Risque: The Pioneers of New Zealand Funk and Disco

Risque is a foundational New Zealand funk and disco band that emerged from Auckland in the late 1970s. The group achieved significant commercial success at home, with their debut album becoming one of the highest-selling local releases of its era and producing a string of chart-topping singles.

Early career

Formed in 1978, Risque was built around the core songwriting partnership of drummer John "J.J." Stanley and bassist Tony "Tone" Williams. Drawing inspiration from American funk and the burgeoning disco scene, the band quickly developed a tight, dance-floor-ready sound that stood out in the New Zealand music landscape, which was then dominated by rock and pub bands.

Breakthrough

The band's breakthrough arrived in 1979 with their self-titled debut album, Risque, released on the independent label, Ode Records. The album was a massive domestic hit, achieving Double Platinum certification in New Zealand and spending months on the charts, fueled by its infectious lead singles.

Key tracks

Everything's Gonna Be Alright — This uplifting disco anthem served as the band's debut single and became an instant radio staple, setting the stage for their success.

Love Is In The Air — A smooth, soulful track that showcased the band's versatility beyond the dance floor and received heavy rotation on New Zealand radio.

All That Jazz — This funky instrumental highlighted the group's exceptional musicianship and became a favorite for its complex grooves and horn arrangements.

Do It For Love — Another major single from their debut, this song further cemented Risque's reputation for crafting polished, radio-friendly funk with universal appeal.

The success of their first album led to extensive touring and a swift follow-up. Their second album, Risque Band No. 2, released in 1980, continued their chart presence with singles like "Let's Get It On" and "You." While the early 1980s saw shifting musical trends, the band continued to record and perform, leaving an indelible mark on the New Zealand music industry as pioneers who brought a sophisticated funk and disco sound to the forefront.

For fans of Risque's brand of polished, dance-oriented funk, several other artists from the region explored similar territory. Hello Sailor shared the same era and a commitment to sharp, original songwriting, though with a rock backbone. The Knobz were New Zealand contemporaries who also mastered the art of the catchy, radio-friendly pop-rock hook. Dragon achieved massive Australasian success with their own blend of rock and sleek, keyboard-driven pop. Th' Dudes were another iconic New Zealand group from the same period, known for their clever lyrics and well-crafted pop-rock tunes.

The music of Risque maintains a cherished place on radio playlists dedicated to classic hits and retro sounds. Their timeless funk grooves are regularly featured on classic hits FM stations, dedicated 70s and 80s online radio streams, and specialty shows focusing on dance music history across New Zealand and beyond.

Listeners can discover the infectious sound of Risque on radio stations featured on our website. You can hear their classic tracks by tuning into the various classic hits and retro music stations available on onairium.com.