THE ORCHESTRA Starring ELO Former Members

The Beginning of ELO

The story starts in 1970 in Birmingham, England, where the Electric Light Orchestra began their journey as one of the world's most popular rock bands. Their music was characterized by a fusion of Beatlesque pop, classical arrangements, and futuristic iconography.

ELO Part II Creation

After the original line-up of ELO broke up in 1986, drummer Bev Bevan created ELO Part II in 1988 with English guitarist Pete Haycock, American keyboardist and songwriter Eric Troyer, and ELO former members Kaminski, Clark, Groucutt, and cellist Hugh McDowell. The band later recruited English guitarist Phil Bates to fill out the lineup.

Vocal Riches and Lineup Changes

Groucutt, Bates, and Troyer were all accomplished lead and harmony singers, which provided an abundance of vocal riches that pushed the band’s classic sound into fresh sonic territory. Phil Bates left ELO Part II in 1998 and was replaced by American singer, songwriter, and guitarist Parthenon Huxley.

Continuing the Legacy

Over the years, the members of THE ORCHESTRA have played ELO's greatest hits to millions of fans.