BIO
Known for soulful funk renditons, Soul of the City is a brilliant collective that has gained a fan base of loyal followers. Lead by well known, sultry R&b vocalist Jamall Youngblood whose charismatic soulful delivery is undeniable. The group brings intense, high energy and riveting performances.
The Band
James “Doc” McGowen- Drums
A touring musician with Melia, Perfect Stranger, Callanach, Fiddler’s wage. Recorded with Fiddler’s wage, Callanach, Amanda Stone, Mason Taylor, write and played on best Celtic rock song of 2012, currently also plays for jazz greats Bearcat and the Birds, one of the lead drummers at The Father’s House church. Attended Crane School of Music at Potsdam State. Has opened up for 21 Pilots, My Darkest Day, Darkness Falls, Big Wreck, Steve Vai, Saga, to name a few. James is currently bringing his talents to, and laying down a strong foundation with Jamall Youngblood and Soul Of The City.
Rhys Brigida- Keys
Recording sessionist/songwriter from Syracuse, NY. He enjoys playing all electronic keyboard and synth instruments, loves his vintage Nord Stage EX, but always feels more at home creating art on his studio upright Tokai piano. In other musical experiences, he founded and worked steadily throughout the Syracuse NY area in bands such as SaltCityChill, The Billionaires, Windsong, Timepiece, Foreplay, and various projects playing original music and covers of every style. Some of Rhys’s favorite artists of major influence are Bill Payne, Marian McPartland, Bill Evans, George Duke, Regina Spektor, and Ray Manzarek. Now, digging the classy groove created by this exciting, Rochester NY band featuring Jamall Youngblood!
Ben Wood- Sax
Professional studio and touring saxophonist who has worked with: Victor Wooton, Rufus Reid, Bill Tiberio, Roger Eckers, Chris Washburn and the members of the TITO PUENTE ORCHESTER, have been asked to appear with BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN, and have opened for acts as diverse as STYX and LESS THAN JAKE. Toured in UK with Hit band Imperial Leisure, opening act for Gym Class Heroes. He recorded with Nicky Siano, original DJ for Studio 54, and performed weekly with Airloom music, dj’s to former club Nest, the Versace Mansion, Pink Elephant, Bed, Marquee, and Pacha.
Glenn Beard- Bass
Got his first Bass Xmas of 1974. Learned the bass line for “Fire”by The Ohio Players. Started a neighborhood band Casual Funk. Played with several local bands thoughout the years up in till 1985 when raising a family took priority. After retirement in 2009, Glenn reunited with the Bass and co-found the bands “Funk in the box and Black Cat Bones”. Later joined North East Flow band were he began working with Jamall Youngblood. Glenn now plays with a host of truly gifted musicians in the band Jamall Youngblood and Soul Of The City.
