Tim Mitchell Blues Band

Tim Mitchell - Biography
If ever the phrase “He can’t help himself, it’s in his blood” were to apply, it would have to be when describing Tim Mitchell. Tim’s mother came from a family of 15, most all of whom were musicians. His grandfather, Hulon Mitchell, played virtually any instrument he wanted. His grandmother--“Mother Pearl” as she was called--was a gifted piano player and teacher. His aunt is a famous opera singer who has performed with Pavarotti himself. With fifteen talented children to support, Tim’s grandparents formed a group called “The Famous Musical Mitchells” and they really were famous in the Midwest, producing and performing mostly gospel music across the land. One of these children, steeped in the musical traditions of the day, was Thelma Mitchell. Thelma was the group’s keyboard player and performed double duty as an upright bass player as well. Blessed with a terrific singing voice as well, she truly had music in her blood.

In 1955, in the little town of Enid, Oklahoma, Thelma gave birth to Timothy Lee Mitchell. It did not take his mother long to realize that the family talent had continued to pass along. She began teaching Tim guitar when he was just three years old and by the time he was fourteen, he was already performing with local bands in clubs throughout the state. Just like his grandfather, Tim played keyboards, bass guitar and sang. Tim continued this musical education throughout the late 60’s and on into the 70’s, before moving to Philadelphia and forming his own group, a Funk/R&B band called “Sound Check.” They soon became one of the hottest bands in the area, enjoying a great run for a number of years before Tim once again felt the urge to grow and expand his horizons.

In 1982, Tim was invited to join and play bass for the famous, “Stylistics” on their world tour and even wrote two songs for them, producing and recording one on their 1985 hit release, “A Special Style.” He remained with the group until 1986. From there, Tim went on to join the famous, “Harold Melvin and The Blue Notes” which again took him around the world in ‘86 and ’87. He even had the rare privilege of touring with The Man himself, Mr. James Brown. Oh, what a year that was! However, the growth and wealth of experiences did not stop there. In 1994, Tim was invited to join the “The Drifters” a stint lasting for six years. This period saw Tim really pushing forward his vocal talents, in addition to his skills with guitar, bass and keyboards and he remained with them, singing and performing all of their many hits, until 1999.

It was finally beginning to settle in that it was time to put all of his musical education into something else. During his time with the Drifters, Tim had met and fell in love with, Mallorca, Spain. But it was not just the island Tim fell in love, he also fell in love with a popular singer he had met named Sharon (originally from Brooklyn, NY). Sharon soon became his wife and singing partner, travelling and performing together throughout Europe. It was during this time--in 2003--that Tim met the famed Spanish rock guitarist, Warner Brothers (Spanish Division) recording artist, Javier Vargas and was invited to join Javier’s band, “The Vargas Blues Band.” Javier has played with some of the greats in the blues and rock world, including Carlos Santana, Buddy Guy and even Prince. Tim has written numerous songs for the Vargas Blues Band; and has recorded six of these songs, five on a previous CD release and one on his newest CD, due out in March of 2008.

When not on stage or in the studio with Vargas, Tim performs his own material with his band, “The Mitchell Blues Band.” This band affords Tim the opportunity to fully explore his talents with singing and song writing; and applying his vast musical education in new and ever expanding ways. Tim wants to take his band and their music on the road, doing both US and European tours.

Singer, songwriter, musician (guitar, bass, keyboards, drums), producer and talent extraordinaire, Tim’s broad background with blues, funk, gospel, R&B and soul, bring a unique and yet familiar sound to his music, one that audiences around the world have enjoyed. We hope to see ya’ soon!