In music, we can experience different eras, evoke memories, and create unforgettable experiences. With Encore Musicians, you can bring the magic of vintage music to your next event. Our extensive collection of vintage bands covers every decade from the 1920s to the 1950s, ensuring that there’s a band perfect for every vintage-themed event.
1920s: The Roaring Twenties
The 1920s was a time of great change and innovation, and this was reflected in the music of the era. Jazz, blues, and ragtime were all popular genres, and bands like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington were household names.
The Roaring Twenties was also a time of great social and economic upheaval, and this was reflected in the lyrics of some of the songs of the time. For example, songs like “The Man Who Broke the Bank at Monte Carlo” and “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” were popular hits during this period.
Encore’s top picks
Immerse your guests in the glamour and excitement of the 1920s with our energetic jazz bands. Below are some of our best 1920s vintage bands.
Jazz Spivs
The Jazz Spivs are the finest 1920s band in the UK, playing music from the Roaring Twenties and emulating the sparkle and glamour of the time. The Jazz Spivs are great for adding an authentic ambience to your Great Gatsby party. They’re perfect for dancing, sipping cocktails, and doing that cheeky Charleston!
Every member of the band has years of speakeasy entertainment expertise. They can also bring flapper girls to your event, who will quickly have everyone up on their feet. So, hire the Jazz Spivs if you’re searching for a great vintage band for a classy event.
The Moochers 1920s Jazz Band
The Moochers jazz group gives your event a hint of vintage glitz by fusing elegant songs by Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, and many more with upbeat dance beats. Django Reinhardt, Duke Ellington, and the jazz orchestras of the Roaring Twenties are some of their main influences.
The Gatsby Collective
Lively, energetic jazz group that also performs pop hits! Sarah Goodwin and her band have played for a long number of well-known customers, such as Coca-Cola and the United Nations, all around the UK and Europe. Her jazz ensemble was also invited to perform at Windsor Castle for Prince Edward in 2019.
The After Hours
The After Hours has produced a truly thrilling take on Electro – Swing by fusing the sounds of 1920s New Orleans jazz, swing, and Balkan brass with sharp dancing routines.
They also perform traditional ‘New Orleans’ jazz to an extraordinarily high degree at jazz festivals throughout Europe, as well as their spin on several modern favourites such as Britney Spears’ Toxic. This vast spectrum enables them to connect with any audience, regardless of the event or environment. The band has extensive experience performing at weddings, festivals, and celebrations around the EU, offering everything from PA hire to bespoke DJ sets.
1930s: The Great Depression
The 1930s was a decade of hardship and despair, and this was reflected in the music of the era. Blues, country, and folk music were all popular genres, and songs like “Dust Bowl Blues” and “Blowin’ in the Wind” were popular hits during this period.
The Great Depression also led to a rise in the popularity of dance music, such as swing and jazz. Swing bands like Benny Goodman and The Dorsey Brothers were among the most popular acts of the era.
Encore’s top picks
Recreate the sophistication and soul of the 1930s with our intimate swing bands. Below are some of our finest 1930s vintage bands.
Hetty and the Jazzato Band
Hetty and the Jazzato Band are a fresh, gifted, and dynamic Anglo-Italian jazz quintet that will transport you to the ‘Dolce Vita’ with their contemporary takes on swing, gypsy-jazz, old Italian classics, and English and Italian standards.
Hetty and the Jazzato Band are frequently asked to play at unique events in Italy, including a private party on a superyacht in Portovenere, as well as locations including Portofino, Pisa, Agrigento, Lake Garda, Gallipoli, Taormina, and Florence. They also gave performances in the UK’s Henley Jazz Festival, as well as international jazz and world music events in Greece, Bulgaria, and the Ukraine.
Natty Congeroo & The Flames of Rhythm
Natty Congeroo and the Flames of Rhythm have worked hard to establish themselves as one of Europe’s finest Swing bands, consistently performing at major international festivals, premium vintage events, and swing dances. Past performances include headline slots at Secret Garden Party, Wilderness Festival, Boomtown, Raindance Film Festival and the opening of the St. Regis Hotel in Mumbai.
The band’s repertoire consists of both tight original compositions and electrifying renditions of vintage Hot Jazz, Swing, Rhythm ‘n’ Blues, and Gospel songs from the 1920s-1950s when this style of music was at its peak. The band is highly renowned for its distinct sense of style and presentation, with its members dressed in sharp, fitted vintage attire, in addition to its reputation for having a smouldering authentic sound.
St Louis Express
An energetic, vibrant and fun band, St Louis Express plays music from the early 1920s to the early 1960s. The group’s music is catchy, upbeat, and feel-good, featuring classics by Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, and Harry Belafonte. The band also performs in authentic 1930s and 1940s clothing, transporting audiences back to the golden era of swing,
The Unswung Heros
UnSwung was founded in 2017 and specialises in playing authentic Dixieland, Danceband, and New Orleans music from the 1920s and 1930s, as well as hot jazz and big band, as well as new and interesting arrangements of pop and funk songs in a vintage fashion, as well as some of our own original music. The band has also expanded its repertoire to include a wide selection of modern classic function music, allowing them to cover music from over ten genres and over 100 years, catering to all ages.
1940s: World War II and the Postwar Era
The 1940s was a time of war and conflict, but it was also a time of great hope and optimism. This was reflected in the era’s music, which included swing, jazz, and wartime anthems. Swing bands like Glenn Miller and Harry James were among the most popular acts of the era, and songs like “In the Mood” and “Lili Marlene” were popular hits during this period.
Encore’s top picks
Transport your guests to the dance floors of the 1940s with our lively vintage bands and nostalgic singers.
The vanKan Band
Matthew and his band have performed in front of HM The Queen and Prince Albert of Monaco and at shows all over the world. He enjoys performing for small intimate garden parties just as much as he does for big, esteemed events. Matthew performs jazz classics and Great American Songbook standards along with hits from the swing era, including songs by Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, and many other great performers.
One Jump Ahead
With a vast repertoire that includes songs from the Great American Songbook, Rat Pack, 1960s Soul, Rock ‘n’ Roll, and carefully chosen vintage Pop in addition to a number of their own highly regarded compositions, One Jump Ahead never fails to attract crowds to get up and dance.
With piano, guitar, bass, drums, trumpet, and another saxophone for accompaniment, Kit Packham is a leader, singer, songwriter, and saxophonist. The band’s primary inspiration is jump/jive superstar Louis Jordan, whose swinging tempos, fiery sax solos, and sense of humour Kit used to inspire his own critically acclaimed songs.
Sound Express band
The Sound Express band is a dynamic, sophisticated, and entertaining band comprised of professional musicians with over 15 years of live performance experience in various locations throughout London and the United Kingdom. Their repertoire includes a diverse spectrum of Pop, Soul, and R&B classics, uplifting Motown tunes, iconic jazz standards, and Italian/Spanish melodies redone in various styles such as funk, swing, and Latin jazz.
Swing Train 42
Swing Train 42, a regular on the London scene as well as for private events, recreates the acoustic sound of gypsy and swing music with the rare mix of mandolin, guitar, and double bass.
Whether you’re looking for some background music or some exciting swinging grooves for your parties or special occasions, Swing Train 42 can add the authentic vintage vibes you are looking for.
1950s: Rock ‘n’ Roll and the Beat Generation
The 1950s was a time of change and rebellion, and this was reflected in the music of the era. Rock and roll, which was pioneered by artists like Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry, was a rebellious and energetic genre that challenged the status quo. Other popular genres of the 1950s included jazz, swing, and country music.
Encore’s top picks
Get ready to rock and roll with our energetic bands from the 1950s, with some of our best vintage rock ‘n’ roll bands below.
Ruby & The Dukes
Ruby and the Dukes, based in the heart of London, are a musical force that brings listeners back to the golden era of the 1940s and 1950s. The band, led by the mesmerising vintage singer Ruby, delivers a fiercely energetic performance that burns the stage with authentic and heartfelt performances of classic hits.
A superb group, featuring an excellent double bassist, a masterful saxophonist, a grooving drummer, and an agile guitarist, makes up the band’s primary lineup. Their combined energy and excitement give their musical ventures a distinct flavour, resulting in a vibrant sound that reflects the essence of the era.
The Boulevards
The Boulevards are a fantastic 1950s rock and roll band singing the best tunes from music’s golden age. The Boulevards perform all of the great 1950s hits. The Boulevards give an authentic, uncompromising, and powerful performance of the best feel-good songs of all time, from Elvis Presley to Chuck Berry; Cliff Richard to Little Richard; Jerry Lee Lewis to The Everly Brothers. Both young and old will be captivated by their barnstorming set, which will have you rolling and rocking all the way home.
Jukebox Jets
The Jukebox Jets are the finest vintage rock and roll party band in the United Kingdom. The band consists of experienced musicians that passionately replicate the magnetic attraction of classic 50’s rock and roll, which will have your guests glued to the dance floor.
The Jukebox Jets have worked relentlessly to reproduce the distinctive sound of great rock and roll musicians such as Chuck Berry, Eddie Cochran, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Cash, as well as to put a vintage spin on many modern classic tunes. The band adds a unique vintage atmosphere to any occasion and provides an entire evening of outstanding entertainment.
Aisha Khan & The Rajahs
Aisha Khan & The Rajahs is a band formed in the spring of 2017 with members based both in London and Barcelona. The band’s line-up consists of a vocalist, pianist, upright bassist, guitarist, drummer, and tenor and baritone saxophonists.
Each band member is a skilled and experienced musician. Aisha Khan, the lead singer, has over 25 years of experience and sings with style, substance, and a lot of passion. Their music repertoire includes a variety of genres from the 1940s and 50s such as jazz, blues, rhythm & blues, rock & roll and swing, with the occasional calypso or mambo thrown in for good measure. Aisha Khan is also known for dressing up impeccably for every performance for expect a full, authentic show ready to take your guests back in time.
1960s: A Decade of Musical Revolution
As the 1960s progressed, so did the music. The music of this decade is still inspiring audiences today, from rock and roll to soulful songs.
Encore’s top picks
Let Encore Musicians transport you to the vibrant and groundbreaking era of the 1960s with our collection of vintage 1960s bands that embody the spirit of the decade.
CASH
Ben Welburn, as CASH, has seamlessly captured the sound, vibe, and appeal of the master himself. From “Walk the Line” to “Boy Named Sue”, book the UK’s number one Johnny Cash tribute act and let CASH transport you to the magic of the 1960s.
The Daisy Chains
The Daisy Chains are an award-winning, all-girl vintage rock ‘n’ roll band. The group perform outstanding tailored versions of old and new songs by Paulo Nutini and Eliza Doolittle, as well as Elvis and Jerry Lee Lewis classics. We’ve performed at The Grand National and events ranging from footballers’ weddings to Festivals, the Daisy Chains are a band like no other!
The Angelettes
The Angelettes guarantee a first-rate performance with flawless harmonies, excellent choreography, and gorgeous costume changes. The band perform classic hits by The Supremes, Martha Reeves, The Four Tops, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, Mary Wells, and many more, as well as, providing their own lighting and PA system.
Bye Bye Baby
Bye Bye Baby celebrates the greatest hits from their early beginnings in the 1950s, when Frankie first joined the group, through to a superb grand finale medley of more of the group’s greatest hits. The mix of world-class singing and harmonies, as well as Frankie Valli’s falsetto heights, sharp choreography, and a large repertoire of songs, provides for a spectacular and nostalgic night.
The band is adaptable to all venue sizes and budgets, with options ranging from a 4-piece to an 11-piece extravaganza.
1970s: Disco, Glam Rock, and More
From disco beats to David Bowie’s glam rock excess, the 1970s were a decade of diverse musical styles. Let Encore Musicians transport you to this era of extravagant fashion and groundbreaking music with our collection of vintage bands.
Encore’s top picks
Below are some of our best 1970s vintage bands who can create a nostalgic and unforgettable experience for any event.
Rockin’ 70s
From the first moment, you’ll be mesmerised by the era’s legendary songs and hidden gems. Prepare for a nostalgic celebration of classic bands like Jethro Tull, Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Who, The Doors, and many more.
To reproduce the sights and sounds of the Rockin’ 70s, every element has been thoughtfully constructed. The band’s extraordinary talent and steadfast commitment to authenticity will transport you to a time when rock music was at its peak. If you close your eyes, you’ll swear you’re hearing the real voices of your favourite rock stars.
Forever Elton
Forever Elton is a tribute band from the United Kingdom that performs Sir Elton John’s music. The band, which is frequently seen touring theatres across the UK, enchants audiences with realistic, sparkling costumes, projection (when facilities allow), and completely live piano playing by Forever Elton.
Led by Phil Mountford, a film/TV/classical composer, who ensures that one of the most crucial qualities, musicianship, is constantly at the forefront. Hits from a career spanning several generations, including Your Song, Candle In The Wind, Circle Of Life, Crocodile Rock, and I’m Still Standing, are performed live by the gifted band, creating a wonderful atmosphere fit for any occasion and age group of audience members.
Petty Criminals
Petty Criminals are the best Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers tribute band in the United Kingdom. Petty Criminals is a detailed and polished tribute to Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ songs. Playing material from his early albums (such as American Girl, Breakdown, I Need to Know, Listen to Her Heart, Refugee) through his commercially successful period in the late 1980s and early 1990s (such as Freefallin’, Runnin’ Down a Dream, Won’t Back Down, Learning to Fly, Into the Great Wide Open) and the seminal album Wildflowers (such as Wildflowers, You Don’t Know how it Feels, You Wreck Me, Crawlin’ Back to You etc) and also choice tracks from his later albums.
Final thoughts
Vintage live music bands have a remarkable ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and transport audiences back in time. Whether you long for the jazzy escapades of the 1920s, the soulful melodies of the 1930s, the swingin’ spirit of the 1940s, or the rock ‘n’ roll rebellion of the 1950s, we have the band to ignite your event with nostalgia and excitement.
Encore Musicians is your one-stop shop for all things vintage music. We have a band for every occasion, from weddings to corporate events to private parties. Browse through our collection of vintage bands for hire or contact us today to discuss your event and discover the perfect band to make your nostalgic dreams come true.