“Top-notch big band” – Time Out
King Groovy & the Horn Stars was formed in 2005 in Herne Hill by talented local musicians who love big band music, with the desire to perform some of its greatest and most challenging arrangements.
Since then the band has played at a huge variety of venues and events, including jazz clubs, swing dance nights, festivals, pubs, private parties and award ceremonies.
Notable venues include the 100 Club, Pizza Express Jazz Club, Southbank Centre, Toulouse Lautrec, Wilton’s Music Hall, the Apollo Hammersmith, The Ivy House pub and the Rivoli Ballroom.
We play a foot-tapping mix of classic swing, jazz, Latin, pop and funk, plus original music by band members – all performed with infectious energy, feeling and style.
Line-up
The band plays in the traditional big band line-up of four trumpets, four trombones, five saxophones, piano, bass and drums. We also work with several brilliant vocalists.
Repertoire
Our music ranges from the 1930s to the present day, and includes numbers by Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Benny Goodman, Buddy Rich, Charles Mingus, Herbie Hancock, Quincy Jones, Peggy Lee, Burt Bacharach, Frank Sinatra, Amy Winehouse and many more – have a listen to our Recordings!
We are always searching and love to find charts that other bands don’t play. Also, we are proud to give a platform to exciting new music by band members.
See us
Check our Events page for any upcoming public performances. These are largely within the London area. Some events are ticketed but many are free.
Book us
The band can be hired to play at private events, for instance birthdays, weddings, charity balls and award ceremonies.
We tailor our set list to suit the occasion and can arrange special requests, for instance a musical theme or a first dance.
We can provide our own PA system and we have full public liability insurance.
Contact us to discuss your event and requirements.
What people are saying
“Live music is an essential part of life.
None provide it better or more powerfully than King Groovy, and in such a fun style.”
— Roger Sewell (CFO, Twickenham Film Studios)