They were born in Cambusnethan, near Wishaw. Their father, Jimmy worked in the local steel works and was the driving force behind the family. Their musical talents came from Mum, Helen who sang and played the piano.
Tom started to learn the accordion at the age of 9 and in 1952 won the Classical Open Solo at the N.A.O Championships in Glasgow. Jack started piano studies when 11 and within 6 years had several diplomas to his name.

On leaving school the 'BOYS', as they were affectionately known, gained valuable experience in front of live audiences by entering talent contests al over central Scotland. They went on to win every contest they entered, from 1950 - 1956, at which time Jack did his National Service.
In 1958 they decided to turn professional and soon developed a repertoire of Scottish material. In 1962 came a major break. Songwriter Tony Hatch heard them and took them down to London to record their first Album "HIGHLAND FLING", on the PYE Label which was a massive seller. In 1964 they recorded "NOBODY'S CHILD" as a single, it was an instant hit. The critics noted that the "BOYS" were outselling the Beatles in Scotland!
Tom and Jack went on to record over 30 albums and countless singles for PYE and RCA. Offers from Radio and T.V came flooding in. They co-starred with Shirley Bassey in 1967 on the famous 'LONDON PALLADIUM SHOW' and hosted their own show on STV which topped the ratings for many years.

Around this time they made their first trip to Canada and the States with Andy Stewart, playing all the major venues. They have been back every year since. Next they went to Australia and New Zealand. In Sydney they starred in their own show at the 'SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE' with guest Jimmy Shand, an enormous success, a highlight of an incredible career.