Jive Aces – The Roots of Elvis

The Roots of Elvis

Touring September/October 2023

CELEBRATING THE MUSIC THAT INSPIRED THE KING OF ROCK ‘N’ ROLL

The Jive Aces need almost no introduction. They are without doubt one of the worlds best known Jumping Jive outfits and have been performing around the globe since 1989.

This is the bands first new show in some years and their first departure from the jive and swing style that made their name. The Roots of Elvis is not a tribute show, rather it is a homage to the music that influenced the King of Rock n Roll and thus influenced the young Jive Aces as they began their musical journey all those years ago.

The band was founded by vocalist Ian Clarkson, drummer Peter Howell (who went to school with Ian in Billericay), bassist Ken Smith and saxophonist “Big” John Fordham. The four met in East London jive and jazz clubs. They cut their teeth street entertaining and were soon being offered shows in UK and Europe. After several years of touring the band with various other musicians, the four met Alex Douglas (trombone, bongos, blues harp, washboard) and Vince Hurley (piano) who became permanent members.

The band is recognized as one of the top swing bands in the world, something borne out by their extensive international travel (the band has performed in over 40 countries). The June 2015 issue of Vintage Rock magazine described them as the “UK’s number one jive and swing band”.