Emerging in the wake of the Barbados All Stars, the Rainbow Steel Band was founded by Hallam Ifill and Toussaint Clarke to continue and evolve the tradition of steel pan music in Bath. With fresh members and a new name, the band quickly grew into a celebrated ensemble known for its talent, creativity, and community roots.

 

By the 1980s, Rainbow had become one of the most recognised steel bands in the UK. In 1984, they returned to Barbados for a major performance tour, celebrating their heritage and sharing their unique sound internationally.

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In 1992, the band reached a new musical peak when Earl Rodney—a Trinidadian pan maestro often called “The Grandfather of Steel Pan”—joined Rainbow. His influence brought richer arrangements, new compositions, and a dynamic performance style.

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Meanwhile, Toussaint Clarke became an essential force in the UK steel pan scene. Having started playing at age 11 and tuning pans by 12, he developed into one of the country’s top pan tuners and educators. He remains deeply involved in Rainbow’s success and the wider steel pan community, including the UK Pan Tuners Guild.

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Rainbow Steel Band has performed for royalty, toured across Europe and the Caribbean, and inspired generations of players. In 2007, to mark their 50th anniversary, they collaborated with Bath & North East Somerset Council and the REC to launch "50 Glorious Years – From Barbados to Bath", a photographic exhibition and documentary DVD funded by the Heritage Lottery.

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Today, Rainbow Steel Band continues to blend musical excellence with cultural pride, honouring their roots while pushing steel pan music forward.