Funk legend Philip Lassiter is coming to the Philharmonic Music Room on Tuesday 3rd February, in what is an absolute must for funk afficionados! The exciting showcase is a rare chance to experience the 11 time Grammy winner up close and personal, promising to be a funk extravaganza like no other!
The horn arranger and section leader for Prince’s New Power Generation has an eye-watering portfolio, including shows with Kirk Franklin, Ariana Grande, Timbaland, Kelly Rowland and many more. Here we catch up with one of the finest funk musicians of all time ahead of his intimate Liverpool showcase!
LA VIDA: It’s a pleasure to have you in Liverpool! Have you visited here or played here before and if so what are your memories of our city?
PHILIP: Yes indeed. I was there last year on John Lennon’s birthday. I went to Strawberry Fields for the celebration. I also taught a master class at LIPA. It’s a lovely city with a rich history and I’m looking forward to returning.
LA VIDA: What have you been up to most recently? Any exciting projects in the pipeline?
PHILIP: I have been traveling a lot playing shows. I was in Croatia for New Year’s and Portugal after that. Currently, I’m spending some time in California taking meetings and playing shows. This week I’m in Fresno teaching master classes at a juvenile delinquent centre and I’ll be headed back to Los Angeles on Wednesday to perform at a Grammy celebration with Ty $ Nate Smith, Michael Mayo and others.
LA VIDA: What can we expect from this special intimate gig at The Philharmonic?
PHILIP: Lots of funk and good times. Some old stuff, new stuff and a few choice covers ranging from Prince to The Isleys.
LA VIDA: How would you describe your music to someone who hasn’t experienced it?
PHILIP: Gumbo Church Funk for the whole world.
LA VIDA: You’ve had such an illustrious career — what are your favourite memories and proudest achievements?
PHILIP: Many afrocentric moments in Dallas, Texas with Bernard Wright, Bobby Sparks, and the crew. I’m very proud of my time with Prince and the statements we made with the 11 piece horn section. I’m also really proud of the last few years I’ve spent in Europe building my large ensembles and performing on some of the biggest stages in the Jazz.
LA VIDA: Any particular stand out gigs?
PHILIP: Montreuax Jazz with Prince. North Sea Jazz with my band on the Nile stage with the 23 piece band. Zagreb Croatia with my 13 piece band.
LA VIDA: Of all your collabs with stars who has been your favourite to work with?
PHILIP: Prince and the Isley Brothers.
LA VIDA: What was Prince like as a person?
PHILIP: Wise, witty, unique, and spectacular.
LA VIDA: Which artist/s dead or alive would you love to collaborate with?
PHILIP: Jon Hendricks.
LA VIDA: What do you have planned for the rest of 2026 and beyond?
PHILIP: I am releasing a live recording I did with my 13 piece band in Lichtenstein. It should come out this year. I will be releasing my next Studio album in 2027.
Phillip Lassiter / The Philharmonic Music Room, Liverpool, L1 9BP / Tues 3rd Feb 2026, 8pm
