Takes 3: The Dynamic Force in Modern Funk & Soul

Takes 3 is a vibrant Australian funk and soul trio known for their electrifying live shows and contemporary take on classic grooves. Hailing from Melbourne, the group achieved significant commercial success with their 2021 debut album, which charted strongly on the ARIA Albums Chart and spawned several certified gold singles.

Early career

The band officially formed in 2017, though its members—vocalist and bassist Grace Shaw, guitarist Leo Chen, and drummer Marcus Holt—had been collaborating in Melbourne's underground soul scene for years prior. Their early self-released EPs, "First Take" (2018) and "Three's a Groove" (2019), developed a loyal local following through relentless touring and a reputation for explosive festival sets.

Breakthrough

Takes 3's major breakthrough arrived in 2020 with the release of their single "Electric Pulse." The track became a viral streaming hit, leading to a signing with major label Warner Music Australia later that year. This momentum propelled their debut album, "The Connection," to a number 12 debut on the ARIA chart in 2021, with the album eventually earning a gold certification.

Key tracks

Electric Pulse — This breakthrough single defined their modern funk sound and achieved gold status in Australia.

Golden Hour — A soulful ballad that showcased Shaw's vocal range and became a staple of Australian radio rotation.

Get It Right — Featuring a guest verse from rapper Koi Boy, this track highlighted the band's versatility and crossover appeal.

The Connection — The title track from their debut album is a fan-favorite live anthem built on a powerhouse rhythm section.

On the Line — This later single marked a grittier, more rock-inflected direction while maintaining their core groove.

The success of "The Connection" led to coveted support slots for international acts like Hiatus Kaiyote and Tom Misch on their Australian tours. Their sophomore album, "Momentum" (2023), debuted inside the ARIA Top 20 and featured collaborations with producers like M-Phazes, further cementing their status as leaders in the local scene.

Fans of Takes 3's energetic blend of funk and soul should also explore the work of similar Australian artists. Koi Boy shares a similar foundation in groove-oriented music with strong hip-hop influences. Hiatus Kaiyote offers a more experimental and jazz-inflected take on modern soul music. The Budos Band delivers a raw, instrumental approach to funk with a heavy afrobeat influence. 30/70 represents the vibrant Melbourne jazz and soul scene with a focus on improvisation and rhythm.

The music of Takes 3 maintains a strong presence on radio, particularly across Australian community radio stations, dedicated funk and soul online streams, and contemporary alternative radio formats that champion homegrown talent.

Listeners can discover the dynamic sound of Takes 3 by tuning into the funk and soul radio stations featured on our website. Their certified gold hits and album tracks are regularly in rotation on the curated stations available at onairium.com.