NEAL FRANCIS

Neal Francis’s music is an intoxicating blend of funk, soul, and rock that evokes the glory days of the late 60s and 70s, but is undeniably fresh. On his new single, “Back It Up,” the Chicago-based singer, songwriter, and pianist wanted to make something that "was purely fun, danceable, and light." The result seamlessly combines his inspirations, embracing disco sounds to create a feel good track that implores listeners to join him on the dance floor and “come back for more.”

The follow-up to his 2023 double live album and concert film Francis Comes Alive, “Back It Up” marks Francis’ first studio effort since 2022’s Sentimental Garbage EP and 2021’s In Plain Sight—a release acclaimed by the likes of leading rock critic Steven Hyden, who praised its “throwback big-band sound that recalls the highs of 1970s funk and swamp rock.” With his past work also including his 2019 debut album Changes (hailed as “the reincarnation of Allen Toussaint” by BBC Radio 6), Francis began playing piano at the young age of four and became an in-demand sideman while still a teenager, touring with revered blues artists and beloved instrumental band The Heard before embarking on his solo career. Over the years, he’s sold out headline shows all across the globe, supported the likes of Wilco, Black Pumas, and My Morning Jacket, appeared at major festivals such as Bonnaroo, Fuji Rock, and Lollapalooza, and even performed at historic venues like Carnegie Hall.