The Valentines

A trio of songbirds from Vancouver, B.C., Miki Shannon, Irene Butler, and Jay Findlay experienced a short fling with popularity in the wintertime of 1960/61 when the A-side of their novelty 45, “The Sock” b/w “Sixteen Senoritas” (Iona 1003) strike #3 in the neighborhood strike parade. Improbably, this daffy ditty regarding Elvis Presley’s hosiery was authored by milkman Al Parker, composing beneath the pseudonym “Sipson P. Kloop.” The tune’s achievement prompted its nationwide launch (in Canada) around the Sparton label. Performing back-up, the Valentines experienced previously lent their voices to Les Vogt’s strike solitary “The Blamers” b/w “Moon Rocketin'” (Iona 1001, July 1960). Later on marrying and divorcing Vogt, Butler continued to achievement as a nation and western vocalist. “The Sock” is usually featured on the annals Of Vancouver Rock and roll, Quantity 1 (Vancouver Record Enthusiasts’ Association VRCA 003, 1987).