[1] The Preachers soon became a popular attraction within venues in Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley, particularly in a long-running stint at a teen dance club called Herman Hovers.

It was during this time the group opened for prominent musical acts such as the Byrds, the Seeds, and the Leaves, and attracted the attention of manager Jerry Fonarow.

", which music historian Tony Viscounti described as "jettisoning the (very little) subtlety and nuance of Diddley's original, the Preachers produced harmonies that sounded like they were clearing their throats, a surf-guitar break, and an effect as though keyboard player Rudy Garza was bashing his instrument while wearing boxing gloves".

[3] The band performed the song on the television program, Shivaree, showcasing Fortunato's over-the-top vocals and the group's priest-like outfits.

In late 1965, the band returned to their raw, punk sound, and christened themselves John English and the Lemon Drops for their final release, "Moanin'".