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The Jive goes on

#50 Be Happier Jive Talking House Band at Fern & Kiwi
Jive Talkin' is now the house band at Fern & Kiwi
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#50 Be Happier Jive Talking Raffy Aspier
Raffy Aspier is the frontman and percussionist

Which are your favourite songs to perform?

We prefer the older stuff; those cool R&B tunes from people like Earth, Wind & Fire, George Benson, Al Jarreau and classic rock anthems from legendary bands like Journey, The Police and, for something more current, we love Bruno Mars!

What are your most frequently requested songs?

“Don’t Stop Believing” [by Journey] and Bruno Mars’ “Just the Way You Are” are the most requested songs we’ve had recently. We usually do our best to please the crowd as they are paying customers. Even if we don’t like the song, we’ll still do it.

Jive Talkin’ has played with famous artistes such as Gloria Estefan and Air Supply. Which has been your favourite collaboration?

Definitely the horn section of The Miami Sound Machine – they jammed with us through an entire set; the music was tight and awesome.

There was also the great Kenny G who came to watch us perform at Hard Rock Café and he asked his manager to get his saxophone in his hotel room because he wanted to get on stage and jam with us. That was a magical moment.

#50 Be Happier Jive Talking Hard Rock Cafe
Jive Talkin’ was hugely popular at Hard Rock Cafe in the 1990s

What do you think has helped Jive Talkin’ to stay together for so long?

23 years is a long time. We are very fortunate that we’ve always been working and have always been in demand all these years. And I think that’s what keeps us together – the fact that the work kept coming in, we have been a working band, and the opportunities kept us going.

The fans and our loyal followers who keep coming back to watch us wherever we are is also one of the key factors to keep us motivated.

Why Fern & Kiwi and not any other establishment?

Fern & Kiwi has got good vibes and it is a cosy environment for our fans. The people there are like family, the owners are great and we’re always looking for a new challenge.

What do you hope for in your new home?

We hope to keep getting the chance to continue entertaining with our brand of quality live music that gels together with the quality food and drinks. We hope the fans continue to come back for more.

What makes you happy?

We are happy if the crowd goes home feeling good and entertained, and when we see them coming back for more…

What is one thing you’d like to say to all singaporeans?

Keep supporting our local live music scene and keep supporting Jive Talkin’. Cheers!

Jive Talking performs at Fern & Kiwi, Tue-Sat, from 10.30pm.

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