The Keil Isles were a New Zealand-based Rock & Roll group which consisted of the Keil Brothers, Olaf, Herman, Rudolf, Klaus and their cousin Freddie Keil. They were all Samoans with German ancestry.

Band history

Their lead guitarist Olaf Keil was born in Apia, Western Samoa in 1934 and came to New Zealand when he was about 18 years of age. He began playing guitar in a band that his uncle had. His cousin Fredde would ask him to back him on rock & roll songs. Later on the other brothers became proficient and they formed the band in 1956. Freddie Keil left the band in the early 1960s after having a falling out with cousin Herma. He went on to form his own band. In 1966 the group appeared in the 1966 musical comedy film Don't Let It Get You. After becoming very popular, selling records and having hits, the band went through numerous personnel changes, and by 1967 there were no members of the Keil family left in the band. During their popularity their version of The Twist sold more copies in New Zealand than the Chubby Checker version did.

Awards

The Keil Isles received The Lifetime Achievement Award at The Aotearoa Music Awards (formally known as New Zealand Music Awards) in 2012. Forever marking their spot in New Zealand's music industry.

Line Up

Others

Occasional member

Releases

45 Rpm

EP

LP

Compact Disc