Ep 630 Katrina formerly of Katrina & The Waves has continued to perform, write, and record successfully solo!

Katrina and the Waves emerged in the early 1980s as a rootsy, guitar-driven pop-rock band that blended new wave energy with classic rock and soul influences. The group was formed in 1981, with its most recognizable lineup consisting of Katrina Leskanich (lead vocals), Kimberley Rew (guitar and primary songwriter), Alex Cooper (drums), and Vince de la Cruz (bass). Though often associated with the British new wave movement, the band had a transatlantic identity, recording and releasing material in both the United Kingdom and the United States.The band initially gained traction through independent releases in Canada, where their early albums performed far better than in the UK or US markets. This early success helped them refine a sound that was upbeat, melodic, and radio-friendly without sacrificing musicianship. Katrina’s powerful, expressive voice became a defining element, giving the band an immediacy and emotional clarity that stood out during a crowded era dominated by synthesizers and image-driven pop.Their international breakthrough came in 1985 with the release of the single “Walking on Sunshine.” The song’s exuberant horn lines, driving rhythm, and optimistic tone made it an instant classic, reaching the Top 10 on both the US and UK charts. Over time, it became one of the most recognizable and frequently licensed songs of the decade, firmly establishing the band’s place in pop-rock history.Despite their success, later releases did not match the commercial impact of their signature hit, and shifting musical trends, label issues, and internal pressures gradually reduced the band’s mainstream visibility. Katrina and the Waves continued working into the early 1990s, and in a notable late-career highlight, they won the 1997 Eurovision Song Contest with “Love Shine a Light,” giving the group renewed international exposure before eventually disbanding.Since the end of the band, Katrina Leskanich has continued to perform, write, and record successfully as a solo artist. She remains an active touring musician, playing both classic Katrina and the Waves material and new original songs, and has released solo albums that showcase a more personal, roots-oriented approach to songwriting. Her ongoing career underscores that she is far more than the voice of a single hit—she is a durable, working artist whose influence and presence extend well beyond the band that made her famous.https://katrinasweb.com/