Bar Kays

Frequently Asked Questions

What song is the Bar-Kays known for?

The Bar-Kays are best known for their hit song "Soul Finger,"

What happened to the Bar-Kays band?

The Bar-Kays' history is marked by both immense achievement and tragedy. The original band formed in Memphis in 1966 as session musicians for Stax Records. In 1967, tragedy struck when four members of the group, along with soul legend Otis Redding, died in a plane crash en route to a concert in Madison, Wisconsin. Only two members, Ben Cauley and James Alexander, survived

Who is the new lead singer of the Bar-Kays?

The new lead singer of the Bar-Kays is Chris J. He joined the legendary band in the mid-2010s, bringing a fresh energy and dynamic stage presence to the group. Chris J's powerful vocals and charismatic performances have helped keep the Bar-Kays' music alive for both longtime fans and new audiences. Under his leadership, the band continues to tour and perform their classic hits as well as new material, maintaining their reputation as one of the most enduring acts in soul and funk music. Chris J's addition to the lineup has been widely praised for honoring the Bar-Kays' signature sound while also infusing it with contemporary flair. His vocal range and showmanship ensure the band's live shows remain crowd-pleasing events, keeping the spirit of Memphis soul and rock alive for generations to come. If you're looking to experience the Bar-Kays live, Chris J's performances promise a memorable and high-energy tribute to the band's storied legacy.

Who was the lead singer of the Bar-Kays?

Over the decades, the Bar-Kays have had several lead singers, but the most notable is Larry Dodson. Dodson joined the band in the early 1970s and served as the charismatic frontman for over four decades, helping to guide the Bar-Kays through their major funk and R&B successes. His powerful voice and dynamic stage presence were instrumental in driving hits like "Shake Your Rump to the Funk,"

Are any of the Bar-Kays still alive?

Yes, some original and long-standing members of the Bar-Kays are still alive. Most notably, James Alexander, the band's original bassist, survived the tragic 1967 plane crash that claimed the lives of several founding members and Otis Redding. Alexander has been a constant presence in the band, helping to rebuild the group and guide its evolution through decades of musical changes. Another key member, Larry Dodson, longtime lead singer, is also still alive and occasionally participates in special events and interviews, although he retired from active touring in 2017. Over the years, the Bar-Kays' lineup has included many talented musicians, and while some original members have passed away, the band endures through the contributions of both veteran and new performers. The Bar-Kays' ongoing performances and continued influence on the soul, funk, and rock genres are a testament to the resilience and passion of its surviving members.