Amazulu

This predominantly female ska band earned themselves a string of UK hit singles in the mid-80s. The band comprised Annie Ruddock (b. Ann-Marie Teresa Antoinette Ruddock, 2 July 1961; lead vocals), Claire Kenny (bass), Lesley Beach (b. 30 September 1954; saxophone), Sharon Bailey (b. 22 November 1957; percussion) and Margo Sagov (guitar), plus the lone male of the group, Nardo Bailey (drums).

They made their initial impact on the lower regions of the UK single charts with "Cairo", but achieved greater success in July 1985 with "Excitable", which reached the UK Top 20. This success was followed by other hits, including; "Don't You Just Know It", "Too Good To Be Forgotten" (number 5) and "Montego Bay". Their album was released on Island Records in 1986. After an acrimonious break-up, Ruddock, Sharon Bailey and Beach briefly played on as Amazulu II. Claire Kenny later joined the initial line-up of Coming Up Roses and subsequently became a session player for Shakespears Sister and Sinéad O'Connor.

Discography:

Album
1986 Amazulu