Gail “Mojo” Muldrow represents
female side of soul music

By Eldridge “Big Cat” Tolefree

Born in San Francisco, Gail “Mojo” Muldrow grew up during the ’50s and ’60s at a time when rock and roll was forming. Artists such as Ray Charles, Magalia Jackson, Duke Ellington and Nancy Wilson were the sounds of her youth.
    Gail’s parents encouraged her to play music at a young age, and she participated in church choirs and theater throughout her school years. Thanks to her parent’s friendship with the Family Stone, at age 17 she was taken in by Sly, who recorded her on a hit record, I Get High on You. Freddy Stone served as her guitar mentor.
    Gail’s a multi-talented musician. She plays bass, keyboards and drums, and has an amazing voice. She’s been compared to guitarist Jimmy Hendrix, Jimmy Page and Albert Collins.
    She cites her influences as Gladys, Aretha and Etta James, in addition to her oldest brother, John, who was a record freak.
    Gail learned from the best — the East Bay brand of funk was unique to the world, with bands like Sly and the Family Stone, Tower of Power, Cold Blood, Santana, Chick Correa, John McLaughlin and Stanly Clark helping shape the funk sound played today.
    In 1974 Gail started receiving vocal coaching from the great Judy Davis. She remained her student until Davis died in 2001. Davis took a personal interest in Gail, giving special attention to her development as an all-around professional.
    Gail has played with The Shadows, GM & The Mark of Excellence, Sly and the Family Stone, Grand Central Station, Merl Saunders and Johnny Otis, and has recorded for many labels during her brilliant career.
    Check out Gail’s website at www.gailmuldrow.com.

Send your comments to Big Cat at the insidebuzz@yahoo.com.