BIOGRAPHY
‘Funk Soul Orchestral: James Brown vs Prince’ is a unique and exciting live music performance that celebrates the genius of the most legendary and iconic names in funk and soul music: James Brown and Prince. Conceptualised by Band Leader and Creative Director Ashton Jones and brought to life by Musical Director and Orchestral Arranger Harry Greene, their critically acclaimed debut and double sell-out show at Ronnie Scott's was a world-class celebration of the greatest funk and soul songs ever written.
Ashton Jones is a highly respected and in-demand live performer, recording artist and producer, known for his audience captivating brand of energy, musicianship and flair. He has been championed by BBC Radio 2, Craig Charles, and BBC 6 Music, fronting multiple sold-out shows at Ronnie Scott's with his original funk outfit: The Ashton Jones Project. Jones has performed with the BBC Concert Orchestra, appeared at The Royal Albert Hall, The London Palladium, The Jazz Cafe, and fronted Amazon's global ad campaign singing Freddie Scott's classic "You Got What I Need." This year he returned to Cheltenham Jazz Festival to perform at their inaugural 'Soul Jazz Summit' for a sold-out performance with the BBC Concert Orchestra and Guy Barker's Big Band for BBC Television.
Multi-instrumentalist Harry Greene has firmly cemented himself as a masterful
Musical Director, arranger and composer. In addition to performing with his own
projects around top UK and European venues, he has also performed alongside the likes of Cory Wong, Mica Paris, PBUG and Ricky Wilson. Recent performance highlights include being asked to perform at the Royal Albert Hall for the “Ronnie Scott’s at 60” Gala, and being personally selected to share the stage with New Power Generation member and Prince side-woman Marva King for her UK tour. An increasingly in-demand composer and arranger, Harry’s music has also been used on a host of prime time TV shows, and he was recently asked to contribute to a brand new Disney soundtrack
Together, Jones and Greene have brought ‘Funk Soul Orchestral: James Brown vs Prince’ to life with an incredible orchestra featuring the UK's finest talent. The result is a vibrant, lively and insanely funky show, featuring high energy performances, paying homage to the iconic and glittering legacies of James Brown and Prince. This show is an absolute must-see for fans of funk and soul music and is a perfect fit for music festivals looking to add a touch of world-class, legacy celebration to their line-ups. ‘James Brown vs Prince’ is a guaranteed crowd pleaser.
AN intoxicating night of soul and funk music was served up at Ronnie Scott’s on Thursday night (October 20) as the wonderful Funk Soul Orchestral celebrated the music of two iconic legends – James Brown and Prince.
Led with a mix of panache, never ending energy and passion by frontman Ashton Jones – and astutely marshalled by guitarist Harry Greene – this almighty collection of gifted musicians had the sell-out audience off their feet well before the end.
Memories of youth long lost were temporarily retrieved as Funk Soul Orchestral reminded us of the amazing music these two past masters created, most of it timeless. Although the knees clicked a little, the audience danced – and danced again.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Close-Up Culture
MEDIA
Delivering the immediate injection of energy we expected, they didn’t disappoint. The band burst into life. As did Ashton. As did the sound. Horn lines aplenty, and vocals on point. It was a truly phenomenal way to start and bring a smile to everyone’s faces".
David Croker, Listen to Discover
PHOTOS- CLICK TO DOWNLOAD
TOUR DATES
TOUR DATES JUST ANNOUNCED
07th Feb 2025 / Bury St Edmunds / The Apex / TICKETS
09th Feb 2025 / Swindon / Wyvern Theatre / TICKETS
12th Feb 2025 / Hampshire / Fareham Live / TICKETS
23rd March 2025 / Wimborne / Tivoli Theatre / TICKETS
29th March 2025 / Milton Keynes / The Stables / TICKETS
For all booking, advancing and media enquiries, please contact