Five Man Electrical Band

The band would inspire the group Tesla to record a live album in the 1980s, Five Man Acoustical Jam, which included a remake of "Signs". One filming location was the roof of the World Trade Center's Twin Towers. Since 1986, they have continued to reunite for several concerts a year. A film version of the musical was released in 1973, set in modern New York, and featuring Victor Garber as Jesus, and Lynne Thigpen in her first film role. The group disbanded in 1972 to pursue solo careers. The presentation of the story is typically not entirely realistic, and productions of the musical often set it in places and times other than the obvious (one notable production was set in a circus). Some members previously recorded and toured under the name The Staccatos. The form of Godspell closely follows the Episcopal communion service, and in the university premiere, all its songs except "By My Side" were from the Episcopal Hymnal.

The group (which may have been a precursor to the sound of the Electric Light Orchestra) consisted of Les Emmerson, Brian Rading, Ted Gerow, Mike Belanger and Rick Belanger. The show was originally produced as a masters thesis project at Carnegie-Mellon University, but Stephen Schwartz added songs for the commercial opening. The Five Man Electrical Band was a rock group from Canada, best known for their 1972 hit "Signs.". Several cast albums have been released over the years; the most well-known song from the musical is "Day By Day" which was a top 10 hit in the summer of 1971. Absolutely Right, 1995 compilation. Following closely on the heels of the similarly-themed Jesus Christ Superstar, it opened off-Broadway on May 15, 1971 and has played in various touring companies and revivals many times since. The Power of the Five Man Electrical Band, 1975 greatest hits compilation. Godspell is a musical based on the Gospel of Saint Matthew with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and book by John Michael Tebelak.

Sweet Paradise, 1972. Coming of Age, 1972. Good-byes and Butterflies, 1970. Five Man Electrical Band, 1969.