Incognito is a groundbreaking British acid jazz band celebrated for their vibrant blend of jazz, funk, soul, and dance, captivating audiences since 1979. Led by Jean-Paul "Bluey" Maunick, their dynamic sound and energetic live performances have solidified their status as icons in the music scene, influencing generations with their feel-good grooves and rich musical tapestry.
Incognito is a pioneering British acid jazz band that has been charming audiences worldwide since its inception in 1979. Founded by the visionary Jean-Paul "Bluey" Maunick and Paul "Tubbs" Williams, the band is celebrated for its vibrant fusion of jazz, funk, soul, and dance, making it a staple in the world of sophisticated, feel-good music.
Founded by Jean-Paul "Bluey" Maunick, originally from Mauritius, Incognito emerged from the vibrant London music scene that inspired Bluey after moving there at 10 years old. Alongside Paul "Tubbs" Williams—his fellow bandmate from Light of the World—Bluey established what would become one of the leading names in the acid jazz movement. The incarnation of Incognito came after redefining their previous group with a new focus and personnel during the early 1980s.
Incognito’s music is imbued with a rich tapestry of musical styles, primarily categorized as acid jazz. Their sound, however, extends beyond jazz to encompass elements of funk, soul, R&B, and dance music. The band draws inspiration from legendary musicians such as Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Earth Wind & Fire, Santana, and Kool & The Gang, which is evident in their sophisticated jazz-funk arrangements.
Incognito's debut album "Jazz Funk" made its mark in 1981, peaking at number 28 on the UK charts. Their major breakthrough arrived a decade later with the release of the 1991 album "Inside Life" that featured the hit single "Always There" with Jocelyn Brown on vocals. Subsequent albums such as:
include fan-favorite tracks like "Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing", "Still a Friend of Mine", and "Everyday".
Over the years, Incognito has seen a rotation of gifted vocalists such as Maysa Leak, Tony Momrelle, Imaani, Vanessa Haynes, and Joy Malcolm, with Jean-Paul "Bluey" Maunick as the enduring leader. The band has also shared the stage with prominent figures including George Benson, Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan, and Mario Biondi.
Recognized for their vibrant and energetic live performances, Incognito frequently dazzles audiences worldwide with ensembles of 12 to 15 members. They are a regular spectacle at jazz festivals and prominent venues, delivering an unmissable auditory experience.
As champions of the acid jazz genre, Incognito's influence in the music industry is undisputed. They earned the MOBO Award for Best Jazz Act in 2001, cementing their legacy as forerunners of the acid jazz scene in the UK.
Jean-Paul "Bluey" Maunick leverages Incognito's global reach for good, using their platform to support various humanitarian causes. The band has contributed to disaster relief through charity singles, intertwining their music with meaningful causes.
Incognito remains a monumental force in the British jazz-funk scene, having thrived for over four decades. Their innovative music has not only helped popularize acid jazz but also widened the horizons of British soul music on a global scale. Jean-Paul "Bluey" Maunick's work as a producer also extends well beyond the band, contributing to various artistic ventures.
As Jean-Paul "Bluey" Maunick continues to lead Incognito, their evocative jazz-funk and dynamic collaborations remain as engaging and influential as ever, shaping the sounds of the musical landscape across generations.
