Louis York, formed by Grammy-nominated songwriters and producers Claude Kelly and Chuck Harmony, creates multi-genre music reflecting diverse influences and has garnered critical acclaim for their unique sound and storytelling. After a highly successful tenure as Grammy-nominated songwriters and producers for a roster of acclaimed artists, Claude Kelly and Chuck Harmony officially formed the American band Louis York in 2015. The duo first collaborated on Chrisette Michele’s 2009 album, ‘Epiphany,’ before going on to write and produce for global stars including Rihanna, Bruno Mars, Britney Spears, Mary J. Blige, Kelly Clarkson, Jessie J, and Miley Cyrus.
Claude Kelly provides lead vocals for the band, while Chuck Harmony handles keyboards, guitars, drums, and vocoder, with the duo writing and producing all their music. In 2019, Louis York released their highly anticipated debut album, ‘American Griots – The Album,’ which solidified their reputation as modern storytellers. Their distinct musical approach draws from a rich tapestry of influences, including church choirs, R&B, jazz, and the Motown sound, which they describe as ‘world music,’ emphasizing its multi-genre and international appeal. Beyond their releases, the Weirdo Workshop, located in Franklin, Tennessee, operates as a dynamic creative hub for comprehensive music production, project development, industry lectures, book clubs, and live performances, showcasing their commitment to fostering artistic growth.
Most recently, Louis York was announced as the Jazz Category Winner of the prestigious 2024 American Songwriter Song Contest in April 2025, further cementing their status as influential artists and composers. This recognition highlights their continuous impact and innovation within the music landscape, positioning Louis York for ongoing success and artistic expansion.