Shakedown Brothers

Dive into the raw, electrifying world of the Shakedown Brothers, a blues-rock powerhouse from the heart of the Midlands, England. We’re not just a band – we’re a force, blending gritty originals and reimagined classics with the kind of energy that shakes the room. Think Joe Bonamassa’s soulful edge meets a live wire "played with style, expertise and passion", as one promoter put it.

 

The Shakedown Brothers have been touring Blues Pubs and Clubs across England, from North London to the West Midlands and in the North east and beyond, wowing audiences with a mix of blues originals music, re-worked classics and lesser-known tunes by well-known artists, to great acclaim from audiences and promoters alike. 

 

Picture a smoky Midlands pub, the crowd buzzing as four musicians take the stage. Each one’s a storyteller, their spark igniting when they play. Meet the Shakedown Brothers:

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• Rick Rogers (Vocals, Guitars, Harmonica)
  “Slim Rick” is our voice and soul. His gravelly growl cuts through, his grin hooks you, and his guitar – electric or acoustic – like it’s alive. When he wails on the harmonica, it’s pure Delta magic. Rick locks eyes with the crowd, making every note feel personal.

• Keith Hewitson (Drums, Percussion)
  Keith’s the thunder – steady one second, explosive the next. His drums drive us, from swaying grooves to bone-rattling beats. With roots in the world of Prog, he’s the engine that makes the floor pulse.

• Steve Rollings (Keyboards, Backing Vocals)
  Steve’s a wizard, weaving soulful piano and sharp synths that hit hard or linger soft. His smooth harmonies lift Rick’s vocals, adding depth you can feel. Quiet but mighty, he makes every key count.

• Neil Barker (Bass)
  Neil’s the anchor, laying down bass lines so tight they move you. Cool and steady, his funky runs tie the rhythm together. His bass is the heartbeat keeping us locked in.​

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Together, we’re more than musicians—we’re a brotherhood, raw and real, pouring our lives into every sound.

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We’ve torn up stages across England, leaving crowds buzzing. Here’s where we’ve burned it down:

• Rugeley Blues Club
  A sweat-soaked night where the crowd demanded more. “Superb – I can’t recommend them enough,” they said; we’ll be back, guitars blazing.

• Louth Blues Club
  “Probably the best band we’ve ever booked,” the promoters raved. Blues fans danced hard – a night of pure, chest-thumping energy.

• Brum Blues, Birmingham
  Our home turf. “They just get better and better.” A packed house, low lights, and Neil’s bass shaking your bones. It’s where strangers turn into family.

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