Artist Spotlight is a segment that we started to introduce our readers to some deserving up and coming artists/bands. They have made an impact on us for all of the right reasons. We think they kick ass, and we hope you do too! Today, we put a bit of a twist on that segment as we are we’d like to introduce our readers to the three newest members of the legendary ska-punk-funk pioneers Fishbone.
I’m Music Magazine would like to spotlight the newest additions to Ska-Punk and Funk pioneers Fishbone as the band’s fearless legacy continues with the addition of the newest Fishbone Soldiers: James Jones (bass), Hassan Hurd (drums), and John “JS” Williams II (trumpet, vocals). These formidable musicians bring fresh energy and a fierce commitment to the band’s mission of musical rebellion and cultural resistance. Each of them arrives with deep roots in the world of groove, rhythm, and brass firepower, seamlessly locking into Fishbone’s genre-defying sound while injecting it with their own creative force.
They join original frontman Angelo Moore—whose voice and saxophones have always been the soul of the band—and longtime creative powerhouse Christopher Dowd, whose keyboards, trombone, and unmistakable vocals have shaped Fishbone’s eclectic sound for decades. Also returning to the fold is guitarist Tracey “Spacey T” Singleton, adding heavy riffs and cosmic flair to the mix.
Together, this lineup isn’t just holding down the fort—they’re reshaping it. These new members aren’t just additions; they’re part of the evolution. They step into the ranks with the same fire that has fueled Fishbone since day one, proving once again that the band is not just surviving but thriving—louder, bolder, and more determined than ever.
We sat down with the “new guys” for a short, but fun Q&A session!
Please introduce yourself, let us know what you play and when you joined Fishbone?
JS – My name is JS Williams. JS meaning “John” the “Second”. I am a New York City born and bred musician. I studied at LaGuardia High School of Performing Arts and The New School. I play the trumpet and sing in Fishbone. I joined Fishbone in 2024.
Hassan– Hey, my name is Hassan “Hotsauce” Hurd I’m the drummer. I joined Fishbone in April 2024.
James – My name is James “Jimi Bills” Jones, I’m a bassist from Queens, New York. I am the most recent addition to the band; I joined in March 2025.
What’s the story behind you becoming a part of the Fishbone Family?
JS – I was a part of an original rock/funk band from New York called Blu Eye Extinction. We were booked on The Parliament-Funkadelic featuring George Clinton’s “One Nation Under a Groove” Tour from 2018-2020. We opened for Fishbone, who opened up for P-Funk. We traveled with and became friends with most of the original members of the band. Chris Dowd and I became great friends on the tour. When the opportunity came to perform with Fishbone in 2024, I took it.
Hassan – I also played another band with Angelo called Angelo Moore and the Brand New Step. One day Angelo asked me if I would be interested in playing in Fishbone, he said I will be able to use 100% of my skills, when I heard that I said… Hell Yeah!
James – So myself and JS played with another band, and we toured alongside Fishbone and the Parliament Funkadelic, so I had a pretty good relationship with Chris and Angelo. When the position for a new bassist came about JS and Chris called me and brought me into the band! Such a dream come true for me!
Who else have you played or collaborated with?
JS – I have had the pleasure of performing with Miss Lauryn Hill, The Fugees, Parliament-Funkadelic featuring George Clinton, Living Colour, and The Burnt Sugar Arkestra Chamber.
Hassan – I’ve played with Larry Graham the Coup, Garaj Mahal, Lyrics Born, Goapele, Angelo Moore and The Brand New Step to name a few.
James – I’ve had the pleasure to play with and collaborate with many artists such as George Clinton, Asher Roth, 50 Cent, Blinky Bill, Miss Velvet and The Blue Wolf, Blu Eye Extinction amongst many others.
Who are your biggest musical influences and how have they shaped your sound and style?
JS – My biggest influences on trumpet are Fats Navarro, Clifford Brown, Lee Morgan, Freddie Hubbard, Woody Shaw, Roy Hargrove, and Nicholas Payton.
My biggest influences (musically as a whole) would be Stevie Wonder, D’Angelo, John Coltrane, Rod Temperton, and The Wu-Tang Clan.
Hassan – I have to go with my parents. They both come from musical families. My dad plays multiple instruments so if it wasn’t for them, I definitely wouldn’t be the drummer I am today. That’s for sure.
James – I would say my biggest musical influence is my father. He is a classically trained pianist and organist. From the moment I can remember he always had me next to him whilst playing and that was my first moment of inspiration to get into music. Love you Dad!!!
If you could collaborate with any artist, even if they are no longer with us who would it be and why?
JS – It would be great to collaborate with Pharrell Williams (undeniable music gifts), Dallas Austin (legendary hit maker), and wish I had the chance to work with Jay Dilla (musical legend/innovator).
Hassan – James Brown, George Clinton, Prince, Junie Morrison. I’m a funk drummer at the core, like sewer plant funk, so anybody getting down like that, I definitely wanted to be a part of.
James – For me I’d say Stevie Wonder!!! He’s definitely the main artist I look to as what a musician/singer/songwriter/composer is.
How did you get started with music? Was there a particular moment or event when you realized this is what you wanted to do?
JS – My father taught me music theory when I was 6. I have been playing the trumpet since I was 7 years old. I learned in my elementary school’s music program. I practiced until I got accepted into Performing Arts High School. Then, when I met Trumpeter Kenyatta Beasley at The New School. I saw a black man my age doing music for a living. Now that I saw that it could be done, I pursued it.
Hassan – Music is a big part of my family heritage. I’ve been playing the drums since I was two, I always tell people I didn’t pick the drums, the drums pick me. My dad said he saw me keeping the tempo at one of the house parties, there would be a full concert in the living room, the next day I had a drum set next to my bed, and the rest is history.
James – I started playing music in church starting on the drums and transitioned to the bass guitar around 19/20 yrs old. From what I can remember I’ve always wanted to be a musician and to do music full-time. It was just in me from birth.
If Fishbone’s music were a cocktail, what flavor do you add to it?
JS – I put in a shot of cognac. I add an adult contemporary flavor to Fishbone’s music.
Hassan – I’m the fresh mint in your Mojito.
James – Whiskey (my favorite lol), and Lemonade. Best of both worlds!!!
What advice would you give to your teenage self who is just starting his musical journey?
JS – I would advise myself to trust the process of becoming a musician. Don’t rush anything. Take your time. Live life first.
Hassan – This goes for just about everybody I know. Go even harder and stop worrying about what people have to say.
James – Always be true to yourself and play from the heart!!! Give 100%!!!
What’s your favorite Fishbone song and why?
JS – Movement in the Light because it is a beautiful message of Love and Hope.
Hassan – I have a lot, but I would have to go with “Nasty,” just because of how hard the drums and bass are locking on that song.
James – My favorite Fishbone song is Sunless Saturday! It has so much energy and the lyrics and messaging are really strong and makes you really think about the ways of the world.
Fishbone has a new album Stockholm Syndrome, a Summer Tour with Less Than Jake, and will be playing Van’s Warped Tour 2025. What are you looking forward to the most and why?
JS – I am most looking forward to the release of Stockholm Syndrome. The recording of the album was a year long labor of love that I’m proud to be a part of.
Hassan – Being on the road with my brothers and continuing to build this chemistry we got going, every day we play, it gets better and better.
James – I’m looking forward to meeting new people, continuing to set stages ablaze with my Fishbone brothers! And bringing more Fishbone Soldiers into the family! The new album is so fresh and full on uniquely Fishbone. Looking forward to seeing people vibe out to it!
New Fishbone album Stockholm Syndrome drops on June 27th! Pre-order yours here: Fishbone
