Phat Hat Band 

The goal of Phat Hat is simple: Deep rhythm, and soulful goodness with a mixture of Jazz, Blues, and Rhythm Mood stylings. The band started in 2003 and has performed all over the Southeast US and has several original songs on the Apple iTunes Store. Three years ago, Phat Hat was selected by Mayor Kip Holden to headline the city's first annual New Year's Eve celebration in Downtown Baton Rouge. In addition to headlining this event for the third year in a row, Phat Hat has also headlined many other local festivals including 'Live After Five' and New Orleans' 'Zoo-To-Do'.

Presentations include, not only the aforementioned, but a unique ability to engage audiences, young and old.  The members of the ensemble are able to present an interactive format; “call & response”, dance floor favorites, renditions and imitations of contemporary artist renditions. The band's repertoire includes a smattering of the funkiest dance songs plus classic soul, jazz and blues from the sixties, seventies and eighties. 

This eight -8- piece horn driven band is led by vocalist, Wendell Woods. The rhythm section is comprised of Rick Naqvi (guitar), Matt Doran (keyboards), Don Thomas (drums) and Greg Darville (bass). The horn section is made up of Andy Pizzo (trombone), John Bastianelli (saxophone) and Jeff Chatelain (trumpet).  

Testimonials

♦ There are no words to describe how much you all made our wedding beyond anything we ever hope or expected. Literally everyone who attended the wedding had great things to say about the band. I hope to see y'all again soon!!" LaRae C.-New Orleans, La.e C. from New Orleans, LA 

♦ "I can't say enough great things about Phat Hat. They keep us dancing!" Nancy Little, Baton Rouge Ballet 

♦ "Phat Hat is where it's at!" Whitney Vann, WBRZ

♦  PhatHat was so easy to work with. They were very accommodating and absolutely WONDERFUL. I knew from the DVD and samples online that they were great, but they were EVEN BETTER in person! They made our wedding reception fun and entertaining and we have received numerous compliments and inquiries about where we found them. I was SO very pleased!” Haley S., 4/25/2009, Hattiesburg, MS 

♦"Phat hat is an excellent band for entertaining at a party or reception - lively, interactive, and professional and DAMN GOOD!  I have hired them at least once a year for the past 8 years.  They play a wide variety of dance music and will appeal to all ages." Kurt B. 05/05/11 Baton Rouge Ancient Athletes - Kurt B, 05/05/11, Baton Rouge Ancient Athletes

♦ "Great band! We hope to have them back next year!" Live After Five, Baton Rouge, LA