The Paramounts were an English pop rock band formed in Southend-on-Sea, Essex. The groupbegan as "The Raiders" in 1959 when members were in high school. Their initial lineup included Robin Trower and Chris Copping on guitars, Mick Trower on lead vocals, and Gary Nicholls on drums. In September 1960, the band transformed into The Paramounts with Gary Brooker on piano and vocals, Mick Brownlee on drums, Chris Copping on bass, Bob Scott on vocals, and Robin Trower on guitar. Their first single "Poison Ivy" was released in 1963, reaching number 35 on the UK Singles Chart. The band's musical style evolved from R&B to soul, leading to regular performances in London and a signing with Parlophone. Subsequent singles like "Bad Blood" and "I'm the One who Loves You" failed to chart, but their B-side "It Won't Be Long" was the first song written by Brooker and Trower. The Paramounts disbanded in 1966, with Gary Brooker going on to form Procol Harum. In 1983, an album titled Whiter Shades of R&B was issued, compiling all their singles.
