Free Agents Brass Band New Orleans Brass Band

Bass drummer Ellis Joseph formed the Free Agents in September 2005, weeks after Katrina, when so many established bands were still scattered that gigs were open citywide. Their signature 'Made It Through That Water' reworks the spiritual 'Wade in the Water' with funk tuba lines and hip-hop verses about the storm. The album was reissued on vinyl in August 2025 for the 20th anniversary of Katrina. Founded: 2005

Players

Leaders

The Lineup

The Band, In Full

Every name here carries the sound — the leaders who run the band, and the players who make the groove. Leaders first, then the lineup.

Leaders · The Band Runs Through Them

Founder / Bandleader / Bass drum

Ellis Joseph

Founded the band in September 2005.

On the lineup: brass band rosters move — players sub in, sit out, and sit in with three other bands the same week. Lineups are published with the band’s blessing and updated as they change.

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