1. Let’s start with a quick introduction: how would you describe who you are and what you do, especially in the context of Memphis culture?
I am Suavo Jones. I’m a multi-talented artist that’s mostly known as a trombonist and songwriter. I’d like to describe myself as a passionate artist with a deep love for the city of Memphis. My dire desire is to inspire and empower people of all backgrounds. Memphis residents need a healthy way to release and relieve themselves of stress and trauma. My plan is to simply give people a reason to dance, teach people how to love themselves, how to embrace others, and leave them with a sense of hope. I give music that they can feel, so that they can heal. I don’t just give good performances; I create experiences… and every day I’m “Keepin It Memphis”!!
2. You’ve recently shifted focus from touring to uplifting and educating your community. What inspired that change, and what does that mission look like in action?
As a touring artist, my role was that of a hype man… a hype man with a trombone. Though I enjoyed it, I didn’t have much of a voice. Yes, I got the chance to rap on some funky blues and show off my lyrical skills, but deep inside I knew that I had a bigger calling. My city needed me, and I needed my city. Whenever I would come home, I was able to give another version of myself… a more vulnerable version of myself.
The reaction to my home performances differed from those on the road. On the road as a key role player, I received a lot of praise and compliments on my energy and my abilities to rap and play horn. At home as a bandleader, people literally break down and cry. They share their stories of how I spoke their life and how they’ve always felt misunderstood. The connection is completely different. Nevertheless, I do enjoy both aspects of performing, but I’m aware that the performances that I give when I’m with my own band hit completely different.
3. Da MTown Band proudly performs original music across a wide variety of genres. How does Memphis, with its deep musical roots, shape the sound and message of your band?
Memphis shapes our sound because what we give reflects what we are. We are Memphis to the bone and gristle, so our messages are inspired by our real life and our songs are catered to our peers and people that need a voice. We know that Memphis needs change. We aspire to be that change. I preach that you have to be different to make a difference. Whatever makes you weird is your superpower.
Memphis has a rich heritage of artists that changed the game, whether we speak on the uniqueness of the studio quality of places like Royal Studios, which constantly stands the test of time, or Isaac Hayes, who helped shape the sound of Memphis. We believe that we have the potential to shape the city in our own unique way as well.
4. Your band’s motto, “If You Wanted Covers, You Should Have Stayed In Bed,” is bold and unapologetic. What does that say about your creative identity and how audiences connect with your performances?
At this day and age, it seems as if people are trying to fit in. Our brand is built on standing out. We want you to love us for what we create, not for what we can mimic. If you want what we offer, you have to come to us to get it.
People never expect to go to a bar and hear a band performing 4 hours of originals, but once they get a dose, they are glued to their seats or on the dance floor, chanting to songs that they have never heard. People come for what they want, but often leave with what they need. It’s not only a good look for us. It also helps build the music scene when people can experience something different and new. We hope to inspire more to do their own thing.
5. As a 10-piece ensemble, there’s a lot of diversity both musically and culturally. How does that versatility help you engage with different communities, and what do you hope people feel when they see you live?
Everyone in Da MTown Band is a multi-instrumentalist that can easily do their own thing. We all come from different places, share different stories, and each bring a different energy, but music brought us together. I think our very existence sends a message of unity. We strengthen and encourage each other.
I’ve played with numerous bands over the years, and I must say that it’s a rarity to share this type of bond with a band. We are not afraid to challenge ourselves. No matter where we go, we have something for you. Also, I’m not afraid to take a step back at times and play behind these incredible artists like J Renia, Sunny D Brinson, Johnny Webb, and El Hakim. They all have core fans, and I’m one of them.
While I’m at it, let me shout out Devin “Poetic Keys” Jordan, Ethan Baker, Dean Jones, G-Mo, and Tony Forte. Each and every member plays a pivotal role in this band, and that role often shifts. I vibrate higher because of these individuals. When people see us live, I want people to know that no dream is too big and no stage is too small!!!
6. You mentioned a desire to partner with more local events and organizations. What kinds of spaces or opportunities are you looking for to expand Da MTown Band’s impact across the city?
Da MTown Band is the most Memphis band in existence. We chant that we are “Keepin It Memphis” everywhere that we go. Our slang is Memphis. Our music is Memphis. It’s in our name: Da “M” Town Band. We have songs that are dedicated exclusively for our city. Our love for Memphis is what sets us apart from any other band.
Memphis now has a band that caters to the uplifting of Memphis. It’s cool to have fun, but what if that fun came with a musical experience that taught people how to love better, live better, and be better? We are ready to show up for the youth. We are ready to show up for the community. We are ready to fill the people with love. We are ready to showcase Memphis in its best light.
7. Looking ahead, what’s your vision for the future of Da MTown Band and your role in Memphis’ creative and cultural scene?
I see Da MTown Band gaining the hearts of our city then taking the world by storm. I see us getting in positions to provide opportunities for Memphis businesses to grow… I see an outbreak of creativity and love spreading throughout the Midsouth. I see more members added to our band. I see us performing, motivating the youth a lot more. I see more financial opportunities for each band member, yet still having time to do our thing as a unit. I see more partnerships. I see people learning how to navigate through life because of our art.
How to support
👉 Follow Suavo Jones and Da MTown Band on socials
Instagram: @suavojones @mtownbandofficial
Facebook: Suavo Jones, Da MTown Band
