Bloodstone Members, Gear & Sound
US R&B, soul and funk group
Members
Select a Bloodstone band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Bloodstone is a pioneering American band originating from Kansas City, Missouri, known for their seamless blend of R&B, soul, funk, and disco. Formed in the early 1970s, the group consists of core members including Charles McCormick (bass, vocals), Harry Williams (percussion, vocals), Charles Love (guitar, vocals), and Willis Draffen Jr. (guitar, vocals). Bloodstone is celebrated for their rich vocal harmonies and the ability to infuse soulful melodies with the rhythmic elements of funk and disco, carving out a unique niche in the classic soul genre.
How to Sound Like Bloodstone
Bloodstone's sonic character is defined by its smooth and polished sound, combining the lush, harmonic richness of their vocal arrangements with the rhythmic drive of funk and the emotional depth of soul. Achieving a sound reminiscent of Bloodstone involves using clean, articulate guitar tones, often colored by mild overdrive and modulation effects to enhance warmth and soulfulness. The use of soulful brass sections and analog synths can add depth and texture, while tight, groovy bass lines lock in with dynamic, syncopated drum patterns to create an infectious groove. Their arrangements often feature layered vocal harmonies and melodic hooks, making the interplay between instruments and voices crucial to capturing their classic yet timeless essence.
Discography
Get the Bloodstone Sound
Want to sound like Bloodstone? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.