Brand New Heavies: The Pioneers of Acid Jazz and Funk

The Brand New Heavies are a British band celebrated as foundational architects of the acid jazz and funk revival. Originating from London, the group achieved significant commercial success in the 1990s, with their self-titled album reaching the UK Top 20 and earning a gold certification.

Early career

The band formed in 1985 in Ealing, London, initially as an instrumental funk trio. Their early demos caught the attention of the iconic Acid Jazz record label, which released their debut single, "Got to Give," in 1989.

Breakthrough

The Brand New Heavies' breakthrough arrived in 1991 with their self-titled major label debut on FFRR Records. The album, a reworking of their earlier Acid Jazz release, spawned the hit Never Stop and propelled them to mainstream recognition, peaking at number 13 on the UK Albums Chart.

Key tracks

Never Stop — This 1991 single became their signature anthem, defining the classic Heavies sound and achieving major chart success.

Dream On Dreamer — A key track from their 1994 album Brother Sister, it showcased their sophisticated songwriting and soulful vocals.

Midnight at the Oasis — Their 1994 cover of the Maria Muldaur song became a major international hit, introducing the band to a wider global audience.

You Are the Universe — Featuring lead singer N'Dea Davenport, this 1997 single highlighted the band's ability to craft lush, soulful ballads.

Sometimes — A standout from their 2006 album Get Used to It, this track reaffirmed their enduring funk credentials.

The band's success was closely tied to vocalists N'Dea Davenport and later Siedah Garrett, who featured on their biggest 90s hits. Their 1994 album Brother Sister solidified their status, reaching the UK Top 10 and yielding several successful singles.

Over a career spanning decades, the Brand New Heavies have released ten studio albums and collaborated with notable artists like The Pharcyde and Q-Tip. Their consistent touring and recordings have maintained their reputation as a premier live funk act.

For fans of the Brand New Heavies' British acid jazz sound, explore similar artists on our site. Jamiroquai shares a foundation in funk and acid jazz with charismatic frontmanship. Incognito offers a parallel journey in the UK jazz-funk scene with intricate musical arrangements. Corinne Bailey Rae carries forward a similar vein of soulful, jazz-inflected pop music.

The music of the Brand New Heavies remains a staple on classic funk, soul, and 90s throwback radio stations featured on our network. Their timeless grooves are regularly featured on dedicated funk channels and general pop rotations, ensuring their sound continues to reach new listeners.

You can hear the classic and contemporary tracks from the Brand New Heavies on radio stations available right here on onairium.com. Tune in to discover their influential catalog and the vibrant acid jazz genre they helped define.