Lead singer Steve Ashley, a Krugersdorp resident, continues to perform with The Staccatos, a band widely regarded as South Africa’s longest-running group.

According to the band’s manager, Ebeth Ashley, The Staccatos have been part of the South African music scene for 65 years and have left a lasting mark on the industry.

She added that the group is also considered one of the longest-running bands internationally.

“The band continues to receive accolades and looks forward to further success in the years ahead,” said Ebeth.

The group currently consists of founder Brian Le Gassick (82) and Steve (77). Ebeth said the band was the best-selling external show on the Barnyard Theatre circuit in 2019 and sold out all its shows in 2023, 2024 and 2025. They hope to achieve the same in 2026.

She added that the band plans to continue touring the country and performing for as long as their health allows.

Roots of the band

Formed in 1961, The Staccatos quickly established themselves in South Africa’s music scene. In 1963, they won a competition that earned them a recording contract with Electric and Musical Industries (EMI) and the title “The Beatles of South Africa”.

The band later disbanded in 1999 before reuniting in 2019 under the management of Ebeth.

Iconic hits

One of their best-known songs, Cry to Me, was recorded in 1968 and became a major hit in South Africa. The track spent 38 weeks on the Springbok Radio Hit Parade in 1969 – a record for both local and international songs at the time.

The single remains one of the best-selling songs in the South African music industry.

Management and revival

Ebeth began managing Steve in 2015, which later led to the band’s reunion and renewed popularity.

Under her management, the band has received several accolades, including three consecutive “Best Artist Manager” awards for Ebeth and a lifetime achievement award for The Staccatos.

Ebeth and Steve tied the knot on October 4, 2023.

International recognition

The Staccatos also achieved international recognition. Cry to Me entered hit parades in Germany and the United Kingdom, while another hit, Butchers and Bakers, was released internationally under the Fontana label.

The song has since been covered by artists in England and the United States.

Steve Ashley: Resident and performer

In addition to performing with the band, Steve maintains a solo career and remains passionate about music across various genres.

He also has a keen interest in 20th-century history, military conflicts and social history, and keeps active in his home gym to maintain his fitness for performances.

He is a father of two and a grandfather of two grandsons.

Ebeth encouraged fans to continue supporting the band and to attend their shows, including an upcoming performance in Krugersdorp later this year.

Also read: Echoes of Krugersdorp: The story of Percy Stewart