Shakatak

About

Shakataks unique fusion of jazz-funk and pop made them one of the most influential bands of the 80s. From dancefloors to airwaves, their music became a soundtrack to the decade, with hits like "Down On The Street", "Night Birds", "Dark Is The Night" and "Easier Said Than Done" still instantly recognizable today. Despite over four decades in the spotlight, Shakataks sound remains as fresh as ever, thanks to their signature blend of smooth vocals, tight rhythms and soulful keyboard melodies. Their live shows are a masterclass in musicianship, overflowing with the same effervescent energy that first brought them fame.

Throughout their long career Shakatak have released over 50 CDs plus several DVDs and most of the band's extensive back catalogue is available world-wide on Spotify and the usual outlets. For live performances the band consists of original members Bill Sharpe (keys), Jill Saward (lead voc, perc & flt), Roger Odell (drs), George Anderson (bs gtr) and Keith Winter (gtr) augmented with Jacqui Hicks (bvs & sax) or Debby Bracknell (bvs & flt) producing a musically dynamic and entertaining show from the 6 piece line-up.

Shakatak have enjoyed a level of success and career longevity rarely paralleled in contemporary music but then Shakatak is a particularly unusual group. Because of the nature of their music their fan base is one that is far reaching while always retaining an underground element. This paradox sees the band, who are known primarily for their musicality, enjoying both high cult status and instant recognition as a household name due to their numerous hit recordings.

Taking only the last decade of a 40 year plus career the band performed at the Cape Town International Jazz festival and they headlined at the Swansea Jazz Festival. After their annual trip to Japan the band played several dates in Mexico and in August Shakatak performed in Jersey for the first time. In September they returned to Germany and Holland for a two week tour and further concerts in Budapest, Kosice and Minsk plus UK dates finish off a busy 2014.

Having had a few years to tour the world and get new ideas the band recorded a new album through 2022 and 2023. After a 4 year wait the new Shakatak album Eyes of the World was released at the end of October 2023. Featuring 14 new songs it was received with great critical acclaim and appeared in several charts around the world.

2026 continues to see the band tour worldwide taking in Africa, Indonesia, Germany, Holland, France and of course an extensive tour schedule for the UK. So life is good for the Shaks!