The Dazz Band is led by Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Bobby Harris, who founded the group in the late 1970s in Cleveland, Ohio. Formerly known as Kinsman Dazz, the band signed their first record deal with 20th Century Records in 1976 and released their self titled album "Kinsman Dazz" in 1977. This was the first of 2 Kinsman Dazz albums under the 20th Century Record label. Produced by Philip Bailey and Ralph Johnson of Earth Wind and Fire (Holy Sound), Kinsman Dazz mezmerized audiences with their musically rich sound that included layers of tight funk rhythyms, jazzy chord progressions, elaborate horn sections, sophisticated arrangements and smooth vocal harmonies. They quickly caught the attention of multiple record labels, and in 1980 the band signed with Motown Records and changed their name to The Dazz Band. The Dazz Band released 7 albums on the Motown label and was the first group from Cleveland, Ohio to win a Grammy for Best Performance by an R & B Group or Duo with their smash hit "Let it Whip" in 1982. Renowned for their electrifying blend of R& B, funk, and soulful ballads, The Dazz Band scored over 20 hits on Billboards R & B and Pop charts. Leader Bobby Harris served as Producer or Co-Producer on all 13 Dazz Band albums and penned hits like "Catching Up on Love", "Joystick", "Heartbeat", "Party Right Here", "Let The Music Play", "Don't Gamble (with My Love)" "When You Needed Roses", "Knock Knock" and many more. During the 1980's The Dazz Band toured alongside funk & r&b legends like Rick James, Luther Vandross, The Gap Band, Kool & the Gang and many more. Their innovative electro-funk sound garnered Gold and Platinum record success, while their music was featured on televison shows like Soul Train, Solid Gold, and American Bandstand. Under Harris's leadership, The Dazz Band has performed continuously for 5 decades, and their music continues to be featured in major motion pictures, commercials, and video games today. Bobby Harris has been honored with numerous awards throughout his career for his contributions to music and philanthropy and is particulary proud to have entertained US troops abroad. His dedication to creating innovative music along with memorable musical performances has solidified his legacy in the industry.
Guitarist Marlon “The Magician” McClain joined The Dazz Band in 1984 and continues to perform with the group today. Marlon's recording and performance credits include 8 Dazz Band albums. Marlon is a self taught musician who began his professional music journey as guitarist and co-founder of Portland, Oregon's Nationally known group "Pleasure". Marlon has recorded with numerous acclaimed artists such as Toni Braxton, Jeff Lorber, George Clinton, Charlie Wilson, En Vogue, Kenny G and more! A masterful guitarist and producer, Marlon also enjoys developing new talent, including his son the internationally known artist "Brando".
Keyboardist and Vocalist Keith "Chop Chop" Harrison joined The Dazz Band in 1983-1988 and returned to the group in 2020. A native of Dayton, Ohio Keith was honored with a Grammy Award during his time with The Dazz Band and wrote some of the band's recognizable songs including: "To the Roof", "Hot Spot", "Paranoid", "Wild & Free" and "Let It All Blow" their biggest UK single. Prior to joining The Dazz Band, Keith performed in Heatwave, and also led the band "Faze-O where he wrote one of the most sampled songs in rap history, "Riding High."
Award-winning drummer Raymond Calhoun initially joined The Dazz Band in the 90's (Here We Go Again & Time Traveler). Raymond is a native of Washington, DC where he attended Howard University and left college to pursue music. After quickly securing the gig with Manhattans and beginning to tour the world, he caught the attention of Ronnie & Robert Wilson, which led him spending the next 3 decades with one of the most prominant funk bands in music history, The Gap Band. As Raymond served as drummer, he also penned The Gap Band's mid tempo mega hit "Outstanding", which went on to be one of the most sampled songs in hip-hop history. His rhythmic prowess and energetic performances have earned him recognition as one of the industry's top drummers. Calhoun's versatility in various musical genres lends itself to The Dazz Band's dynamic sound.
In 2025 The Dazz Band introduced SNCR (pronounced Sincere). Hailing from Norfolk, Virginia SNCR. SNCR seamlessly blends genres and brings a fresh and innovative sound that draws from hip-hop, the smooth emotive qualities of R&B, and the infectious grooves of funk. With a Bachelor's Degree in Music from Norfolk State University, SNCR's unique vocal style is characterized by rich, resonant tones that can transition from sultry whispers to soaring high notes as he showcases his vocal mastery and captivates audiences. The Dazz Band also welcomes Vocalist Maurice Smith, a three-time Grammy winner and Mississippi native; Maurice's rich timbre and impressive range allow him to effortlessly soar through intricate melodies while maintaining clarity and warmth. Whether delivering heart-stirring ballads or dynamic upbeat tracks his talent has led him to work with some of the industry's most influential artists and producers, including Seal, Kanye West, Too $hort, Peabo Bryson, and the Eagles.
Vocalist Alvin Frazier hails from Cleveland, Ohio where The Dazz Band originated. Alvin has been an integral part of the band for the past four years and is renowned for his spirited vocal style. Alvin infuses each performance with passion into each performance, and brings extensive experience as a solo artist and performer; enriching The Dazz Band's live shows while effortlessly connecting with audiences.
The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington DC recognizes The Dazz Band for their remarkable impact on music history. Today, The Dazz Band continues to attract over 5 million monthly listeners on Spotify and Apple Music. The Dazz Band recently went viral for the second time on Tik Tok with their Grammy Award winning song "Let It Whip"as they continue to introduce their timeless sound to a new generation of fans. In 2026 The Dazz Band proudly celebrates 50 Years of Dazz: The Legacy Lives Loud!