The Life and Legacy of Apache Indian

Apache Indian is a reggae singer, musician, and producer from Birmingham, England. He is known for his fusion of traditional Indian and Western music styles, which helped popularize Indian-influenced reggae in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Born Steve Kapur, Apache Indian’s music is often characterized by its use of punjabi beats and bhangra rhythms.

Apache Indian’s career began in the late 1980s when he signed with the UK-based label, Indipop. He released his first single, “Movie Over India”, in 1988 and followed it up with the album No Reservations in 1989. This album contained Apache’s first hit, “Arranged Marriage”, and two further singles, “Chok There” and “Don Raja”. All three singles were UK top 40 hits.

In 1993, Apache Indian released his second album, Make Way for the Indian. This album contained the hit single “Boom Shack-A-Lak”, which reached number 5 in the UK charts, making it one of the most successful reggae songs of that time. Apache Indian also produced several other successful singles such as “Don’t Test”, “Chok There”, and “Roop A Rang”.

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Apache Indian’s career waned as he struggled to regain the success he had previously achieved. However, he has continued to perform live, and in 2012 he released his fifth studio album, Everyone Loves a Winner.

Today, Apache Indian is recognized as one of the most influential figures in British Asian music and culture. His pioneering fusion of traditional Indian and Western music styles is credited with popularizing Indian-influenced reggae and dancehall in the UK. Apache Indian has also been praised for his efforts to bring together different communities and cultures through music.