Brooklyn Funk Essentials

Brooklyn Funk Essentials (BFE) emerged in 1993 as a dynamic acid-jazz, funk, and hip-hop collective, bringing together musicians and poets from diverse cultural backgrounds. The group was the brainchild of producer Arthur Baker and bassist/musical director Lati Kronlund.

The initial lineup featured a rich array of talent, including vocalists Hanifah Walidah (also known as Sha-key), Joi Cardwell, Papa Dee, and Stephanie McKay. The poetic voices of Everton Sylvester and David Allen added a distinctive dub poetry element. The instrumental core comprised Josh Roseman on trombone, Bob Brockmann on trumpet, Paul Shapiro on saxophone and flute, Yancy Drew and Tony Allen on drums, E.J. Rodriguez and Danny Sadownic on percussion, Desmond Foster and Masa Shimizu on guitar, ATN Stadwijk and Yuka Honda on keyboards, and Bill Ware on vibes. DJs Jazzy Nice and Smash provided turntable expertise.