Biography
read full storyThe Sattalites, as we know them today, came together in Toronto in 1980, first as a teaching vehicle, but as the word spread of the impressive live shows, the band began to tour extensively. The Sattalites went on to pave the way for many Canadian world music artists. They are notably the first Canadian band to be invited to perform at Jamaica’s "Sunsplash", playing to an audience of over 25,000 reggae connoisseurs.
They brought the house down at the 1993 and 1994 World Skiing Championship festivities in Whistler B.C. and have played amongst the red-woods as part of the 1993 "Reggae on the River" fest in Redway, California. The Sattalites have performed thousands of shows, at universities and clubs both here and in the US. They have appeared at many special events at Ontario Place, Parliament Hill in the nation’s capital, and Toronto’s City Hall. They continue to contribute time and music to a diverse group of charitable organizations.
Sattalites videos have enjoyed high rotation on Much Music and MuchMore Music, and the band has made many television appearances. The Sattalites remain in high demand across Canada, the United States and at festivals around the world. Besides the Sattalite cds Jo Jo has released 2 volumes of classic tracks from the projects he has produced and his own records from the sixties.Fergus has a solo album from 2000 available at www.cdbaby.com/cd/hambleton which is a mixture of all different styles of music. During their illustrious career the Sattalites have garnered many industry awards – including two Juno awards for Best Reggae Recording (1995 & 1990); a Casby for Best R&B/Reggae Recording; a Toronto Music Award for Best Reggae Group; and two Black Music Awards, Best Group and Best Single of the Year.
They have received countless Canadian Reggae Music Awards including 1992 Group of the Year. The Sattalites have also received a Juno nomination for Best World Beat Recording Artist.