Melvin Seals, JGB & Jake's Leg

Melvin Seals has been a powerful presence in the music industry for over 30 years with a long-established reputation as a performer, recording artist and producer. Melvin is most revered for his powerful, high-spirited, Hammond B-3 organ, and keyboards in the Jerry Garcia Band. Melvin spun his B-3 magic with the Jerry Garcia Band for 18 years and in doing so helped pioneer and define what has now become “Jam Band Music”.

From blues to funk to rock to jazz, Melvin Seals serves up a tasty mix with a little R&B and gospel thrown in to spice things up. Melvin and JGB bring an intuitive, expressive style, soul, spontaneity and remarkable chops to the table. John Kadlecik on lead guitar and vocal duties, John-Paul McLean’s savory bass, Jeremy Hoenig on the drums and, of course, a heapin’ helpin’ of the wizard’s magic on Hammond B-3 Organ and keyboards. Their chemistry is the focus from which they create a spontaneous and high art where the sky is the limit musically. They offer an exciting, often psychedelic musical journey that changes nightly and keeps the audience dancing and smiling(and some staring in amazement) for hours.

Adding his rock-gospel-soul-rhythm and blues touch with his funky style of playing, no wonder Jerry nicknamed him “Master of the Universe”. Melvin continues to treat music- lovers to his unique brand of melodic flavor with JGB. Come see and hear for yourself!

Melvin Seals – Hammond B3 Organ, Keyboards & Vocals
John Kadlecik – Electric Guitar & Lead Vocals
John-Paul McLean – Bass & Vocals
Jeremy Hoenig – Drums

For 50 years, Jake’s Leg has created a space where musicians and listeners can experience the magic of musical dialogue between band and audience. Their long-running residency at Twenty North became a proving ground, as well as an example for younger acts, showing how consistency, authenticity, and love for the music can build a loyal following. Through their musical interpretations, they helped normalize genre-blending in the local scene – mixing rock, jazz, blues, and psychedelic improvisation in a way that encouraged other bands to break out of rigid categories. Jake’s Leg shows are more than just concerts – they are a communal experience, where dancing, singing, and connection are just as important as the setlist.

Phish bassist Mike Gordon has recognized their legacy on several occasions – most recently joining the band during a surprise appearance on Jerry Garcia’s birthday in 2024, jamming on Grateful Dead classics like “Bird Song” and “Shakedown Street”. Others of note include Chuck Berry, Mick Fleetwood, Alphonso Johnson, Buddy Cage – the list goes on. These kind of moments speak volumes about the band’s standing in the jam band world.

As Jake’s Leg steps onto the Pageant stage on March 13th to launch their 50th year, they are not just celebrating a milestone; they’re re-affirming a legacy. What began in 1976 has become a living thread woven through the cultural fabric of St. Louis and the wider Deadhead universe. No other tribute has carried the torch longer, and no other band in St. Louis has sustained such an unbroken, vibrant run. Jake’s Leg stands not only as a testament to endurance, musicianship, and community, but as a permanent chapter in Grateful Dead and St. Louis history – proof that the music really never stopped.

JAKE’S LEG is:
Randy Furrer – guitar & vocals
Dave Casper – guitar
Joe Trunko – bass & vocals
Ryan Wilhite – drums
Bill Murphy – keyboards & vocals