Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley

Ascendant’s Kael Mboya and Michael Lockett join Joe Kelley for a wide-ranging conversation about the band’s distinctive blend of funk, soul and R&B. They discuss Ascendant’s musical origins, creative chemistry and commitment to preserving the spirit of live musicianship while developing their own sound. Kael also recalls the lasting influence of seeing Stevie Wonder bring the funk to Sesame Street —an early moment that helped shape his relationship with music. The conversation explores the artists who inspired Ascendant, the realities of building an independent band, songwriting, collaboration and the importance of introducing authentic funk and soul to new generations. Hosted by Joe Kelley. Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley features in-depth conversations with legendary artists, respected musicians and emerging voices from funk, R&B, soul, rock, jazz and beyond.

When artists began calling Sandra St. Victor for her songs, the first was Prince. She recalls learning that he loved her unreleased album Sanctuary—and played it every morning. Sandra joins Joe Kelley for a conversation spanning the Family Stand, her years with Chaka Khan, her songwriting connection with Prince, and the making of her new album, Eleven. She shares how meeting Chaka at a Roy Ayers gig led to assembling Chaka’s backing vocal lineup with Lisa Fischer and Brenda White King. She also remembers the unexpected beginnings of “Ghetto Heaven,” reflects on “Soul Sanctuary” and “Stone,” and explains why maintaining her own musical identity has always mattered. Along the way, Sandra remembers Curtis Mayfield, Leon Ware, Johnny Kemp, Ronnie Drayton, and Bernie Worrell; revisits the creation of Daughters of Soul; and discusses life in the Netherlands. On Eleven, she explores new musical territory with collaborators including Lalah Hathaway, Kaidi Tatham, V. Jeffrey Smith, and Patrick Gibin of Mother Tongue Records. An honest, funny, and heartfelt conversation about the relationships behind the music—and an artist still creating on her own terms. Explore Sandra’s album Eleven: https://www.mothertonguerecords.com/product/sandra-st-victor-xi/ Watch Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@musiciansreveal Follow Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley on Spotify or Apple Podcasts for more conversations with the musicians behind the music. Enjoyed this episode? Leave a rating or review and share it with another music lover.

In this episode, host Joe Kelley sits down with drummer, composer, and multi-instrumentalist Les aka LRCFunk. Les shares stories from his musical journey—from growing up as a preacher's kid in Columbia, South Carolina, to studying at Berklee College of Music and touring with music icons like Larry Graham, Prince, Patty Labelle, Anita Baker, and Roberta Flack. He reflects on his deep bond with his late mentor and best friend, John Blackwell Jr., breaks down the creation of his hybrid-genre project Emerald City , and gives an inside look into working on the upcoming Purple Rain Broadway adaptation. Key Takeaways The Power of Mentorship: How drum legend John Blackwell Jr. shaped Les’s career from high school through his time at Berklee and onto major stages. Life on Stage with Royalty: What it was really like auditioning for Prince (starting with five non-negotiable questions) and touring with Larry Graham & Graham Central Station. Mastering the Hybrid Genre: How Les channels funk, rock, classical, and soul into his solo project Emerald City without being boxed into a single genre. Professional Resilience: Turning unexpected stage mishaps and high-pressure soundchecks into flawless performances.

Legendary guitarist Paul Jackson Jr. joins Joe Kelley for a revealing conversation about the musicians, sessions and unforgettable moments behind his extraordinary career. Paul shares the hilarious story of Michael Jackson calling his family home—only to have his mother hang up on him—and takes us inside his work on classics including “This Place Hotel,” “P.Y.T.,” “The Lady in My Life,” “Dirty Diana” and “Beat It.” He explains the different guitar contributions made by Steve Lukather, Eddie Van Halen and himself, and recalls what it was like creating music with Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson during one of the most historic periods in recording history. The conversation also explores Paul’s early mentorship from Patrice Rushen, Lee Ritenour and Ray Parker Jr.; his recordings with Luther Vandross; touring with Whitney Houston; working with George Benson, George Duke, Daft Punk and The Weeknd; and his continuing work alongside Jeff Lorber and Everette Harp in Jazz Funk Soul. Paul also reflects on musicianship, faith, friendship, adapting to changes in the recording industry and the discipline behind becoming one of the most respected guitarists of his generation. Learn more about Paul Jackson Jr., his music and instructional programs at: https://pauljacksonjr.net Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley has been presenting in-depth conversations with influential musicians since 1982. Subscribe to Musicians Reveal on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MusiciansReveal

Meia and acclaimed keyboardist, producer and longtime Prince & The NPG musical director Morris Hayes join Joe Kelley for a special edition of Musicians Reveal celebrating Meia’s Foreigner EP. Meia and Morris take listeners behind the making of the project, sharing the stories, creative decisions and recording process that shaped the EP. Meia discusses the inspiration and personal meaning behind “Wild Ride,” “Foreigner” and “Sweet Devotion,” while Morris offers his perspective on producing the sessions and bringing the songs to life. The conversation also takes some fascinating turns into Morris’ years working with Prince, including lessons learned in the studio, Prince’s legendary rehearsal and recording work ethic, and stories from Morris’ career traveling and making music around the world. Meia and Morris also reflect on their musical partnership, the late producer David Z, the Minneapolis music community and what could be ahead for their collaboration. This podcast edition features the conversation and stories from the original Foreigner EP listening party. Music from the EP has been removed from the podcast version. Hosted by Joe Kelley.

Andre Cymone returns to Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley for an in-depth conversation about his upcoming album Resurrection of Funk , the inspiration behind bringing funk back to center stage, and the stories behind his newest music. Andre reflects on growing up in Minneapolis, the legendary Grand Central days with Prince, Battle of the Bands memories, songwriting, producing, and why he believes funk deserves a new generation of appreciation. He also discusses mentoring younger musicians, producing Jody Watley, working with The Girls, memories of Pepe Willie and Jellybean Johnson, and his plans to take Resurrection of Funk on the road. If you're a fan of Prince, the Minneapolis Sound, classic funk, bass playing, songwriting, and music history, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Long before Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley , Taja Sevelle joined me in the studios of Upper Room with Joe Kelley on WVOF 88.5 FM for this in-depth conversation from 2002. Taja reflects on her years with Prince and Paisley Park, recording her debut album, collaborating with Nile Rodgers, becoming an independent artist, songwriting, creativity, and where her career was headed at the time. More than two decades later, this conversation offers a fascinating snapshot of an artist who forged her own path after one of the most recognizable chapters of her career. If you enjoy conversations about Prince, the Minneapolis Sound, and the artists who helped shape that musical era, you'll enjoy this rare archival interview. Topics include: Prince and the Paisley Park years Recording her debut album Working with Nile Rodgers Independent music and creativity Songwriting Life after Paisley Park Future projects

🎥 Watch the complete video interview on the Musicians Reveal YouTube channel https://youtube.com/@MusiciansReveal One photograph. One Prince song. One unforgettable story. In Part 2 of our conversation, Steve Parke shares the unforgettable story behind the photograph that inspired "Welcome 2 the Dawn," offering a rare glimpse into Prince's creative process and the unique relationship they shared during Steve's years as Prince's art director and personal photographer. Steve also discusses additional behind-the-scenes memories from Paisley Park, Prince's creative instincts, photography, and the collaborative environment that produced some of Prince's most memorable visual work. If you enjoyed Part 1, this episode continues the journey with even more stories that only someone from Prince's inner creative circle could tell. About Steve Parke Steve Parke worked alongside Prince for 13 years as his in-house art director, illustrator, designer, and photographer. During that time he contributed to album artwork, photography, stage design, promotional materials, and countless creative projects while documenting Prince both on and off stage. He is also the author of the acclaimed photography collection featuring hundreds of images from his years working with Prince. Subscribe to Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley Discover exclusive interviews with Prince associates, legendary musicians, producers, songwriters, and industry insiders sharing the stories behind the music.

Steve Parke spent more than 13 years working alongside Prince as his art director, photographer, designer, and creative collaborator. In this exclusive episode of Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley , Steve shares remarkable behind-the-scenes stories from Paisley Park that only someone inside Prince's inner circle could tell. Steve discusses how he first met Prince through Levi Seacer Jr., designing the Graffiti Bridge album cover, creating tour books and stage designs, becoming one of Prince's photographers despite having no digital photography experience, and what it was like collaborating with one of music's greatest creative minds. You'll also hear stories about: Working with Prince for more than 13 years The creation of the Graffiti Bridge artwork Rare Paisley Park memories Prince's creative process and perfectionism Designing iconic tour books and stage productions Photographing Prince behind the scenes The truth behind popular Prince fan myths Personal memories that continue a decade after Prince's passing If you're a Prince fan or love hearing firsthand stories from the musicians and creatives who helped shape music history, this conversation is for you. Subscribe to Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley for exclusive interviews with legendary musicians, producers, engineers, photographers, and the people behind some of the greatest music ever created.

Originally recorded in 2009, Marva King discusses recording and performing with Prince during the lead-up to Lotusflow3r. She shares stories about Prince's perfectionism, rehearsals, Liv Warfield joining the band, previewing Prince's groundbreaking website, touring with Stevie Wonder, producing her own music, and the release of her album Grown and Sexy. A fascinating snapshot of Prince's world just before one of his most ambitious releases.

Few people witnessed Prince's digital vision as closely as Sam Jennings. Working with Prince from 1998 through 2007, Sam helped design the official websites, the groundbreaking NPG Music Club, album artwork, tour books, and many of the online experiences that connected Prince directly with fans years before streaming became the norm. Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley talks with Sam about: • Working alongside Prince every day • The creation of the NPG Music Club • Designing Musicology , 3121 , and other projects • Prince's vision for the internet and artist independence • Creative challenges behind Paisley Park projects • Stories that reveal how Prince approached design, technology, and innovation This interview offers a fascinating look at one of the most innovative periods of Prince's career from someone who helped build it.

From the Musicians Reveal Radio Archives comes a rediscovered conversation with legendary guitarist Jesse Johnson, originally recorded in 2009. After years of searching, this interview was finally recovered while digitizing decades of cassette archives. Jesse reflects on his remarkable career, his groundbreaking work with The Time, his solo success, and his experiences surrounding Prince and the Minneapolis music scene. Musicians Reveal Radio Archives features restored interviews originally recorded over four decades, preserving the stories of Prince associates, funk legends, and R&B artists. Originally recorded in 2009. Restored and presented by Joe Kelley.

Jazzhole founders Marlon Saunders and Warren Rosenstein join Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley to discuss their latest album Moonlight Mile , recording at the legendary Muscle Shoals studio, touring with Stevie Wonder, Randy Brecker, New York's vibrant music scene and the band's remarkable 32-year journey together.

Singer, songwriter and producer Sekend joins Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley to discuss his musical journey from Dallas to Berklee College of Music and ultimately to recording with Kanye West, Elton John, Stevie Wonder and Kirk Franklin. He shares stories about Sunday Service, studio sessions, Motown, performing the National Anthem, and building his own career as an artist

From the Upper Room archives, Joe Kelley welcomes Shel Riser of Sonnyboy for an in-studio interview and live performance recorded in 2004. Shel discusses his move to Minneapolis, performing with Maserati, working with Malia Franklin, the Prince-era music scene, building Sonnyboy, and life as an independent artist. The episode also includes live acoustic performances recorded in studio. Part 1 of a two-part conversation.

Singer, songwriter and former New Power Generation vocalist Elisa Fiorillo joins Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley. Elisa discusses her new single "Clear Blue Skies," performing with the Minneapolis Funk All-Stars, memories of Prince, the surprising advice Prince gave her as a songwriter, her upcoming memoir Purple Tapestry, and the next phase of her musical journey. She also shares stories about recording with Prince, touring, songwriting, family, and the inspiration behind her newest music. Recorded June 2026. Hosted by Joe Kelley. On air since 1982.

Bobby Moon and Paul Pablo Thomas of Spellbound join Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley to discuss more than three decades of friendship, music, creativity, and independent artistry. The conversation explores the band's origins, musical influences, songwriting process, live performances, the changing music industry, and their latest release, Life 101 . Originally recorded in 2026.

Originally recorded in 2007. Joe Kelley welcomes Gary Hines, founder and leader of Grammy Award-winning Sounds of Blackness. Gary discusses the group's album Kings and Queens: Message Music From The Movement , the lasting influence of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., attending King's funeral, growing up in Yonkers, New York, and the rich musical history of Minneapolis. The conversation also explores Ann Nesby's role in Sounds of Blackness, community activism through music, legendary Minneapolis clubs, and the mission that has guided Sounds of Blackness for decades. Topics include: Sounds of Blackness Kings and Queens Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Minneapolis music history Ann Nesby Message music Community activism Gospel, soul, funk and R&B Kirby Puckett Minnesota music culture Originally broadcast on WVOF 88.5 FM.

Originally recorded in 2005, Joe Kelley welcomes legendary drummer, guitarist, producer, and founding member of The Time, Jellybean Johnson. In this rare radio archive, Jellybean reflects on touring with Prince during the Musicology era, the discipline and rehearsal standards that made Prince's bands legendary, the unique artistry of the Minneapolis Sound, and his work with Ronnie Baker Brooks. He also shares stories about Jesse Johnson, Jerome Benton, The Time's live performances, and what it was like returning to arenas packed with 20,000 Prince fans during the Musicology Tour. Topics include: • Prince and the Musicology Tour • The Time's return to the stage • Prince's rehearsal standards • The Minneapolis Sound • Jesse Johnson and The Time • Ronnie Baker Brooks • 777-9311 and live performance • Touring, musicianship, and funk history Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley has been documenting music history since 1982 through interviews with legendary musicians, producers, songwriters, and artists from the worlds of funk, R&B, jazz, rock, and pop.

Rainiere Martin joins Joe Kelley on Musicians Reveal to discuss her incredible journey from giving up on music for 20 years to becoming one of the nation's premier Donna Summer tribute performers. Rainiere shares how years of rejection led her away from singing, the unexpected opportunity that changed her life, building the acclaimed Forever Donna tribute show, performing on the Ultimate Disco Cruise, and honoring the legacy of one of music's most beloved voices. Topics include Donna Summer, Legends in Concert, Philadelphia music influences, live performance, audience engagement, Joe Esposito, Tammi Terrell, and the perseverance required to pursue a dream after decades away. Learn more at 4everDonna.com .