CQAF 2025

Reared on diet of Rhythm & Blues, Funk, Jazz, Pop and Ska, The Tibbs bring a unique blend of garage soul that could be traced back to the Detroit and Philly sounds of the ’60s and ’70s. A retro style infused with a distinctive Tibbs formula.

The Tibbs originally took off in 2012 – fronted by the amazing Elsa Bekman – covering a lesser trodden path, combining special soul classics with rare beat instrumentals. Their increasing popularity quickly led to a natural desire to expand their repertoire, beyond the confines of others’ inspirational endeavours towards their own soulful creations.

The resulting EP Cleaned Out debuted in 2014. Later that year, the German funk and soul label Tramp Records released their debut single – Footprints in the Sand / Cleaned Out – delivering deserved international airplay for The Tibbs. Two years later, famous Italian label Record Kicks released The Tibbs’ first LP, Takin’ Over.

Though the talent was obvious much earlier, the release of Takin’ Over delivered the band far richer rewards. Playing sold-out venues in both Milan and Frankfurt, The Tibbs’ profile rose further still with wonderful festival performances in Germany and Hungary, followed by a successful soldout tour of Spain.

After some deliberation, in late 2018 Elsa decided to follow her heart and focus on a solo career. The Tibbs duly began their search for a truly worthy successor, bringing astonishing vocalist Roxanne Hartog and the band together for the first time. With a selection of incredible new tunes and an album (Another Shot Fired) drawing fantastic reviews, The Tibbs played sold-out shows in The Netherlands, Italy, Germany and Spain.

In January 2024 their latest album Keep It to Yourself came out, a true tour de force that left listeners awe-inspired, foot-tapping and heart-soaring. On this 12-track album The Tibbs once again prove that the passionate sounds of the past can have a fresh and vibrant place in the music of today.

Whether you’re a devoted soul aficionado or new to the genre, just get ready for a musical journey that will revive your spirit! Keep It to Yourself was selected by Craig Charles for his ‘Best of 2024 Show’ on BBC Radio 6.

The Tibbs are: Roxanne Hartog – vocals
Henk Kemkes – guitar
Anton Titsing – Hammond / keys
Michael Willemsen – bass
Bas de Vries – drums
Berd Ruttenberg – baritone sax
Frank Stolwijk – tenor sax
Siebe Posthuma de Boer – trumpet

‘Every track blazes with the ferocity of a close-knit band of players in perfect sync.’ Uncut Magazine (UK)

‘The Tibbs deliver a Vintage Soul Scorcher.’ Clash Magazine (UK)

‘The Tibbs have raised the bar to where it was not thought possible: Roxanne Hartog’s voice soars over a Hammond organ and a breathtaking brass section, the bass grooves like never before.’ ****1/2 Rolling Stone Magazine

‘It’s a TUNE!!!’ Craig Charles, BBC Radio 6

This show is strictly for audiences aged 18 and over.

If you have access needs, feel free to email Aoife at aoife@cqaf.com for more info—we’re happy to help!