Jiva

JIVA are a collective of passionate individuals whose mission it is to create a feel good atmosphere and send out positive messages with their music. Our moniker ‘JIVA’ translates as “the spirit within” and is a perfect reflection of our manifesto as a band and the music we create. Alongside myself, Khari Simmons, JIVA are Forrest Robinson, Chanda Bailey, Alex Lattimore and Rhonda Thomas. Robinson alongside myself help make up the trusted band for neo soul chanteuse India Arie. Adding to the unit is Chanda Bailey who grew up playing keys at her father’s church and met Simmons while studying and jamming in Atlanta. Alex Lattimore from Transcendental Funk brings to the dance his soulful vocals. The final link in the chain is Rhonda Thomas, famed for her scatting abilities and backing vocalist for Issac Hayes. Rhonda has also performed with the legendary Luther Vandross and Roy Ayers as well as the inimitable Incognito. Sun & Moon is our debut jazz infused album brimming with soul inspired lyrics, ethereal vocals and melodies. We use soul music as the thread that seamlessly binds together the Bossa and Brazilian influences within our album. We do have people say that we are organic, but that’s because of the fact that there are no digital instruments on the album. We are more of a soul band with a love for Bossa Nova and lush arrangements.