In the early '60s, they named the group after a car, they sang about California and were from Indiana: The Rivieras.

Originally The Playmates, members included South Bend High Schoolers Marty "Bo" Fortson (lead vocals and rhythm), Joe Pennell (lead guitar), Doug Gean (bass), Otto Nuss (organ) and Paul Dennert (drums). According to tsimon.com, because of another group by the same name, The Playmates changed their name to The Rivieras, after the Buick.

The Rivieras recorded "California Sun," written by Henry Glover and once recorded by Joe Jones without success. In 1964, The Rivieras had a Top 5 hit.

Then they went through some changes. Fortson and Pennell joined the Marines. New members were Willy Gaut (vocals and rhythm guitar) and Jim Boal (lead guitar). Dennert left and was replaced on drums by Bobby Wautuch. Their manager Bill Dobslaw then became the lead singer.

The Rivieras went on to record two albums. Songs included "Little Donna" and "Let's Have a Party." They did not chart well.

The Rivieras disband in 1966 due to the draft, members moving on to get an education and members changing.

In the '80s, The Rivieras reformed and went on tour. Joe Pennell died in 2011 and Marty Fortson in 2012.

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