Black Eyed Peas September 29, 2005

Transcending their hip-hop roots, The Black Eyed Peas have become a global phenomenon and need little introduction to Australasian audiences. With infectious hooks, groovy beats and an all-round stellar sound, Will.I.Am, Fergie, apl.de.ap and Taboo have won themselves a loyal fan-base downunder.

Earning credibility and respect with their first two albums, Behind the Front (1998) and Bridging the Gap (2000), the Peas took their success to a new level with their 2003 offering ­Elephunk.Upon release, Elephunk quickly went multi-platinum, selling 7.5 million copies and earning the group a Grammy Award. In Australia, Elephunk is now five-times Platinum. With 4 hot singles, Where is the Love and Shut Up came in at No. 3 and 9 respectively on the ARIA end of year Singles Chart for 2004.

The group?s latest album Monkey Business was released on 29 May, debuted at #1 and is already certified Platinum. The first single Don?t Phunk with My Heart also debuted at #1 and again hit Platinum status. The second single Don?t Lie goes to radio next week and is destined for similar success.

Of course the Peas are about much more than album sales, prestigious awards and chart success. They are also about bringing music to the people and making it fun in the process. 'In going on the road for so long, we got an idea of the kind of music we wanted to play and make,? says mc, Will.I.Am. 'Monkey Business is very much about the types of songs we play live. It?s about a party? very much about us and the crowd.? Indeed, Monkey Business is the perfect soundtrack to what is sure to be the ultimate concert tour.

Joining the Black Eyed Peas for most of the dates on the Monkey Business Tour downunder is one of rhythm and blue?s finest, John Legend *. Declared by many critics as the future of RnB, Legend wowed crowds at sold-out venues in Melbourne and Sydney last May with impressive vocals and catchy tunes.