Today we’d like to introduce you to LuV Locz Experiment LLC.
Hello, LuV Locz Experiment LLC; thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The Luv Locz Experiment: A international Caribbean funk-soul collective based out of Dayton, Ohio, the collective was founded by Romair ‘Jay-vez’ hicks and Anthony ‘Saxton’ Arringtonin in 2016. Since its creation, the brand has expanded to create a unique sound that brings the perfect energy to any occasion. From original music to their twist on your favorite tunes, you will be taken away from your seat and transported to the islands to dance away your troubles. Be a part of the Luv Locz experience.
It comprised multiple creatives, including Jayvez Hicks (lead vocals, guitar), Ciam Carr (vocal, guitar), natural onyx (vocals, flute), Philip Hutchinson (trumpet), Chris Kennedy (percussion), Chris Shepherd (bass), Shani she rocks (dancer), Chikia Armstrong (dancer) & more, all members are stars in their own right. Some of their musical inspirations include Bob Marley and the Wailers, Arrested Development, Zapp, Steel Pulse, and Ohio Players, just to name a few. They released their first single, “Luv Locz Official,” in March 2021 and followed it up with their debut album, ‘ Honey’ in August 2021, including 10 songs released under the label Streetlight Entertainment Group.
Luv Locz has shared the stage with international reggae artists like Chuck Fenda, Mike Love, Etana, Muta Baruka, & Tony Rebel. After releasing their debut album, “Honey,” the group recorded their sophomore album, “Strange Fruit,” released in April 2023, available exclusively on this site. The Strange Fruit album encompasses numerous hits, including the new hit single Luv Riddem, currently available on all music platforms, & black Man featuring the Mau Mau Warriors. This is their first international release recorded in Jamaica at Tuff Gong Studios. The Sole mission of the Luv Locz Experiment is to bridge the gap between Caribbean and funk music while bringing the spirit of togetherness back to the forefront.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has been a road of growing pains and hard truths, but gratitude shows up when acceptance and purpose play a part. Some struggles/obstacles have kept the morale up through all the transitions. It is identifying what’s needed to get to the next level. We are transitioning from a jam band into a respectful business.
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
JayVez: I like to consider myself a painter. In painting, you use many different tools and brushes, and depending on your field of artistry, the canvas you paint on will even change. Sometimes, we paint with our instruments. Sometimes, we paint with our vocals. Sometimes, it’s through marketing and merchandise. We are not only artists but also embodiments of what expressive art is. We specialize in curating Intentional events around our shows, such as our annual Honey And Sage Bonfire and Sounds Of Healing event. Our holistic experiences allow the community to come and enjoy, interact, and be informed about different things happening within the collective and community. We are most proud of the ecosystem we are a part of and helping build in Dayton. We create a common language and events among artists and organizations, allowing us to share ideas and collaborate. What sets us apart is our ability to listen to high-vibrational music like reggae, meet with an optimistic flavor like funk, and find The Sweet Spot that all ages can enjoy. Finding common threads that allow collaborations to emerge between artists and entrepreneurs in the community brings us all closer together. Leading by example through our music collaboration on stage will enable us to step outside and be examples of what we’re trying to build, giving us an advantage in reaching people through fellowship and entertainment.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
JayVez: The most important lesson I have learned is you must go through it to get to it. Life’s experiences can be explained in the ups and downs, which are the twists and turns of the road traveled. When embracing those good and bad moments, you find yourself being more present and appreciating what is in your efforts to live more abundantly and welcome more grounding and clarity.
Contact Info:
- Website: LuvloczEx.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luvlocz?igsh=cmJsY2RzMmE0Z2Vx
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LuvLoczEx?mibextid=ZbWKwL
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@LuvLoczExperiment?si=JOZHHkhpQVehxpkS
Image Credits
Jordan Freshour and Kayla Nagel
