(Artist Report)

Written by: Cody Denning  

Pimps of Joytime is a New Orleans-based funk rock powerhouse that’s been bringing the party for nearly two decades.

Founded by guitarist, vocalist, and producer Brian J (Brian Jay) in Brooklyn in 2005, the band started as a studio project before evolving into a full live collective. Brian J, who spent formative years in New York, New Orleans, and Los Angeles, pulled together a group of soulful musicians to bring his groovy vision to life. They eventually made New Orleans their spiritual home, blending Brooklyn DIY energy with deep Southern funk roots.

Since forming in the early 2000s, they’ve released multiple full-length albums and EPs, constantly pushing their sound while staying true to that feel-good, dancefloor energy. They’ve toured relentlessly across the country, hitting major festivals and clubs from coast to coast, and have earned a loyal following of fans who come out specifically to groove.

The band broke through with their 2007 debut High Steppin’, which introduced their signature funky party sound. They followed it up with the popular 2011 album Janxta Funk!, featuring the massive title track that became a fan favorite and one of their most streamed songs. 2015’s Jukestone Paradise and 2017’s Third Wall Chronicles kept the momentum going with even bigger grooves and live staples. Their most recent full-length, Reachin’ Up (2022), delivered fresh fire and continued to expand their reach. Throughout it all, Pimps of Joytime has been a road warrior outfit, logging countless miles with national tours, repeated appearances at major festivals, and high-energy runs across the West Coast, East Coast, and deep into the South.

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