Members
Select a The Belle Stars band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
The Belle Stars are a vibrant British pop group that emerged from the remnants of the band The Bodysnatchers in the early 1980s. Known for their energetic blend of new wave pop, the all-female ensemble comprises Jennie McKeown (vocals), Lesley Shone (bass/vocals), Stella Barker (guitar/vocals), Sarah-Jane Owen (guitar/vocals), Miranda Joyce (saxophone/vocals), Judy Parsons (drums), and Penny Leyton (keyboards/vocals). The Belle Stars achieved notable success with several UK Top 40 hits, including "Iko Iko," "The Clapping Song," and "Sign of the Times." Their infectious rhythms and catchy melodies gained them a dedicated following, and their track "Iko Iko" found renewed popularity in the US after featuring in the film Rain Man.
How to Sound Like The Belle Stars
The Belle Stars' sound is a colorful tapestry of upbeat, rhythmic grooves and brassy, melodic hooks. Their music often features bright, lively saxophone lines, with the Selmer Mark VI Tenor Saxophone contributing to the exuberant texture. Punchy bass rhythms and dynamic drum patterns lay the groundwork for their danceable tracks, while crisp guitar chords and synth embellishments from instruments like the Casio 202 Casiotone Synthesizer add layers of pop sheen. The Belle Stars' music thrives on its energetic, celebratory vibe, making use of tight, cohesive arrangements that highlight their collective vocal harmonies and charismatic performance style.
Discography
Get the The Belle Stars Sound
Want to sound like The Belle Stars? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.