About Katrina & The Waves
Katrina & The Waves were a British-American new wave band that achieved international fame with their infectious pop-rock sound. Formed in Cambridge, England, in 1981, the group became widely recognized for their upbeat and catchy tunes, most notably the enduring hit "Walking on Sunshine." Their music is characterized by its vibrant energy, optimistic lyrics, and a blend of 1960s pop influences with a distinct 1980s new wave sensibility, which cemented their place in music history for crafting feel-good anthems.
- The band's iconic song "Walking on Sunshine" was initially released in 1983 on their Canada-only debut album, but it gained global recognition after being re-recorded and released on their self-titled 1985 international album, becoming a worldwide top-ten hit.
- Katrina & The Waves famously won the Eurovision Song Contest for the United Kingdom in 1997 with their powerful ballad "Love Shine a Light," securing a landslide victory and giving the UK its first win in 16 years.
- Prior to forming Katrina & The Waves, lead vocalist Katrina Leskanich and bassist Vince de la Cruz were part of an American pop cover band called Mama's Cookin', which regularly gigged across England on US military bases.
- While "Walking on Sunshine" is their most well-known song, the band also had other charting singles, including "Do You Want Crying" and "That's The Way" in the US, and "Sun Street" in the UK, demonstrating their broader musical output beyond their signature hit.
The sheet music of Katrina & The Waves provides an excellent opportunity for musicians to explore energetic and accessible pop-rock compositions. Their arrangements are particularly well-suited for intermediate pianists, guitarists, and vocalists, often featuring straightforward chord progressions and memorable melodies. Playing their music is incredibly rewarding as it inherently radiates joy and positivity, making it ideal for performers looking to add upbeat, feel-good pieces to their repertoire, whether for casual enjoyment, ensemble playing, or simply to uplift a practice session.