Ty Wagner was born on August 12, 1945 in Buffalo, New York and grew up in Tustin, California. Ty and his brother formed the “Ty Wagner Band” in 1962 with Larry Lowe on lead guitar, Joe Wagner on rhythm, Dave Ellis on drums, and Ty Wagner as lead vocals. They first began rehearsing in their garage. People would come from miles away to listen to their music as they practiced. A local disc jockey, Johnny Gun, discovered Ty and introduced him to Don Ralke, who then produced Ty Wagner’s music at Goldstar Recording Studio. Goldstar Recording Studio is where Eddie Cochran recorded Summertime Blues and many other national hits.

Ty Wagner made several television appearances and performed at many concerts throughout the United States. With a penchant for live performance and stage charisma, Ty easily energized his audience whether it is during his several television appearances or live performances.

Success

In 1965, Ty Wagner recorded “I’m a No Count“, which had much success locally as well as nationally. The song “I’m a No Count” is covered by many artists all over the world. The original vinyl 45 sells for thousands of dollars online and is one of the most sought after vinyl records. “I’m a No Count” is an international rebel theme – the lyrics are “Four score and seven years ago, our forefathers left their homes to roam. The light of right is awfully dim; I’m a no count just like them.” In these lyrics, Ty Wagner compares himself to the people who came to this country form other lands, upset about being taxed and a lack of freedom and liberty.

Impact and Current

Ty Wagner was a pioneer in garage music. Often referred as the Legend of Garage Band Rock-n-Roll. Forty-five years later, Ty was driving his car in Everett, Washington when he heard his hit No Count playing on the local radio station. To this day, his song is still played throughout Europe and covered by many artists internationally. His love of rockabilly began in the early 1960s, when he fronted his band.