Rogue Traders

About

An Australian dance/rock group. Had a hit in 2003 with a reworking of INXS's "Need You Tonight"; retitled "One Of My Kind"; but were unable to follow the success of this song until 2005; when with the addition of singer/actress Natalie Bassingthwaighte on vocals they scored a massive hit with "Voodoo Child". (Guitarist Tim Henwood and Drummer Cameron McGlinchey were then added to the lineup for live shows). Further success followed with the singles "Way To Go" and "Watching You" reaching the top 10; although they experienced something of a backlash from critics in Australia (who felt the group had "sold out" and that Bassingthwaighte -- well known for her role on popular soap opera "Neighbours" -- had been added to the lineup more to generate publicity than for her musical abilities). Media overexposure, the departure of founding member Steve D, a tour with manufactured pop group Girlband and some less-than-spectacular live performances from Bassingthwaighte did little to dispel these critics; but "Voodoo Child" managed to repeat its success across Europe. Natalie left the band on the 25th of June, 2008. Cameron also left the same year. Tim Henwood returned as guitarist on the 13th of August, 2009, replacing Danny Spencer who had assumed the role in his absence. On the 14th of November, 2009, Melinda 'Mindi' Jackson was recruited as the new lead singer along with Peter Marin as the new drummer.