Who are Crakajak?
Since its formation in 1996; Crakajak has delivered some of the most exciting and energetic Country music shows in Australia. This “audience friendly” band is committed to delivering a unique taste of contemporary country music, with a huge emphasis on entertainment, crowd participation and a good time.
A little history...Crakajak’s popularity began playing the legendary Australian Bachelor and Spinsters Balls and Rodeos throughout the country. It was not long before this band was sharing headline bills in Australia’s Country Music Capital Tamworth, the Toyota Gympie Muster Music Festival and other major Country Music Festivals around Australia. Crakajak has picked up a number of awards over the years at these festivals (see awards section further down the page) .
An evening with Crakajak is a night to remember, from the very first chord till the last encore. Live music fans will be captivated by the energy, charm and musicianship of this exciting band.
Band Members
Harry Jon Nanos (Lead Vocals, Guitar, & Songwriter) has worked professionally in the music industry for over 20 years as a recording studio owner, composer, musician & performer.
Harry has composed and produced music with entertainers such as Eric Bana and for clients such as the Australian Football League. He has won many awards over the years in his lead role with Crakajak.
Today Harry continues to develop fresh new music for Crakajak, including the soon to be released Album “10.”, celebrating Crakajak’s 10 year history.
Crakajak is still Harry’s main focus but in between Crakajak projects, Harry owns and runs a successful recording production studio which produces albums for independent artists such as the Australian Pop legend, Marcie Jones.
Rob Walker (Bass Guitar, Backing Vocals, & Songwriter) has worked in the music industry both as a Performer and within Executive roles for over 25 years.
Rob has been a published songwriter and performed in some of Australia’s biggest recording bands over the past 25 years.
He has extensive trade show, event and international marketing expertise.
Rob returned to Australia in 2004 after a 3 year stint in the US as the Market Development Director of NAMM, the world’s largest trade music association.
Prior to Rob’s involvement with NAMM, he held the positions of Executive Officer for the Australian Music Association & Australian Music Retailers Association.
Jay Williams (Harp, Fiddle, Mandolin) is Mr. Instrumental and is responsible for the band’s ability to stretch the boundaries of Country/Americana music.
Jay joined Crakajak in its early days and has been a prominent and popular member of Crakajak.
Jay has appeared on many Australian Independent Albums.
Tony Arena (Lead Guitar) is a seasoned and exceptionally talented guitarist/songwriter. Tony’s guitar playing reflects Crakajak’s signature and individual sound. With 25 years of experience in the Australian music industry and countless appearances as a session guitarist on Australian albums, Tony is one of the most respected musicians. Tony and Harry formed Crakajak.
Doug Bruce (Drums/Percussion/backing vocals/songwriter) Born in Texas USA Doug joined the band in late 2006 and brings many years of experiance and expertise to the Band. Not only a hard hitting time keeper but a very handy vocalist and great songwriter. Doug has also released his own solo album called " Brand New Memory " Doug has worked and toured with some of the USA biggest country music stars and brings to the band a variety of skills that will enhance the diversity of the Crakajak sound and attitude.
Awards
2008 Crakajak and Donna Fisk song '' Somewhere between the truth and Goodbye''
best Group/duo at Victorian Country Music Awards
2008 ''Somewhere between the truth and Goodbye '' win best vocal duet in the
National section of the Victorian Country Music Awards
2008 Harry Jon Nanos win Entertainer of the Year at the Victorian Country Music Awards
2007 - "' Drive "' nominated top 5 finalist in National section at Victorian Country Music Awards
2007 - Crakajak nominated top 5 finalist in Group/Duo section at Victorian Country Music Awards
2007 - Harry Jon Nanos nominated Top 5 Finalst in Male Vocal section at Victorian Country Music Awards
2005 - Crakajak’s "She Weeps Alone" final 5 Group/Duo in the Victorian Country Music Awards
2003 - Crakajak wins Best Band, Victorian Country Music Awards
1999 - Crakajak wins Best Band, Victorian Country Music Awards
1999 - Crakajak is runner up Best Country Song, Australian Songwriters Association Award
Albums
2006 - “10.”
2004 - “Dirt Dust & Thunder”
2002 - “Long Long Way from Home”
2000 - “Sometimes Things Happen”
1998 - “Ride the Spirit”
1997 - “From a Rock to a Hard Country”
Music Videos
2007- " Drive "
2005 - “She Weeps Alone”
2005 – “What’s Wrong with a Little Hard Work”
2004 – “Throw Roses”
2002 - “Touch My Skin”
2002 - “Riding on 22 Wheels "
1999 - “Just Can’t Sleep"
TV Appearances
2001 - Midday Show Live Channel 7, National TV coverage with Denise Drysdale
Mid Day Show – Win TV
Country Music Channel - Foxtel & Austar
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