Meet: P-Funk North

A couple of years ago, I decided to head out to The Saint in Asbury (long live the diviest <is that even a word?!> dive bar!) to see Joe Samba perform (he's a mix of reggae dub meets rock meets fun, upbeat energy). I got there in time to see a little band known as P-Funk North. Immediately, I was drawn in by their energy and, naturally, their band member / hype man / dance king dressed up as a pot leaf dancing around on stage! They vibe very well with Joe Samba so it was a natural fit for them to open up for him playing a mix of originals and covers hitting that reggae-rock-pop punk genre. Since then, I've had a few chances to see them perform and it's always a fun, energizing show.

P-Funk North has a new song/video out (Something in the Water) and what better time to get to know them?

How did you all first meet, and what made you decide to form a band together?

PFN was started in 2013 by singer/songwriter/bassist David Sloyan. We’ve had a few guys come and go. Our current lineup had all previously played shows together in different bands so when PFN needed guitar and drums, Kevin and Jack stepped up and stepped in. We’ve been rocking together for a few years now and the vibes and camaraderie are top notch. Our hype man Kingsley and Dave know each other from high school and Kingsley has been joining us on stage to get the party started for a few years now.

Was there a “moment” when you realized this band could actually work long-term?

We’ve all been doing this for years and collectively have the same goals and ambitions to do this full time. With Kevin and Jack joining the band the puzzle feels complete and our first show this year in Connecticut opening for Afroman solidified the gameplan as the vibes and mutual respect are off the charts.

Where does your band name come from, and what does it mean to you now?

P-Funk North means North Plainfield in reference to our hometown in New Jersey. Dave has been referring to North Plainfield as P-Funk North since high school. Now it means much more.

Describe the band for those who've never seen you play before.

PFN is a high energy, lyric driven, alternative rock reggae fusion party. Our hype man/dance king Kingsley is a visual spectacle dancing from the first note to last beat. Kevin shreds on guitar. Jack beats the drums like they owe him money. Dave sings his heart out while the bass line keeps walking.

Where are you all from?

Dave and Kingsley are from North Plainfield, Kevin is from South River and Jack is from Trenton.

What are some of your favorite venues to play at?

Stone Pony, House of Independents, Starland Ballroom, The Webster (CT), Fogg Street Live (TN), Old Causeway, Farm Truck Brewing.

Can you each introduce yourselves and share what you do in the band?

Dave - Lead vocals & bass

Kevin - Guitar & backing vocals 

Jack - Drums

Kingsley - hypeman & dance king & party starter extraordinaire 

What's one thing fans may be surprised to learn?

P-Funk North has been rocking since 2013 and have shared the stage with The Wailers, The Offspring, Slightly Stoopid, Shwayze, Dashboard Confessional and more with festival appearances alongside 311, Sublime, Cage the Elephant, Blink 182 and more!

Who are your musical influences?

Dave - Sublime, Blind Melon, 311, Pepper, Eve6, Eminem, Bob Marley, Jimmy Cliff, Max Romeo

Kevin - Jimi Hendrix, Jerry Cantrell, Duane Allman, Zack Wylde, David Gilmour

Jack - Tre Cool, Ben Johnston, Matt Cameron, Sean Kinney

Tell me about your new song.

Something in the Water is a gritty, grungy, pop punky song about an existential crisis happening in real time. A bit more serious than some of our previous more lighthearted releases.

Where can fans see you next?

Next big show is in Ocean City, Maryland for Oceans Calling weekend rocking the 9/26 afterparty at Crawl Street Tavern following Green Day, Lenny Kravitz and more!

Big thanks to P-Funk North for giving us this interview! Click on their website above and give them a follow on their socials!