We are delighted to announce the latest headline act to be added to The London International Ska Festival 2012 is the legendary Jamaican act...The Pioneers.

In the autumn of 1969 the British Pop charts were pummeled by series of hard-hitting Reggae singles. Among those leading this onslaught was one of Jamaica's finest vocal trios: the Pioneers. Following a year that had enjoyed a series of major Jamaican musical triumphs the trio, comprising of Sydney Crooks, Jackie Robinson and George Dekker, had their UK and international breakthrough with "Long Shot Kick De Bucket'. The single peaked at number 21 in the UK pop charts (and later was taken to the number 1 spot in 1980 as part of The Specials "Too Much Too Young' ep). Two further UK chart hits followed: "Give & Take' (reaching no.35) and their Top 10 UK hit, a version of Jimmy Cliff's "Let Your Yeah Be Yeah' (no.5).

This was only the tip of the Pioneers brilliance... their influence and hits, including classics such as "Jackpot' (covered by The Beat), "Starvation', Time Hard' (covered by The Selecter), "Papa Was A Rollin Stone' and "Reggae Fever', are still recieve global airplay. Now approaching 50 years since their formation this incredible vocal harmony group still tour the world to sell-out crowds. We are honoured that they have agreed to perform at The London Intl Ska Festival 2012.

The London Intl Ska Festival 2012 takes place on 3-6 May and features over 40 acts from around the world. First acts announced include: a world exclusive comeback show from Dandy Livingstone ("Rudy A Message To You'/'Suzanne Beware of the Devil'), The Pioneers, Dawn Penn ("No No No'), The Dualers, Hotknives (original line up), Phoenix City All-stars and many more.

Festival earlybird/discounted tickets available now (saving £40+) at www.londoninternationalskafestival.co.uk/tickets

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