Chakachas

The Chakachas were a Belgium-based band of studio musicians who specialized in Latin soul music. Also known as Les Chakachas and Los Chakachas, the group was formed by arranger and band leader Gaston Bogaert in the late 50s. The other members were: Kari Kenton (vocals/maracas), Vic Ingeveldt (saxophone), Charlie Lots (trumpet), Christian Marc (piano), Henri Breyre (guitar/backing vocals), and Bill Raymond (bass guitar). The Chakachas had a #1 hit in Belgium with the song "Eso es el amor" in 1958. In 1959 the group recorded the song "Rebecca," which was featured in the acclaimed movie "The Battle of Algiers." In 1962 the Chakachas had a mid-chart hit with "Twist Twist," which reached #48 on the UK Singles chart. In 1972 the Chakachas scored a massive smash with the supremely earthy and funky instrumental disco single "Jungle Fever;" this extremely sexy and slow-grinding number sold over a million copies in America and soared to #8 on the US Billboard pop charts. Despite being banned by the BBC for its highly sensuous and suggestive heavy breathing and orgasmic moaning, "Jungle Fever" nonetheless cracked the UK Top 30 at #29. "Jungle Fever" went on to be featured on the soundtracks to the films "Boogie Nights," "Next Friday," and "Just Like Heaven." Moreover, "Jungle Fever" has been sampled in songs by such hip-hop artists as 2 Live Crew, Ambassador, Antoinette, the Beachnuts, and Public Enemy.