Ruby and the Romantics: Where Are They Now?

The band Ruby and the Romantics, known for their iconic hit "Our Day Will Come," enjoyed a brief but memorable reign in the music industry. This article delves into the circumstances that led to their decline and explores the trajectories of individual band members post-disbandment.

The Rise and Fall of Ruby and the Romantics

Origins and Early Success:

Ruby and the Romantics emerged from the New Jersey music scene in the late 1960s. The band consisted of vocalist and guitarist Michael J. Malone, guitarist Frank Infante, bassist Pete Rivera, and drummer Jimmy Marinos.

Their breakout single, "Our Day Will Come," released in 1969, became an instant classic. The song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and sold over 2 million copies.

Internal Divisions and External Pressures:

The band's success was unfortunately marred by internal conflicts. Tensions between Malone and Infante led to Malone's departure in 1970. Marinos and Rivera soon followed, leaving Infante to form a new lineup.

Infante's subsequent albums failed to replicate the success of the original group. The band struggled with record label issues and a changing music landscape.

Disbandment and Legacy:

In 1975, Ruby and the Romantics officially disbanded. Their legacy, however, remains intact. "Our Day Will Come" continues to be a beloved classic, and the band's influence can be heard in subsequent generations of power pop bands.

The Solo Careers of Band Members

Michael J. Malone:

After leaving Ruby and the Romantics, Malone pursued a solo career. He released several albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, with moderate success. Malone also collaborated with other artists, including Daryl Hall and John Oates.

Frank Infante:

Infante continued to lead various incarnations of Ruby and the Romantics until his death in 2022. He also pursued acting and songwriting, contributing to films such as "The Warriors" and "Eddie and the Cruisers."

Pete Rivera:

Rivera played with several bands after leaving Ruby and the Romantics. He later became a successful songwriter and producer, working with artists such as Bruce Springsteen and Bon Jovi.

Jimmy Marinos:

Marinos has remained largely out of the public eye since leaving Ruby and the Romantics. However, he has occasionally performed with reunion bands and guest appearances.

Strategies for Longevity in the Music Industry

Based on the experiences of Ruby and the Romantics, several strategies can enhance longevity in the music industry:

• Maintain Internal Harmony: Avoid internal conflicts that can lead to disbandment. Foster a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Adapt to Changing Trends: Embrace new musical styles and technologies to remain relevant with evolving audiences.
• Build a Strong Fan Base: Engage with fans through social media, live performances, and merchandise.
• Collaborate with Others: Collaborate with other artists and producers to diversify your sound and broaden your reach.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Be Persistent: Success in music often requires persistence and determination. Practice regularly and never give up on your dreams.
• Be Original: Stand out by creating unique and memorable music that sets you apart from others.
• Be Professional: Maintain a professional demeanor, be on time for appointments, and respect others in the industry.
• Network: Attend industry events and connect with other musicians, producers, and labels.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Egotism: Let your music do the talking, not your ego. Avoid putting yourself above the band or treating others with disrespect.
• Lack of Discipline: Prioritize practice, song writing, and performance to improve your skills and create high-quality music.
• Burning Bridges: Treat everyone you work with fairly and avoid making enemies. Remember that the music industry is a small world.
• Giving Up Too Soon: Success in music takes time and effort. Don't give up if you don't achieve overnight fame.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Michael J. Malone leave Ruby and the Romantics?

A: Malone left due to internal conflicts with Frank Infante.

Q: What became of Pete Rivera after the band disbanded?

A: Rivera became a successful songwriter and producer, working with notable artists such as Bruce Springsteen.

Q: Is "Our Day Will Come" still popular today?

A: Yes, "Our Day Will Come" remains a beloved classic and is still played on the radio and used in films and TV shows.

Q: Did Frank Infante continue to make music after Ruby and the Romantics disbanded?

A: Yes, Infante continued to lead various incarnations of the band and pursue other musical projects until his death in 2022.

Q: What is the key to longevity in the music industry?

A: Key strategies include maintaining internal harmony, adapting to changing trends, building a strong fan base, and collaborating with others.

Q: What are some common mistakes musicians should avoid?

A: Common mistakes include egotism, lack of discipline, burning bridges, and giving up too soon.

Conclusion

The story of Ruby and the Romantics serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in music. While their success was short-lived, their iconic hit "Our Day Will Come" continues to inspire countless musicians and fans. By understanding the factors that contributed to their rise and fall, aspiring musicians can learn from their mistakes and develop strategies for long-term success in the industry.

Additional Resources

• The Official Michael J. Malone Website
• Frank Infante's IMDb Page
• Pete Rivera's Discogs Page

Tables

Table 1: Ruby and the Romantics Lineup Changes

Table 2: Ruby and the Romantics Album Sales

Table 3: Ruby and the Romantics Chart Performance