Vicky presents a moving tribute to her Father Johnny O’Keefe showcasing songs from her new Album 50 Diamonds.
To celebrate the launch of the new album Vicky has offered a complimentary 50 Diamonds CD to the first 25 people to book a seat!
Enjoy an intimate evening with Vicky sharing her family memories and life of rock ’n’ roll.
Vicky’s band features top line Melbourne musicians including a guest spot and backing vocals by Ronnie Charles, Steve Williams (Farnham) on Saxophone and Harmonica and Gavin Anderson, ex-Bluestones, on Guitar. Limited seating available – Book now!
Vicky was born in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Vicky’s mother, Marianne Renate was a German immigrant model/hairdresser and studied classical piano. Her father was an entrepreneur and a very successful singer and entertainer who was regarded by his peers as the pioneer of Australian Rock ’n’ Roll. O’Keefe’s father, due to his success performing in Victoria, Australia named her Victoria.
A grand piano was the feature of Vicky’s family home and music was greatly encouraged in the family. Piano lessons and practice were part of her musical education, which she shared with her two brothers. She also studied guitar and began composing songs from a very young age performing regularly at family gatherings and school concerts.
O’Keefe’s parents introduced her to a range of music including jazz, classical, Rhythm & Blues and naturally Rock ’n’ Roll. Some of her contemporaries were Carole King, Elton John and Janis Joplin these all became major influences in her song writing style.
After losing her dad suddenly at seventeen, Vicky threw herself into her music seeking solace becoming a prolific songwriter. She had a short stint in her father’s entertainment agency, which was run by former managers learning the ropes of booking venues and bands. She then formed a high energy rock band called VOKROK and they toured relentlessly on the east coast of Australia establishing a loyal following.
With the help of her managers, O’Keefe quickly landed a contract with Warner Publishing and RCA records releasing 3 singles. Although no chart success was eminent, Vicky’s profile was established and her band was invited on many international support tours including the legendary Rick Nelson, Suzie Quatro and America supported by regular television appearances and radio interviews. Guest DJ work was offered to O’Keefe in Melbourne and she performed under the name of Vikki OK in high profile nightclubs.
O’Keefe disbanded VOKROK after five years of touring and moved to Melbourne, Victoria with her brother Peter forming a duo Peaches & Per. They performed jazz and Motown standards throughout the nightclubs and composed Keep the Candle Burning for their father. This song has now become a highlight in Vicky’s live performances.
A solo gig was offered to Vicky on the Gold Coast, Queensland and she and her brother went their separate ways whilst she commenced her journey as a solo performer in piano bars. Her musical skills and songwriting developed during this period and she released her first independent album, Destiny, which received airplay on local radio stations for over two years. She married and her daughter, Melody Fair was born.
After the release of Destiny, Melbourne promoters contacted O’Keefe to perform a Tribute Show to her father. With some consideration, she put together a show followed by a Tribute CD, I’m Counting On You featuring a duet with her late father and several of her own compositions. Negotiations with Sydney, Melbourne and Tasmanian Casinos led to the launch of the Tribute CD with performances to full houses and continued performances throughout Australia. Audiences have a strong connection with Vicky through the love of her dad.
After launching the Tribute Album and Show, O’Keefe was invited to perform her tribute to her father on two overseas Rock the Boat Cruises on the Rhapsody of the Seas. She shared the bill with Chubby Checker, The Sweet, Australian icons Brian Cadd, Russell Morris, Mental As Anything and Molly Meldrum.
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