Thunder Soul: The Legacy of Funk, Education, and Community
Thunder Soul is more than a documentary—it's a tribute to the transformative power of music, the brilliance of a visionary educator, and the enduring legacy of a high school funk band that changed lives. From the heart of Houston's Fifth Ward to stages around the world, the story of the Kashmere Stage Band and its legendary leader, Conrad “Prof” Johnson, is one of inspiration, rhythm, and soul.
The Film: A Funk-Filled Tribute
Released in 2010 and executive-produced by Jamie Foxx, Thunder Soul is a feature-length documentary directed by Mark Landsman. It follows the extraordinary journey of alumni from the 1970s-era Kashmere Stage Band as they reunite decades later to pay tribute to their beloved bandleader, now in his 90s.
Prof Johnson didn’t just teach music—he transformed a group of inner-city high school students into a world-class funk ensemble. Through discipline, originality, and relentless encouragement, he helped his students discover their potential on and off the stage. The film captures this powerful reunion, mixing archival footage, interviews, and stunning performances that celebrate the soul of a generation.
Critically acclaimed and deeply moving, Thunder Soul has been called “uplifting,” “joyous,” and “a story that hits all the right notes.”
The Rise of the Kashmere Stage Band
The roots of Thunder Soul lie in the late 1960s, when Prof Johnson, already an accomplished jazz musician, took over the music program at Kashmere High School in Houston. Inspired by the sounds of James Brown, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Kool & the Gang, he built a band that could groove with the best.
The Kashmere Stage Band was no ordinary school ensemble. They wrote original compositions, released multiple albums, won national competitions, and toured internationally—breaking barriers for young Black musicians during a turbulent era in American history. Their unique blend of soul, funk, and showmanship earned them a fierce reputation that lives on in samples used by hip-hop legends like DJ Shadow, J Dilla, and Madlib.
ThunderSOUL Orchestra: Reigniting the Groove
Following the resurgence sparked by the documentary, original members of the Kashmere Stage Band formed the ThunderSOUL Orchestra—a 14-piece funk and R&B group devoted to preserving the band’s musical legacy and Prof Johnson’s vision.
Their mission is rooted in education and empowerment. Through performances, workshops, and school outreach, the ThunderSOUL Orchestra continues to spread the message that dedication, creativity, and mentorship can change lives. They perform at major festivals, cultural events, and educational institutions across the country.
The Album: 528-0728
In 2016, the ThunderSOUL Orchestra released their debut album, 528-0728—a heartfelt nod to Prof Johnson’s home phone number, the digits students once dialed to ask for advice, support, or a little extra encouragement.
Recorded in Houston and at Jackson Browne’s Groove Masters Studio in Santa Monica, the album features thunderous brass, tight grooves, and a deep sense of soul. Earth, Wind & Fire’s legendary trumpeter Reggie Young lent his talents to the project, calling it “some FUNKY music.”
Critics and fans alike praised the album for its authenticity, energy, and respect for the original Kashmere sound. Grammy-winning songwriter Allee Willis said it best: “This is joyous, inspirational, FUNKY music!”
What's Happening Now
Today, the ThunderSOUL Orchestra and the Conrad O. Johnson Music & Fine Arts Foundationcarry on the mission of education and performance. Here's what's currently in motion:
Live Performances: The band continues to wow audiences at events like SXSW, Miller Outdoor Theatre, and Discovery Green in Houston.
Educational Outreach: Through workshops and clinics, they mentor young musicians and advocate for music education in underserved communities.
Film Screenings: Thunder Soul is still being shown at schools, festivals, and cultural centers—often accompanied by Q&As and live performances.
Streaming Availability: The documentary is available on streaming platforms such as Pluto TV, Amazon Video, Kanopy, and Plex.
Community Engagement: Their work supports youth development through music, using funk as a powerful tool for self-expression, unity, and hope.
A Lasting Legacy
The story of Thunder Soul reminds us that greatness can come from anywhere—and that with the right guidance, young people can rise above expectations and shape their own futures. Prof Johnson’s impact is still felt, not only in the grooves of the ThunderSOUL Orchestra but in the lives of those he taught.
As the band says, "We play to honor the past, inspire the present, and shape the future."
Explore More:
Listen to 528-0728 on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you stream music
Learn about the Conrad O. Johnson Foundation at cojfoundation.org
Catch the ThunderSOUL Orchestra live—check tour dates and upcoming events on their official site