Faithless to receive Heritage Award

One of the UK's most successful dance acts reunite for musical heritage award.

Paul Nichols headshot
  • By Paul Nichols
  • 14 Aug 2012
  • min read
A special plaque will be erected on the venue where the legendary Maxi Jazz, Sister Bliss and Rollo played their first full live gig in 1996.

Faithless’ Sister Bliss said: 'We had some unforgettable nights in Camden, the local scene was always edgy and groundbreaking and we loved it.

'Electronic music was finally getting some broader recognition too and it was an exciting time for us. The Jazz Café is really important to our story and where our live career took off. We’re so honoured to be getting this Heritage Award with them and celebrating where it all started. Can’t believe it’s been 15 years!'

Lisa Auger, General Business Manager, Jazz Cafe, added: 'We are pleased to be included in the history and achievements of Faithless. From their first gig at Jazz Cafe into sold out stadiums and countless record sales. We are honoured to erect the PRS for Music plaque to commemorate their achievement in the British music industry.'

Prior to their big break at the Jazz Café in 1996, Faithless were an underground electronic outfit. As soon as promoters heard they could play live, bookings from across Europe saw them suddenly enjoying audiences of thousands. Within twelve months, Insomnia was number one around the globe and Faithless went on to produce two UK number one albums, six UK top 10 singles, achieving over 15 million global sales.

Paulette Long, Deputy Chair PRS, commented: 'Having worked in the industry for many years, I am constantly impressed by the sheer dedication of artists and venues alike who continue to break in and promote outstanding music pioneers. It’s astonishing. Faithless went from virtual unknowns to championing a largely underground genre which we now all enjoy in everyday life – television, bars, advertising, you name it, dance music is there. The Jazz Café is a pillar of programming excellence and is well deserving of our prestigious PRS for Music Heritage Award.'

PRS for Music’s Heritage Award was set up in 2009 to recognise the ‘performance birthplaces’ of famous bands and artists. Previous awardees include Blur, Elton John, Soul II Soul, UB40, Snow Patrol, James and Jethro Tull.