Orleans

Orleans was formed in 1972 in Woodstock, New York, by John Hall, Larry Hoppen, and Wells Kelly. In 1972, Larry’s younger brother, Lance Hoppen, joined on bass, followed by drummer Jerry Marotta in 1976. The band gained recognition for their blend of pop rock and soft rock, drawing inspiration from Louisiana artists. Their early career involved extensive touring of clubs and colleges in the Northeastern United States, where they built a strong following. After signing with ABC Dunhill Records, they released their self-titled debut album in 1973. Despite an initial European release of their second album, ABC declined a US release until later, leading to a new contract with Asylum Records. In 1975, their third album, “Let There Be Music,” produced their first Billboard Hot 100 charting single, “Let There Be Music” (No. 55). The same year, “Dance With Me” reached No. 6 on the pop charts, establishing Orleans in mainstream American pop. The success continued with “Still the One” reaching No. 5 in 1976 and becoming the theme song for ABC television. In 1979, “Love Takes Time” peaked at No. 11. Over their career, these three hits have collectively accumulated over 10 million airings.

Following internal discussions, guitarist and songwriter John Hall departed in June 1977 to pursue a solo career, and Jerry Marotta subsequently joined Hall & Oates. The Hoppen brothers and Kelly continued, bringing in Robert Martin and Bob Leinbach. This new lineup signed with Infinity Records, releasing “Forever” in April 1979, which featured the hit “Love Takes Time.” In the early 1980s, Infinity Records faced bankruptcy, and Orleans continued to record with MCA Records and Radio Records, though these labels also experienced financial difficulties, impacting the band’s visibility. Larry and Lance Hoppen also formed a side project, Mood Ring, during this period. In 1984, original drummer Wells Kelly passed away, prompting a reunion of John Hall, Larry Hoppen, and Lance Hoppen for a memorial and subsequent album, “Grown Up Children,” released in 1986. The band continued to tour and release albums like “Analog Men” (1994) for the Japanese market and “Ride” (1996) through an independent label.

In the 2000s, members pursued individual projects, but Orleans reunited for performances in 2001. John Hall was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006, leading to Dennis “Fly” Amero filling his guitar role. The band released live DVD/CDs like “We’re Still Havin’ Fun” (2007) and the studio album “Dancin’ in the Moonlight” (2005). In 2012, co-founder Larry Hoppen passed away. John Hall returned to the live lineup to help finish scheduled shows. The band continued touring, including as part of the “Sail Rock Tour” in 2013, and released the compilation “No More Than You Can Handle: A 40 Year Musical Journey.” John Hall announced his retirement from performing in 2019, though he returned briefly before the COVID-19 pandemic. Orleans released a holiday album, “New Star Shining,” in 2021. Today, Lance Hoppen is the only original member still active, performing with Lane Hoppen, Brady Spencer, Tom Lane, and Tony Hooper, maintaining a consistent touring schedule and discography across 17+ albums and 4 DVDs.