The Ventures are an American instrumental rock band formed in 1958 in Tacoma, Washington. Founded by Don Wilson and Bob Bogle, the group in its various incarnations has had an enduring impact on the development of music worldwide. With over 100 million records sold, the group is the best-selling instrumental band of all time. In 2008, the Ventures were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Their instrumental virtuosity, experimentation with guitar effects, and unique sound laid the groundwork for innumerable groups, earning them the moniker "The Band that Launched a Thousand Bands".... While their popularity in the United States waned in the 1970s, the group remains revered in Japan, where they still tour regularly to this day. Don Wilson and Bob Bogle first met in 1958, when Bogle was looking to buy a car from a used car dealership owned by Wilson's father. Finding a common interest in guitars, the two decided to play together, while Wilson joined Bogle performing masonry work. Initially calling themselves The Versatones, the duo played small clubs, beer bars, and private parties throughout the Pacific Northwest. Wilson played rhythm guitar, Bogle lead. George T. Babbitt, Jr.
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| Career began: | 1959 |
| Members: | Nokie Edwards, Don Wilson, Biff Vincent, Gerry McGee, Mel Taylor, Howie Johnson, Bob Bogle, Bob Spalding, Dave Carr, Jonell Calendar, Leisha Soukary, Leon Taylor, John Durrill, Joe Barile |
| Also known as: | The Ventures Hawaii Five, Ventures, Ventures, The |