Press

WELCOME TO

Funk Therapy

Funk Therapy (lead by former Motown producer/Songwriter - Michael B. Sutton)

is a collective group of musicians from the west coast bringing back old school funk

Press

Inspiration Behind "Old School Party":

Press Release

Immediate Release - Los Angeles, California (Feb. 28, 2024)

Funk Therapy: Michael B. Sutton's Revival of the '70s and '80s Funk Era

Legendary hit-maker and former Motown producer Michael B. Sutton is set to make waves with his new musical project, Funk Therapy. This collective includes renowned musicians who have played alongside icons such as Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson, The Temptations, and many more. Funk Therapy was founded in Los Angeles in 2024 under the direction of Sutton, who has previously worked with giants like Smokey Robinson, Dionne Warwick, and Berry Gordy.

About Funk Therapy

Funk Therapy is a celebration of the authentic '70s and '80s soul, disco, and funk. The band's main influences include soul legends like Marvin Gaye and musical innovators such as Stevie Wonder. Despite being a newly formed group, their music has already gained traction on global radio stations.

When Michael was contemplating his next music project, his wife Aneessa, who is from France and has a deep love for funk and Classic Soul music, encouraged him to dive back into the scene. She reminded him,

"Michael, you've worked with legends like Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson, Dionne Warwick, The Originals, Chuck Brown, Cheryl Lynn, Ray Parker Jr., Thelma Houston, Jerry Butler, Anita Pointer, Switch, and many more. You know all the top musicians who played with Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder and more!!!!. There’s no one better suited to bring funk back!"

Inspired by her support, Michael decided it was time to return to the studio. The recording sessions were not just about making music; they were a celebration of funk and soul. Aneessa contributed her vocal talents by singing background alongside Sherrie Payne from the legendary Supremes, adding a unique touch to the sound. With Anessa’s French flair and the involvement of esteemed musicians, the atmosphere in the studio was electric. Everyone shared many laughs and enjoyed the process, making the creation of the album a truly joyful and unforgettable collaboration.

Notable Experiences

While the band has not yet performed live gigs due to its recent formation, members have extensive histories of touring and performing with Motown legends, bringing a rich legacy to the group's dynamic.

Music and Inspiration

The debut single, "Old School Party," encapsulates the ethos of Funk Therapy. Recorded in Los Angeles with contributions from Sutton and vocals from his wife Anessa and Sherrie Payne of The Supremes, the track is a vibrant throwback to the golden era of funk and soul. Anessa's French roots and profound love for classic soul music have significantly influenced the project, infusing it with authenticity and passion.

Album Ethos

The upcoming album draws inspiration from various musical styles and events from the '70s and '80s, aiming to recapture the spirit of these times through its sound and lyrical content.

Personal Quote from Michael B. Sutton

"These songs are a throwback to the authentic '70s and '80s sound we all adore. It’s my way of inviting everyone to join the party, dance it out, and relive the joy we all miss. 'Old School Party' is my comeback anthem, thanks to therapy—Funk Therapy, that is! For me, music is the key to unlocking my true self."

For Further Information:

For promotional requests, interviews, or additional information, please contact soundofla12@gmail.com

Sounds like:

McFadden & Whitehead - 'Ain't No Stopping Us Now'

Teddy Pendergrass - 'Do Me'

O'Jays

Stevie Wonder

Marvin Gaye

Download Now "Old School Party"

Envisioning Impact:

"With 'Old School Party,' we hope to introduce listeners to the healing power of funk music. It's a celebration of life, and we believe it can positively impact mental well-being."

Creative Process:

"Crafting 'Old School Party' involved infusing classic funk elements with a message of positivity. We wanted to create an anthem that resonates with people from all walks of life."

Message for Listeners:

"For our debut, we hope 'Old School Party' brings joy, nostalgia, and a sense of community. It's about creating moments of happiness that contribute to mental well-being."

Influence on Future Releases:

"The journey of 'Old School Party' lays the groundwork for future releases. We'll continue exploring the therapeutic potential of funk, addressing different aspects of mental health."

Conducive Elements:

"The groove, rhythm, and infectious energy in 'Old School Party' make it conducive to serving as a therapeutic tool. We believe in the transformative power of music."

Engaging with Fans:

"We're eager to hear from fans who connect with 'Old School Party.' Whether through social media or live events, we want to understand how the music resonates on a personal level."

Debut Single's Role in Mission:

"As our first single, 'Old School Party' establishes Funk Therapy's commitment to using music as emotional and mental support. It's a glimpse into our broader mission."

Feedback from Listeners:

"Early feedback has been heartening. People are already sharing stories of how 'Old School Party' brings positivity into their lives, and that's incredibly fulfilling."

Aspirations for Impact:

"Looking ahead, we hope 'Old School Party' becomes a catalyst for individuals discovering funk music as a therapeutic outlet. It's about fostering a sense of well-being through our sound."

O.G. West Coast Collective Funk Therapy “Glides” Out with Healing Debut

(May 31, 2022 / Los Angeles, CA) As a pure and potent source of healing, you can never go wrong with Funk music. A very special collective of musicians, singers, writers and rappers emanating outta various subsets of Southern California has banded together under the moniker Funk Therapy to gift the world with some medicinal musical voodoo that soothes your mind while liberating your feet!

Introducing Funk Therapy, a wellness concept in West Coast groove, making its first house call as associates of bassist Mitchell Coleman, Jr. on the ‘Urban Remix’ of his latest single, “Glide.” Coleman has already enjoyed success with two previous mixes of his cover of the intricate and innovative 1979 funk jam by the band Pleasure. Now, in collaboration who Funk Therapy, comes the most daring and different mix of all (available June 24 via The Sound of L.A. Records).

Producers Michael B. Sutton and Jason Anderson, in conjunction with Mitchell Coleman Jr. and Funk Therapy, have slowed the music way down to kick a leaner, more spacey groove of drum machine and synths, a lead vocal sung through an old school vocoder plus the addition of an artful, thoughtful rap by Nigerian female mic checker Funanya.

The new arrangement is out of this world and guaranteed to introduce “Glide” to an even broader demographic of listeners, marinating in a vibration that is so old school, it’s new again.

Funk Therapy is the brainchild of legendary record producer Michael B. Sutton who took one look at all of the soul-crushing issues of the world today and decided that the remedy was some good old Funk Therapy. “I’ve been in therapy over half my life,” he says with a chuckle, “so I am very aware of the importance of a sound and balanced mindset. Music has always been that thing for me, especially Funk. I play James Brown as much as I do James Cleveland (the Gospel legend) to keep my head straight. So, with Funk Therapy, we’re debuting with our special mix of Mitchell Coleman Jr.’s hit single “Glide,” a song that inspires people to move past their adversities, stay positive and keep on pushin’. Later this summer, we’ll drop a full EP – a mix of original songs and a couple of choice covers.”

Funk Therapy consists of a revolving collective of musicians that, in its flagship addition, includes Michael B. Sutton, Jason Anderson, Hiroshi Upshur, Mitchell Coleman, Jr., Josh Sklair, James Manning, James Gadson and Timbali Caldwell. Once the full EP drops on August 26, lookout for live shows of their parliament patented process of full body “healin’ with a feelin’!”

New Paragraph