Skank and The Roots

Skank and The Roots is a reggae band from Uitenhage, Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa that was originally formed in the early 90’s by a diverse group of individuals who share the same vision and passion for music. The band has a groovy roots reggae sound, led by the energetic voice of charismatic lead singer Nkenke Eric “Skank” Mooi. According to the bassist Mkhangeli “MK” Matiwane , each original song “carries strong emotions and a positive message.

Skank and The Roots are known for pulling people off their chairs onto the dance floor.
The band charismatic lead singer Eric "Skank" Mooi never fails to ignite the audience with his explosive stage presence. His distinct wailing voice tone is at times reminiscent of legendary Burning Spear or late Joseph Hill from Culture. Skank and The Roots over the years developed unique sound with a repertoire of original songs that have a distinctive South African flavour. The band most memorable show was when we performed in front of late Nelson Mandela in 1993 at a packed stadium in Uitenhage . Seeing Tata Nelson Mandela fist in the air as we were playing our Mandela tribute song "Red Spear" was an unforgettable moment.

This is what Reggae Music is all about! A good skanking vibe that touches one’s soul.” Skank was the driving force behind the formation of the band African Roots in 1990, which was later renamed Skank and the Roots. Today Mkhangeli "MK" Matiwane on bass, Babalwa Phakela on backing vocal , Frank Barends on keyboard ,Sergio Dominic Naude on drums ,Deon Manell on lead guitar ,backing vocal and Nkenke Eric Skank Mooi on the lead vocal. Our music is healthy and clean for the young and old. It appeals to people from all walks of life. Our music is universal. We sings about peace and love, generosity and righteousness. Skank and The Roots recently perform in SA INdies Music Week (Gold Reef City,Jhb), Absa Vuka Fest (East London),Rock Lily Music Fest (Cape St Francis),Ebubeleni Fest( PE) ,The Music Kitchen (Mangold ,PE),Ziggys Bar (Summerstrand), Alliance Francaise (Richmond Hill Fest),Good Year (Uitenhage),African Unite Reggae Sunsplash (Cape Town), One Blood Fest (PE) ,Imibala Arts Fest (Nelson Mandela Bay) , Uitenhage Carnival and Homeless Children Charity Music Festival (Uitenhage) Skank and The Roots have also opened for International artists such as. Jean Grae (US) and IQulah (Jamaica).