Josh Hoyer & Soul Colossal: Electrifying Funk, Soul, and R&B Live in Chattanooga – Exclusive Interview
Josh Hoyer & Soul Colossal fuse soul, funk, and R&B into an electrifying live experience. Drawing inspiration from icons like Stax, Motown, Muscle Shoals, New Orleans, Philly, and San Francisco, the band effortlessly blends styles and eras. Their mission at every show: get the crowd dancing until they forget their worries.
2017 was a breakthrough year, with Josh competing on NBC's The Voice and the band completing a 27-city European tour, culminating in a live album from their Brussels, Belgium performance.
In 2018, they brought their energy to Chattanooga, TN, on Friday, January 12 at Hi-Fi Clyde’s, starting at 9 p.m. Tickets were available at the door.
We spoke with Josh about his passion for music, his The Voice journey, and his Chattanooga show.
Tell us a little about yourself. How did you start playing music and singing?
I’m 41, from Lincoln, Nebraska, and a proud family man with two little girls and a wonderful wife. I’m grateful to still be making music. As a kid, I was always singing and dancing around the house. At six, my dad took me to his high school talent show—my first time performing publicly. I sang John Cougar Mellencamp’s “Hurts So Good,” a big hit then. The girls loved it, and I loved that they did.
Does anyone in your family sing?
I don’t come from a lineage of famous musicians—it’s tough forging your own path independently. My parents met in band class but didn’t pursue music post-high school. My maternal grandparents played in a barn dance band, so music runs in the family, but no one made it a career. It’s challenging, yet connecting through music creates real magic.
Have you ever been to Chattanooga before?
No, but I’ve heard it’s stunningly beautiful.
Have you spent time in Tennessee?
Yes, I’ve performed in Nashville and Memphis and recorded a couple of albums in Nashville.
What’s your favorite thing about Tennessee?
I haven’t explored enough, but there’s a spirit of the unexpected around every corner, thanks to the music industry. Tennesseans are salt-of-the-earth folks—hospitable, joyful, and welcoming. It reminds me of Nebraska, but with better whiskey and accents.
How would you describe Tennessee music?
Tennessee offers diverse flavors. I’m a Stax fan—that raw, greasy Memphis soul, R&B, and funk is our style. It’s full of life. Beyond that, there’s beautiful music like Jason Isbell’s (from Alabama but now in Tennessee) and honest country tunes.
Tell us about your time on NBC's The Voice. What was it like?
It was eye-opening, revealing how Hollywood operates while bridging it with everyday artists. It connected me with fans nationwide. Like our song “Mixed Bag,” it’s a mix of highs and lows. Performances are hyped and brief, creating instant stars—but live shows are three hours of original music. I aim to bridge that gap. At a Nebraska gig, fans’ excitement faded; we pour our hearts out for a full experience. Grateful overall.
Watch a video of Josh’s blind audition on The Voice here.
What led to the Chattanooga show?
My Colorado agent has Southeast ties. Clyde’s loved our sound and invited us. We’re excited to enter a new market, play for fresh faces, and share the joy.
What can fans expect?
A world-class soul, funk, and R&B show from top-tier players—I’m the weakest link! We connect deeply with the audience and songs, delivering sweaty, joyful energy every time. It’s exhausting after 10 days, but that’s our passion.
Any New Year’s resolutions?
Eating healthier, quitting smoking, and trusting people more—most are good at heart. Opening up is key.
Anything else to share?
Our 2017 European tour packed 36 shows in 42 days. Check us out on the web—if it’s your vibe, you’ll have a memorable time. Give us a try!
