Nick-named: the Shads and formed in London (UK), The Shadows are the most successful British rock-instrumental and vocal group from the 1950s to the 2000s with an aggregate total of at least 69 UK hit singles: 35 alone and 34 with Cliff Richard. Their very existence paved the way for the super-group concept (qv Led Zeppelin) as they were the UK's first super-group some 5 years ahead of The Beatles launching many 1,000s of similar guitar based groups in the wake of their 'Apache' hit single. Their eponymous named debut original studio album, The Shadows (album), remains a benchmark rock-instrumental album of 'classic' status proportions. Their unique guitar sound being produced by American guitars made by Fender in conjunction with British amplifiers made by Vox with an Italian made SFX Meazzi echo unit.
Selling many millions of records worldwide, no other rock-group in 20thC music has generated so many polarized opinions on the merits surrounding their type of music being consistently appreciated by instrumental-fans, guitar enthusiasts and musicians, both professional and amateur. In the 21stC they continue to enjoy the dedicated patronage of a.