The Band

They started out taking piano lessons from their grandma and listening to Aretha Franklin and Ethel Merman while practicing belting in the backyard. They sang all around their hometown of Chicago, eventually performing around the world. Julia’s deep love of gospel, soul, jazz, and musical theatre played a huge part in influencing them. 

A dynamic funk drummer with roots in Seattle’s vibrant music scene, they honed their craft at Cornish College of the Arts, where a deep study of rhythm, groove, and improvisation shaped their signature style. Known for tight pocket playing, crisp ghost notes, and an instinctive feel for the beat, they bring both precision and soul to every performance. 

Despite having no formal music training, from a young age they’ve been picking up and making music on a variety of instruments, and we can’t seem to get him to stop. Brian has been performing with Julia, Khristy, and Michael in other groups for years, and is excited to bring the funk with the entire band! Charitably described as a “human jukebox” (and uncharitably as a “harmony junkie”), Brian will stop at nothing to produce goosebump-inducing vocal lines that will keep you coming back for more. 

Got her start as a classically trained opera singer. When she’s not singing with Leo Leo she is performing with the opera company she founded, Olympia Opera Theatre. Blending the elegance of classical style with a deep passion for jazz, blues, and funk. She has carved a unique niche fusing her diverse influences into a soulful sound. Khristy met Julia (vocals) and Brian (vocals) singing with The Dickens Carolers and the three of them have been good friends since.

Can’t have funk without a bass! Michael is one of the founders of Leo Leo. He grew up in a very musical family and has been playing piano since he was a kid. Influenced by funk legends and modern soul they strive to create a groove you can't resist dancing to.

Nick (guitar) is originally from North Carolina and has lived in GA, SC, and IL before coming to Seattle in summer 2023. He has played guitar for over 20 years, and is a blues guitarist at heart. He unlocked his funk skills in a high school cover band where he played guitar on tunes by Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, and Prince.