Cocker Power flowed down Brunswick Street Fitzroy today as ‘Leave Your Hat On’, the Joe Cocker tribute show was launched at the G&Tea bar. Passers by couldn’t help but be drawn into the brassy soul party provided by the powerful 12 piece band, delivering authentic versions of Cocker hits such as Cry Me A River, Feeling Alright, With A Little Help From My Friends and of course You Can Leave Your Hat On. ‘Leave Your Hat On’ will play the Caravan Club on Saturday March 21 and will feature a mighty 12 piece show band featuring acclaimed guitarist and showman Bob Spencer, Musical Director and champion keyboardist Andy Burns, a blazing horn section and backing vocals by the fabulous Delta Ladies!
Producer Craig Wilkins, known for his successful Ray Charles tribute, Genius, had been thinking about the Cocker show for some time. The catalyst to do something about it was the recent death of the legendary British blues singer. While only the Caravan Club is booked so far, Wilkins believes the show has all the elements to develop into a long running, touring production.
The band began rehearing on 7 January and today’s preview proved that they’re well and truly road ready. Vocalists including Bobby Valentine, Andy Anderson and Craig Wilkins were in fine voice today, delivering their own energetic spin on the Cocker classics. On the 21st of March, the band will be playing all the hits over 3 sets plus encores and covering all the iconic Cocker songs and more – everything from Whiter Shade Of Pale and Feelin’ Alright to Come Together, Unchain My Heart and all points in between.
‘Leave Your Hat On’ opens at Caravan Music Club in Oakleigh on Saturday 21 March, 8pm. Buy tickets at www.caravan.com.au.
More pics from today’s launch
