Ken Colyer's Jazzmen And Skiffle Group

Ken Colyer's Jazzmen and Skiffle Group was a key part of the British traditional jazz and skiffle scenes in the 1950s. Led by trumpeter and singer Ken Colyer, the band was known for its authentic New Orleans-style jazz, which Colyer was deeply passionate about after spending time in New Orleans playing with local musicians. Alongside the jazz performances, the group would sometimes break into skiffle sets — a raw, energetic style using homemade instruments like washboards and tea-chest basses — helping to spark the skiffle craze that would sweep Britain and influence a generation of future rock and pop musicians.

The lineup of Ken Colyer's Jazzmen during its prime included some notable names in the British jazz world, like Chris Barber, Lonnie Donegan, and Monty Sunshine, though members shifted over the years. Their mix of spirited jazz and rustic skiffle captured a joyful, rootsy sound that resonated with audiences and left a lasting influence on the UK music scene.

Genres