Neal Francis

A rangy singer, songwriter, and pianist from Chicago, Neal Francis writes tightly-crafted songs rooted in retro '70s pop, rock, and R&B. Prior to launching his solo career, Francis cut his teeth at a young age first as a blues sideman, then as a member of a promising funk ensemble before addiction nearly got the best of him. After getting clean, he developed a retro-driven style blending classic R&B with New Orleans rhythms, blues, and a healthy dose of early-'70s rock and funk, launching a solo career with his 2019 debut album Changes. Two years later, he released his absorbing and kaleidoscopic sophomore effort, In Plain Sight, and doubled down on his vintage R&B influences on the 2022 EP Sentimental Garbage. A 2023 concert album, Francis Comes Alive, showcased his live chops while the 2025 full-length, Return to Zero leaned into orchestral pop.