Tortured Soul is a genre-defying collective that has spent over two decades redefining the boundaries of house music. Originating from Brooklyn, New York, this dynamic ensemble blends live instrumentation with deep, soulful grooves to deliver an electrifying, 100% live fusion of dance music—setting them apart from the DJ-driven norm and captivating audiences with their infectious energy.

Fronted by the multi-talented John-Christian Urich, who masterfully commands both the drums and lead vocals simultaneously, Tortured Soul draws inspiration from the timeless artistry of Prince, Heatwave, and Kool & The Gang. Their sound is a seamless blend of nostalgic soul and cutting-edge house, evoking the spirit of neo-soul greats like Jamiroquai while embracing the vibrant, driving pulse of modern dance culture.  

With a career spanning over twenty-five years, Tortured Soul has become an absolute staple in the international music scene. Boasting a catalog that has amassed over 35 million streams, their music resonates deeply with fans across the globe, effortlessly transcending cultural and generational divides. The band’s relentless touring schedule has seen them perform more than 1,000 shows across continents—from Africa to Europe, Asia to the Americas—making them one of the most sought-after live acts in dance music.  

Tortured Soul’s innovative approach has led to collaborations with some of the genre’s most respected trailblazers, including Black Coffee, Ralf Gum, Atjazz, Fka Mash, Osunlade, and Quentin Harris. They continue to push their sound forward with recent standout releases, including the quirky, disco-infused anthem “I’m in Love With U,” the high-energy single “Chakalaka,” and their celebrated 25th Anniversary Mixes of “When You Find Your Love… Hold On” featuring Sabina Sciubba.

Their sound is a rich tapestry where the warmth of classic soul meets the futuristic edge of nu-disco, creating a musical experience that is both timeless and fresh. In a music landscape heavily dominated by digital production, Tortured Soul stands as a celebration of the universal language of rhythm and melody—a definitive testament to the power, beauty, and enduring spirit of live music.