MFSB Members, Gear & Sound

Genre

Disco Funk Quiet Storm Post-disco Motown jazz funk classic soul philly soul instrumental soul

Members

Select a MFSB band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.

Bob Babbitt

Roles:

Bassist

Groups:

The Funk Brothers Black Light Orchestra

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Larry Washington

Roles:

Drummer Music Producer

Groups:

Black Light Orchestra G-Funk Era

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Bobby Martin

Roles:

Singer Keyboardist

Groups:

Orleans The Mothers of Invention The Moody Blues

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Norman Harris

Roles:

Guitarist

Groups:

The Salsoul Orchestra The Interpretations B‐H‐Y The Trammps

No gear added

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Bobby Eli

Roles:

Composer

Groups:

The Salsoul Orchestra John Davis and the Monster Orchestra

No gear added

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Ron Baker

Roles:

Bassist Music Producer

Groups:

The Salsoul Orchestra The Interpretations B‐H‐Y The Trammps

No gear added

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Earl Young

Roles:

Drummer

Groups:

The Salsoul Orchestra The Interpretations The Night People The Exceptions B‐H‐Y The Trammps

No gear added

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T.J. Tindall
No gear added

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Vincent Montana Jr.

Roles:

Composer

Groups:

The Salsoul Orchestra

No gear added

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Harold Ivory Williams
No gear added

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Thom Bell

Roles:

Composer Music Producer

No gear added

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Nathaniel Wilkie

Roles:

Keyboardist Music Producer

Groups:

Gypsy Lane The Champions

No gear added

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Charles Collins

Roles:

Drummer

Groups:

The Constellations The Salsoul Orchestra Bricks Mortar Duke Williams and The Extremes John Davis and the Monster Orchestra

No gear added

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About

MFSB is an iconic American group celebrated for their contributions to the Philadelphia soul sound, a lush and orchestrated style of music that became synonymous with the 1970s disco and funk scenes. Originating from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the collective was formed in 1971 as the house band for Gamble and Huff's Sigma Sound Studios. The group's name, standing for "Mother Father Sister Brother," reflects their familial approach to music-making. MFSB's rotating lineup included prominent musicians such as Norman Harris (guitar), Bobby Eli (guitar), Ronnie Baker (bass), and Earl Young (drums), among others. They were pivotal in crafting the signature sound behind numerous hits by artists on the Philadelphia International Records label, and they are perhaps best known for their hit theme for the TV show Soul Train.

How to Sound Like MFSB

MFSB's sound is characterized by its rich, orchestral textures and vibrant grooves, seamlessly blending elements of disco, funk, and smooth instrumental soul. Their music often features lush string arrangements and dynamic horn sections, creating a full-bodied and danceable vibe. The use of multi-layered instrumentation, including Fender Precision Basses and vintage Ampeg B-15 amplifiers, contributes to their warm and resonant sound. The drumming, frequently performed by Earl Young, is both rhythmic and fluid, providing a steady foundation that allows the intricate arrangements to shine. To capture the essence of MFSB's sound, musicians might focus on crafting layered compositions with a mix of acoustic and electronic elements, ensuring a balance of groove and melody that captures the spirit of the Philadelphia soul era.

Discography

MFSB

1973

Love Is The Message

1973

Universal Love (Expanded Edition)

1975

Philadelphia Freedom

1975

Summertime

1976

MFSB, The Gamble-Huff Orchestra

1978

Mysteries of the World

1980

Deep Grooves

1999

Get the MFSB Sound

Want to sound like MFSB? 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.