Kimble Funchess Explores His Roots with Soulful Single ‘Keep Pressin’ On’
Kimble Funchess, a talented musician from Crystal Springs, Mississippi, is redefining what it means to create music that resonates with both history and the present. Hailing from Copiah County, the birthplace of blues legend Robert Johnson, Funchess channels his rich cultural heritage into a genre he calls "Intellectual Soul Music." This innovative blend of blues, gospel, jazz, and R&B mirrors the environment that has shaped his artistry. Funchess credits a host of legendary artists for inspiring his musical journey. From the trailblazing trumpet of Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong to the soulful melodies of Dorothy Moore and Johnnie Taylor, his influences of sound. He also draws inspiration from iconic groups like The Muscle Shoals Horns and The Memphis Horns, alongside contemporary greats like Kirk Whalum and Bobby Rush.
Kimble Funchess expresses deep gratitude for two mentors who have significantly influenced his journey as an aspiring horn and string arranger. He intentionally acknowledges their remarkable impact and ongoing support, referring to them as his "Musical Fathers." The first is Mr. Harrison Calloway, Jr., a native of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and a founding member and trumpeter of The Muscle Shoals Horn Section. Known for his extraordinary contributions to countless iconic recordings, Mr. Calloway's guidance has been instrumental in shaping Funchess's musical path. The second is Dr. Benjamin Wright, Jr., a Greenville, Mississippi native who is celebrated as a producer, arranger, and composer. Among his notable achievements, Dr. Wright arranged the horns and strings for Earth, Wind & Fire’s classic hit “Boogie Wonderland” and was personally contacted by Quincy Jones to arrange for Michael Jackson’s legendary album Off The Wall. Kimble Funchess's acknowledgment of these two giants underscores his respect for their legacy and the pivotal role they continue to play in his growth as a musician.
With such a diverse array of mentors, Funchess creates music that pays homage to the past while carving a path forward. Funchess’s latest single, ‘Keep Pressin’ On’, embodies the spiritual and cultural essence of his upbringing. The melody, which came to him during a moment of meditation, was meticulously crafted to evoke a gospel-jazz and blues ambiance. Funchess aimed to create a track that resonates with themes of mindfulness and spiritual grounding. The creative process behind ‘Keep Pressin’ On; was both challenging and rewarding. From conceptualizing the initial melody to navigating the production stages, Funchess remained focused on his vision. “The song represents the shoulders of those in my family that I stand on,” he shares, reflecting on the intergenerational inspiration behind his work.
This deep sense of gratitude fuels his desire to inspire the next generation to achieve even greater heights. Through ‘Keep Pressin’ On’, Funchess conveys a powerful message: the importance of focus, meditation, and relaxation in navigating life’s challenges. The song is a call to action for listeners to embrace mindfulness as a daily practice, offering a soothing and an uplifting experience. Kimble Funchess continues to solidify his place as a torchbearer of Intellectual Soul Music. His ability to blend the old with the new, honoring the legacy of his influences while pioneering a fresh sound, makes him a unique voice in today’s musical landscape. By sharing his story and his art, he hopes to inspire future generations to dream big, stay focused, and press on, no matter what life may bring.
Listen to 'Keep Pressin' On'
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