If you mixed a bucket of soul, a heap of organic beats, and a gallon of healing lyrics with a dash of funk, you would get “Eclectik Soul”. Eclectik Soul is a national/International Soul duo that is quickly gaining momentum across the globe. Eclectik Soul was formed in 2007 in Jackson, Mississippi by Tawanna Shaunte’ Chapman a.k.a. “The Messenger and Greg Stewart a.k.a. “Junkyard Drummer”. Eclectik Soul has created a fusion of Jazz, R&B, and Neo-Soul sounds that have given “soul” music a new appeal. In 2008, they released their debut album, “Eclectik Soul: Eclectik Soul”, which has started a buzz with listening audiences all over the US and abroad (London, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Germany, and Japan). Eclectik Soul’s video for their new song, “Reflections” is now airing on Black Entertainment Television (BET). Their second album, “Rising” was released on August 20, 2010 at the historical Alamo Theatre in Jackson, MS.
Coming from different backgrounds, both members had the same passion for music at early ages. Shaunte’s inspiration and vocal training came from her musical father, who died in a car accident. Even though she was born in the small town of Florence, MS, Shaunte had a “big” voice at age 9 and still captivates listeners today. Shaunte’s masterful songwriting skills and vocals are truly gifts by spiritual intervention. Her soulful voice can easily be compared to the boldness of Mahalia Jackson and Nina Simone’s smoothness.
Born in Gary, IN, Greg learned as a toddler to create a variety of rhythms using his mom’s pots and pans. He exhibits power and skill that reflects 27 years of drum and percussion experience, along with the talents of arranging and composing music. His love for music led him to pursue a college degree in Music Performance at Jackson State University (Jackson, MS). Individually, he has performed for many artists, such as Daryl Coley, Kim Burrell, Richard Smallwood, David Banner, and Les Nubians.
Together, their performances include (Neo-Soul Artist) Dwele’s album release party (Jackson, MS), Governor’s Grammy Awards (Jackson, MS), local political campaigns (Jackson, MS), Neo-Soul venues (New Orleans, LA and Atlanta, GA), and a 3 month promotional tour in New York City which included a performance at Eric Roberson’s Soul Village Showcase. Their music has hit the airwaves of several internet radio shows all over the US and has become a part of WRBJ-97.7 (Jackson, MS) regular rotation. As “educating entertainers, Greg and Shaunte’ create music that not only makes you want to move, but carries a message that can be applied to all situations, ages, and races. Their mission is to transform lives through their music and to be examples of success for the upcoming generations.
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