about bofiya

BOFiya / Band on Fiya is more than just a music group—it’s an experience. A powerhouse ensemble of highly skilled musicians, BOFiya delivers electrifying performances that captivate audiences and set the stage ablaze. Bringing the heat is in their DNA, and they do it with passion, precision, and an energy that is simply undeniable.

Fusing elements of soul, R&B, funk, jazz, and Afro-inspired rhythms, BOFiya creates a sound that transcends genres, appealing to diverse audiences. Whether delivering smooth grooves, high-energy anthems, or deeply moving ballads, their performances are sonically captivating and emotionally charged. Every show is a unique journey, blending technical mastery with an infectious stage presence that keeps crowds engaged from start to finish.

James B.

Founder / Drummer / Vocalist

James Byndon is the proud founder of BOFiya, a dynamic six-piece band specializing in R&B, Funk, Smooth Jazz, Pop, and Rock.
Born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, James is an accomplished percussionist with an emphasis on drums, bringing over 30 years of experience to the stage. In addition to his rhythm mastery, James also contributes lead and background vocals, adding depth and versatility to BOFiya’s signature sound.

His passion for music has taken him around the world, performing with some of the industry’s most celebrated artists, including Stevie Wonder, Kirk Whalum, Paul Jackson Jr., The Emotions, Tata Vega, Marilyn McCoo, and Billy Preston.
Driven by an unwavering love for both music and the entertainment industry, James continues to push creative boundaries and inspire audiences. As the heartbeat — and voice of BOFiya, he leads with rhythm, passion, and purpose — setting the tone for a band that’s more than a sound… it’s an experience.

Makeda

Lead Singer

Makeda, BOFiya’s dynamic lead vocalist, brings extraordinary range, versatility, and star power to every performance.

She has graced stages around the world alongside legendary artists, including Luther Vandross, Eric Benét, Teena Marie (featured as an opening act and background vocalist), Kirk Whalum, Philip Bailey, Jeffrey Osborne, Sheila E., and Rose Royce.
Makeda’s captivating stage presence and vocal artistry help define

BOFiya’s signature sound, a thrilling blend of R&B, Funk, Smooth Jazz, Pop, and Rock.
With both male and female lead vocalists, BOFiya delivers seamless duets, powerful harmonies, and unforgettable performances that elevate every event and captivate audiences of all kinds, from concert halls to corporate galas to party-loving crowds.

CHRIS Keyboards

Multi-Instrumentalist / Keyboards, Bass, Lead Guitar, Drums, Trumpet, Vocals

Chris, BOFiya’s versatile multi-instrumentalist, is a true musical force, bringing mastery of Keyboards, Bass, Lead Guitar, Drums, Trumpet, and Vocals to the stage. With decades of experience performing and recording, Chris has played with iconic bands including Lakeside, Slave, and many others across the worlds of Funk, R&B, Smooth Jazz, and Pop.

In addition to his instrumental mastery, Chris also brings a strong vocal presence to the group — adding rich harmony layers and lead accents that enhance BOFiya’s dynamic sound.

His ability to seamlessly shift between instruments and styles makes him an invaluable part of the band. From driving grooves and soaring leads to lush melodies, punchy horn lines, and soulful vocals, Chris elevates every BOFiya performance with precision, passion, and artistry.
A true musical chameleon, Chris ensures that every BOFiya show delivers the energy, versatility, and fire that fans expect — and more.

Fidel

Bass Guitar

Fidel Winzey, BOFiya’s dynamic bassist, is a self-taught musician with over 35 years of experience on stage and in the recording studio.

A longtime member of the Crenshaw Christian Center Worship Band, Fidel has built a career defined by versatility and groove.

He has recorded with and performed for Ron Bruner Sr.’s Strange Jazz Universe, served as bassist for Alphonso Boyd’s Men of Motown (Motown tribute show), and taken the stage with iconic acts including The Delfonics and many more.

With a style that locks in the rhythm and drives the heartbeat of every performance, Fidel’s bass lines provide a deep, soulful foundation that fuels BOFiya’s unforgettable sound.

Ed

Lead Guitar

Ed Holmgreen, BOFiya’s masterful guitarist, brings decades of experience, creativity, and passion to every performance.
A native of San Antonio, Texas, Ed began learning guitar as a teenager, influenced by legends like Jimi Hendrix.

By age 21, he was playing professionally with the group The Kids, followed by winning success with Kid Curry on MTV’s Basement Tapes.

Ed later founded the band KK Wilde, co-writing two songs featured in the Warner Bros. film Showdown in Little Tokyo.
From cinematic soundtracks to electrifying live shows, Ed’s artistry and precision fuel BOFiya’s guitar-driven edge — delivering riffs and solos that ignite every stage.

A.P.J – Saxophonist / Vocalist

APJ, BOFiya’s accomplished saxophonist and vocalist, brings world-class artistry and dynamic stage presence to every performance.

A lifelong musician, APJ began singing at the age of 4 and playing saxophone by age 9 — performing professionally since the age of 12. His career began in Gospel music, working with legends such as The Jackson Southernaires, The Gospel Keynotes, The Mighty Clouds of Joy, Mary Mary, and Bill Moss and the Celestials (his mother was an original member).

After honing his stage presence with Gentlemen for Christ, APJ transitioned into the R&B and Smooth Jazz world, performing with an extraordinary roster of artists, including:
Rick James & The Stone City Band, Nikki Gilbert (Brownstone), Dave Hollister, Deborah Cox, Blu Cantrell, Brian McKnight, Stokely (Mint Condition), Loose Ends, Stevie Wonder, Javier, The Mary Jane Girls, The Brothers Johnson, Michael Henderson, Ray Parker Jr., Calloway Bros., and Slum Village — just to name a few.

Affectionately known as “Big Nasty,” APJ has performed on stages around the globe, captivating audiences in Japan, South Korea, Okinawa, Hawaii, Guam, Greece, and the Marshall Islands — as well as premier venues such as Gibson Amphitheatre, Vault 350, House of Blues, and B.B. King’s Blues Club.

Previously, he served as Music Director and Saxophonist for the Paris Escovedo Project (of the famed Escovedo Family), and has been featured on numerous recordings, including the 2011 release Pamela Miles & Milestone — Making Music.

As a solo artist, APJ has released three acclaimed albums:

• TIME (2016)
• CREATION (2020)
• ARTWORK (2023)