Diamond Ortiz was introduced to doo-wop, rockabilly, and R&B at a young age. He started playing bass for his family’s homespun funk band, learning music from his brother who played with session players from Sly & the Family Stone, Tower of Power, and Funkadelic. As a budding musician he recalls being influenced by the showmanship of artists like Louis Jordan, Chuck Berry, Guitar Slim, Johnny Guitar Watson, Roger Troutman and others. Known for his modern funk slappers, he has become a staple in the LA underground street funk scene. On his newest LP, Certified, Ortiz continues to showcase his musical talent by handling all the instruments, mixing, arranging, producing & vocals. Returning with more boogie slappers like “Virgo Baby” & “She’s A Keeper”, Ortiz also pushes his boundaries with Jamaican-soul inspired “My Lover’s Call” along with “Love Letter” which recalls that classic freestyle era like Debbie Deb. A well-crafted, funky masterpiece that highlights some of his dynamics while staying true to his street funk sound.[info sheet from distr.]