New Jersey Stage Issue 44 | Page 13

then on, things started happen- ing for the band. They became a big part of the scene at The Brighton Bar in Long Branch. Richards says they were slightly ahead of several bands to be signed at that time. The names include bands like Eve’s Plum, The Churchills, and Monster Magnet. The Baby Seal Club signed with Relativity Records - a label that launched in the 80s. “The original music scene was starting and it was cool,” recalled Richards. “There were a limited number of venues, but I think that’s part of the reason a lot of us got more attention from la- bels, promoters, and publicists. It was a rather contained, small scene but one that brought in known or rising acts that people could follow.” Since his early days, Richards always wrote songs. Even long after having a steady original band, he kept writing. The Next Generation of Rock Radio Listen online at 90.5thenight.org Listen online at 90.5thenight.org NJ STAGE - ISSUE 44 INDEX NEXT ARTICLE 13