January 18, 2007 10:31

'Unsigned Top 40 band' play celebratory gig

Koopa play their first show since storming the charts

Unlikely chart stars Koopa played a short notice gig in London last night (January 17).

The show was the Essex band’s first show since they made chart history by on Sunday (January 14) by being the first unsigned band to score a Top 40 hit through downloads alone.

The last-minute gig at Clapham Grand boasted a modest but enthusiastic crowd as the band performed a set which included their Number 31 single 'Blag, Steal or Borrow' plus a cover of The Proclaimers' 1988 hit 'I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)'.

Speaking to NME.COM afterwards, Koopa spilled the beans on the scheme that earned their chart hit, explaining that they allowed their young fans to pay for the download via text message which are now eligible under new rules counts in the chart.

Frontman Joe Murphy said: "Under 16s don't have credit or debit cards but they all have mobiles."

The band added that their chart feat has earned them international recognition, with American news networks reporting on the band and new rumours that Green Day’s label Reprise Records are keen to sign the Essex group.