Billy J. Kramer and The Dakotas

Billy J. Kramer and The Dakotas were a British band. The band was formed when singer William Ashton (aka Billy J. Kramer) was discovered by Brian Epstein and paired with the Manchester-based group The Dakotas. William's performing surname, Kramer, was chosen at random from a telephone directory. John Lennon suggested adding the "J" for a "tougher edge". Billy J. Kramer split from the group in 1966 to pursue a solo career. The Dakotas continue to perform without Kramer.