About Me
In the winter of 1989, The Israelites emerged from the city of La Cresenta, California as a "modern sounding ska band." However, as years passed and the line-up changed, The Israelites experienced a musical revolution. They began mimicing the authentic sounds of early jamaican ska, and fusing jazz, soul and dancehall into their sound. By working hard, keeping faith in God and giving him all the glory, The Israelites have earned a reputation as one of the top authentic ska and reggae bands around - both to christian, and secular audiences alike.The Israelites play Authentic Jamaican Ska which was first created in 1956. Many artists back then attended Christian Chruches (before the rise of Rastafarinism) and many origianl artist sang spirtual songs on their albums. The Israelites are continuing what the original artist began but in a more evangelical way. The Israelites also play Rocksteady (which is a bit slower than Ska) and Reggae.The main purpose of "The Israelites" is to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ to a dying world.In the presentation of their beliefs, however, The Israelites do not attempt to condem, or force their beliefs upon anyone. Instead, they merely wish to carry "The Good News" to anyone who will listen. The Israelites' vision is to minister to those involved in the secular Ska scene such as; Non-Racists Skinheads, Rudies and the Ska enthusist as well.Their burden is not only to reach those who are lost, but aslo to "Wake Up" the lukewarm Christian as well. As a Christian band, they have seen too much of the world invading Christian music and Christian shows. It is time that we as Christians stop using the talents God has given us for our own worldly gain and start using them for His glory.For almost twenty years now "The Israelites" have established themselves mainly playing in Los Angeles and Orange County (Ca) venues such as; The Whiskey, The Roxy, Show Case Theater, Hong Kong Cafe', The Knitting Factory, Chain Reaction, The El Rey, The Glasshouse, The Loft and numerous other clubs. The Israelites have toured the country playing many venues such as The Wetlands in New York. The Israelites have also been support acts for performers such as: The Skatalites, Lord Tanamo, Derrrick Morgan, Justin Hinds, Hepcat, Bad Manners, General Public (English Beat) and many more.In the Christian Industry "The Israelites" have performed such events as; Cornerstone Festival (Bushnell, ill), Tom Festival (Skamania, Wa), Life Fest (Oshkosh, Wi), Somebody Loves You Crusade, Miles Mcphearson Crusade, literally hundreds of churches and camps for Calvary Chapel and Victory Outreach. They have been support acts for bands such as: P.O.D, Mc Hammer, The Kry, Christafari, Plankeye and others. The Israelites are known around the world as the founders of Christian Ska and Rocksteady. In June of 2007 The Israelites performed their last show with the current line-up. Rich (founder) has relocated to Oregon and plans on reforming the band there with new members in the future God willing. ORDERING OUR MUSIC AND MERCHANDISE. We are in the process of re-doing our website sometime next year. Until that time you can order our music and merch from www.shantytownrecords.com.
