THE BAND

Manuel Perkins Jr.

Sousaphone

Born and raised in New Orleans’ 9th Ward, music has been a part of his life from the very beginning. Surrounded by family who played in bands and sang in church choirs, the foundation was set early for a future built on rhythm and sound.

Drawn to the biggest instrument in the marching band, the sousaphone became his weapon of choice. What started as curiosity quickly turned into passion, transforming into the driving heartbeat behind every performance. Carrying the bass line, setting the groove, and sparking the energy, he holds the power to lift the entire band and audience into another dimension.

Influenced by legends like Louis Armstrong, Kid Ory, Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Marcus Miller, Heatwave, Earth, Wind & Fire, and the iconic Anthony “Tuba Fats” Lacen, his style reflects both deep tradition and bold innovation. That blend of roots and vision pushes the sound of The Soul Rebels forward while honoring the music of New Orleans.

For him, the thrill of being on stage comes from the energy exchange. When the band locks in and the crowd surrenders to the sound, the music becomes a living force. Songs like “They Don’t Know” carry an unmatched power, showcasing the raw essence of the group and reminding audiences why the Soul Rebels are one of the most dynamic live bands today.

One of his most unforgettable moments was performing during the Super Bowl, a career milestone that captured the magic of sharing music with millions of fans around the world. But whether it’s a massive stage or an intimate venue, the goal remains the same—leave listeners in awe, feeling like they’ve just heard the best song of their lives.

Offstage, he’s a sneaker collector with a love for Jordan Brand, a gamer who dives into NBA 2K and Call of Duty, and a fan of watching old-school concerts and podcasts on YouTube. Though introverted at heart, his voice shines through his horn, speaking volumes every time he takes the stage.

Touring has given him the chance to walk through cities once only seen on maps, connecting with fans across the globe who often discover The Soul Rebels by chance, only to leave as lifelong supporters. That impact drives his vision—to create music that feels limitless, refusing to be boxed into a single genre, and always staying true to what feels authentic.

Inspired by the sound and style that set The Soul Rebels apart, his contribution is more than just holding down the bass. It’s about carrying the spirit of New Orleans, igniting the band’s energy from the very first note, and ensuring every performance is unforgettable.