Count Us In

There’s just something about the music of the ’60s that keeps it fascinating. It was an era when the British Invasion was lighting the States on fire with bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Kinks, heck, even Herman’s Hermits and Gerry and the Pacemakers.

American bands were inspired to keep up with their U.K. counterparts, and that competition spawned an amazing run of singles. One of the biggest from the mid-’60s was “This Diamond Ring,” the first from Gary Lewis and the Playboys (which also shot to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 charts).

It wouldn’t be the last hit for the group, whose frontman is the son of legendary comedian Jerry Lewis. In just a few shorts years they were incredibly prolific, producing classics like “Count Me In,” “Save Your Heart for Me,” “Everybody Loves a Clown,” “She’s Just My Style,” “Sure Gonna Miss Her,” “Green Grass” and many more. It’s hard to imagine they broke up in 1970, given how long their music has endured. But on the strength of that material, the group has enjoyed massive success touring through the years.

They’ll be making a stop at Golden Nugget this week. Whether you were around during their heyday or you just know them from oldies radio, this is a show you won’t want to miss. We practically guarantee you’ll recognize each and every song. How many bands share that bragging right? –Ken

Miller

Golden Nugget, 8 p.m. April 21, starting at $39 plus tax and fee. ticketmaster.com