Bakersfield’s funk favorites, Mind Body & Soul members, seek aid after eviction

Mr. Rhythmm Epkins, known to fans as Dr. Funk and his brother, Power Morcillo, members of Bakersfield’s eight-piece organic funk band Mind Body & Soul, are facing eviction from their home, southwest of Bakersfield, where they have rented for 25 years.

Dr. Funk, who first moved to Bakersfield 34 years ago and moved into his residence 25 years ago, where he raised his children. He described learning of the eviction as an “over-exhausting physical and emotional chokehold” as the two brothers began packing their belongings and band equipment.

“It was great. I found a good house and we were happy and I raised my kids there.” Dr Funk says.

The brothers, who have only seen their landlord, Antonio Fargus once in 25 years, received the first eviction notice they have ever received, leaving them with limited time to vacate the property. According to Dr. Funk, the two brothers are moving some belongings into storage and seeking temporary housing for themselves and secure locations for their band equipment. UBO Entertainment (UBO ENT), who support’s Dr. Funk’s public relations provider for the last five years, has initiated a crowdfunding campaign through Indie Go Go to help them secure a new residence swiftly.

“Well, we may have to sleep in our car,” Dr. Funk said. He added that sheriffs were sent to give the brothers an eviction notice with the property manager, and they subsequently went to court where Dr. Funk didn’t have a chance to speak about the incident and ruled in the landlord’s favor. “First time this happened. Only saw the owner one time. I think he spent all his money on drugs and prostitutes and wanted me and my brother out and we don’t care, all I know is we don’t have a home right now.”

The eviction arrives as Mind Body & Soul prepares to release their new 11-track studio album through Triple Seven Studio. The band plans to distribute the album through their longtime distribution company, Bentley Records, and is working on music videos for some of the music. Dr. Funk, who also performs as a session musician for studios in Hollywood, said the unexpected displacement has put the album’s release on hold.

To donate and help house Dr. Funk and Power, visit UBO ENT’s Indiegogo campaign.