Originally from Bridgeport, Conn., Richard Delvy moved to California at 20 years old where he became the drummer for the Bel-Airs, one of the earliest surf-rock groups. The band had a regional hit in 1962 with the instrumental Mr. Moto, which was covered by acts such as Dick Dale and His Del-Tones.

While it never hit on the national charts - just a year or two ahead of its time - it was a big regional single and a pivotal moment in the history of surf music; not a bad accomplishment for five kids just out of high school.

But Richard Delvy soon moved on, forming the Challengers in 1963 and producing that outfit\'s debutalbum \'Surfbeat\' during that same year.

In the late \'60s, Richard Delvy kept busy producing albums. He also contributed music to cartoons of the \'60s and \'70s and maintained executive posts at MGM Music, Carousel Records and Bell Records.

Richard Delvy is survived by his wife, Bonnie, a son, two stepchildren and a granddaughter.