Formed in Raton, New Mexico in 1957, The Fireballs was a predominantly
instrumental rock and roll combo before joining forces with vocalist Jimmy
Gilmer and scoring a number 1 hit in 1963 with the single “Sugar Shack.” Founded
by the distinctive sound of lead guitarist George Tomsco and bassist Stan Lark,
the group also featured drummer Eric Budd, and rhythm guitarists Chuck Tharp and
Dan Trammel. Setting up shop and recording in Clovis, New Mexico at producer
Norman Petty’s studio, the group’s debut single, “Fireball,” was released in
1958. The Fireballs hit the Top 40 in 1959 w...