- In the months before Jan Berry's accident, the duo formed their own label (J&D Records, to be distributed by Columbia Records). To meet their contractual obligations, Torrence recorded the concept album "Save For A Rainy Day" (featuring all rain-themed songs) while Berry recovered in the hospital, imitating Berry's voice the best he could, and posing with Berry's brother Ken for the (longshot) cover photos. Two singles were issued on the J&D label, but as months went by and Jan wasn't able to return to recording, Columbia quietly let the distribution deal go. The second single, "Like A Summer Rain", was re-recorded by both Jan and Dean later at Mike Love's request, while the album was released by Sundazed Records in the late 1990s, to critical acclaim.
- Walked out of a recording session with Jan in 1965 during an argument, and learned The Beach Boys were working on their "Beach Boys' Party" album at the same studios, so he joined their session. When the Beach Boys were stuck for another song to record, he suggested The Regents' "Barbara Ann" - which became the hit single from the album. ("Thanks, Dean" can be heard in the fadeout.)
- In 1965, he was about to play the leading role in a movie called Easy Come, Easy Go (1967) with Jan Berry. Due to a car accident during shooting, in which Berry suffered severe brain injury, the film was canceled. For Mel Brooks, who also should have starred in the movie, this would have been his on-screen debut. On the casting list was also British comedy star Terry-Thomas.
- Started his own company, Kitty Hawk Graphics, in the years after Berry's accident, to design album covers, including reissues of Jan and Dean's hits, and artists like Harry Nilsson; the work became a successful second career for Torrence.
- Dean of 60s music duo Jan & Dean.
- Friend of Barry Keenan.
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