Boulevards: The Funk Revivalist of Modern Soul

Boulevards is the electrifying stage name of Jamil Rashad, a dynamic American singer, songwriter, and producer dedicated to reviving the raw energy of classic funk and disco. Hailing from Raleigh, North Carolina, his breakthrough arrived with his 2016 debut album Groove!, which established him as a leading force in the contemporary funk scene.

Early career

Jamil Rashad began his musical journey in the early 2000s, initially playing in punk and hardcore bands around the North Carolina music scene. His artistic pivot came after a period of deep diving into the catalogs of funk legends like Prince and Rick James. This inspiration led him to adopt the Boulevards moniker and fully embrace a slicker, dance-floor-ready sound, culminating in his self-titled debut EP in 2015.

Breakthrough

The artist's major breakthrough occurred in 2016 with the release of his first full-length album, Groove!, on the influential indie label Captured Tracks. The album was met with critical acclaim for its authentic, high-energy recreation of 80s boogie and modern synth-funk, instantly defining the Boulevards signature style and earning him a dedicated international following.

Key tracks

Got to Go — The lead single from Groove! became an instant funk anthem, showcasing his commanding vocals and impeccable rhythm section.

Cold Call — This track from his second album highlights his knack for infectious, synth-bass driven hooks and playful, confident lyricism.

In the Dark — A standout from later work, this song exemplifies his evolution into smoother, late-night R&B grooves while maintaining a funky backbone.

Following his debut success, Boulevards solidified his reputation with albums like 2018's Heartbreak & B-Sides and 2022's Electric Cowboy: Born in Carolina Mud. He has collaborated with notable artists including singer Nite Jewel and producer Sccit & Scary, and his music has been featured in video games like Grand Theft Auto Online, further expanding his reach. His consistent output reinforces his position as a prolific creator dedicated to the funk genre.

Fans of Boulevards' vibrant sound may also enjoy the modern funk approaches of Chromeo. This Canadian duo similarly blends vintage synth-funk with contemporary electronic production. The soulful energy of Durand Jones & The Indications offers a more retro-soul oriented parallel. For another take on Southern funk revival, explore The New Master Sounds, an instrumental band known for their gritty, groove-centric recordings.

Boulevards' catalog is a staple on our network's specialty radio stations, particularly those focused on modern funk, indie dance, and alternative R&B. His high-energy tracks are frequently featured in prime-time rotation on our online soul streams and independent music radio stations, guaranteeing a shot of adrenaline to any playlist.

Listeners can discover the dynamic music of Boulevards by tuning into the dedicated funk and soul radio stations available right here on onairium.com. Our curated channels regularly feature his classic hits and newest releases, bringing his Carolina-born funk directly to your speakers.