Soul II Soul

Formed in London in 1988, Soul II Soul is an influential British musical collective that evolved from a sound system into a global R&B and dance powerhouse. Led by the visionary DJ and producer Jazzie B, the group became a cultural phenomenon with their "Funki Dred" lifestyle and their inclusive motto, "A happy face, a thumpin' bass, for a lovin' race". They achieved massive commercial success with their 1989 debut album, Club Classics Vol. One, which featured the timeless hits "Keep On Movin'" and the UK number-one anthem "Back to Life (However Do You Want Me)," both powered by the soulful vocals of Caron Wheeler. The collective won two Grammy Awards in 1990 and helped legitimize Black British street sounds on the global stage, bridging the gap between reggae, soul, and hip-hop. Though the lineup has rotated frequently over nearly four decades, Soul II Soul remains a touring staple and a symbol of British musical innovation, with Jazzie B receiving an OBE for his services to the industry.