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Initially known as Brother International, the band began as an instrumental acid-jazz group in 1985, changing their name to Brand New Heavies after gaining their first record contract. The band were quick to gain a cult following, finding many fans in the burgeoning London club scene. Initially formed of Jan Kincaid (drums/keyboards), Simon Bartholomew (guitars) and Andrew Levy (bass/keyboards), the band soon added a brass section as well as vocalist Jay Ella Ruth.
The band signed with indie label, Acid Jazz, for their self-titled debut album, which garnered widespread critical acclaim upon its release. The band also gained a US distribution deal with Delicious Vinyl, with whom they re-recorded their debut for a US release. Jay Ella Ruth also left the group at this time, with N’dea Davenport brought in instead. Brand New Heavies found hits in the UK with “Dream Come True” and “Stay This Way,” but it was with “Never Stop” that the Heavies broke the US market, becoming the first group to break into the American R&B Chart since Soul II Soul’s success.
After collaborating with Q-Tip and MC Sech, the Brand New Heavies were inspired to incorporate more hip hop influences into their music, evident in their next album, “Heavy Rhyme Experience, Vol. 1.” The album brought in Main Source, Gang Starr, Grand Puba and The Pharcyde to feature on the 1992 recording, which peaked at 38 in the UK and 139 in the US.
Success continued for the Heavies with 1994’s “Brother Sister,” which went Platinum in the UK. Davenport left the group to pursue a solo career, with singer Siedah Garrett taking over vocal responsibilities, with her first feature with the band being on 1997’s “Shelter.”
After two successful greatest hits albums, released on both sides of the atlantic, Davenport decided to reunite with the group, joining them early in 2006. “Get Used To It” arrived a year later, after which they embarked on an extensive tour across the UK and Europe. The band returned to their instrumental roots with 2011’s “Dunk Your Trunk,” before once again uniting with N’Dea Davenport, as well as new vocalist Dawn Joseph, for 2013’s “Forward.” Joseph became the group’s sole vocalist on their 2014 release, “Sweet Freaks,” their first for Earmusic.
Went to see Nile Rodgers and Chic at Iveagh Gardens on 9th July 2015, and was once again blown away by the performance by one of the greatest live acts in the world. Nile treats his concerts as s very personal thing and acknowledges the effort of concert goers and shares his love with us all.
A polished performance from only the best musicians and top quality vocalists. Even they, Kimberly and Folami, give it so much, that it's difficult to imagine that they're doing this day in, day out. Their honey coated vocals accompanied by their beaming smiles, makes everyone feel this concert is especially for them.
Nile is a legend, and doesn't spare himself. Everybody was dance dance dancing, everybody was there, no sign of stage fright and truly deserving of a sell out. Even though he could sell out arenas, I'd encourage anyone to get to see Nile Rodgers and Chic at one of these smaller 3 to 5000 capacity venues to experience the intimate nature of the gig and get to feel connected with someone who lived the 70's New York life, and all that goes with it.
studi054
I have to say that the Brand New Heavies do not produce my favorite style of music but I gave it a chance when a friend gave me some tickets. The venue that the gig was held in was awesome and I really enjoyed some of the new music I never heard before. I can only say one word from my experience and that it was awesome.
Some of the highlights for me were Jan Kincaid's lead vocals on their track Heaven and Dawn Joseph on their song Sometimes. What I came to learn as well is that this band are performers and they give a great performance for the money paid to buy the ticket. I went home after the gig and went and gave a listen to more of their songs and everything I really enjoyed a lot.
Go check them out because it will be one of the best experiences of your life. I would say if you have never heard of the band give them a listen before buying a ticket because their style of music is not for everyone. If you do end up liking their music go see a show when they come to a town near you because you will not be disappointed one bit.
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