Mo Pleasure

Mo Pleasure

Mo Pleasure is a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and producer from Portland, United States. He begins playing acoustic piano at the age of four and, by his early teens, has mastered bass, trumpet, guitar, drums and violin. He later earns a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from the University of Connecticut and starts his professional career playing bass with Ray Charles.

Session work and musical direction

After working with Ray Charles, Mo Pleasure builds a career as a session musician and backing player across jazz and R&B. He performs with artists including George Duke, Natalie Cole, Dianne Reeves, Jonathan Butler, Rachelle Ferrell, Michael McDonald, Oleta Adams, Roberta Flack, Marcus Miller, and Frankie Beverly and Maze. From 1989 through 1992, he serves as keyboardist and musical director with Najee, Alex Bugnon, Philip Bailey, Patti Austin and Jon Lucien.

Earth, Wind & Fire and later touring work

In 1993, Mo Pleasure becomes a member of Earth, Wind & Fire, and in 1994 he also takes on the role of musical director for the band. He later appears on Janet Jackson’s All For You tour in 2001, playing keyboards, trumpet and guitar, and on Boney James’ Pure tour in 2004, playing keyboards and trumpet.

Solo work

His solo release, Elements of Pleasure, presents him as a versatile player across piano, trumpet, flugelhorn and bass. The record includes guest appearances by Philip Bailey on “Lover’s Groove” and by Michael McDonald, Oleta Adams and Peabo Bryson on “We Are One”.