From the band’s critically acclaimed and award-winning original music and shows to its huge book of classic covers from such artists as Otis Redding, Stevie Wonder, and Tower of Power, everyone of every age has found a reason to dig The Essentials.Combining a love and passion for classic, authentic soul music with highly educated and honed talent has produced the band’s sound – a mixture of tight rhythm, heavy brass, and soulful vocals. Members of The Essentials have recorded multi-platinum albums, received the highest award at national jazz festivals, and have been national finalists in prestigious song-writing competitions. Most players have a degree in music and back it up on stage, whether the group is headlining a festival or packing a local club.

The Essentials has gained local popularity as well as larger acclaim. In 2009 The Essentials was voted the best band in its area by The Register Guard, and was also rated the best dance band on the west coast by Gigmasters.com. The band’s debut self-titled album slotted #1 on national independent music leader CDBaby’s editor’s list for funk and #1 on its list for soul. Tracks from the band’s CDs have been included on local and national compilation albums, cable television, and are played on soul radio stations in Great Britain, Japan, New York, Denver, Des Moines, as well as the band’s home state of Oregon.

The Essentials offers a wide variety of shows for different events. The group has played dozens of nightclubs from Seattle to San Francisco, headlined blues and folk festivals, and opened for national acts of all different styles, from Rock and Roll (Leon Russell) to Pop Rock (Super Diamond) to Swing (The Cherry Poppin’ Daddies). The band has played private events for everyone from wedding couples to the Seattle Symphony, and performed for the University of Oregon football crowd during the most highly-attended game in the state’s history.

Do something that makes you feel good. Hip yourself to The Essentials.