Jim Stevens & Rocky Mantia Duo
The Jim Stevens Duo is the heart and soul of St. Louis. Smoldering, funky grooves performed by the finest musicians our town has to offer. With its unique instrumentation and undeniable musicianship, The Jim Stevens Duo is a one of a kind experience you will never forget.
In the hands of a master musician such as Jim Stevens, the saxophone can shout the blues… touch the soul… and pack a dance floor with enthusiastic fans grooving to an irresistible, funky rhythm that just won’t quit.
Jim Stevens has built a reputation as one of the most in-demand, exciting artists in the Midwest. Driven by Jim’s virtuoso and aggressive saxophone playing, his set features a crowd-pleasing mix of music by some of the greatest soul, blues, rock and jazz musicians – from B.B. King, Al Green, Steely Dan, David Sanborn, The Temptations and Stevie Wonder… as well as original music from the Jim Stevens’ latest CD, The Answer.
Jim Steven’s ability to connect with audiences through his music is the result of a combination of technical virtuosity and practical experience learned through years of performances at clubs, festivals and concert halls.
After graduating from high school, Jim attended North Texas State University, where he played with the famed 3 O'Clock Jazz Big Band. After returning to St. Louis, he started a band called "The Bottom Line" that appeared in the movie "White Palace." Jim added to his impressive resume by playing with the Four Tops and Temptations as well appearing with Peter Mayer (guitarist with Jimmy Buffett) at the Superdome in New Orleans. There, the Peter Mayer Group played to crowds in excess of 38,000. Recently, Jim concluded a tour with Alex Ligertwood (former lead vocalist with Santana and the Average White Band) and David Garfield (keyboardist with George Benson).
Jim has also performed in Nashville, Indianapolis, Cleveland, New Orleans, Memphis and many other cities around the United States and has added his dynamic saxophone sound to recordings by R. Scott Bryan (formerly of Sheryl Crow’s band), Peter Mayer, Javier Mendoza, John Patti and Pat Liston (Mama's Pride), among many others.
For Jim Stevens, it comes down to the music – always!
“After many years of playing music,” states Jim, “I am still constantly amazed at the connection an artist can make with their audience. Music is truly the language of the soul."
Vocalist/Keyboardist Rocky Mantia is steeped in the unique tradition of St. Louis Soul and R & B music. His high energy vocal sound is reminiscent of greats like Michael McDonald, Donald Fagan & Stevie Wonder.
Early in Rocky's career, he toured the country with the band "Coalkitchen" opening for acts such as Boz Skaggs, Jimmy Buffett, Pat Benetar, Styx and REO Speedwagon. In addition to touring, his voice and music have appeared in motion pictures and with recording artists such as Spencer Davis and Grammy Award winner Stan Bush.
Together, Jim Stevens & Rocky Mantia form a very dynamic, soulful duo. Powerful vocals and burning sax lines come together for an incredible musical statement.
