Marsha and the Knights were a mid-sixties band featuring lead singer Martha backed by guitarist David Randle, bassist Pat Fitzpatrick, drummer Rick Cutler, Nomads sax player Steve Kilajanski, and a keyboardist, a position manned at various times by either Tom Shea or Jeff Chadwick.

Marsha went on to front Marsha and the Esquires, a dance band known for their extensive list of cover tunes. They were managed by future mayor Roger Hedgecock, who frequently got them bookings at dances through promoter James Pagni, San Diego’s major concert promoter since 1961. The band opened the Doors twice in 1967: 7-8-67 at Balboa Bowl and 11-4-67 at Community Concourse, as well as opening for Jefferson Airplane 9-1-67 at the Convention Center. The Esquires later tried to join the psychedelic rock scene with a new name, the Marshmellow Rug. They were listed on the bill when the Jimi Hendrix Experience performed at Balboa Stadium on September 3, 1968, though it appears they didn't perform that day.

Knights drummer Rick Cutler signed with Electra Records and played with Jerry McCann in Show of Hands. Bassist Pat Fitzpatrick played with Sandi & the Classics and later played classical upright bass with a La Jolla chamber orchestra. Saxophonist Steve Kilijanski went on to become a pilot. Guitarist David Randle played in the Impalas, and then the Brain Police.