THE MOTOWN LOVERS MUSICIANS
GABRIELA TRATZ vocals
Born in the deep south of Germany, Gabriela had a classical singers training. Although she was much in demand as a Soul singer in Franken, she moved to Berlin where she founded the band Soul Machine. She has worked with several artists, including the Soul Diva Queen Yahna. Six years ago she (together with John) decided to create the MOTOWN LOVERS. Gabriela’s stage presence and voice border on the magical.
JOHN C. BARRY bass & backing vocals
John was born in London and is a bassplayer, lyricist and painter. Although his musical roots are in Rock he has always loved Soul music, especially Motown. John has worked live and in Europe’s three biggest studios with artists such as Mick Taylor (Rolling Stones), Wolf Maahn, Ian McClagan (The Faces), Purple Schultz, Sunny Jim Band, Pascal von Wroblewsky, Al DeLoner (Midnight Choir) and Nikki Sudden.
RON SPIELMAN guitar & backing vocals
Ron is a singer, song writer and guitarist based in Berlin and one of the most interesting performers on the German Rock/Soul/Jazz scene. His bigband shared stages with such big names as Chick Corea and Bob Geldorf. Ron is highly respected, both for the fragile beauty of his acoustic solo records as well as his passionate, electrifying guitar playing.
BEN "KING" PERKOFF saxophone
From Santa Monica, California this very versatile and passionate musician has played with many Soul and Blues giants : Mary Wells, Boz Scaggs, Paul Butterfield, Robert Cray, Big Mama Thorton, Big Joe Turner, Albert Collins, Maria Muldaur, Nicky Hopkins, Huey Lewis, Mike Bloomfield and many others, both in Europe and the U.S.A. Ben lives in Berlin and plays tenor, alto, soprano sax as well as the flute. Long live the King.
ANDREW MCGUINNESS drums & backing vocals
Another player from the deep south ( this time the south coast of England ), Andrew has played with many famous names : The Supremes, Nile Rodgers ( Chic ), George Michael, Roachford, Oleta James as well as the James Taylor Quartet. He is also the brains behind the Baltic Soul Orchestra. This charasmatic Englishman has lived in Berlin since 1991.
GUESTS
We are a 5-piece band but usually have a guest with us to augment the line-up. Featured guest ist KG (Kgomotso Tsatsi, see picture), a young lady from South Africa who can sing in five different languages! Her voice has been compared to a fine red wine...and she's also a great dancer!
Other very talented singers on the Motown Lovers guest list include Mic Donet und Tomee Lee.
