The Brand New Heavies are one of the most influential British bands to emerge from the acid jazz movement, blending funk, soul, jazz and R&B into a sound that has captivated audiences worldwide for four decades. Formed in Ealing, London, in 1985 by Simon Bartholomew, Andrew Levy and Jan Kincaid, the group became pioneers of the acid jazz genre and achieved international success with timeless hits including 'Dream Come True', 'Never Stop', 'Dream on Dreamer', 'Midnight at the Oasis', and 'You Are the Universe'. Renowned for their exceptional musicianship and world-class live performances, The Brand New Heavies are regularly hired for festivals, corporate events and exclusive private functions, where they continue to deliver an unforgettable live experience.
Originally formed as an instrumental group, The Brand New Heavies released their self-titled debut album in 1990 before welcoming American vocalist N'Dea Davenport later that year, a move that propelled the band into the mainstream. The reissued debut album introduced audiences to their distinctive fusion of funk and soul, while subsequent releases, including Heavy Rhyme Experience: Vol. 1, Brother Sister and Shelter, established them as one of Britain's leading soul acts throughout the 1990s. Their collaborations with acclaimed vocalists including Carleen Anderson, Siedah Garrett and N'Dea Davenport helped shape the band's evolving sound, while their influence extended far beyond the UK, inspiring a generation of musicians and producers.
Across an outstanding career, The Brand New Heavies have released 11 studio albums, achieved platinum-certified success and toured extensively around the world. Their landmark album Brother Sister remains their most commercially successful release, while recent anniversary editions and international tours have introduced their music to new audiences. The band continue to perform sold-out shows across the UK, Europe and Japan, including a celebrated 30th anniversary tour for Brother Sister and a sold-out performance at the Royal Albert Hall backed by the London Concert Orchestra in 2025.
The Brand New Heavies are celebrated for their vibrant live performances, combining timeless hits with virtuoso musicianship and infectious energy. Their music has been championed by legendary artists including Prince, Stevie Wonder and Mark Ronson, while their songs have been sampled and covered by artists across multiple genres. Whether appearing at major jazz, soul and funk festivals, prestigious venues or exclusive corporate events, they continue to deliver an uplifting show that appeals to audiences of every generation, making them one of Britain's most enduring live music acts.
- 2025 – Performed a sold-out concert at the Royal Albert Hall with the London Concert Orchestra to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Brother Sister.
- 2025 – Completed the 'Brother Sister 30' UK and European anniversary tour.
- 2019 – Released their eleventh studio album, TBNH, produced with long-time admirer Mark Ronson.
- 2014 – Released Sweet Freaks, introducing vocalist Dawn Joseph as the band's lead singer.
- 2013 – Reunited with original vocalist N'Dea Davenport for the studio album Forward.
- 2006 – Released Get Used to It, marking the return of N'Dea Davenport as lead vocalist.
- 1999 – Released Trunk Funk – The Best of The Brand New Heavies, their first greatest hits compilation.
- 1997 – Shelter achieved Platinum certification in the UK.
- 1997 – Released Shelter, their fourth studio album.
- 1994 – Brother Sister reached No. 4 on the UK Albums Chart and became the band's biggest-selling album.
- 1994 – 'Dream on Dreamer' became one of the band's signature hits, reaching the UK Top 20.
- 1992 – Released Heavy Rhyme Experience: Vol. 1, collaborating with leading American hip-hop artists.
- 1991 – Reissued their debut album with newly recorded vocals from N'Dea Davenport, launching the band's mainstream success.
- 1990 – Released their self-titled debut album and welcomed N'Dea Davenport to the line-up.
- 1985 – Formed in Ealing, London, by Simon Bartholomew, Andrew Levy and Jan Kincaid, helping pioneer the British acid jazz movement.
How to hire The Brand New Heavies
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring The Brand New Heavies for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
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