DOORS @6PM, SHOWTIME @7PM
Gene Dunlap is a diverse “Grammy Award Nominated” musician. He began his music career at age four when his father taught him to play the drums. Dunlap honed his craft at Detroit Mumford High School. During this time, he teamed up with his friend and fellow musician, guitarist Earl Klugh. Together, forming the Earl Klugh Trio, The duo performed in local clubs with other musicians. Although they eventually chose separate musical paths, Dunlap continued to perform and write music. His talents as a writer, composer and producer caught the attention of Capitol Records.
At Capitol, Dunlap recorded three solo albums: It’s Just the Way I Feel, Party In Me and Tired of Being a Nice Guy. Which enabled him to write and produce much of his own material.
After recording his solo projects, Dunlap reunited with Earl Klugh and the duo began recording and touring together. Klugh and Dunlap have collaborated on ten albums throughout their careers.
He has also been involved in a variety of projects with other major recording artist including touring and recording with Ronnie Laws, Hubert Laws, George Benson, Roy Ayers, Grant Green, The London Philharmonic Orchestra, The Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra, Noel Pointer, Bob James, Bobby Lyle, Marcus Miller, Mary Wilson, Tina Marie, George Duke and Patrice Rushen.
After releasing "Groove With You" on Avenue JazzRecords, Dunlap stopped recording professionally to teach School in Detroit. In 2002, he returned to the studio and released Tales of the Phatman. And most recently in 2005, he released Peaceful Days.
Gene Dunlap’s music is a combination of late night groove, contemporary jazz and smooth R&B. He manages to have fun with his music while retaining his artistic integrity. Gene Dunlap is an artist for our time that continues to grow and serve the public through his love of music.
THE BAND:
Derrick Benford - Keys
Matt Callaway - Guitar
Trenita Womack - Percussion
Nick Stone - Sax
Al Duncan - Keyboard
Caelin Amin - Bass