Jubu Smith - Jubu (2024)

JUBU & Charlie Hunter – Two legendary guitarists, both hailing from the East Bay, both Berkeley High alums, joined forces to craft a guitar album like no other. Brace yourself for the first single “Hamster Wheel!”
Listen to this FUNKY SH&$%T!!! Who is this head turning ridiculously talented groovalicious and soulful guitarist??? JUBU, that’s WHO! He may be one of the best guitarists you’ve never heard. TIL NOW! Listen how this just grabs you from the start – POW!

Check out the new album released on Little Village in collaboration with Grammy award nominated guitarist and producer Charlie Hunter’s Side Hustle Records.

Guitarist, Jubu Smith, from his self-titled album and Little Village debut! – now streaming on all music platforms. “ features Jubu Smith and Charlie Hunter on guitar and Grammy award winning drummer Calvin Napper (Maze w Frankie Beverly, Donnie McClurkin)
In addition to Charlie Hunter’s unbelievable guitar/bass/hybrid guitar work on this album, wait til you hear the track with Jubu Smith and special guest, Eric Gales! “EG IS HERE” – it’s completely off the charts!

Every year I went to New Orleans Jazz Fest, the biggest crowd I saw was Frankie Beverly and MAZE, surprisingly to me! Now I think I know why- JUBU on funky, blues, soul guitar!!!

Jubu Smith’s journey in the music industry is a testament to his exceptional talent and versatility as a guitarist. At the age of 19, Jubu embarked on a remarkable decade-long tenure as the guitarist for Tony Toni Toné (w/ Raphael Saadiq,) laying down infectious rhythms and captivating audiences with his soulful melodies. Following this, he embarked on a prestigious world tour with Whitney Houston, further cementing his reputation as a sought-after musician.

For the past 15 years, Jubu has been a constant presence on the international music circuit, mesmerizing audiences with his performances alongside Frankie Beverly & Maze. His contributions extend beyond the stage, as he has lent his talents to recording sessions with renowned artists such as Luther Vandross, Mary J. Blige, Boyz II Men, Toni Braxton, George Duke, and George Benson.

In addition to his collaborative work, Jubu has also pursued solo endeavors, emerging as a solo artist and fronting his soul-blues bands, including Legally Blynd & The Jubu Smith Experience. These projects showcase his musical depth and feature a lineup of exceptional musicians, including his brother Eric “Pik Funk” Smith and Carl Wheeler.

In 2024, under the Little Village family, Jubu embarked on a new musical venture, teaming up with GRAMMY-award winner drummer Calvin Napper (notably MAZE with Frankie Beverly, Stephanie Mills, Donnie McClurkin) and three-time GRAMMY nominated guitarist/producer Charlie Hunter to create an authoritative groove guitar album titled “Jubu.” This collaborative effort highlights their mastery of the guitar and their innovative approach to groove-based music, further solidifying Jubu’s status as a true luminary.

TRACKLIST

1. Jubu Smith;Charlie Hunter;Calvin Napper - Hamster Wheel
2. Jubu Smith;Charlie Hunter;Calvin Napper - Jubu’s Poem
3. Jubu Smith;Charlie Hunter;Calvin Napper - Carroll Drive
4. Jubu Smith;Charlie Hunter;Calvin Napper - Kwik-Way Nostalgia
5. Jubu Smith;Charlie Hunter;Calvin Napper - Organizations Sake
6. Jubu Smith;Charlie Hunter;Calvin Napper;Eric Gales - EG Is Here
7. Jubu Smith;Charlie Hunter;Calvin Napper - Extreme Pleasure
8. Jubu Smith;Charlie Hunter;Calvin Napper - At Long Last
9. Jubu Smith;Charlie Hunter;Calvin Napper - McLeansville Blues
10. Jubu Smith;Charlie Hunter;Calvin Napper - Totally Convicted