Legendary soul/funk band Tower of Power have announced that they will welcome Ray Greene as the newest lead vocalist as of the New Year. In a press release, bandleader Emilio Castillo noted that Greene was chosen unanimously over all others who auditioned. Greene will join the ranks of at least 60 different musicians who have toured or recorded with the iconic horn band throughout its 45 year existence.

Of course, the lineup change means the band has parted with lead singer Larry Braggs, seemingly on good terms, after thirteen years of making music together.

In a statement Braggs says:

Thirteen years ago I took a chance and joined one of the greatest horn bands the world has ever known. With no idea of what to expect or what it really represented, I embarked on a musical journey. I found myself standing in front of this massive wall of organized rhythmic infusion of sound that was like a train moving in fluid motion around curves and mountains, up hills and through valleys. Basically, I was in over my head on October 18, 2000; I was now the lead vocalist for Tower of Power. A band with a history of legendary musicians and a list of accolades that expanded over decades, lead by incredible vocalists.

I had to prove to these guys that I was good enough and could handle this gig. Then came you guys the fans, or should I say the eleventh member of TOP! You are the most amazing, crazy involved, in tune, trusting, giving, loyal folks any artist could ever ask for.

You have accepted me from day one. Always encouraging and uplifting at every show. Over the past thirteen years I have made so many great friends and relationships that have enriched my life in so many ways. It makes for this extended family of friends that will last forever. I know that my time with the band has come to a close. This is just a chapter in this fairy tale life you have allowed me to live. There are so many words that could be said to express my feelings to you for entrusting me to carry the load as front man of your favorite soul band. From California to Connecticut, Europe to Asia, China to Canada. Cities like Oakland, New York, New Haven, Boston, Annapolis, Tokyo, Osaka, Oakville, Shanghai, Paris, London, Munich, Copenhagen, Oslo, Sidney, Toronto, Quebec, Seoul, Hamburg, Milan and so many beautiful places and people all over the world. You have told me how much I and the band has changed or inspired your lives. In the reality of it all, you beautiful spirits have given me so much love and joy that I can never say thank you enough.

From the bottom of my heart I want to say with everything that is in my capacity as a true believer in the universal path of brotherly love, THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

“We want to thank Larry Braggs for 13 years of phenomenal singing with the band,” said bandleader Emilio Castillo in a press release. “He’s been one of the best singers Tower of Power has ever had, and we wish him total success in all of his endeavors.”

Tower of Power will celebrate New Year’s Eve in Lincoln, CA at the Thunder Valley Casino Holiday Pavilion.