Big Sam's Funky Nation. Photo: Willow Haley

Big Sam’s Funky Nation Is “Buzzin'” On New Single & Forthcoming LP

It’s been a huge week for one of the Crescent City’s biggest funk bands. Big Sam’s Funky Nation just released their newest single “Buzzin’ ,” the first sneak peek into their upcoming album Songs in the Key of Funk set for release on May 4. The sextet made up of “Big Sam” Williams, Drew “Da Phessah” Baham, Jerry “JBlakk” Henderson, Keenan “Butta Cream” McRae, Alfred “Sgt Gutta” Jordan and Kendrick Marshall has released five funky albums since 2004. Beloved for their captivating performance style and contagious energy, the boys have landed gigs at the biggest festivals in the land, including New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Voodoo Music + Experience, SXSW and Austin City Limits. Trombonist and lead vocalist Big Sam attests that an audience should be more than mere bystanders and rather “a part of the show dancing and singing along.”

The band describes their new single “ Buzzin’” as “one of those songs that’s about trying to holla at the baddest chick in the building, finally getting her and being hooked like a drug.” Drawing on funk, jazz, hip-hop and rock influences, Big Sam’s Funky Nation pairs tight composition with danceable party jams. Described by Houstonia magazine as a “testament to the healing power of music and culture” amongst the backdrop of the Hurricane-ravaged city, the boys have attracted a devout local following. Their genre-bending flair keeps people coming back for more, and things seem to be going their way as the band preps for a nationwide tour beginning this spring.

As of now, “ Buzzin’” is available on all major streaming platforms. Check it out below and pre-order the Stevie Wonder-inspired Songs in the Key of Funk  here.

Big Sam’s Funky Nation will perform at the Delgado Music Festival on April 6, at French Quarter Fest on April 14 and Jazz Fest on May 3.