Lost 70’s Psych Treasure Finds New Life in The Westies

Four people in business and police attire stand in front of tall buildings; graffiti above them reads "F*ck Those Guys." Channeling a 70’s Psych vibe, the text below announces "The Westies, MGM+ Original Series.
A white album cover with the word "Eric" in stylized black letters centered, evoking a touch of 70’s Psych artistry, and "CEH RECORDS" and "STEREO" printed in small font at the top corners—an understated nod to lost treasure classics from bands like The Westies.

A lost 1970s biracial psych band from Ohio has found its way into the series premiere of the AMC+ crime drama, “The Westies.” Formed in 1970, the band ERIC quickly gained traction locally with its 1971 self-titled LP. The group was led by Willie Creagh (who later changed his moniker to Willie Phoenix) on vocals and lead guitar, alongside Melvin McGary (piano, organ, vocals), James Cummings (bass), and Paul McKinnis (drums). 

ERIC soon caught the attention of CEI Records. CEI brought in producer Tom Terry to record the band’s debut full-length LP at the label’s Fremont, Ohio, studios. Their distinctive psych sound then caught the attention of Capitol Records, which planned to record two songs and send ERIC to England to support the single. Sadly, the deal fell through. 

Decades later, the band’s moody, organ-laden psych track “Waiting” has been resurrected in “The Westies” premiere. Willie went on to sign with A&M Records in the early 1980s and forge an impressive career. Fervor Records proudly preserves ERIC’s sole album, allowing “Waiting” to resonate with a brand new generation of fans.