABC/Dunhill Records. In the latter part of that decade, his path took him to the Dutch company, Polygram, and, subsequently, a merger with Universal brought him to that label. It was while working in the major leagues of the industry for some 35 years, that he received a thorough education as to why it’s known as the music business. “Nothing happens in a vacuum”, says Ron. “Everything in this industry is planned, scrutinized, discussed, and methodically executed so as to maximize airplay and sales.”

As a performer, Ron’s career goes all the way back to the mid-1960’s as a founding member of his band, Ron Moody and the Centaurs. The band has recorded for Columbia (Sony), ABC/Dunhill, and MGM Records, and is still performing today, sixty years since its inception. They are also members of the Beach Music Hall of Fame.

Ollie Greenwood will be the Moderator.

Dr. Ollie Greenwood grew up in Newport News and graduated from UNC Chapel Hill and VCU School of Dentistry. Practiced dentistry for 35 years in Mechanicsville.

He has participated with various community service organizations over the years and now he and his wife, Diane, are actively involved with Moments of Hope Outreach.