Heera | |
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![]() Palvinder Dhami and Kumar Heera in 2015 | |
Background information | |
Also known as | Quallander Group, HEERA, Heera Group UK |
Origin | United Kingdom |
Genres | Bhangra |
Years active | 1979 - present |
Labels | Saregama |
Spinoffs | H-Dhami Premi (band) |
Members | Palvinder Dhami Kumar Heera |
Website | https://facebook.com/HeeraBand/ |
Heera is a British Asian bhangra music band that originated in the United Kingdom in the early 1980s. Known as the one of the very first pioneers of the British Bhangra scene [1] (along with Alaap, DCS, more traditional sounding Apna Sangeet, Kumar Heera's friend's band Premi, sharing producer Kuljit Bhamra (Heera continue to perform to this day with Premi) [2] and many more.) [3] and one of the most successful British Bhangra bands in history. [4]
The lead singers are Palvinder Dhami and Kumar Heera (known as Dhami and Kumar). [4] The band are known for their high energetic performances and uplifting songs. Also known as Heera Group UK.
Known as one of the pioneers of British Bhangra, Heera Group was founded in 1979 by Satwant Singh Taak. This which comprised various members. Satwant Singh Taak later invited Kumar Heera and Palvinder Dhami from India, after much persuation. [4]
Heera were the first British Bhangra band who infused traditional Punjabi lyrics with western instruments to appeal to the emergence of the new era of British Asians.[ citation needed ]
Heera broke records with their songs such as Dowain Jaaniya, Sas Kutni, Boliyan and Jagh Wala Mela to name a few. [5] Maar Chadapa and other songs are featured in the popular 2019 film Blinded by the Light.
Heera toured worldwide bringing British Bhangra to the forefront. Notably ghazal pioneer Jagjit Singh brought Heera to Delhi and arranged a sell out concert. [6] Actor Dharmendra also had Heera for his sons Bobby Deol's marriage. [6]
Heera were the first band to appear on mainstream British TV, notably in 1988 Blue Peter, with song Beat the Rhythm.[ citation needed ]
With Charnjit Ahuja's music they released the album 'Bhabi Te Nanaan Nachdi'
(1983). Jagh Wala Mela saw them collaborate with legendary Kuljit Bhamra , who had produced Kumar Heera's friend's band Premi's album Nachdi Di Gooth Khulgaye. [6] Their iconic albums such as Diamonds from Heera and Cool & Deadly (Rabba Ki Kariye) with Deepak Khazanchi as music director paved Heeras unique sound that they are known for. [6] Later on J. Kumar also went sing "Teri Meri Ek Jind" in Bollywood. [6] Palvinder Dhami became a solo singer in the Punjabi folk industry and acted in many movies. [7] The duo continues to perform worldwide and have a recording studio in London used to promote new talent. [6]
The group was awarded a "Lifetime Achievement" award at the 2008 UK Asian Music Awards. [8]