NYC Progressive Roots
“NO COCAINE”
the new SINGLE - out now
Staying true to the reggae spirit, “No Cocaine” follows in the footsteps of Roots Radics and Black Uhuru with Rub a Dub style. Its aggressive bass line, pocket drum beat, and horn section lay the foundation for Rocker-T’s signature singjay vocal tone. It comes alive via the hi-fi digital production designed to blow sub-woofers. It’s guaranteed to excite fans across the world and get people on the dance floor. “No Cocaine” is available on all streaming and digital platforms.
Rocker-T - Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitar, Melodica
Alex Valenti - Bass Guitar
Ricky Tepperberg - Keyboards
Cliff Simpson - Drums, Percussion
JJ Sansaverino - Lead Guitar
Buford O'Sulluvan - Trombone
James K. Smith - Trumpet
Greg LaPine - Tenor Saxophone
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ABOUT SKADANKS
Back in the 90’s, the American reggae scene contained only a fraction of the bands it does today. The majority of touring acts came from either Jamaica or Africa, but there were a handful of American bands throughout the country playing local shows. In New York City, one of the most popular bands to frequent the fabled downtown venues like Wetlands, The Lion’s Den, CBGB and The Ritz was Skadanks.
In 1986, Skadanks, was founded in New York City by Bassist Alex Valenti and Vocalist Rocker-T and were soon joined by Keyboardist Ricky Tepperberg, Drummer Cliff “Q-Liff” Simpson, Guitarist James Yarish and Percussionist Ras Num. Soon after, Yarish left the group and was replaced by JJ Sansaverino and the unfortunate passing of Ras Num left the band in its current lineup to today.
In 1991 Skadanks were discovered by hip hop legend KRS-One who produced their 12” single “Whole World African”. Shortly after in 1994, they released their debut album “Give Thanks” composed of original music written by the band and produced by KRS-One, Sidney Mills and Skadanks. Ahead of its time, Give Thanks blended hip-hop and reggae, with undertones of a punk rock edge reflecting their NYC roots. Skandaks popularity quickly grew due to their originality, dynamic songwriting, high energy, and top ranking toasting. They continued to dominate the NYC club scene while touring Nationally and Internationally.
In early 2000, Rocker-T moved to Northern California and continued to write and perform music as a solo artist. The band stayed in NYC and performed numerous shows through 2022, mainly as a backing group for Jamaican artists such as Junior Reid, Super Cat, Big Youth, Chaka Demus and Pliers, Sister Nancy and Jonny Osbourne to name a few.
In 2024, reunited, Skadanks has written and produced their brand new radio single “No Cocaine”. Staying true to the reggae spirit, “No Cocaine” follows in the footsteps of Roots Radics and Black Uhuru with Rub a Dub style. Its aggressive bass line, pocket drum beat, and horn section lay the foundation for Rocker-T’s signature singjay vocal tone. It comes alive via the hi-fi digital production designed to blow subwoofers. Currently, Skadanks are working on their second album due for release in early 2025.
Taking their sound to the next level, it’s guaranteed to excite fans across the world and get people on the dance floor.
DISCOGRAPHY
“NO COCAINE” - 2024 SINGLE
Staying true to the reggae spirit, “No Cocaine” follows in the footsteps of Roots Radics and Black Uhuru with Rub a Dub style. Its aggressive bass line, pocket drum beat, and horn section lay the foundation for Rocker T’s signature singjay vocal tone. It comes alive via the hi-fi digital production designed to blow sub-woofers. It’s guaranteed to excite fans across the world and get people on the dance floor. “No Cocaine” is available on all streaming and digital platforms.
Rocker-T - Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitar, Melodica
Alex Valenti - Bass Guitar
Ricky Tepperberg - Keyboards
Cliff Simpson - Drums, Percussion
JJ Sansaverino - Lead Guitar
Buford O'Sulluvan - Trombone
James K. Smith - Trumpet
Greg LaPine - Tenor Saxophone
“GIVE THANKS” - 1994 ALBUM
“Whole World African” - 1991 single
The release of the single ‘Whole World African’ and then the album ‘Give Thanks’ on Elektra records earned Skadanks international attention as well as fans that still follow them to this day.
Injecting elements of ska, rock and hip-hop into their dance-hall reggae, they set themselves apart from other bands on the scene. Weekly gigs in NYC sharpened their edge and led to touring and working with major artists such as Super Cat and Junior Reid.
The single is not available to stream or download - but you can hear it on YouTube here:
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