DJ Vern’s Cherry Drops Welcomed into Hall of Fame at Flagler Beach
Indie-rock veteran Vern Shank recently had a busy day at Flagler Beach when he brought his longtime friend, actor Robert Romanus, to star in the music video for the Cherry Drops’ latest track, “I Dedicate This Song to You.” Romanus, known for his role as Mike Damone in “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” and a plethora of other film and TV credits, will be channeling his iconic character for the video shoot at the Flagler Pier.
Shank, who founded the Cherry Drops in 2012 and is a multifaceted artist with a background in the ’80s Los Angeles music scene, is thrilled to have Romanus on board for the project. Their friendship goes way back, and Romanus is excited to be part of the Cherry Drops’ creative vision.
The video for “I Dedicate This Song to You” will feature a storyline, a signature element of Cherry Drops productions. Shank, who is also a radio deejay and the producer of Flagler Beach’s First Fridays, promises an engaging narrative for the video shoot at the Flagler Pier. The video will showcase Romanus as he arrives at the radio station, adding a playful nod to his famous role as a ticket scalper in “Fast Times at Ridgemont High.”
The Cherry Drops’ music is a fusion of retro influences, drawing inspiration from ’60s rock, bubblegum pop, and ’70s power pop. Shank and his bandmates have carved out their niche in the music industry and garnered recognition, including being inducted into the California Music Hall of Fame in 2024. Their unique sound pays homage to iconic acts like the Beach Boys, the Archies, the Beatles, and more, making them a standout group in the indie-rock scene.
Beyond music, Shank has a colorful backstory that includes cameo appearances in movies and a stint living in his car behind a famous comedy club. His journey from Pennsylvania to LA and eventually settling in Florida has been filled with serendipitous moments, leading to meaningful connections and collaborations with music legends. Through his Pyramid Productions company, Shank continues to push boundaries and explore new creative avenues while staying true to his passion for music and entertainment.
As the Cherry Drops gear up for their latest music video endeavor with Romanus in tow, fans can expect a nostalgic trip down memory lane with a modern twist. The collaboration between Shank and Romanus is a testament to their enduring friendship and shared love for creating art that resonates with audiences. Whether it’s on stage performing rock ‘n’ roll or behind the scenes producing captivating visuals, Shank and the Cherry Drops are making waves in the music industry and beyond.