About Ignition

The band is built on a solid foundation of experience, having performed all over the world, to different audiences and ages. We have a commitment to performing and playing to the highest level.

We specialise in modern and current chart hits and 90s floor fillers, whilst still covering a wide range of other decades, so we can give a little something to everyone. Check out our full repertoire here.

Jon Kent/Band Leader/Bass Guitar

I’m band leader, bass guitarist and founder of Ignition. I started the band, after finally having the opportunity to pursue something I had wanted to create for a long time. Over the last seven years I have been fortunate to build up a lot of experience performing with various bands and companies. I’ve worked and performed on Princess Cruises for 5 years, performed in over 30 countries and have been band leader and Musical Director for Suoni Music Management for four of their bands. All the experience I have gained has been incredible and has now aloud me to take the best parts of those, and put them into Ignition.

Steely Thatcher/Drums

Music and drumming has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. The technical side of drumming and the feel has always been a major part of my studies. After studying in the UK, there was a point in my early musical development where I decided to challenge myself, not just in music but general experience as well. For 3 years I lived and studied in LA at the Musicians Institute, where I gained a wealth of experience and got to be in the mix with some of the worlds best musicians. After performing abroad and working with various function bands in the UK, I’ve now joined Ignition, where I feel we push and develop the bands sound and performance constantly.

Dave O’Grady/Keyoards & Backing Vocals

Early on in my own musical development, I put together an own originals band. We had some success, being featured on the BBC Introducing radio show and performing at festivals across the UK, supporting acts like ‘Ash’ and ‘The Hoosiers’. Like most of the guys in the band, I have studied music at University and my passion for music came early on. Before moving to London, where I now reside, I had the opportunity to travel and work abroad as a musician for some time. Working the circuit of luxury hotels and cruise ships is also where I met Jon. After an average pub lunch, but an interesting conversation about whether I wanted to join Jon’s new band, I was more than happy to step in. I’m now looking forward to tearing it up with Ignition.

Yuki Rufo/Guitar & Backing Vocals

I am originally from Rome, Italy. After coming to the UK I quickly met Jon and Steely at an audition they held. I enjoy working with great musicians who are also great people, this to me is more important than the style of music I’m playing. With over 14 years of live experience, working with international musicians, traveling and performing world wide, session work for Italian artists and soundtracks for films, performing at various Jazz and blues festivals (“Eddie Lang Jazz Festival”, “Festival Della Creativita”, “Macchia Blue Festival” and many more.), I have a deep understanding of what makes a great group of musicians. I am very happy to be a part of this great team and creating something very special.