Steve Ashley - A Half-Century Journey Through Music

Charlene Bekker
Mar 25
4 min read

Updated: Mar 26

From The Staccatos to Solo Stardom Steve Ashley, a former (and the current) lead vocalist of “The Staccatos”, has been a beacon in South Africa's music scene. Known for their hits like “Cry to Me” & “Butchers and Bakers”, The Staccatos were a seminal part of South Africa's vibrant musical landscape.

Steve Ashley's journey from the frontman of one of South Africa's most successful bands to a solo artist has been marked by his exceptional vocal prowess and stage presence. Image : Facebook Steve Ashley Staccatos

A Phenomenon in Live Performances

Steve Ashley is not just a singer; he's an experience. With a career spanning over 50 years in live music, he exemplifies what it means to be a versatile and dynamic performer. His ability to captivate any audience is testament to his skill as an entertainer. Whether belting out ballads, country tunes, or pop/rock anthems, Steve Ashley does it with a unique flair that is all his own.

Global Footprints and Influences

Steve Ashley's musical journey has seen him living and performing across various continents. From his early years in Cape Town to stages in the UK and Botswana, his international exposure has enriched his performances. His style, often compared to Sir Tom Jones, is unique yet familiar, striking a chord with diverse audiences. His work in the 1980s on TV shows and the “Holiday Inn” circuit further solidified his reputation as a top-tier performer.

A Triumphant Return to Music

In 2002, Steve Ashley made a notable comeback, playing Tom Jones in the “Sex Bombs” show at Carnival City. His performance was met with critical acclaim, proving that his talent had not diminished over the years. This comeback was a precursor to numerous successful shows and tours, including appearances on popular TV shows like “Noot vir Noot”.

Diversifying and Winning

Awards Steve Ashley’s versatility saw him recording a country version of “Cry To Me” in 2007, contributing to an award-winning album. His adaptability in genres is a clear indicator of his depth as a musician. The year 2008 marked another international stint for Steve Ashley, further enhancing his global appeal.

A Maestro of Live Entertainment

Steve Ashley's live performances are legendary. A notable highlight was his 2011 concert at the Silverstar Casino where he performed alongside opera singers. His ability to blend different musical styles has made his shows electrifying experiences for audiences. This versatility has been recognized by many, including the West Rand Chamber of Business and Tourism, which lauded him for his exceptional entertainment skills.

A Resounding Influence and Continuing Legacy Continuing to make waves, Steve Ashley has performed at numerous prestigious venues, sharing stages with renowned artists and receiving standing ovations for his heartfelt performances. His recent radio and TV appearances have kept him in the public eye, showcasing his enduring appeal.

Celebrating a Milestone with New Projects

2018/2019 marked a remarkable 50 years in the industry for Steve Ashley.Steve received a 'Lifetime Achievement Award' as solo artist in 2019. This golden anniversary was celebrated with collaborations with a host of artists and new album releases, showcasing his unceasing vitality in the music industry. Moreover, the much-anticipated return of The Staccatos with Ashley as the lead vocalist is set to reignite the magic of the past.

The Timeless Journey

In the vibrant tapestry of the music industry, few stories are as compelling as that of Ebeth Loots and Steve Ashley. Their journey began with a chance encounter that blossomed into a deep-rooted friendship, eventually leading to a professional partnership in 2015 when Loots became Ashley's manager.

With a keen eye for potential and a drive to elevate, Loots embarked on a mission to reinvigorate Ashley's career. Recognizing the latent appeal in his history as the former singer of The Staccatos, Loots reached out to Brian Le Gassick, another Staccato alumnus. Their efforts bore fruit, not only reuniting the old bandmates but also reigniting the flame of The Staccatos under a new banner.

The duo, Steve and Brian, now tour, enchanting audiences with their harmonies and nostalgic melodies. However, the magic multiplies when they perform as the Barnyard Show, a seven-piece ensemble that showcases the full spectrum of their musical prowess. Loots, shares a serendipitous connection with the band, born in the year Steve Ashley commenced his professional odyssey and the iconic “Cry To Me” hit the airwaves.

Her astuteness and dedication to the craft were recognized at the Indie Awards , where she was honored with the “Best Artist Manager” accolade, while The Staccatos received a Lifetime Achievement Award.

The Timeless Journey Continues

Steve Ashley's journey through music is a testament to his enduring talent and adaptability. From the heady days of “The Staccatos” to a successful solo career, his half-century in the industry is not just about longevity but about a continuous reinvention and commitment to his art.

As he continues to tour and delight audiences, his legacy as one of South Africa's musical treasures remains unassailable. Ebeth Loots became Steve's Manager in 2015 and that his career started moving in a new direction.

Adding a romantic twist to their tale, Loots and Ashley blended their personal and professional lives in matrimony on October 4th, 2023, symbolizing a partnership that transcends the bounds of music.

Steve Ashley - When I'm back on my feet again

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QxDuxFa1ono

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