CHRIS GOODYEAR
Guitar / Production
Chris Goodyear Chris grew up in the north of England and moved to Nashville at 24 years old. He is the driving force behind the band and creative engine. Chris is a guitarist inspired by blues, like many of his British counterparts though his guitar style is inspired by guitarists from the British Isles in general such as The Edge of U2, Jonny Marr of The Smiths not to mention countless British Indie bands. Chris’ production style and influences that find their way in to Soulchess include sounds from the UK drum and bass/Dance scene but also the ambient vibes of Pink Floyd and Dub Reggae.
TUCKER EMERSON
Bass
Tucker joined Soulchess in June 2024 after initially being hired by the band to stand in after their first bassist left. Hailing originally from Connecticut , Tucker is an immensely talented multi -instrumentalist. who has done his fair share of Broadway shifts. As part of Soulchess, Tucker has been allowed to let his bass playing virtuosity shine. His tight, funk centered bass playing and use of effects has been welcomed and encouraged to now deliver a more varied and interesting Souchess sound.
BIOGRAPHY
Soulchess is a Nashville-based band blending funk, rock, pop, and EDM into a high-energy, genre-bending sound. Known for their tight musicianship and dynamic live shows, they fuse powerful rhythms, melodic hooks, and electronic elements into something uniquely their own.
Their performances mix creative mashups, unexpected covers, and original music that keep crowds moving and fully engaged. Soulchess’s mission is to deliver an experience that brings people together—creating moments of energy, connection, and unity through the universal language of music.
Story Behind The Name
The name Soulchess reflects the band’s identity—where contrast, connection, and feel all meet. Inspired by the balance of black and white on a chessboard and a nod to the legacy of Chess Records, the name speaks to both structure and soul. It represents the push and pull of different influences coming together, creating something dynamic, intentional, and alive.
DERRIAN CHILDRESS
Lead Vocals
Derrian grew up in Memphis, Tennessee and brings the heritage of great Soul and R&B hailing from his hometown with him. He is a true performer on stage and brings his all to every performance. He is heavily inspired by Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Prince, and several others. His vocal style and performance are reminiscent of those greats, but he also brings his own magnetic presence to any performance. He is a passionate frontman and often quoted as the best frontman in Nashville. He truly does have it all, the voice, the passion and the moves!
JAMEEL AZIZ
Drums
Jameel is a ‘unicorn’ - the name given to Nashvilians who were actually born and grew up in Nashville since they are considered so rare! Soulchess’ ever smiling Jameel is a highly energetic drummer and gives each performance his all. Often likened to ‘Animal’ from the Muppet Show, Jameel gets wild but certainly knows when to slide in the pocket. He is a fan of Funk and Soul generally, but is a big fan of all genres of music ranging from Pop Punk to Reggae.
MEET THE BAND
