Beshara was established in 1976 in Moseley, Birmingham, by the late Elias Pharoah (bass) and the late Ray Watts (rhythm guitar). They were soon joined by Errol Nanton (lead vocals), Dixie Pinnock (drums), and Michael Nanton (keyboards). Initially known as "Cool Dimension" and "The Kushites," the band adopted the name Beshara in 1979, which translates to ‘surprise’ in Arabic and ‘mystical’ in Swahili. Over time, the band experienced several lineup changes, but by 1980, the core members were Ray Watts (vocals, rhythm guitar), Dixie Pinnock (drums, backing vocals), Michael Nanton (keyboards, backing vocals), and Tony Garfield (vocals, bass). This configuration became known for their signature harmonies and their socially conscious lyrics, showcasing Ray Watts' powerful voice, Tony Garfield’s compelling bass lines, Michael Nanton’s distinctive keyboard work, and Dixie Pinnock’s dynamic drumming.

Beshara performed extensively across the UK, playing in major colleges, universities, and clubs, where they garnered a diverse following. Although the band did not release an album, they produced 13 singles and achieved notable success with tracks like "Men Cry Too," which reached number 6 on the reggae charts and received support from David Rodigan and the late John Peel. Their track "Glory Glory," featuring percussionist Raymond ‘Bongo Simeon’ Walker, became a sought-after 12" release, while "Shadow Of Love" garnered commercial interest, peaking at number 11 in the reggae charts. The band gained recognition through tours alongside prominent acts such as UB40, Abyssinians, Beres Hammond, Simply Red, Dennis Brown, Bad Manners, Leroy Smart, Sugar Minott, and John Holt. In the late 1980s, Beshara was invited by I Jahman Levi to support him on his African and European tour, marking their first performances abroad. The decade also brought them increased television exposure with appearances on shows like "The Rockers Roadshow," "Black on Black," "Here & Now," "Format V," and "Together," and they were commissioned to record a score for a BBC boxing documentary.

Beshara also performed as a gospel group in the BBC drama “Preacher Man,” featuring acclaimed British actor John Rhys-Davies, known for his roles in "The Lord of the Rings Trilogy," "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade," and "The Living Daylights." In 1987, they received an award for ‘Best Sound Recording’ at the Hummingbird’s 1st Annual Black Music Awards for their song “Candi.” The song was praised by magazines like Black Echoes, which noted its engaging harmonies and robust band sound, describing Beshara as a group whose polished professionalism made them deserving of greater recognition.

In the early 1990s, the band traveled to America to record an album that remains unreleased to this day. They performed a live concert in Birmingham for BBC Radio WM in 1992, which received positive reviews from both listeners and attendees. However, the band decided to part ways later that year, only to reunite in 1998 to begin recording what was intended to be their debut album in 1999. Tragically, Ray Watts passed away in 2000, leading the remaining members to disband.

In 2000, Beshara received an award for their contributions to UK reggae music at the Hyatt Hotel in Birmingham, with notable guests including Jamelia and Brenda Emmanus from the BBC's "Clothes Show." The following year, the former band members organized a memorial tribute concert for Ray Watts at the Irish Centre in Birmingham, performing alongside Steel Pulse and other artists from the region.

In 2005, the ex-band members reunited for the ‘32 Years of Lovers Rock’ anniversary concert at the Hackney Empire in London, where they received an enthusiastic response from an audience many of whom were hearing them live for the first time.

Beshara served as a significant stepping stone for its members, who have since collaborated with and performed for artists including I Jahman Levi, Pato Banton, UB40, Steel Pulse, Aswad, Luciano, Beenie Man, Musical Youth, and many others. They have shared the stage with renowned acts such as Ziggy Marley & the Melody Makers, Shaggy, Burning Spear, and more, while also performing at prestigious venues and festivals, including The Sydney Opera House and the House of Blues. Additionally, they recorded at Eddie Grant's studio in Barbados and appeared on major television programs such as "Top of the Pops" and "GMTV." Members even flew on Sting's private jet to perform with him in Italy while contributing to Grammy-nominated albums.

Unreleased material from Beshara is expected to be available in the near future.

Past Members: - Elias Pharoah (Bass) - Errol Nanton (Vocals) - Paul Cunningham (Bass) - Byron Bailey (Saxophone) - Steve Morrison (Trombone) - ‘Fluff’ (Toaster)

Past Session Musicians: - Focett Gray (Lead Guitar) - Alan Francis (Trumpet) - Cornelius Wynter (Bass) - Asha Barnes (Percussion) - Raymond ‘Bongo Simeon’ Walker (Percussion) - David ‘Skins’ Foreskin (Drums) - James Renford (Saxophone) - Decordiva ‘Dicky’ Gayle (Guitar)