Marquis Soul

Marquis Soul came into existence in 2005, playing for various private parties and events, such as the Elks Lodge and the Masons fraternities. A powerful group of four musicians, 2 background vocalist, and a lead vocalist, Marquis Soul has also spanned the globe of versatility by playing for more upscale venues, similar to private dinner parties or even holiday parties.
The group:
Antoinette “Annie” Jordan has been with Marquis Soul since its very foundation. As a native of Baltimore, Maryland, Annie has been singing since her younger days growing up in Northeast Baltimore. She later migrated to the Catonsville area in 1998 and has been a resident there since. Her influences include Gladys Knight, Janet Jackson, Chaka Khan, Stevie Wonder, Brenda Russell, Whitney Houston, just to name a few. In the early 90’s, Annie studied chamber music which helped her fine tune her instrument by learning controlling methods and professional breathing techniques. While she was running karaoke at Corinthians Lounge in Woodlawn, Maryland for four years, Annie's stage presence and vocal capabilities reached great heights as there were "sell-out" crowds to hear her sing their favorite tunes. She continues to please the crowds with every heartfelt, passionate performance which makes them feel like each one is a unique one.

Donald Clark a.k.a. Blackjack was born on January 11, 1965. Some say that as he was pulled from the womb, the doctors had some difficulty with the birthing procedure. There was something in his hands and he would not let go...it was...a guitar!! As this young child lay in his crib at night with a subtle black light on and the light scent of sandalwood incense, the sounds of Eddie Hazel could be heard in the background...or maybe it was Santana...or was it...Ernie Isley? The young Blackjack would then calmly flip the switch on his Marshall amp and begin to play. First he played the blues, then came the funk, then a light jazz...reminiscent of Paul Jackson Jr., the god of shimmer & sparkle. Then from nowhere came a sizzling solo the likes of which had never been heard before. The legend continues.

Troy Brodie has also been with the band from its very origination. He can remember his first influence to play the bass coming from two men who were not famous. They were two older guys who lived in his neighborhood and also happened to play bass. On many occasions these men would be out on their front porches when they played their instrument and would make strange facial expressions which everyone seemed to like - especially the girls! Soon after that, he heard older songs from Larry Graham (the original bass player for Sly and the Family Stone) and Louis Johnson (bass player for The Brothers Johnson). Then, Troy wanted to hear every funky bass line from the 70`s. He admires the thumping of Larry Graham, the energy of Verdine White (Earth, Wind and Fire) and the flamboyant style of Bootsy Collins (p-funk). He is really drawn to Bootsy because he was the leader of the band. You don't find many bass players taking on that role. On the advice of many people, he discovered Slave, Ohio Players, Isley Brothers, Chic, James Jamerson (Motown classics) as well as contemporary players like Flea (Red Hot Chili Peppers), Victor Wooten and Marcus Miller. Troy’s fantastic skills put “the bottom” in every song Marquis Soul performs.

Nakia Hayes and Tamika Hairston bring life to the background vocals of Marquis Soul. Their unique styling behind the lead vocals bring layers of superb harmony.

Tyrone Gittens is a man with music as his passion. Ever since elementary school when he laid his hands on the cool smooth ivory of a piano and sang Michael Jackson’s “Ben” at a talent show, Ty has been hopelessly in love with music. He has been involved with musical groups in some capacity for many years, even performing while stationed in Spain, as a sound technician to a keyboard player. One of his many musical influences is Stevie Wonder who he says is a musical genius. Tyrone loves his craft and is all about the music.

Daryl Reid has been playing drums since he was a young man. With his roots beginning in church, Daryl can remember being mesmerized by the drummer, admiring how he controlled the pace and emotion of all who was singing. He knew deep in his heart that he was meant to be the “pulse” of a band. His relationship with Marquis Soul began by his playing percussion from time to time. Then in December 2006, he became a full-time member and sole drummer of Marquis Soul. Daryl has truly been an asset to the rhythm section of the band.