Check out the Amazing Talent of Funk Opus !
DIRECTOR, BASS PLAYER: Phil Clemons
Phil began playing music 10 yrs. old, starting on saxophone by the teaching of Mark Fernandez. He also played with his junior high marching band on drums, In the high school jazz band as the lead alto sax player and later as jazz bass player. At that time he and Paul Bonam started a band, entering shows for awards and record contracts. Winning a local contest to be on a Hollywood show titled ” Big Breaks” by Natalie Cole.
Throughout the years Phil has crafted his skills on 4, 5 and 6 string bass, drums and keyboard. He has recorded and played with great musicians, such as Kevin Mccord, Andrea Austin, Paul Bonam, Mike Bynes, Rod Byrd, John Unger and Rayse Biggs. His musical influences include Marcus Miller, David Sanborn, Jaco, Victor Wooten & Wayman Tisdale. As Director and Bass player for Funk Opus, he keeps the Groove in the Pocket and the Band Tight.
VOCALS: Sheila Clark Rhodes
Playfully known as Shockashe/MVP, performs Background, Co-Lead, and Lead Vocals. Born in Albion, Michigan, she began singing in choir as a youth in church and school. She has been singing both professionally and as a hobby since then. Sheila developed her love for all types of music through her father’s influence and from the diverse ethnic background of her home town. She is known for her Smooth and Melodic Sound.
VOCALS: Hank Davis
Hank “Hi-Definition” Davis performs Background, Co-Lead and Lead Vocals. Born in Ann Arbor and raised in Ypsilanti, Michigan, Hank has been singing since the age of two. In high school, he was an All-State singer two years in a row for the Michigan State Honors Choir. He continued his love for music and singing through his college years and on to the present. When not performing with Funk Opus, Hank is employed at the University of Michigan Health System. His musical influences are S.O.S. “STRICTLY OLD SCHOOL
DRUMMER: Brien Martin
Brien began playing drums at an early age banging on the walls and anything he could hit on in the house. Getting started in the band The West Willow Players in elementary school, he has kept his musical interest going: local bands include New Berry Park, First Class and Funk Opus, Brien has kept the downbeat flowing, given the name Dr. Groove by the One and Only D.A.K., Brien plans on keeping the Funk Flowin’ with the Baddest Band in the Land, Funk Opus.
GUITARIST: Robert Tinney
Originally from Lansing, Michigan, Robert’s passion for music was shaped early on by a childhood surrounded with a wide variety of musical genres. He began playing the violin at age 10 and continued through high school, performing with the Lansing Junior Symphony Orchestra. At 15, he discovered the guitar, which quickly became his primary instrument and creative focus—a passion that continues to fuel his musical journey today. Since the age of 16, Robert has played in numerous bands throughout the Lansing area, developing a dynamic style rooted in rhythm, melody, and audience connection. Whether it’s funk, Motown, rock, or dance grooves, his goal is simple: to play music that moves people and invites audiences to dance, sing along, and share in the joy of live music.
KEYBOARDS: Bruce Fields
Bruce started piano lessons as a child with his mother as his first teacher. In college he studied music, joined choir and played for student theater productions, and continued his classical piano studies with Maria Choban. Whether playing Bach or Parliament, Bruce’s passion is working with like-minded musicians to bring joy to audiences.