Dynamic vocalist and songwriter, Robin Small and producer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Gil Small are music industry vets – accomplished, classically trained, and incredibly talented. Between the two of them they have done work and performed with artists such as Earth Wind and Fire, Stevie Wonder, Bobby Jones, Chris Jasper of Isley Jasper Isley, Hezekiah Walker, De La Soul, Lalah Hathaway, Freddie Jackson, Cassandra Wilson, Usher, Ronny Jordan, and Angela Johnson to name a few.

They are also husband and wife. Since meeting in college, at the prestigious Berklee College of Music – graduating and ultimately getting married – they have had continuous discussions about a “home” for the brand of music they knew they wanted to create. A “home” that would allow them to realize their full creative vision – One built on a sturdy, spiritual foundation – with integrity and plenty of soul.

As time went on and their vast experiences in the industry made them privy to the limitations and pitfalls in the “home market,” it became clear, they were going to have to “build” the musical home they desired. So that’s what they set out to do. But while in the process, they ran into other like-minded artists – talented vocalists, songwriters, producers, and musicians and just as importantly, good-hearted folks, who were looking for homes much like the one Robin and Gil, dreamed of – Artists such as brothers, Laurone and Antonio McClendon, Serina G, Issac Clemon, William Finley and Charlene Michael-Imobioh. Needless to say, the Smalls’ talent and experience enamored these artists, but they were also moved by their sincerity and strong faith. So Robin and Gil got to thinking that perhaps they needed to go one step further and not just build a home, but also build a “city” – A place for them all, where the sounds of the “streets” would ring with Gospel, R&B, Jazz, Funk and Soul. A place where your heart would not only be moved by the spiritual messages, but your body would be moved by the infectious grooves. And what to call this city? Well, Groove City, of course.

And so about three years ago, the blueprints were drawn up and the work got started. Upon completion, they did what most would do, excited about their new place – a place that took hard work, long hours, sacrifice and a great deal of faith to create – they invited folks to come and celebrate. The impressive musical “invitations” were released to all who would enjoy top-notch production, dexterous vocals, and a sound that ranged from faith-filled, uplifting joy to silky smooth seduction. And they read, WELCOME 2 GROOVE CITY, Volume 1.

Check out above on the I SPY SOUL YouTube Channel our conversation with the “King and Queen” of Groove City, Robin and Gil Small.

Filmed at La Maison d’Art in Harlem, NY- Special thanks to Stephanie Calla

Check out the first single from Welcome 2 Groove City, Vol. 1– FREE!

For more about Robin & Gil Small, Groove City and the other talented artists on Welcome 2 Groove City, Volume 1, go to groovecity7.com