.png)
Funky Real Entertainers Standing Here
Fresh Tha Band emerged from the rich musical soil of Chicago with a mission to deliver authentic funk and R&B that moves both body and soul. Founded on the principle of being "Funky Real Entertainers Standing Here," we've established ourselves as one of Chicago's premier live music experiences.
Our signature "Fresh Formula" combines classic funk grooves with contemporary R&B sophistication, creating a sound that honors the past while pushing toward the future. Every performance is crafted to get audiences moving, grooving, and experiencing the pure joy that only live funk music can deliver.
What sets Fresh Tha Band apart is our unique blend of seasoned musicianship and fresh energy. Led by our incredible lineup and featuring the extraordinary talent of Samotta Acklin, daughter of legendary singer-songwriter Barbara Acklin, we bring both heritage and innovation to every stage we grace.
From intimate club venues to grand ballrooms, Fresh Tha Band has built a reputation for delivering unforgettable performances that leave audiences wanting more. Our commitment to musical excellence and entertaining showmanship has made us a sought-after act throughout the Chicago music scene and beyond.
Lead Vocalist & R&B Royalty
The daughter of Grammy-nominated legend Barbara Acklin ("Am I the Same Girl," "Love Makes a Woman"), Samotta carries forward a musical legacy spanning generations. Her powerful vocals and stage presence bring both heritage and fresh innovation to Fresh Tha Band's sound. Samotta performs her new releases of "The Barbara Acklin Suite," honoring her mother's incredible contributions to soul and R&B music.
Musicians & Entertainers
Our talented ensemble of musicians brings decades of combined experience in funk, R&B, soul, and contemporary music. Each member contributes their unique style and energy to create the signature "Fresh Formula" sound that keeps audiences dancing all night long. Together, we are truly Funky Real Entertainers Standing Here.
"We honor the rich traditions of Chicago's soul and funk legacy while bringing fresh energy to contemporary audiences. Every performance is a celebration of both where we've been and where we're going."
Fresh Tha Band represents the continuation of Chicago's incredible musical heritage. From the legendary sounds of Curtis Mayfield and The Impressions to the contemporary funk revival, we stand as torchbearers for authentic, soulful music that moves people.
Our connection to music history runs deep, particularly through Samotta Acklin, whose mother Barbara Acklin wrote classics like "Have You Seen Her" for the Chi-Lites and performed hits like "Am I the Same Girl." This direct link to soul music royalty informs everything we do, ensuring authenticity in every note we play.
But we're not just preserving the past - we're creating the future. The "Fresh Formula" represents our commitment to evolving the funk and R&B sound for new generations while never losing sight of what made this music so powerful in the first place: the ability to bring people together and make them move.