There’s a new band on television! Mashing up funk, rap, and their own distinct brand of positive vibes. You can catch them every Wednesday night on Food Network’s new show “Guy’s Ultimate Game Night,” where celebrities compete, laugh, dance, and congregate around culinary-themed party games. And it’s all for the charities of their choice!! But who’s this band that’s the life of the party? Who is Sophistafunk?
“The unstoppable Funk Hip Hop dance party”
From underground shows to international festivals, Sophistafunk has been described as “Rage Against the Machine meets The Roots, dipped in P-Funk.” They’ve also become widely known on the touring circuit as a rare Hip Hop meets live electronic jam band, performing multiple sets at Electric Forest and Camp Bisco (USA), as well as BoomTown and Shambala (UK), to name a few. They’re well known from New York to New Orleans, and have particularly strong followings in California, Colorado, Michigan, New England, and the Great Northwest, among others.
After celebrity chef Guy Fieri became a fan of the band, he invited Sophistafunk to perform at many of his events and private parties around the country, including at the Super Bowl in Tempe, AZ. The band even appeared twice on his TV show “Diners, Drive-ins, & Dives.” They were also featured as the house band for four episodes of “Guy’s Grocery Games” and in 2020 premiered a music video on Food Network’s “Triple D: Takeout Edition.” Sophistafunk’s multi-year relationship with Fieri culminated in the invite of a lifetime: to be regular cast members on his brand new game show!! Add a little funk, and “Guy’s Ultimate Game Night” was born! The rest is history.
The band is rooted in undeniable musicianship and authenticity, blending intoxicating beats with mind-expanding flows. Mad scientist Adam Gold is known for his heavy synth basslines and funky vocals. He plays four vintage keyboards at the same time, sometimes even while beatboxing! Gospel trained drummer and singer Emanuel Washington combines neo-soul with deep house, reggae, and more. Frontman / emcee Jack Brown evokes comparisons from Mac Miller to Michael Frantí, but his lyrical skill and conscious vibes are truly one of a kind. The band also features musical guests, ranging from brass instruments to guitars, turntablists, female singers, & other surprises. Lately, they’ve been touring with sax powerhouse Tommy Weeks of the Funky Dawgz Brass Band.
Sophistafunk is for music lovers. Through the years, they’ve become one of the most exhilarating and fulfilling live music experiences around. They blend genres as a broader analogy for people coming together, leaving audiences with an undeniable afterglow of funky positivity. For years, Sophistafunk has been pioneers on the live music circuit, unafraid to push boundaries with their sounds and their messages. And now the whole world is finding out. Catch a show, and join the party!