Minneapolis Funk All Stars Release Debut Original Single
“Gotta Keep The Funk Alive”
Led by St. Paul Peterson — honoring the past while creating the future of the Minneapolis Sound
MINNEAPOLIS, MN — The Minneapolis Funk All Stars proudly announce the release of their debut original single, “Gotta Keep The Funk Alive,” available on all streaming platforms June 5, 2026, via Hygge House MPLS.
Written by Jason Peterson DeLaire and Tre Balfour, longtime collaborators and bandmates, and produced by legendary Minneapolis Sound architect St. Paul Peterson, the single is both a celebration and continuation of one of music’s most influential eras. Rooted in the spirit of funk pioneers like James Brown, Parliament-Funkadelic, Roger Troutman & Zapp, and the unmistakable Minneapolis Sound movement, “Gotta Keep The Funk Alive” delivers a modern anthem infused with legacy, groove, and authenticity.
The release marks a major milestone for the Minneapolis Funk All Stars, a collective of celebrated musicians who have all played, recorded, or toured with Prince and helped shape the sound that defined an era.
Led by St. Paul Peterson — former member of The Time, lead singer of The Family, and vocalist on timeless recordings including “Nothing Compares 2 U” and “The Screams of Passion” — the group brings together decades of musical chemistry and world-class musicianship.
“This isn’t about nostalgia,” says Peterson. “It’s about carrying the spirit of funk forward. We honor where this music came from while creating something new that still feels alive, soulful, and real.”
The Minneapolis Funk All Stars lineup includes:
St. Paul Peterson — Lead Vocals & Bass
Jason Peterson DeLaire — Background Vocals & Saxophone
Elisa Fiorillo — Co-Lead Vocals
Oliver Leiber — Guitar
Dr. Fink — Keyboards
Kirk Johnson — Drums
Honorary Member Jerome Benton — Vocals
The single was mixed by renowned producer and engineer John Fields (Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato, Backstreet Boys) and recorded by the Minneapolis Funk All Stars.
“Gotta Keep The Funk Alive” represents more than a song — it’s a mission statement. A bridge between generations. A reminder that the Minneapolis Sound continues to evolve through the very artists who helped build its foundation.
The band will celebrate the release with a special live performance on June 7, 2026 at Vibrato Grill Jazz in Los Angeles, honoring Prince’s birthday while debuting new original music alongside iconic Minneapolis Sound classics.