Shakatak is a British jazz-funk band that has been enchanting audiences with their distinctive sound since their formation in 1980. The group was the brainchild of pianist Mike Hooper, who envisioned a band that could blend the intricacies of jazz with the groove and rhythm of funk, creating a fresh and accessible sound that would resonate with both jazz aficionados and the broader pop audience. The lineup initially featured vocalists Joan Vohs and Clare Vickery, whose sultry and harmonious vocals became the band's signature. Over the years, Shakatak has seen a few changes in its personnel, particularly in the vocal department, with Barbara McLean and Sheila Starr bringing their own interpretative flair to the band's extensive catalog of original songs. The band's music is characterized by sophisticated compositions, tight musicianship, and an infectious sense of joy that comes through in every note played and sung. Their discography, which includes over thirty albums, showcases a wide range of influences from bebop to Latin rhythms, all filtered through the group's unique musical lens. Shakatak has been particularly celebrated for their live performances, which have dazzled audiences worldwide, from festivals and clubs to theatre shows with orchestras. With numerous nominations and awards, including those from the British Academy of Composers and Songwriters (BASCA), Shakatak has solidified their reputation as one of the UK's premier contemporary jazz ensembles, continuing to inspire and entertain fans across generations with their timeless fusion of jazz, funk, and soul.