Mr. Opporknockity

By Tom Irwin

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Mr. Opporknockity

It seems just like yesteryear! In 1997, Troy Roark and Doug Gholson broke on the scene as Mr. Opporknockity with “Lisa’s Shirt,” a bona fide, local hit song on WDBR-FM from the acoustic guitar-powered, high-energy vocal duo. The addition of Mark Sanders on drums and Tom Irwin on bass put them in the band category with a full-length CD release and lots of rockin’ shows. Soon Chris Camp joined the fray on harmonica, vocals and percussion. After Steve Myers became the full-time bassist, Mr. O was set to go. After winning Illinois Times’ “ Best of Springfield” rock band and original music categories for several years in a row, the group released a couple CDs, played to packed houses around the Midwest, opened for Journey at the Illinois State Fair Grandstand, were guests on NPR’s “Whad’Ya Know” program live at WUIS, and then quietly disbanded, except for occasional reunion shows. Guitar hero Michael Sullivan, who played some on the CDs, will join the band at the reunion. Congrats, guys, on 20 years in the biz.

Mr. Opporknockity
20th Anniversary Show
Saturday, July 8, 6pm
The Curve Inn

About The Author

Tom Irwin

Email Tom Irwin

Tom Irwin, a sixth-generation Sangamon County resident, has played his songs and music for nearly 40 years in the central Illinois area with occasional forays across the country. He's contributed to Illinois Times since 2000 by writing Now Playing, a weekly music column, as well as features stories and other articles...

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