Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy: Recent Episodes
Up Close and Personal
"Up Close & Personal" with Latinjazzy is my creation that materialized from my passion and love affair with music. "Up Close & Personal" (UC&P) is an internet broadcast ALL about the world of JAZZ, the artists and their fans. UC&P is meant for it to serve as another platform for Jazz artists to have so they can showcase their artistry. "Up Close & Personal" will bring you the best of the best in Contemporary, Smooth, Traditional, Classical, Latin Jazz and World Jazz., one show at a time... UC&P will bring you the respected trendsetters who have paved the way for so many ... The hottest of Artists in the Jazz scene today and will shine the spotlight on the new upcoming and rising stars of tomorrow. The Jazz genre is Limitless, as will be my efforts to explore and bring something fresh each and every week. Up Close & Personal is for everyone! I invite you to join me in this musical journey. through my Cosmic World of Jazz...where you can hear music that makes your heart melt, your ears groove and your soul sing!!! Tune in, sit back and enjoy.. I will be waiting for YOU!! "Up Close & Personal" will not only do interviews, but listening parties as well as some other projects that are still in the works....so stay tuned. Up Close & Personal is under the umbrella of my Keepin' It Smooth Management & Promotions Company.
Williams grew up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, which was also the adopted hometown of an early influence of hers, Grover Washington, Jr. Playing with the Martin Luther King Jazz Ensemble at King High School in Philadelphia's historic Germantown section, Williams was required to embrace both electric jazz-funk and hardcore bebop. In 1996, she first found fame as a member of Patti LaBelle's backup band, furthering her subsequent career. Williams has toured with Teena Marie and performed with Prince, Babyface and Chante Moore. She has appeared in music videos by artists ranging from Barry White ("Come On") to rapper/actress Queen Latifah ("Hard Times").[2]
In 1996, Williams made her recording debut, Saxtress, which was the "Top Contemporary Jazz Album", Billboard's Top 10 pick.[3] A cover of Quincy Jones' "The Secret Garden (Sweet Seduction Suite)" includes guest performances by female soul vocalists Pat Peterson, Patti LaBelle, and Teena Marie; Teena Marie also heard on "Latin Lullaby." The album also earned Williams a nomination for the Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards and the title of "Best Female Contemporary Jazz Artist" in 1996. Her subsequent recordings include Eight Days of Ecstasy (1998), Evolution (2002) (on which Williams performed vocals and keyboards, along with alto and soprano saxophone), The Perfect Love (2003),[4] Sweet Saxations (2005), and Elixir (2006). In 2007 she recorded The Look of Love, featuring songs originally recorded by Dionne Warwick, and written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David. In November 2009, Williams released a Nu Jazz CD, Chameleon, the first release from her own indie label Saxtress Entertainment.
February 10th 2021
Up Close & Personal welcomes
The Peet Project
The Peet Project is a Hungarian pop-funk-jazz band comprising five twenty-something musicians. Their original music is a seductive and eclectic blend, reflecting influences encompassing Brian Culbertson, Candy Dulfer, George Duke, Earth Wind and Fire and the Rippingtons, among others. The group’s driving force is violinist-composer-vocalist-producer Peter “Peet” Ferencz (27). Peter gives the band its unique sound through his use of violin as a lead instrument in an equivalent role to saxophone or keyboards. His talent was recognized by contemporary jazz icons Brian Culbertson, culminating in Brian lending production guidance to one of the standout tracks off the second album, and Dave Koz who travelled to Hungary to record a single with the Peet Project in the summer of 2016. They play extensively in Hungary and regularly perform in the United States and other European countries like Spain, Slovakia, Romania, Malta and Switzerland.
Up Close & Personal welcomes
Smooth Jazz Guitarist
JJ Sansaverino
February, 9th 2021
With multiple Billboard-charting singles and three highly acclaimed CDs over the past twenty-five years, New York guitarist JJ Sansaverino has reached millions touring the world with his “Benson meets Santana” musical style. An extraordinary performer, JJ has a "take no prisoners" performance attitude, gracing the stage night after night touring on his own or with reggae legend Maxi Priest and bringing his vibe of Smooth Jazz, R&B, and Reggae. A Berklee School of Music graduate and award winner, he has shared the stage with the likes of Maceo Parker, Victor Bailey, Gerald Albright, Randy Brecker, Shaggy, Ricky Lawson, Sean Paul, Rick Braun, the Marley Family, and even performed for Sir Paul McCartney's wedding in 2002. He is currently on a summer world tour with Maxi Priest and is preparing for his upcoming “International Groove CD Release Tour 2018”
Monday, February 8th On Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy
Newcomer Alex Churhill and Anrea Lisa
Alex started playing the tenor saxophone while he was a student at Northcote College. After graduating, he studied Jazz Performance at the New Zealand School of Music, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree with First Class Honours. He also competed at the 2009 New Zealand Youth Jazz Competition, where he was awarded the trophy for the “Most Outstanding Young Musician”. Alex has been performing professionally at various festivals since high school, including the prestigious Monterey Jazz Festival in the United States, and the Manly Jazz Festival in Sydney, Australia. He has also performed with some of New Zealand’s finest jazz musicians, such as Hollie Smith, Rodger Fox, Phil Broadhurst, Frank Gibson Jr
Andréa hails from a town called Kinross in South Africa, an hour outside of Johannesburg. Her and her family relocated to New Zealand when she was 8 years old. Since the age of 15, Andréa has been writing music and lyrics, some of her influence's include Kirk Whalum, John Mayer, Jojo and Emily King. Her love of song-writing and composition has taken her on a musical journey where she incorporates many different genres.
In June 2019, Andréa Lisa released a new single called 'Meet Me Again', a beautiful ballad that sings about love, evolution and acceptance.
A multi-dimensional performer, Andréa is solidifying her status as a recording artist and songwriter in Hollywood, California. So far she has worked with artists like Kirk Whalum, Jonathan Butler, Ralph Johnson (Earth Wind & Fire), George Brown (Kool & the Gang), Ray Crossley (Marvin Gaye, El Debarge).
Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy welcomes back saxophonist Steve Cole!!!
Monday, February 25th, 2021, 7:00 pm EST
Steve Cole
Saxophonist Steve Cole is one of the most celebrated players in contemporary jazz.The Chicago native exploded onto the scene in 1998 with the album “Stay Awhile” that was produced by fellow Chicagoan Brian Culbertson. The disc scored multiple #1 hits and earned Cole the Oasis Smooth Jazz Award for best new artist shortly before his sophomore set, “Between Us,” was released in 2000. His catchy singles made him an instant radio favorite and he cranked them out with regularity on subsequent albums “NY LA” (2003), “Spin” (2005), “True” (2006), “Moonlight” (2009), “True” (2013), and "Turn It Up" (2016)
On his latest album, Gratitude, he offers thanks to his fans, musicians and collaborators, family, friends, and loved ones. That depth of feeling shines through on the album’s ten tracks, which joyously spotlight Cole’s gift for infectious grooves, soulful melodies, and vibrant pop hooks.
In addition to his work as solo artist, Steve has performed/recorded, with Junior Wells, Buddy Guy, Boz Scaggs, Larry Carlton, Jeff Lorber, Jim Peterik, Freddie Cole, Cyrus Chestnut, and KMFDM, and has been a featured soloist with the City of Prague Orchestra, and The Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Steve is also a founding member of The Sax Pack, a stellar sax trio completed by Kim Waters and Jeff Kashiwa.
When he's not on the road, Dr. Cole teaches music industry entrepreneurship at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota where he is a Clinical Professor and Teaching Fellow.
Thank you for listening.
Please visit Steve's website at stevecole.net
Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy
February 2nd 2021
Nils
A popular contemporary jazz guitarist, Nils Jiptner, aka Nils, is a successful solo artist, session player, and instructor, with a groove-based sound influenced by his love of funk and fusion. A native of Munich, Nils first started playing guitar in his teens, inspired by bands like Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple. Later, he discovered funk, jazz, and fusion and began expanding his skills as he investigated the music of Robben Ford, Larry Carlton, and Chic's Nile Rodgers. In the mid-'80s he relocated to Los Angeles, where studied composition, arranging, and film scoring. He also found session work, playing with artists like guitarist George Benson, trumpeter Rick Braun, and the Temptations. As a solo artist, he debuted in 1998 with Blue Planet, which featured guest appearances by Benson, Nathan East, Chante Moore, and others.
Sure Will
William “Sure Will” Clark Is a five-time Grammy and Emmy award winning producer whose musical resume goes back well over thirty years with humble beginnings playing in the church in Buffalo, New York. Sure Will has written for Whitney Houston, Jasmine Sullivan, and Natalie Cole. In addition, he has had the honor and pleasure of performing with several other Grammy Award winning artists: Al Jarreau, George Duke, Mary J. Blige, Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, New Edition, NeYo, Adele, Cardi B and Sade.
A dynamic breakout Smooth Jazz Artist in his own right. Sure Will plays Keyboards, Drums, Bass Guitar, Alto Saxophone and Clarinet. There is no question about it, music is his calling and he is highly respected among his peers and A-List artist, for his humility, professionalism and stellar musical talent!
He has performed live at The City of Carson Jazz Festival, Las Vegas Hilton Annual Awards, The Long Beach Jazz Festival, NeYo and Faith Evans World Tour, JVC Jazz Festival, Newport Jazz Festival as well as performing multiple times for the Grammy Awards, American Music Awards, BET Awards, and Country Music Awards.
Sure Will is an Arranger, Composer, Recording Artist and Music Director that continues to inspire the world through the sound of musical composition and heads up Sure 4 Productions and his record label, Bill’s Kid’s Music.
Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy
Welcomes Urban-Jazz Harpist
Mariea Antoniette
January, 20th 2021 7:00 pm EST
Mariea Antoinette
Mariea Antoinette
Named the 2018 Instrumentalist of the Year by the San Diego Prestige Awards
Awarded the 2018 Best Jazz Single for “Overture” by the Black Women in Jazz & the Arts Association
Received a BMA Image Award at the 2018 Black Music Awards ceremony in Los Angeles
“Unless you heard yourself, you would never believe the strait-laced, classical harp could bend in any forward motion toward R&B Funk, much less possess even an ounce of sex appeal. Mariea Antoinette changes all of that. The San Diego urban-jazz harpist (yes, urban-jazz) utilizes all the pertinent styles at her disposal to loosen up her classical instrument, from street smart, EDM hip-hop, sexy, luscious R&B vocals. Mariea Antoinette is living proof that a visionary artist can bust out of traditional boxes on pure ability alone.”
– Carol Banks Weber AXS
A native of San Diego, California, Ms. Antoinette’s diverse repertoire consists of classical, smooth jazz, and R&B music. She has performed for The President and First Lady Of The United States, Barack and Michelle Obama and at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles with the Southeast Symphony Orchestra. Her solo performances have taken her across the US and abroad.
Attending UC San Diego for undergraduate work and continuing on to the University of Arizona for Master classes in harp performance, she was privileged to have studied under some very notable teachers. crediting her dynamic performance technique to Russian teacher Elena Mashkovtseva.
Friday, January 22nd 2021
Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy welcomes
Alex Parchment
Alex Parchment is a dedicated musician, producer, and artist. He was born in New York City in 1993 to hardworking, visionary parents. Alex has been honing his trumpet and piano skills for years with his acceptance into the Rosa Parks High School of the Fine and Performing arts in Paterson, New Jersey, Jazz Connections, Jazz House Kids' inaugural class, and through Howard University's rigorous music education major. Alex has had the opportunity to perform on wonderful stages including the Kennedy Center, Jazz at Lincoln Center and Blues Alley with jazz luminaries Patti Austin, Christian McBride, David Sanborn, Chick Corea, Marion Meadows and more. In 2015, he was selected for the world-renowned Betty Carter Jazz Ahead Program at the Kennedy Center. In July of 2019, Alex was invited by Kenny Wesley and the US State Department to travel to Tanzania to perform, cultivate knowledge and share American culture.
For more info please visit:
https://alexparchment.com
Thank you.
Originally from Canton Ohio, Keith has been able to incorporate various forms of music to create his own signature sound and is quite evident when you take the time to hear his playing. Since his move to LA in August of 2013 he has been steadily working his way up the ladder while becoming an integral part of the LA scene.
Gino Rosaria, born and raised in Curaçao, developed an interest in music at an early age. Growing up on a very culturally diverse island, Gino learned to speak four different languages fluently. The influence of the many cultures allowed him to learn and play many different kinds of music, which became a part of his identity. Later on he grew to enjoy Jazz, Latin, and Classical music the most. Gino started performing on a regular basis in his early teens.
Gino moved to the US in 2003 to study music under the world renowned Daisy De Luca Jaffe. In 2009, he graduated with a Master’s degree in Classical Music Performance. Gino then started taking private Jazz lessons with Jazz pianist David Shelander, who studied with Bill Evans. During his time in the US. Gino went on to win many competitions and appeared on national TV and radio stations performing solo, chamber, and with orchestra. Today Gino performs and does studio work on a regular basis with some of the best musicians around, including award winning artists such as violinist Karen Briggs, Jazz clarinet player Tim Laughlin, flutist Kim Scott, jazz guitarist Adam Hawley, and flutist Althea Rene.
Castella is a proud native of Long Beach, California. Castella embodies strength and courage, she goes after what she wants and gets it! Castella was born Cathy Rebecca Crowell, the baby girl of the family. Affectionately named after her grandmothers, Kathleen and Rebecca, she carries the spirit and strength of these two beautiful women with her daily. She is married to Oliver L. Thompson Jr. and they have three beautiful children, Aaron, Tristan & Cailyn. Singing all of her life in church choirs & groups and as a soloist, Castella’s voice is unique, different, strong, powerful, yet soothing. She chose the name Castella to honor her maternal grandmother, who was called Ms. Castella around town, it just felt like the right thing to do. She proudly carries the name Castella as a badge of honor, respect and strength. Many of her musical influences growing up were gutsy, powerful singers like Phyllis Hyman, Tramaine Hawkins, Daryl Coley, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Sarah Vaughn, Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, Mikki Howard, Regina Belle and many, many more while others like Luther Vandross, Natalie Cole, Karen Carpenter, Dione Warwick and Minnie Riperton spoke to that sensitive, smooth side of influence. All of these voices helped create what is uniquely, Castella!
Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy
Friday, January 15th 2021 7:00 pm est
Johnny Britt is a singer, trumpeter, songwriter and producer who has made a name for himself both in support of acts like the Temptations and Josh Groban and as one half of the former R&B/jazz duo, Impromp2. Britt has served as the musical director for the Temptations and has written several songs for the group....Stay Tuned for MUCH MORE!!!
Thank you for listening.
For more info on Johhny Britt, please visit :
https://johnnybritt.com/
Spontaneus Groovin' Combustion
Warren Keller
Thursday, January 14th 2021 7:00
Having experienced success as an NYC rocker in the 80s and Nashville writer in the 90s— composer, producer, singer, and woodwind performer, Warren Keller, now channels his grooving influences into his role as leader of the perfectly named, C-Jazz ensemble, Spontaneous Groovin' Combustion.
Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy is excited to have the soulful and talented flutist Ragan Whiteside on
January, 13 2021 7:00 pm EST
Ragan Whiteside
For the second consecutive year, soul-jazz flutist Ragan Whiteside is Billboard’s top female smooth jazz songs artist of the year. In the male-dominated genre in which only three females made it into the year-end top 10, Whiteside, powered by singles from her aptly titled new EP, “Five Up Top,” came in at No. 5 for 2020. Last year, the Atlanta-based musician-songwriter checked in at No. 3.
A native Detroiter that grew up listening to music and because of his infatuation with music he knew at an early age that one day he would embark on a musical career. During his early years while Mark was still in elementary school in 1984 he joined the band where he took up the art of playing drums and percussion, which carried over to middle and high school after graduation Mark added the piano.
Tha Street Jazz Cartel:
In 2006 Mark Mixx decided to produce a Jazz CD on his
independent record label. He assembled some talented Detroit musician to collaborate and play on the “Street Jazz Project, Johnny Barnes (trumpet), Steve Cooley (trumpet), Shane "Sugar" McKeever (keys), Wayne White (keys), Issac Pippen (keys), Jeff Canady (drums), Antonio Johnson (drums) Deblone Jackson (flute), Don Whyte (sax), Marty Montgomery (sax), Charles Jones (trombone), Stevo (bass), Derrick Bartel (guitar), Eddie Taylor (trumpet) Randal Wilson (guitar), and Mark Mixx (percussion and keys) “Tha Street Jazz Cartel”
The Street Jazz CD is currently getting radio airplay in Detroit, Atlanta, and other parts of the country plus overseas and online stations.
Mark Mixx and Tha Street Jazz Cartel has performed with world renowned names like Michael Franks, Alex Bugnon, Marion Meadows, Mindi Abair and more. The Cartel also appeared on Fox 2 Detroit. In October 2011 Mark Mixx and Tha Street Jazz Cartel performed for the Rainbow Push Coalition for The Rev. Jesse Jackson 70th anniversary. In 2012 Tha Street Jazz Cartel released their sophomore album on Isis Style Music intited “Cartel Drive” and expect much more success on this release. In July 2013 the Street Jazz Cartel performed on the Dave Koz Summer Horns Tour Dave Koz, Gearld Albright, Richard Elliott, Mindi Abair.
Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy welcomes back saxophonist Steve Cole!!!
Monday, January 11, 2021, 7:00 pm EST
Steve Cole
Saxophonist Steve Cole is one of the most celebrated players in contemporary jazz.The Chicago native exploded onto the scene in 1998 with the album “Stay Awhile” that was produced by fellow Chicagoan Brian Culbertson. The disc scored multiple #1 hits and earned Cole the Oasis Smooth Jazz Award for best new artist shortly before his sophomore set, “Between Us,” was released in 2000. His catchy singles made him an instant radio favorite and he cranked them out with regularity on subsequent albums “NY LA” (2003), “Spin” (2005), “True” (2006), “Moonlight” (2009), “True” (2013), and "Turn It Up" (2016)
On his latest album, Gratitude, he offers thanks to his fans, musicians and collaborators, family, friends, and loved ones. That depth of feeling shines through on the album’s ten tracks, which joyously spotlight Cole’s gift for infectious grooves, soulful melodies, and vibrant pop hooks.
In addition to his work as solo artist, Steve has performed/recorded, with Junior Wells, Buddy Guy, Boz Scaggs, Larry Carlton, Jeff Lorber, Jim Peterik, Freddie Cole, Cyrus Chestnut, and KMFDM, and has been a featured soloist with the City of Prague Orchestra, and The Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Steve is also a founding member of The Sax Pack, a stellar sax trio completed by Kim Waters and Jeff Kashiwa.
When he's not on the road, Dr. Cole teaches music industry entrepreneurship at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota where he is a Clinical Professor and Teaching Fellow.
Thank you for listening.
Please visit Steve's website at stevecole.net
Friday, January 8th, 2021
7:00 pm EST
Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy welcomes
saxophonist Marcus Click!!!
As a native of the Louisville, Kentucky, Marcus grew up with aspirations of becoming a pro football player, but his goals changed after having committed over 13 years of his young life to the U.S. Navy honorably. During this time, his love for jazz grew by listening and learning from the late Grover Washington, Jr., David Sanborn, Kirk Whalum, Najee, Dave Koz, the late saxophonists, Art Porter and George Howard. Marcus says on one account,” I became truly inspired by a phone call from the late George Howard, a conversation and experience I’ll never forget.” Marcus would find his way before Rebbie Jackson (a Sister of Jackson 5 & Janet Jackson) and her family during a weekend show in Las Vegas. He knew his life was being routed towards a musical journey.
Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy Welcomes back saxophonist/flutist/vocalist Paula Atherton!!
January 7, 2021 7:00 pm EST
Saxophonist, flutist Paula Atherton has enjoyed a long and varied career in contemporary and mainstream jazz. Her acumen on her instruments are poised and adept. Her full-length album Can You Feel It has already begun to garner real accolade with her single also titled “Can You Feel It,” landing a #1 hit, three weeks in a row on Billboard. What is even more cementing about this accolade is she also landed #1 slots on Mediabase and #1 on the Smooth Jazz Network. Each track is produced by various producers including, Bill Heller, best known as the legendary keyboardist for the Ripppingtons. Longtime collaborator guitarist Lou Gimenez who has co-written several of Paula’s tunes historically. Other co-writing and production credits include keyboardist Greg Manning, multi-instrumentalist Matt Godina, including multi-instrumentalist Nathan Mitchell, Paul Brown, and the notable Schuyler Deale known for his work with Billy Joel, Michael Bolton, Jeff Lorber, and more. So what does this all-star line-up of producers and contributors add up to for Atherton? Simply put, a canvas to which Atherton can shine her abilities in the highest preeminent way on her latest album Can You Feel It
Please visit Paula's site and check out all her new goodies.
website: paulaatherton.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulaathertonmusic/
https://www.facebook.com/Paula-Atherton-140985210557/
https://twitter.com/paulaatherton1
Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy welcomes back saxophonist Vincent Ingala!!!
Wednesday, January 6th at 7:00 pm EST
Ingala was born in Prospect, Connecticut to Italian parents. At age four, he started playing the drums when his parents bought him a drum set; as he got older he learned to play the guitar (he took lessons for about 9 months) and later the saxophone.[1] As a teenager, he played at local restaurants and clubs. His father was a disc jockey, and so Vincent was introduced to many different styles of music, including music from the 1950s and also smooth jazz.[2]
His debut album North End Soul, released in 2010, featured smooth jazz and R&B tracks played on the saxophone, guitar, and piano. At seventeen years old, Ingala did the recording, composing and producing for the album.[3] The song "It Is What It Is" peaked at No. 14 on Billboard's Smooth Jazz Songs.
Ingala's second album Can't Stop Now (released 2012) features keyboardist Gregg Karukas and pianist Jonathan Fritzén. He wrote or co-wrote seven of the album's tracks, and programmed and composed the album.[4] Can't Stop Now peaked at No. 28 on the Billboard Jazz Albums.[5] It also reached No. 15 on SmoothJazz.com's Year End 2014 Top 50 Albums, and had 5 songs place in the top 10 on Billboard's Smooth Jazz Songs, including "Wish I Was There" at No. 1.
His next release was Coast to Coast (released 2015). The album name reflects his move from the east coast (Connecticut) to the west coast (Long Beach, California). Ingala did the programming, composing, producing and vocals for the album. The album peaked at No. 12 on the Billboard Jazz Albums,[5] and placed at No. 5 on the SmoothJazz.com's 2015 Top 50 Year End Chart.[6] "When I'm With You" and "Coast To Coast" both peaked at No. 1 on Billboard's Smooth Jazz Songs.
Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy
January 05, 2021. 7:00 pm EST
Welcomes Flutist Alexander Zonjic
Alexander Zonjic’s musical life is proof that one’s true destiny isn’t always revealed the minute a youngster picks up his first instrument. Growing up in Windsor, Ontario and excited by all the music of the British invasion, he launched his guitar dreams at age nine and was playing lead guitar in an R&B band in high school. The story goes that at age 21, when Zonjic was home on hiatus from a rock tour, a stranger on the street who had seen him play guitar offered him a flute ? most likely stolen ? for 50 dollars. Zonjic got it for nine. “I liked how it looked in the case,” Zonjic recalls. “I saw mastering it as a challenge and found an immediate passion and all-encompassing desire to play it. I had the nerve to audition with it for the new University of Windsor music program and got in on a probationary basis. That’s where I started my classical training.”
Stay tune for more on Alexander Zonjic
Thank you.
Enjoy the show!!
Please visit zonic.com
Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy
Tuesday, December 29th 2020
Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy
Tuesday, December 29th, 2020 7:00 pm
Blair Bryant is an extremely special musician. Born in Kansas City Missouri and travelling to Miami, Detroit and Chicago with his parents during his early years, His upbringing in the church had him listening and absorbing the best of music. His love for church and Jazz became ONE as he demonstrated his musical abilities beyond measures.
Blair Bryant demonstrated his skills, richness and delightful compositions from the very beginning and his first 2 releases, Colours and Gold.
Blair is definitely a multi-instrumentalist, being able to play 14 instruments.
Learn more on Blair Bryant at blairbryantmusic.net
Chase Huna is an up and coming saxophonist who blends pop, electronic, and contemporary jazz into his style of playing. From the early years, Chase has enjoyed playing alongside some of the greatest musicians in contemporary jazz such as Rick Braun, Peter White, Steve Oliver, Richard Elliot, Eric Darius, Greg Manning, Jeff Kashiwa and so many others. Since the release of his debut album ‘On The Chase’, Chase has performed at some of the most popular jazz festivals and venues around the country such as the Catalina Jazz Festival, Balcones Heights Jazz Festvial, Newport Beach Jazz Festival, Spaghettini’s Jazz Club and many more! Chase released his newest album ‘Life Of The Party’ in January 2020 and is having much success with the album.
Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy
Tuesday, 12/22 7:00 pm EST
Phillip Doc Martin
A dentist by day and saxophonist by night....
While many independent artists with cool, successful “day jobs” prefer to avoid references to them when they talk about their music, Martin is the complete opposite, fully embracing the inspirational factor of being a top-notch practitioner in two very different professions. Beyond his ever-expanding musical fan base, hundreds of patients in the Washington DC area know him as “Dr. Martin,” a board-certified dentist in group practice there. He called his previous album Good Day At Work (2013) to reflect his artful balance between the rigors of life as a dentist and the sometimes exhilarating, often challenging grind of being an independent artist and performer. One of the insert photos in the packaging of Pocket Love finds him enjoying the best of both worlds, embracing his treasured alto while wearing his green scrubs and cap.
Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy
Monday, December 21st 2020
As this year's end approaches, I could not let it go by without having Will Donato on the show...Will Donato has been a musical household name for some time now, I have loved his music from the beginning of his career, a musician who's music has brought to my life joy, inspiration and a lot of boggie woggie (my interpretation of dancing..Lol). Will is not just a friend, but one hell of a human being, who I truly respect....AND today it will be an honor to take time and chat with him!!! Thank you Will Donato :) #ELEVATE
Will Donato is one of music’s most dynamic performers, gifted with the ability to bond and connect with his audiences. His latest radio single “Infinite Soul”, released in January 2019 and dedicated to his hero father Joseph, a retired military man and Will’s inspirational wife Diana, reached the coveted #1 spot on the Billboard smooth jazz airplay chart.
A cancer survivor who truly celebrates each day and each person he meets, Will has headlined or shared the stage as a special guest at the Blue Note in New York City, The Seabreeze Jazz Festival, The Algarve Groove International Jazz Festival in Portugal, The Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival, Humphrey's By The Bay, The Capital Jazz Cruise, and Rick Braun's New Year's Eve.
Will has performed with some of the best-known musicians of the groove / smooth jazz genre, namely Al McKay of Earth Wind and Fire, Richard Elliot, Bruce Conte of Tower of Power, Steve Reid of The Rippingtons, Brian Simpson, Steve Oliver, Gregg Karukas and Nick Colionne. He has worked in the pop music genre as well - most notably with Gerald Levert, Wynonna Judd, Toni Childs, and superstar Richard Marx. His music can be heard on the number one contemporary jazz legacy hit from Steve Oliver,..Join us for more!!
Thank You...Enjoy The Show!!.
Up Close & Personal with Latinjazzy Welcomes
Kayla Waters
Tuesday, December 15th, 2020 12:00 Noon EST
Award-winning urban-jazz pianist Kayla Waters is a chart-topping recording artist, composer, producer and music director. After signing a multi-album record deal with Trippin N’ Rhythm (SONY), Kayla made Billboard history by becoming the first female pianist and composer to reign atop the charts at the No. 1 spot for 6 consecutive weeks. Beautifully composed and eloquently written, Kayla’s sophomore album, "Coevolve" has dazzled the hearts of many and awarded her two Billboard No. 1 singles “Zephyr” and “Full Bloom.” Last year, Kayla’s musical achievements were recognized when she was honored with the Rising Star in Jazz award from the Black Women in Jazz and the Arts Foundation as well as the Best Jazz Artist award at the Wammies in Washington, DC where she is based. This consummate young woman premiered with the Billboard No. 1 single "I Am" from her 2017 debut album, "Apogee.” Both the single and album hit Billboard’s year-end charts, underscoring her remarkable breakout year. The spotlight has humbly created opportunities for Kayla to play and perform with music legends and prominent recording artists, including Stevie Wonder, Patrice Rushen, Avery*Sunshine, Maysa Leak, Kim Burse and Ray Chew to name a few. Passionately alluring, Kayla thrives on the stage, having played exhilarating and exuberant sets at intimate venues, illustrious theaters and acclaimed festivals such as the Newport Beach Jazz Festival, Berks Jazz Festival....Stay Tuned for more
For more on Kayla Waters please visit:
https://www.iamkaylawaters.com/meet-kayla
Mark Etheredge has once again teamed up with Two-time Grammy® Winning producer and guitarist Paul Brown along with bassist Roberto Vally, drummer Gorden Campbell and percussionist Lenny Castro. The contemporary instrumental jazz track, written by Etheredge, was recorded at Big Surprise Music in Los Angeles, recorded by Carmen Grillo, mixed by Paul Brown, and mastered by Rainer Gembalczyk of Sienna Digital.
“You & Me & We” is a duet with Etheredge and Brown, bringing jazz, funk, Latin and blues influences together in an optimistic, upbeat track.
Etheredge’s earlier radio single “Connected" ranked No. 6 on Billboard's Smooth Jazz Chart, and subsequent singles “Roger That” and “Resonance” received charting successes as well.
Paul Brown
Paul Brown’s four-decade journey through the worlds of pop, R&B and jazz is the modern-day musical equivalent. Starting as a drummer, he became an engineer for R&B legends (Diana Ross, Luther Vandross, Aretha Franklin) before evolving into a two time Grammy winning urban jazz producer (with over 60 #1 radio airplay hits) and finally a popular guitarist, artist and performer in his own right.
early 90s when he produced saxophonist Boney James’ breakout debut Trust. He has since worked with many of the genre’s most influential artists, including Carlton, White, Euge Groove, Rick Braun, Kirk Whalum, Jeff Golub, Al Jarreau and Jessy J. “Winelight,” the second single from Brown’s sophomore album The City, was ranked by Mediabase as the genre’s most spun track of that year. Radio & Records and Mediabase declared “The Rhythm Method,” the first single from Brown’s third release White Sand, the most played song of 2007. The title track from Jessy J’s Brown-produced debut Tequila Moon earned the same distinction for 2008.
Toronto-based guitarist, Dave Sereny has already made quite a name for himself in the smooth jazz world. Already a multiple nominee at the Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards, Dave has been spending most of his time this in the studio polishing his new album.
A touring veteran of multiple jazz festivals, Dave has drawn the admiration of many of his most seasoned and well-respected peers, several of whom have joined him on his forthcoming album. The album both original material and covers showcases Dave’s guitar talents along with many of his superstar friends, from the Smooth Jazz world !
Dave’s highly anticipated new album will be released soon....BUT join us tonight and you will be amongst the first to hear it!!!!
Paula Atherton...
TodayI will have the pleasure of talking with the beautiful and talented saxophonist/vocalist Paula Atherton about her new hot 5th release "Shake It"!!
Billy Ray Sheppard....
I will be also talking with San Antonio's own, Billy Ray, though he has been performing for some time now and is the go-to saxman in the area, he has released his very first album, "Silk"
This debut album is full of smooth melodies and the first single "Heels & Pearls" has risen through the charts...
Billy Ray is also the new band member of another San Antonio's own and the hottest band "Groove Frequencies" led by longtime friend Johnny Stewart.
Happy Listening!!
SEAN U (Uliasz)
26-year old Sean U. is smooth jazz keyboardist, arranger, composer, and producer from Western Massachusetts, Sean's music will immediately impress any listeners with his catchy and infectious, yet accessible melodies.
His debut EP, Electrify, features some of New England’s top musicians, including Rohn Lawrence, Trever Somerville, Steve Clarke, and Idalberto Perdomo.
Special EX's Chieli Minucci
Carol Albert.
"While Carol has made her mark in numerous musical worlds throughout her multi-faceted career – from the educational realm to new age to TV theme composing – she has rapidly found a niche as an insightful, globally conscious groove and melody-centric contemporary jazz pianist and composer...
Listen in for more...
Under The Lake has been called "...effervescent, vivacious, and all-together engaging" by smoothjazz.com, considered "...possibly the next best thing since Spyro Gyra..." by Joe Montague (JazzPolice.com), and called "the most comfortable way to be engrossed in music" by Susan Frances (jazzreview.com). Under The Lake 25 years of credits include four internationally-distributed albums.?
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The new album Jazz, Groove, & Attitude features John Moak on trombone and David Evans on tenor sax with special guests Nat Caranto on alto sax and Joe Powers on harmonica.
"Marrying jazz and funk in that dancing, jubilant manner often associated with the hard-driving, bottom-heavy persona of that musical hybrid, this album guides you through a solidly-structured house of groove with a balanced approach of melody, musicianship, and catchy hooks." (The Smooth Jazz Ride)
Both musical experts in their own right, brothers Brandon and Doug Oberhamer came together the latter part of last year to create their debut smooth jazz masterpiece, Together Again!
Saxophonist Brandon is a big band leader, instructor and freelancer in Calgary, Alberta. Multi-instrumentalist Doug is a Musical Director on Broadway in NYC. You can hear his stylings on Flugelhorn, piano, guitar and drums/keys tracking.
We are super excited to have them both on the show, hope you can join us.
Eric Valentine
Eric Valentine & Velvet Groove’s “Velvet Groove” is the debut album from Matcha Entertainment. This is a full-length set and a true all-star collaboration featuring over 40 artists. It also includes over ten original songs certain to inspire.
Stepping out from behind his drum kit, Valentine thrives plying his skills as a songwriter and multi-instrumentalist on “Velvet Groove,” playing keyboards, synths, bass, vocals, percussion and drums on the disc comprised of ten full songs – nine of which he penned or co-penned – along with three reprises. The star power illuminating the high-level session of deft rhythms and grooves include Grammy winner Kirk Whalum, multiple Grammy nominee Gerald Albright and chart-toppers Elliot, Braun, Adam Hawley, Elan Trotman, Brian Simpson and Greg Manning. Pianist Wayne Linsey, jazz fusion guitarist Alex Machacek, and percussionists Lenny Castro, Munyungo Jackson and Ramon Islas are among those who texturize the lush tracks.
The story behind Bradshaw’s development as a contemporary urban jazz artist after years as a renowned, very versatile sideman in Southern California is as poignant as “Jumpstep” is uplifting. For 13 years, he was a member of the Al Williams Jazz Society, a popular, multi-faceted ensemble led by the popular jazz drummer and jazz promoter, known for their regular gigs at Spaghettini in Seal Beach and rousing annual performances at the Long Beach Jazz Festival. The keyboardist had the pleasure of opening for genre greats like Kenny G and Brian Culbertson; he was often inspired by their success and felt like he had the potential to become an artist and performer in his own right...
Stop by, Tune In and learn more about this amazing artist Dave Bradshaw Jr.
Saxophonist Justin Young’s “Blue Soul” powered by “High Definition”
Coming to Up Close & Personal With Latinjazzy on Tuesday, 12/12 at 3:00 pm EST none other the fabulous and energetic saxophonist Justin Young!!!
The energetic and enthusiastic saxophonist is all about hustle and hard work. For over a decade, he’s put out quality soul-jazz albums, but his forthcoming disc, “Blue Soul,” captures an artist hitting his stride on the cusp of a major breakthrough. Mining his Detroit roots, Young’s fourth album, was released on November 17th via JustnTime Records, features a dozen new songs recorded live in the studio with premier musicians, producers and songwriting collaborators. Paving the way for the collection is the new single, “High Definition,” a vibrant R&B/pop .
This is definately a musician who has captured my ears and criosity for sometime now and I just can't wait to have this Up Close & Personal with him.!!! :)
Join US!!!
In the first few bars of the title track to his new Peak Records/eOne album, Countdown, contemporary urban jazz’ hit saxman Paul Taylor, ever the engaging showman, invites his legion of fans into the experience by counting off 5…4…3…2…1. He launches into his incredible third decade as a solo artist with a set that’s fuses his trademark jazzy/funk/soul vibe with prominent elements of synthy dance pop/EDM, trancelike neo-soul, electronica, folksy lite rock, reggaeton, even a touch of blues.
No matter what your career path is; life happens. Since his first solo CD, "This One's 4U", which was released in 2002, Bill McGee has survived prostate cancer, had nine grandchildren, retired after thirty years as a school administrator and music teacher, released seven different CD's as the owner of the 804 Music Group and has come around full circle as a full time musician and recording artist. He was given his first trumpet lesson in 1963, and says that he's still learning how to play the instrument. Bill recorded for the first time in 1970, in a small studio in College Park, Georgia with his classmates from Morris Brown College who went on to become "Brick" (Dazz). After receiving two gold records and working with stars like the O'Jays, Lou Rawls, Evelyn Champagne King, and The Sugar Hill Gang, still learning how to play is a bit of an understatement. But after a nine year hiatus since the hit CD "Chase the Sunset", Bill wants everybody to know that he is "Still Bill",.... read more at: http://www.804jazz.com/bill_mcgee/
Currently a studio and live musician in Nashville, TN, where he is performing regularly and working on “Reminiscence,” his next Contemporary Instrumental LP.Plays guitar, piano, and sax.Played with Prince, Craig Morgan, Billy Davis (Alabama, Rocket City), Gary Grainger (John Scofield, Acoustic Alchemy), Greg Grainger (Acoustic Alchemy), Kevin Walker (Justin Timberlake, Prince), Ernie Isley (Isley Brothers), and Toby Fairchild (Keller Williams). Performed privately for artists such as Teddy Gentry.Opened for Scotty McCreery, Joel Crouse, Bo Bice, Martin Sexton, Ron Holloway, and Linwood Taylor.Participated in numerous showcase events and festivals including The Listening Room, Celebrate Virginia, Fontanel, Loretta Lynn’s Ranch, the IEBA, Wild Horse, 5th and Porter, Tin Pan South, the Friars Club in New York City, and the Country Music Hall of Fame.Featured in numerous publications, radio tours, television spots, including “featured artist of the week” for Underground Artists Live out of New York.Studied Classical Piano age 3 – 18, studied Jazz Guitar since age 13Studied Jazz Performance Guitar at the Berklee College of MusicStudied with Pat Metheny.National Guitar Workshop competition winner, April of 2011.
Kandance Springs
Every so often a new singer emerges who’s able to assimilate multiple musical touchstones and still come off sounding remarkably fresh and unburdened by the past. Kandace Springs is one of those artists. The 27-year-old, Nashville-based singer, songwriter and pianist counts such stylists as Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, Roberta Flack and Norah Jones as her heroes, but as evidenced by her sparkling full-length Blue Note Records debut, Soul Eyes, Springs mimics none of them..read more @ kandancesprings.com
Lindsey Webster
From the first note, Lindsey Webster captivates listeners. Her rich, soulful voice enchants a dedicated following who connect with the raw emotion she shares with them. As a Soul R&B artist, she combines an admirable natural talent with a genuine, accessible stage presence.
MICHAEL LINGTON
Second Nature
MICHAEL LINGTON – SECOND NATURE:
The number nine in numerology is considered a magical and divine number. It symbolizes completion, wisdom and fulfillment. Multi-talented saxophonist, producer and composer Michael Lington has arrived in his own sacred space with the release of his newest and ninth solo project, Second Nature, due out on Copenhagen Music in April 2016. “The title of the album refers to being at one with my instrument and the music,” shares Lington. “My vision for this project was Retro-Modern! While honoring the original vibe of the Memphis sound, I wanted to put my own stamp on it. This recording is about going back to my roots, to the music that inspired me to play the saxophone and move to America,” explains the handsome and charismatic saxophonist. Second Nature brings Lington full-circle as he pays tribute to the music he first fell in love with while a teen in Copenhagen, Denmark. Nearly 5,000 miles away from the Mecca of blues and soul, Lington listened to the radio and dreamt while falling in love to the music of Sam Cooke, King Curtis and Jr. Walker, among others. “Even as a young musician I connected with the songs because they were written well and had great messages,” recalls Lington. “The performances were outstanding and the artists were original and authentic.” Michael Lington’s own soulful spirited sound and the roots of Memphis soul converge on Second Nature.
Vann Burchfield has spent most of his music career in the Gospel scene. Winning Artist of the year for instrumental artist at the GMA's Seminar in the rockies. He now is crossing over into Smooth Jazz with a Funk and R&B flavor. Holding the Guinness World Record for the longest note ever held on a wind instrument (Circular Breathing), Vann broke Kenny G's record on February 17, 2000. Now Vann is moving forward filling the airways with his smooth melodic sounds on his saxophones. Vann is nominated for Alabama Music Awards Male Jazz artist of the year for 2016. Vann has had the honor of performing at the White House on four separate occasions.
Vann is ready to travel the world meeting people and performing his music. "I love to see the faces of the people as I play my songs for them. It is one of the greatest feelings to know I can touch someone with my music."
James Kob has brought melody and beautiful arrangements back to the popular music genre….. while still keeping it “cool & hip”.
A veteran American composer, lyricist, arranger and producer… Mr. Kob has created music that spans across multi-national borders as well as focusing on the music scene here in America.
In developing “The James Kob Experience”, he has set a new benchmark in music entertainment…… a sort of ‘Broadway-ish, Pop, Jazz, Bossa Nova and a little cinematic music’ affair! In addition, quite a few pieces are performed in French and Portuguese for our European and South American music lovers.
It’s a good kind of different.
In developing “The James Kob Experience”, he has set a new benchmark in music entertainment…… a sort of ‘Broadway-ish, Pop, Jazz, Bossa Nova and a little cinematic music’ affair! In addition, quite a few pieces are performed in French and Portuguese for our European and South American music lovers.
It’s a good kind of different.
Paul Brown Biography
The term “Renaissance Man” dates back to the time of Leonardo da Vinci, who was described as a man of “unquenchable curiosity” and “feverishly inventive imagination.” Paul Brown’s four decade journey through the worlds of pop, R&B and jazz is the modern day musical equivalent. Starting as a drummer, he became an engineer for R&B legends (Diana Ross, Luther Vandross, Aretha Franklin) before evolving into a two time Grammy winning urban jazz producer (with over 60 #1 radio airplay hits) and finally a popular guitarist, artist and performer in his own right.
In the remarkable 12 years since he released his debut album Up Front, Brown has released six albums (including three that hit the Top Ten on the Billboard Albums chart), scored countless hit singles, and done thousands of performances across the U.S. and internationally, including gigs with fellow guitarists Larry Carlton, Chris Standring and current labelmate Marc Antoine (with whom he recorded the 2009 album Foreign Exchange). And yet, as he releases One Way Back, his third collection on Woodward Avenue Records after The Funky Joint (2012) and Truth B Told (2014), Brown freely admits he is still trying to find himself as an artist.
While keeping his trademark deep funk and cool urban vibes flowing, Brown taps deeper than ever before into his lifelong blues influences, which includes a foundational passion for greats like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, Little Feat and B.B. King. This edge is immediately apparent on the album’s lead single, a bold and fiery re-imagining of The Crusaders’ soul-jazz classic “Put It Where You Want It,” which he describes as a “combination of Wes Montgomery and Larry Carlton,” the latter who played on the original recording of the tune.
Riley Richard
Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Riley Richard is an inspired jazz saxophonist who has plans on making his contribution to the jazz genre. Having studied at Cleveland School of The Arts, Cuyahoga community college and Cleveland state University, Riley was trained in the traditional sense of jazz analyzing the styles of John Coltrane, Charlie Parker and Sonny Sttit. Although having a heavy interest in sports at a early age, Riley was encouraged by his parents to take piano lessons in which led him to learn the flute and eventually the Alto Saxophone. His first professional gig was at the age of 14, playing with Cleveland’s legendary organist Eddie Baccus SR. From then on Riley has shared the stage with the likes of Najee, Brian Simpson, Kim waters and Boney James and the list continues...
G gets right down to business, celebrating his fresh start by titling the thick and feisty, brass fired and groove intensive opening jam “Taking Control.” He creates all the horn sections himself, texturing alto, tenor and baritone around the lead melody, while handling the thick bottom via bass guitar. With Davis (one of urban jazz’s top hit makers, who has worked with everyone from Najee to Maysa, Phil Perry, and Kim Waters) creating an array of keyboard sounds, Albright infuses many of the other tracks with a mix of horns and other instruments. His passionate, high flying soul-jazz fusion spin through Bill Withers’ classic “Lovely Day” features McDonald on lead vocals and G himself mixing alto, C flutes and bass flutes while holding down the spirited rhythms on bass. Likewise, the exotic, briskly paced old school horn-fired jam “We Came To Play (La Calle)” features G on alto, tenor, bass, a bass solo and C flutes. On the tight, edgy “G and Doug E.,” a whimsical self-portrait with Fresh fashioning a tribute to Albright in rhyme, G also plays the organ. The soaring, emotional power ballad “I Miss You” features the saxophonist on alto, tenor and bari, in addition to C flutes, alto flutes and bass flute and bass guitar. It also features his daughter Selina – a solo artist in her own right – on background vocals.
She is a former lawyer and stay-at-home mom who at the age of 43 reinvented herself when she turned to singing as a way to find her voice and to change her life when the love is her life was no more. She is now a successful singer, author, speaker and producer. She produces private and public events as well as produces Jazz on Cedros a sophisticated musical happy hour that is celebrating sold-out shows since its inception last year. In addition, Anna just fulfilled another dream by recording her second full-length jazz album at the iconic Capitol Studios in Hollywood, which will be released in early 2016 and is already gathering critical acclaim.?
Her music is based in the classics, the jazz standards we all love and grew up on, the music of Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole. But she’s also taken modern songs and arranged them for jazz. And recently, Anna started writing her own standards! The new album contains half original songs, which are Anna’s stories!
Kay-Ta Matsuno
Kay-Ta was born in Osaka, Japan, and moved to Boston, MA to study at Berklee College of Music when he was 20. The broad capacity of his playing style (from Gospel, R&B, country, jazz, and rock) helped him to start his career as a session guitarist in Los Angeles. His list of credits includes:David Foster, Baby Face, Natalie Cole, Keiko Matsui, Lalah Hathaway, Amerie, Chante Moore, Jackiem Joyner, Daniel Bedingfield, Malcolm Jamal Warner, Steve Porcaro, Virgil Donatti, Tony Macalpine, Jody Watley, Amber Riley (from Glee) Bob Mintzer (from Yellow Jackets), He also co-produced the debut album of artist Colby O’ Donis from Convict Muzik. (Geffin/Konlive) and he co-wrote australian Pop star Cody Simpson's single "Be The One"
Keyboardist John Novello was a member of the famous formation A Taste of Honey. With his trio Niacin he performed progressive jazz rock. Some of his solo albums are Too Cool (1990), Always & Forever (2004), Threshold (2004), Organik (2005) and B3 Soul (2008)
O.k. so I discovered this latest recording from Minneapolis saxophonist Danny Kusz (aka Dan Kusz) a bit late as this smoker was released back in March of this year. Still, as I’m sure many will agree, we smooth and contemporary jazzers can never get enough of good, solid, feel-it-to-your-toes funky jams in the contemporary jazz vein, and I would never have allowed this one to not make its way onto our Reviews page.
Hot, smoky, sexy, and full of unbridled passion for the music it exudes,Sexy.Funk :: Velvet.Jazz is what we all wait for with any release –
something that starts a fire and keeps it burnin’.
From the jammin’ lead and second tracks, respectively “Sexy Sax M.F.” (interesting title) and “Velvet.Love Girl,...
– Ronald Jackson, The Smooth Jazz Ride
Keiko Matsui
Internationally Acclaimed & Celebrated Pianist, Composer & Humanitarian Keiko Matsui Marks 30th Anniversary Of Recording Debut With
Journey To The Heart
Matsui Continues to Find Inspiration Reinventing Her Sound & Ensemble-Embarking On New Chapter
"Keiko Matsui is appreciated not just as an artist but as a humanitarian. She dedicates every song she writes to causes that move her..."-NPR
Mark Etheredge Keeps Us Together With Connected
Mark Etheredge released his new album “Connected” on Friday, February 26, 2016. “Connected” is a contemporary jazz album produced by two time GRAMMY® winner Paul Brown. The album on Vipaka Records features ten original songs composed by Etheredge including two in collaboration with featured guitarists Paul Brown and Chuck Loeb. Also a part of this album take the drummer Gorden Campbell, bassist Roberto Vally and percussionist Richie Gajate Garcia, trumpeter Lee Thornburg and saxophonists Greg Vail and Andy Suzuki. The project was recorded at Big Surprise Music in Los Angeles.
The album starts with the smooth and sassy Groovin’ With My Baby, and after that you will get a dose of your positive energy with Be Who You Are. The tittle track is something that you can’t miss, because here besides Mark you can hear Paul Brown’s sparkling guitar work, when you hear it ones you will want to do it again, this song is just made for everyone to love. Roger That is a true jazzy song that is enriched with trumpet and horn arrangements from the amazing Lee Thornburg and he is joined in the venture by fellow East Bay Soul band member Greg Vail. Lost In The Shuffle is a song where Thornburg and Vail again do their magic to add a sumptuous brassy veneer.
“Connected” is a album that will be remembered in this 2016, all thanks to the professionals that are involved in it, and the love and brightness it shares.
- Amazing Smooth Jazz
Up Close & Personal welcomes back Todd Scheffield & Jacob Webb....The Jt Project!!!!
The JT Project: a multi-talented force of sound that brings forth a unique musical conceptualization: “a new genre in music called JT”. Adventurous and bold, Jacob Webb (Keyboards/Bass) and Todd Schefflin (Saxophone), leaders of The JT Project, knew that it would take more than just a passing interest in music to become the creative force that they envisioned. Jacob commands each stroke on the keyboard to awaken the soul with a touch of fire, and Todd caresses the notes to life with every breath.
The JT Project has independently released four critically acclaimed albums: Love Passion Correspondence Vol. 1 (2009), Love Passion Correspondence Vol. 2 (2012), Love Passion Correspondence Vol. 3 (2013), and Under The Covers (2014) featuring the single “Jetsetter," which topped the Billboard charts at #5. For their 5th and most recent full length recording, The JT Project has partnered with record label Trippin N' Rhythm/Sony Music Entertainment to release the album entitled Moments of Change, featuring the hit single "Overdrive."
Up Close & Personal welcomes Byron Miller!!!
In the 70s when funky lead electric bass rose up from the earth like an infectious enveloping vapor, there were many memorable bass lines…but only a palm-full of legendary bass solos. One was played by a 19 year-old out of Detroit circa77. The song was “Reach For It” by George Duke. The bassist was Byron Miller.....
For more on Byron Miller/Psycho Bass tune in to the show...
Adam’s debut album “Just the Beginning” will be coming soon. The first single drops February 22 and the street date of the album is March 15. This project has been 7 years in the making and features many of the artists he has been working with the past several years including Brian Culbertson, Euge Groove, Gerald Albright, Michael Lington, Eric Darius, Greg Manning, L. Young, and Tracy Carter. He currently has a funding campaign running on gofundme.com/adamhawleymusic where you can preorder the cd or participate in many other packages to be a part of the process, check it out!
Canadian Grammy Award winning trumpet player
Darren Barrett was born to Jamaican parents. Darren
remembers that, "the first time I heard Miles Davis
was on the record 'Round About Midnight, and when I
heard Miles' sound and approach, I knew that the
instrument I wanted to play was the trumpet."
In 1986, Darren attended Berklee College of Music on
a full scholarship, receiving a BA in Professional
Music in 1990. He went on to receive an MA in Jazz
Performance in 1993, and an MS in Music Education from Queens College
in 1995. It was there that he came under the influence of Dr. Donald Byrd,
who became something of a father figure for the young trumpeter. My quest
for a Doctorate degree was interrupted by a special program that was being
developed, called the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz Performance, at the
New England Conservatory of Music." In 1997, Darren earned a Diploma in
Jazz Performance from the Thelonious Monk Institute where he was a
member of the inaugural class. In 1997, Darren entered and won 1st place in
the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition, the biggest jazz
competition in the world, which highlights a different instrument each year.
As a performer for over 20 years, Mark Wade has been an active bassist in the NYC area. In February 2015, Wade released his debut album Event Horizon to international acclaim. The album received great critical reviews from a host of domestic and international publications such as Downbeat Magazine, Hot House Jazz Magazine, The New York City Jazz Record, All About Jazz, Jazz Life (Japan), and several others. Event Horizon was programmed on over 50 stations in the United States and received airplay in the UK, Austria, Italy, Spain, Mexico, and Canada. Wade was interviewed about his release in the March 2015 issue of Hot House Jazz Magazine and was commissioned by Downbeat Magazine to write a master class article for its July 2015 issue. In June of 2015, Wade was signed to the artist roster of Patricia Alberti Performing Arts Management.
Wade has also been signed by Edition 46 Records (Berlin) and will be formally releasing Event Horizon in Europe on February 26th, 2016.
True Classic Salsa
In the mid 80s, Luis González scored one of the
most inspiring and career transforming gigs,
touring and recording with one of his heroes,
legendary percussionist and bandleader Ray
Barretto (renowned by the masses for his 60s hit
“El Watusi”). The Puerto Rican born, Milwaukee
WI raised trumpeter was flattered when he heard
Barretto tell a large TV audience that members
of his large ensemble would someday become
bandleaders and solo artists in their own right.
A few decades later, after an extraordinary career
working with some of his native island’s greatest
artists (Tito Allen, Santitos Colon, Adalberto
Santiago, Jerry Rivera) and the world-renowned
salsa orchestras of Willie Rosario, Mulenze, Luis
Perico Ortiz and Tommy Olivencia, González
fulfilled Barretto’s powerful prophecy by launching
his career as a recording artist.
Luis González
"Master Cuban Drummer Calixto Oviedo thoroughly demonstrates traditional and contemporary Cuban rhythms on drum set and timbales from danzón to timba! Recorded, transcribed and produced by Kevin Moore, ‘Beyond Salsa Percussion’ is authentic and easy to understand – a must for every drummer." “El genial baterista cubano, Calixto Oviedo, demuestra los ritmos cubanos tradicionales y contemporáneos en la batería y el timbal – desde el danzón tradicional a la timba de ahora. Transcripción, grabación, y producción por Kevin Moore, ‘Beyond Salsa Percussion’ es auténtico y fácil de comprender … un método para todo baterista!”
Mariea is a musician that celebrates who she is and passionately follows her own creative path.
Mariea Antoinette is a National recording artist and the world’s premier soulful, Jazz Funk Harpist. Ms. Antoinette's is a native of San Diego, California. Mariea Antoinette, who began playing piano at age seven, and sung in the gospel choir in church for many years, credits several key teachers in her development as a harpist. During middle school, she heard visiting harpist play Debussy’s “First Arabesque” and was instantly transfixed, so she soon after started private lessons. Her diverse repertoire consists of Classical, Smooth Jazz, and R&B music. She has performed at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles with the Southeast Symphony Orchestra as principle harpist since 2007. Mariea’s latest addition to her repertoire includes a strolling electric harp, which is an absolute hit with the audiences. She also performs with Jazz In Pink, a hot and multi-talented all star female jazz band. Her solo performances have taken her across the US as well as abroad.
Rob Tardik — Moments
Nov. 2, 2015
Since the very early 2000s, guitarist Rob Tardik has been dazzling listeners with his exciting and often exotic mix of substantive c-jazz/R&B/rock and burning hot Latin melodies. With tunes so attractive, they are by nature riveting, seductive, uplifting, and powerful.Such is the case with his latest release Moments, another eclectic gem.
Seizing the moment and leading off with a Latin scorcher, “Sip and Salsa,” inspired by his fiancé’s love of dance, the gifted guitarist soars from one mood to another. Examples would be track two’s sizzler jazz/rocker “Rite of Passage,” then on to the romantic R&B deliciousness of “Moments in Time” featuring the silky lead vocals of one Aiden Castillo and sweet backing harmonies of vocalists Dee and Brittani Cole, and the handsome downtempo Latin-tinged “Eros.” Definitely not applying the brakes on the project yet, Tardik treats us to a stinger with a mean hook called “Hang Time” which is co-written by fellow guitarist Steve Oliver (who is featured in some way or other throughout the album). In fact, Oliver co-produced the album with Tardik. A very cool pairing indeed.
Tardik enjoys the contributions of other very fine notable musicians here, as well, including saxmen Will Donato and Walle Larsson, trumpeter Gabriel Mark Hasselbach, bassist Gary Grainger (of Acoustic Alchemy fame), pianist/keyboardist Nate Harasim, and a host of others who felt the groove and wanted in.
Speaking of feeling the groove, you will definitely want to stop by and check out the blazing funkster called “Stop!,” a command you may have trouble obeying on the dance floor. Whew. Is there a fire extinguisher in the house?
See full review on www.thesmoothjazzride.com/cdreviews
New York City, New York (27 August 2015): Constantinople, the ancient melting pot mecca intersecting Europe, India, Middle East and Africa, serves as the inspiration for the adventurous sonic explorations of “One World,” the ninth studio album from world music guitarist Jesse Cook.
Joining primal instrumentation from all over the globe with rhythmic loops, textured audioscapes and technological experimentation, Cook’s eOne Music release, which debuted at No. 1 on the jazz and world music charts in the Canadian’s homeland, will receive it’s official U.S. release on October 2 tied to the launch of the first leg of the American “One World” concert tour
Passionate about the saxophone since he was a kid growing up in New York City, Gary Palmer frequently turned to the horn as an outlet and stress reliever during his many years as a law enforcement official. In addition to playing it to change the trajectories of difficult workdays, he always had contemporary/smooth jazz on the radio, calming him and helping him focus even when he was on high stress stakeouts with the Lauderhill Police Department and Broward County Sheriff’s Office, Fort Lauderdale, Fl. – retiring in 2010. Now, with the release of the multi-talented musician and performer’s highly anticipated smooth/urban jazz debut Love Me Again, Palmer is the one helping others chill via his cool, catchy melodies, old school production vibe, tropical flavors and easy funk grooves.
Like many musicians who set their dreams aside for ‘straight careers,’ Palmer began making up for lost time after he retired from the Broward Sheriff’s Office. Just as he was becoming immersed in the writing and recording of the album, he returned to the Broward Sheriff’s Office – where he originally began serving in the early 80s – to become the Colonel of the Department of Detention and Community Programs. Palmer has found exciting ways to merge his two worlds, performing events for the Florida Sheriff’s Association, the Ft. Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, the Lauderhill Chamber of Commerce and other civic functions. In addition to these gigs with his regular band (known as Gary Palmer and the GP Project, the saxophonist has created a side band comprised of colleagues of his at the Sheriff’s Office. They meet every Tuesday for two hours to work on cover songs and new material, and also perform regularly throughout the community.
Cecil Ramirez
Party In The Back
Party In The Back is Cecil's homage to the R&B grooves that he grew up with, listened to and played as part of an R&B band on tour in the 80's. The album is a collection of 7 hook-laden original tunes and 3 covers of Cecil's favorite songs. Cecil invited some of his buddies to play on Party In The Back and the album features amazing guest performances by sax men Michael Lington, Darren Rahn, & Phil Denny; guitarist Adam Hawley; and pianist/producer Brian Culbertson playing synth solos on the new single "Remember The Time".
About Party In The Back, Cecil says, "I wanted to create an album that showed where my music is today, but still reflected where I came from. Playing casino gigs in the 80's with a 7-piece group was a unique experience; I have great memories of the music and musicians I met during that time. Hopefully, the album will take listeners on a fun trip back to where they were in the 80's."
J.HENRY
Jazz Phenomenon
J. Henry has played everything from the Essence Music Festival to the Apollo Theater in Harlem.
J. Henry has shared the stage with legendary artists such as Twinkie Clarke, Tony Terry, and Rodney Perry to name a few. He is the Smooth Jazz Phenomenon and TODAY on the show you can hear his story!!
J. Henry hails from the Jazz Capitol of the World, New Orleans, Louisiana. This Crescent City native has been dazzling audiences across the U.S. for the last 24 years.
Our Secret
New Single and Album
The latest single by J. Henry is called "Our Secret" and is available now on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify and more. In the first week of the song debut, "Our Secret" hit the top 100 of iTunes Jazz downloads.
His debut album "Phenomenon" was released in January 13, 2015….and still going strong!!!
For more info on J Henry please visit: www.jhenryjazz.com
Join us as Gail debuts her new album "New Beginnings" on today's show!!!
Born and raised in the city of Philadelphia, Gail Denise Jhonson began piano lessons in elementary school at age 10. Proving to be a gifted student she advanced quickly and at age 14, played her first gigs on the organ with numerous local Funk and R&B bands. By the time she was 18, her musical pursuit led her to enroll into Berklee College of Music where she received a B.A. in Composition. Returning home, as a jazz pianist, Gail performed with several jazz bands, and other popular Philadelphia artists. She left Germantown in 1985, with her keyboard strapp?ed on and landed an audition with Morris Day (of The TIME). She eventually moved to Los Angeles to make her dream career come true!
Masterfully “Cool”: An album unlike any other by
Bob James and NathanEast
“The New Cool,” an expansive acoustic offering centered on scholarly jazz piano and bass duets, will be released September 18, a first from the GRAMMY®-honored artists and long-time collaborators.
Nashville, Tennessee (7 July 2015): Albums just aren’t made like the way “The New Cool” was made. Yamaha Entertainment Group label president Chris Gero put legendary keyboardist Bob James and master bassist Nathan East in the recording studio, equipped them with state-of-the-art Yamaha gear and gave them free reign to create. Recorded entirely in Nashville, the long-time collaborators emerged with an unexpected and audacious collection of original compositions plus a few handpicked classics, an acoustic jazz outing that will make you forget everything you thought you knew about these GRAMMY®-recognized artists best known as contemporary jazz luminaries. The disc produced by Gero, James and East will be released September 18.
“The New Cool” unfolds much in the way the meticulously-crafted project was conceived. The germ begins organically with a couple of intimate James and East duets. Pastoral piano wanderings explore the outer perimeter of straight-ahead jazz where they peruse, mirror and engage with meandering bass lines. In fact, more than half of the record’s compositions written by James and/or East are sparsely-produced, probing piano and bass sojourns.
Jonathan Fritzen
Fritzenized
Take one of the hottest composers and keyboard players in instrumental pop, add in featured performances from the likes of Gerald Albright, Paul Taylor and Nils Landgren, hook them up with ten wonderful new tunes and what do you have? The answer is ‘Fritzenized’, the latest album from the Billboard chart-topping, artist Jonathan Fritzén.
It is the Swedish American’s fifth solo CD and follows the critically acclaimed ‘Magical’ from which the title cut blasted a path to #1 on every smooth jazz airplay chart on the planet.
The fact that even before it’s release date, ‘Fritzenized’ has already become a chart topper says much for a collection that, two years in the making, is Fritzén’s most personal to date. Writing, producing and (for the first time) mixing every track, he comes closer to his true musical vision than with any other project he has created so far.
Hailing from Chicago, Rick Parma is a talented performer who
set out to embrace the spirit, vivacity and charm of his town,
notoriously hailed as home of one of the liveliest music scenes
on the planet. Rick managed to thrive and develop his talent
within such a colorful and productive environment,
particularly focusing on his saxophone playing, singing and
showmanship.
Rick Parma approaches his instrument in a unique, personal
and charismatic way, bridging the gaps between genres the likes of Jazz, RnB, Funk, Latin,
New CD "Travels" is now available for digital download on CD Baby!!!! In the days to follow it will also be available on most digital media sites i.e Itunes and Amazon. The hard copies will also be available on September 14th 2015.
I would personally like to thank all the artist who participated on this new CD- Greg Morris Jr., Kenzy Piersaint, Brian Edwards, Brian Sanders, Eddie Baccus jr., Eric Susoeff, Stephanie Wellons, Gerry Hickman (my sister, wrote lyrics for Journey to Paradise), Curtis Johnson, Mark Strickland, Larry Estes, Kenny Powell and Jesse Naus-Red Caiman Media.
The DMV area CD release party will be September 14th 2015 at the legendary Blues Alley Jazz Club in Washington DC. Stay tuned for information on the Pittsburgh CD release party date and location.
I would like to thank everyone for always supporting and having my back........ Special shoutout to Margie H. and Peggy W. for your generous donations.
Kenyon Carter
Game On
): Driven to overcome the serious injuries sustained in a violent car crash that could have been the devastating knockout blow to his dream of a career in music, saxophonist Kenyon Carter rallied and rebounded from the life-altering accident with renewed purpose, tenacity and patience. That focus has him poised on the precipice of a career breakthrough with the forthcoming “Game On,” a spirited ten-song contemporary jazz workout written and produced by Carter that CurvePoint Media released on August 14 prefaced with the servicing of the title track as a radio single, a propulsive track highlighted by a dazzling display of frenetic tenor sax and feisty fretwork from guitarist Chuck Loeb.
Join in and listen as Kenyon shares some life points and tracks from Game On.
Profusely talented and highly gifted.Born and raised in Rochester, NY, John was surrounded by music that helped shape his particular style of playing. John credits his early influences to his father. John’s musical journey started when he was eight years old. John gives credit to other heavy influences aside from family members such as Jaco Pastorius, Marcus Miller, Dave Holland, Ron Carter, John Patitucci, Nathan East, Fred Hammond, and Joel Smith. They drove his growth, resulting in a deeper love and dedication to the art of being a bassist. When asked about his greatest influences, John’s response is always: “Too many to name and enough to keep me humble and always practicing.”
Whether John is playing electric, acoustic (upright) bass, or key bass, John can be found holding the groove on local stages in Charlotte, NC, his hometown, or performing on main stages across the country with national recording artists. In his career thus far, he has worked with gospel artist Lejuene Thompson, musical director for Grammy Award-winning singer and actress Stephanie Mills, contemporary jazz artists Brian Simpson, Matt Marshak, Jeff Kashiwa, Steve Cole, Walter Beasley, Nick Colionne, Marc Antoine, and Four80East. Additionally, John has earned Grammy certifications for his performances on EMI gospel projects “Oh Happy Day,” an All-Star Celebration (Best Traditional Gospel Album) and Heather Headley’s “Audience of One” (Best Contemporary R&B Gospel Album.) They were both won at the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards.
Vincent Ingala
Coast to Coast
The long-awaited third release of multi-instrumentalist, Vincent Ingala, gives you more of his funky, soulful smooth jazz. From the driving upbeat title track, "Coast to Coast," to the smooth, sensual, "Love On Hold," Ingala will take you on an emotional journey, In addition to his seven original compositions, Ingala stays true to his love of old-school and R&B with three surprising covers
Since May 2011, Vincent has become an ever-increasing presence on the Smooth Jazz circuit, performing as a solo artist at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach Jazz Festival, Catalina Island Jazz Trax Festival, the Seabreeze Jazz Festival and was a featured artist on the Dave Koz & Friends 2011 Alaskan Cruise. He will also be on board for Koz’s 2016 Caribbean Cruise this fall. Vincent will be releasing his third album , “Coast to Coast” on May 1st, 2015.
Dean Mongerio
Inter/change
Dean has cultivated his passionate and commanding playing style through a vast range of experience in Jazz, R&B, Rock, Pop, Funk, and Gospel, as well as producing and arranging numerous projects and leading several of his own groups in various musical genres.
Dean’s solo album debut. This album includes 10 tracks of all original compositions in a wide range of styles, along with Dean’s unique and inventive approach to using effects pedals with the saxophone, and features the talents of guest stars Khristian Dentley (Take 6), John Turville (Gilad Atzmon, Tim Garland), Anton “TC” Castillo (Akon, Jeff Kashiwa), and many others.
On the more traditional side, Dean has performed with jazz artists Rufus Reid, Marcus Printup, Sam Rivers, and Danny Gottlieb, as well as contemporary artists such as Chieli Minucci, Marc Antoine, Ed Calle, Chris Standring, Mike Phillips, Craig Chaquico, Will Donato, and Blake Aaron. He’s also performed and/or recorded with a diverse array of mainstream artists including The Temptations, The O’Jays, Steve Cropper, The Drifters, Ryan Shaw, Khristian Dentley (Take 6), and Tony Battaglia (Backstreet Boys, *NSYNC, Mandy Moore, Shinedown). He has also been featured on recordings alongside Brandon Fields, Mike Miller, and David Sanborn.
www.deanmongerio.com
Bridges is the sublime collaboration of 2 of the most renowned instrumentalists in Jazz!
Between them, saxophonist Eric Marienthal and guitarist Chuck Loeb have either written, produced, or performed on more than 50 Top 10 Smooth Jazz radio singles.
Both have thrilled audiences around the world for more than 20 years as solo artists and featured artists in various groups: Marienthal with the likes of Chick Corea, The Rippingtons, Keiko Matsui, and Jeff Lorber and Loeb as co-leader of Fourplay and Jazz Funk Soul.
Bridges represents these Smooth Jazz icons at their best, but it is more than just a Smooth Jazz album. As the title suggests, these Soundscapes bridge the gap between the commercial world of Smooth Jazz, the tranquility of New Age music, and the more artistic explorations that are at the heart of the true Jazz experience!
Highlights of the 10 Marienthal/Loeb originals include "Crossings", the haunting ballad and first single, the soulful and bluesy "Duality", the romantic "Noir" and much more!
Nils
Alley Cat
In 2014, nine years after his massive radio single “Pacific Coast Highway” established him as one of contemporary urban jazz’s top artists and producers, Nils took an exciting look back on a decade of non-stop hit-making with the release of the compilation Jazz Gems: The Best of Nils – a collection one astute journalist dubbed “The Best of Contemporary Jazz in the 2000s.” Aside from taking stock of his extraordinary career, the popular compilation included only one new track – giving the prolific, Munich born, Los Angeles based guitarist and composer extra time to pen his most explosive and infectious tunes ever for his latest BAJA/TSR Records release Alley Cat. In addition to capturing a wide range of emotions on his electric (and sometimes acoustic) guitar, the 12 tracks showcase, more than ever before, Nils’ masterful skills as a producer and inventive sonic architect.
nilsguitar.com
nilsmusic.com
www.YouTube.com/nilsguitar
www.facebook.com/nilsguitar
Gregory Abbott
Platinum recording artist, songwriter and producer Gregory Abbott’s roots stem from Venezuela (his mother) and the Island of Antigua (his father). Raised in Harlem in New York City, he is a dual citizen of the USA and Antigua. Abbott released the single and album “Shake You Down” shaking up the music industry with countless honors and awards.
“Shake You Down” has the distinction of reaching one million radio air-plays faster than any song in the history of BMI (now well over three million), and won BMI’s Pop Song of the Year award as the most performed song. Gregory has also won two ‘Soul Train” music awards for Best Male Singer and Best New Artist.
JaZmin Ghent
Jazmin Deborah Ghent is a gospel, jazz and contemporary saxophonist. Born in Heidelberg, Germany and raised in Huntsville, Alabama, she became interested in music at age 5 when she began taking piano lessons. She became the Sunday School pianist at the age of 8 and often practiced with the adult musicians and church choir members. After being introduced to the saxophone in Middle School, she progressed to becoming the church pianist and saxophonist. Once in high school, she discovered her passion for performing and teaching and began playing professionally in the Huntsville, Alabama area
Jazmin won National awards such as the NAACP's ACT-SO competition and was chosen to perform at the NAACP closing ceremony in Orlando, Florida in 2008. She was chosen for 3 consecutive years as 1st chair tenor saxophonist for the All State Jazz Band. Jazmin was offered a full tuition scholarship in 2009 to Berklee School of Music as well as Florida State University School of Music.
21-year old keyboard phenom Nicholas Cole displays the technical proficiency and artistic vision of those twice his age. Cole’s 2012 release ‘Endless Possibilities' scored 4 Top 10 Billboard singles and the hit, 'Snap', featuring Vincent Ingala was a Top 5 Billboard smash. In addition to a thriving solo career, Nicholas has become an in-demand producer and collaborator, working with Ben Tankard, Willie Bradley and Julian Vaughn among others.
And that was just the beginning, on Friday, August 21st Tryppin' N Rythmn and Cutmore Records are happy to announce the release of Nicholas Cole's new Album "Night Sessions"
which reveals that as the title of his previous album, Nicholas's talents are endless and his uniqueness and articulation makes him the future of Jazz, except we are beginning to experience the future now.
Nicholas Cole is also part of the dynamic ensemble "Generation Next" along label mates Trumpeter, Lin Rountree and Saxophonist Lebron,whom made their debut last year with their outstanding performance at the Berks Jazz Festival and has been on the up-roll ever since, grazing festival like the Catalina Jazz, Newport Beach and more.
Grammy Nominated and award-winning international jazz saxophonist and flautist, Najee, has released his highly anticipated new album “You, Me, and Forever”, on Shanachie Entertainment. The new album, produced by Najee, is currently in the Billboard Top 10 Contemporary Jazz Albums and #1 Most Added album on the Smooth Jazz charts. The album features singer and songwriter, Frank McComb, keyboardist, James Lloyd (from Pieces of a Dream), and pianist Robert Damper. With his recent Soul Train Award nominated album, “The Morning After - A Musical Love Journey” (which debuted #1 Contemporary Jazz Album on the U.S. Billboard Charts), Najee considers his new work a culmination of who he is as an artist through his experiences in music.
“You, Me, and Forever” is Najee’s 16th studio-album and third release on Shanachie Entertainment label. As he states, “I’m truly blessed to have longevity in the genre of jazz.” His musical experiences is what has catapulted him for being one of the most sought after instrumentalists of our generation in both genres of Jazz and R&B. His new album “You, Me, and Forever”, is a kaleidoscope project, fused with a mix of bossa nova, contemporary and straight-ahead jazz, and smooth r&b.
“You, Me, and Forever” features musicians from Najee’s touring band including: Rod Bonner on keys, Daniel Powell on drums, RaShawn Northington on electric bass, and Chuck Johnson on guitar who is also the lead vocalist on song “Biggest Part of Me”. New comer, Andrea Wallace who is the lead vocalist on song “Give It All We’ve Got”, produced by Najee. The album is available worldwide and on iTunes and Amazon. For more information about the album and Najee’s upcoming tour dates, please visit: www.najeemusic.com.
A versatile musician, Stevens grew up playing piano, drums and guitar at the Church of God, developing a dynamic performance style playing gospel music. He spent his teens playing in jazz and gospel bands, and developed sound and stage presence like one of his idols, Norman Brown, when he later emerged as an urban jazz artist. As his fan base grew with his early album releases, Stevens went from playing “any dive bar where they allowed jazz” in Philly to top clubs like North By Northwest, Warm Daddy’s and Relish. He and his band also played at various clubs down in Maryland, as well as the Woodrow Wilson Festival and the iconic Blues Alley club in Washington, DC.
Stevens has also performed at The Harlem Meer Festival, at The Iridium in NYC with Alex Bugnon, and the Jazz Base in Reading, PA. Over the past two years, he also did a full European tour through Austria, Switzerland and Germany. In addition to playing on the Capital Jazz SuperCruise, he has been part of the All-Star Jam Festival at Berks Jazz Fest the past three years, sharing the stage with such luminaries as Gerald Albright, Nick Colionne and Scott Ambush from Spyro Gyra. “One of the things I’m known for live is bringing a lot of energy to the stage and incorporating many exciting elements, including background singers,” Stevens says.
Paula Atherton – Ear Candy
Here she is once again dancing the funk right off everyone’s dancing shoes: saxtress Paula Atherton. The lady has a new label (Maurice White’s Kalimba Music), some slammin’ contributions from one of the coolest guitarist around, Nick Colionne, lovely trumpeter Cindy Bradley, and the wonderfully talented, equally lovely keyboardist Gail Jhonson. Couple that with that same seductive, crystal clear vocal style that has brought her this far and an album of all new, all original material – Ear Candy — and I think we can look for a chart topper here.
Kicking it off with the funky “Pocket Full of Funk,” this party wastes no time getting into full swing. Others follow like “Bee to A Flower” (truly one to get those feet excited and certainly one of my faves) and “Breakdown.” Of course, this wouldn’t be a Paula Atherton CD without some of that saucy, seductive, R&Bish slow jam groove found here on tracks like “Without You” and “Someone’s Gonna Break My Heart” (the latter has a little pop flavor to it, as well). She also tosses in a little touch of Brazil and some great flute work on the rhythmic, up-tempo “Carnivale.”
This release marks her fourth, and each just seems to take the listener a little bit farther into the fascinating sound-rich world of this now so well-defined saxtress. That her fortunes are blossoming so well (new label, notable luminaries signing on to contribute) only further proves her to be more than ready to share the upper rungs of that wonderful C-jazz ladder. It is also evident that her style and material are irresistibly charming. Ear Candy …mmm, mmm good. –Ronald Jackson
Join me as I have an Up Close & Personal convo with Walt Maddox from the legendary group, The Marcels
.The Marcels are an American doo-wop group known for turning popular music songs into rock and roll. The group formed in 1959 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,
The Marcels are the guys who put the "Bomp" in the "Bomp-A-Bomp" back in 1961 when their first recording, "Blue Moon" sold over two and a half million copies. The Marcels can boast of three record albums, numerous hit singles, with sales in the millions. They also recorded the theme song, "The Greatest Love" for the motion picture, "The Interns" and appeared with Chubby Checker in the film "Twist Around The Clock." Their signature song, "Blue Moon" has been used in at least four major motion pictures and various TV shows, such as Sha Na Na, Cheers, Moonlighting, Laverne & Shirley, Happy Days, etc.
The Marcels will be performing this Sunday at the acclaimed Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club
Welcome to a closer look at the dynamic duo... The JT Project !!!
The JT Project: a multi-talented force of sound that brings forth a unique musical conceptualization: “a new genre in music called JT”. Adventurous and bold, Jacob Webb (Keyboards/Bass) and Todd Schefflin (Saxophone), leaders of The JT Project, knew that it would take more than just a passing interest in music to become the creative force that they envisioned. Jacob commands each stroke on the keyboard to awaken the soul with a touch of fire, and Todd caresses the notes to life with every breath.
Todd hailing from Philadelphia, and Jacob from Kansas City, the two musician’s paths collided in 2007 at the prestigious William Paterson University music department in New Jersey. After an immediate musical connection, Jacob and Todd started writing music together, which eventually led to the formation of The JT Project in 2009.
The JT Project has exponentially expanded into a musical collective, incorporating the most talented Jazz and Soul musicians in New York City. The members of the group have toured and recorded with major label legends such as Anita Baker, Aretha Franklin, Patti Labelle, Jaheim, Ashford and Simpson, Kenny Garrett, Joe, and Mulgrew Miller among many others.
The JT Project has independently released four critically acclaimed albums: Love Passion Correspondence Vol. 1 (2009), Love Passion Correspondence Vol. 2 (2012), Love Passion Correspondence Vol. 3 (2013), and now their latest release Under The Covers featuring the single “Jetsetter.”
Rod Tate
Join me for a interesting chat with Rod Tate.
Rod Tate's new album, Love is yet another testimonial of his amazing talents.
Rod Tate is a smooth/contemporary jazz, gospel jazz and R&B saxophonist/songwriter, based out of his hometown, St. Louis, MO. Rod is a full time musician that performs as a Solo act, Duo "2Smooth" with guitarist Gregg "Happy Guitar" Haynes and with his 4 piece band.
As he continues his emergence as a dynamic new independent artist in the contemporary jazz world, keyboardist and composer Al DeGregoris still remembers the encouraging words he parents would offer frequently as he was growing up in Long Island: “Be patient. Work hard. Everything will come, All In Good Time.” That last phrase is the perfect title of DeGregoris’ new album, the latest step in the fulfillment of his musical dreams, which finds him vibing with some of contemporary jazz’s top hit making artists.
UC&P proudly welcomes back to the show 2x Grammy nominated multi-instrumentalist Najee , as we catch up and talk about the success of his latest hot and seductive album "The Morning After - A Musical Love JournA visionary, Najee assembles an array of world class musicians on The Morning After - A Musical Love Journey....and what is ahead.
Featured artists on the CD include producer Demonte Posey (Eric Benet, Toni Braxton, and Babyface), bassist Bill Sharpe (Dave Coz and Barbara Streisand), guitarist Ray Fuller (George Duke, Anita Baker, and Whitney Houston), drummer Daniel Powell (Tamia), bassist Brian Bromberg (Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock) and drummer Joel Taylor (Joe Sample’s current band). Chart-topping R&B diva Meli’sa Morgan also joins Najee for an unforgettable duet. The Morning After - A Musical Love Journey opens with the sound of Najee’s voice as he anxiously awaits to board his plane but is unexpectedly delayed waiting for a certain special woman. Alas, she arrives and the journey begins. Najee explains, “The album title describes a fantasy trip where two people meet and experience their journey together.” The saxophonist describes the making of his new CD as an intense process. “It was recorded as a live studio album in two ½ weeks, during which time we also mixed and mastered the music. I would say the anticipation was very much part of the journey with this record.” Najee’s musical adventure unfolds with the jubilant “Rendezvous,” featuring his robust tenor saxophone. The Morning After - Musical Love Journey finds Najee transporting listeners around the globe to locations that have inspired him in some way.
Greg Chambers
Greg's latest CD, "Can't Help Myself, was released August 1, 2014. Entirely produced by Nate Harasim & Matt Godina, this record features 2x Grammy winner Paul Brown, Julian Vaughn, Nils, and others. Onstage, Greg has played the J.A. Nugget Jazz Night, has performed as an opening act for Evelyn "Champagne" King and Howard Hewett, has backed up Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter, and performs regularly throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.
Greg's last record, "After Hours", featured Paul Brown on guitar, smooth jazz pianist Jonathan Fritzen, session musicians Ross Bolton, Louis Fasman, and Roberto Vally, and the mixing expertise of saxophonist/producer Darren Rahn. Singles from "After Hours" and Greg's 2011 self-titled album have charted on the Smoothjazz.com Top 50 Chart, the Jazzweek Top 50 Smooth Singles Chart and have made the Most Added/Increased Airplay lists for Billboard Magazine, Smoothjazz.com, and RadioWave.
Meet Chelsey Green!
Having shared the stage with international artists including Maysa, MC Lyte, Denyce Graves, Ruben Studdard, J.Cole and Questlove and Black Thought of The Roots, emerging artist Chelsey Green brings the unmatched tone, richness and vibrancy of violin and viola playing to audiences in a whole new way.
A student of classical technique and repertoire for over 20 years, Chelsey Green incorporates principles of standard classical music performance into the performance of enticing original tunes and re-identified popular favorites in genres across the board including Soul, Gospel, R&B, Jazz, Funk, Rock, and more!
Named an Artists-in-Residence at The Music Center at Strathmore in 2010, Ms. Green is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of Maryland College Park.
Ms. Green’s varied performance resume includes performances at the Late Show with David Letterman, Theater at Madison Square Garden, Saint Lucia Jazz Festival, BET Honors Dinner, Essence Music Festival, The Howard Theatre, The Music Center at Strathmore, Blues Alley, Bobby Jones Gospel, The John F. Kennedy Center and more!
Chelsey Green and her ensemble, The Green Project will soon release their highly anticipated second CD and first full length album, "The Green Room" on September 23rd! It is already making waves on the contemporary jazz scene as it already appeared on the iTunes Top 100 Jazz albums on the first 3 days of pre-sale! Log on to iTunes or Amazon to reserve your digital copy today!
For more information on Chelsey Green and The Green Project, visit www.chelseygreen.com today!
Meet Grace Kelly..When it comes to singer/ saxophonist/ composer/ lyricist/ arranger/ producer/ educator Grace Kelly, people seem to be divided into two groups: those who marvel at her proficiency, creativity and ever-accelerating growth, and those who have yet to encounter the 21-year-old wunderkind. The ranks of the former category are growing by the day. Trumpeter and Jazz at Lincoln Center Artistic Director Wynton Marsalis was so impressed with Kelly’s three-night stand as guest of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra that he invited her to join the ensemble at the Kennedy Center’s Eisenhower Theater in Washington, D.C. for Barack Obama's Inauguration Celebration. Harry Connick, Jr. heard Kelly in a master class on a December afternoon and brought her on stage to sit in with his band that night. Since then, Kelly has been voted "Best Jazz Act” in Boston four consecutive years in the FNX/Phoenix Best Music Poll, and then voted Best National Jazz Act in 2012. She has received the ASCAP Foundation’s Young Jazz Composers Award in 2007, 2008, 2010, 2011 and 2013 and won "Jazz Artist of the Year” at the Boston Music Awards in both 2008 and 2010. The 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013 Downbeat Critics Poll added to her the list naming her one of the "Alto Saxophone Rising Stars”, the youngest artist ever to be named to the music poll.
Welcome to "Up Close & Personal" with Latinjazzy
Today being the show's 1st aniversary I will be catching up with my buddy and 1st guest a year ago, one of comptemporary jazz's elite saxophonist/writer/drum programer/producer Andy Snitzer as he shares with us not just some of his beautiful music, but his accomplishments in this past year as well what's keeping him busy nowadays and what's ahead!!!
I will also be talking with with UC&P first timer and long time friend virtuostic guitarist and renowned producer U-Nam...who's newly release album “C’est Le Funk” went straight to the top of the charts on its first day, reaching #1 on the Amazon US “Best Sellers” List for Funk Albums, #2 for Smooth Jazz Albums and #19 in Overall Jazz....not bad at all!!!
So join us tomorrow, the fun begins at 6:00 pm EST
Peter White
Join us Monday, 9/29 at 7:00 pm as we celebrate icon guitarist Peter White's 14th solo album Smile is set for release October 7, 2014 via Concord, benefits from White’s jazz/rock sensibilities and skill as a programmer. “Holding Me Closer” flies with its contemporary synth feel and uplifting lyrics. While he may be best known for electric parts with Stewart, here he returns to his fabled nylon. His acoustic is never overshadowed by his production, however, as Smile boasts a clean, evocative feel.
Marianne SolivanMarianne Solivan is quickly becoming one of the most buzzed about jazz singers on the New York scene, Marianne Solivan does not remember an “ah-ha” moment that brought her to the music she has devoted herself to: “I don’t recall having a big moment that made me like jazz. I just dug it.”
It is that same simplicity of statement with its intrinsic honesty that characterizes Solivan’s style. The infallible swing of Ella, the daring of Betty Carter, the matter-of factness of Carmen McRae…They can all be found in the voice of Marianne Solivan, whom trumpeter Jeremy Pelt has called “the modern-day paradigm to which all singers should aspire.”
It is no coincidence that the 2009 Jazzmobile Vocal Competition finalist has graced recital halls, jam sessions and club stages with such noted musicians as Roy Hargrove, Steve Lacy, Jeremy Pelt, Ray Gallon (Ron Carter, Art Farmer, Lionel Hampton, T.S. Monk), Ugonna Ukegwo (Tom Harrell, Jacky Terrason) and Jane Monheit’s sidemen Neal Minor and Michael Kanan.
A renowned musician, Daniel D. has been sought to celebrate many worthy occasions with dignitaries and icons. He has amassed a growing international fan base and respect among his peers due to his skilled acumen and captivating performances. A Seasoned Entertainer at 25 years old. Daniel D. has been playing the violin since he was 12 years old. He graduated from the Charleston School of the Arts and immediately went on tour. He has produced four albums. His most recent single made it to the top 50 of the Indie Charts. At home he is an annual featured artist in the MOJA Festival and travels across the country performing solo, with his D.J., or with his band. Daniel D. has become a regular requested artist for corporate, private, and festivals events.
One of urban contemporary jazz’s most versatile and acclaimed artists over the past 25 years, keyboardist/composer Gregg Karukas is now a Grammy Award winner for producing, engineering, co-writing and arranging Omar Akram’s Echoes of Love, which won Best NewAge Album at the 55th Grammy Awards in February 2013.
Join us as if we feature one amazing bassist taking his music to what I thought to be impossible to do and take his new release to an all new level...Michael Manson's latest release "Thumpin" is one of, if not the best release of the summer!! Here is what some have to say!!...
If you like "LIVE" music albums, you'll love this set. It's rockin' from the first to the last song. MM and his band are some of the most talented smooth jazz artists that I've ever experienced. Khari Parker on the drums is the man. He's sets a strong groove and everybody else just lays in the "cut" so to speak. Your head and feet will move the entire concert. That's what it feels like on a good stereo or surround setup. You won't be disappointed. The recording quality is top notch and you can hear ALL of the musicians and background singers. Just Superb. W. Harrison- Fan
"One of Smooth Jazz's most creative and explosive bassists, Chicago-based Michael Manson has put out some great studio discs - but nothing tops the wild abandon and all-out joy of his live performances. So it's exciting that he's giving us his unfiltered, hard groovin' best on THUMPIN' LIVE, a 16-track set CD/DVD of the multi-talented artist at his best. In addition to expansive romps through his popular tunes like "Outer Drive," key tracks include the soulful, swaying "Just One Touch" and the brassy, heavy bottom way out rockin' funk of "The Bottom Line," fashioned as a tribute to his late hero George Duke, whom Manson first played with on Kirk Whalum's "The Gospel According To Jazz" in 1997. Nobody does THUMPIN' LIVE better than Manson!" ~JONATHAN WIDRAN Smooth Jazz.com
Flutist, vocalist, and songwriter, Ragan Whiteside is taking the Contemporary Jazz world by storm. With her unique style and soulful vibe, this triple threat is bringing the flute back into mainstream focus.
2014 has been an exciting year for Ragan, having won Flutist of the Year in the Black Women in Jazz & Fine Arts Awards, and looking forward to the highly anticipated release of her 3rd studio album, Quantum Drive. This album pushes the boundaries of Contemporary/Urban Jazz and R&B even further and features collaborations with Bob Baldwin, Frank McComb, Althea Rene, and Patrice Rushen.
Bob Baldwin describes Ragan by saying, “She not only has THE silkiest and sweetest flute tone in the business, but her tenacity and desire to be recognized in Urban, New-Soul AND smooth jazz genres makes her a musical force to be reckoned with!! Mark my words!”
jazz, funk, and soul
Swiss-American keyboardist Greg Manning has performed on stages throughout the U.S., Europe, United Kingdom, and Asia. Manning’s use of jazz, funk, and soul, to create simplistic yet, complex compositions, are blended with precise timbre and intricate instrumentation. They are rich in texture, and identifiably this recording artist’s distinctive imprint of Soul-Jazz.
While growing up in Zurich, Switzerland, Manning was mostly exposed to Jazz by his parents. Yet, he discovered his deep love for music only after hearing “Isn’t She Lovely” by the legendary Stevie Wonder.
He started playing the piano at age 12. Several years later, he moved to the U.S. to study piano and film scoring at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston. It was during this time his break came. Manning was asked to compose the music for “Keep Cool”, the most successful and longest running German language musical. The musical led him back to Zurich, Switzerland, where he continued to compose and produce for records and television.
With his fourth solo release (Back Home) on C.A.R. Records, Saxophonist Rob Maletick expresses his love for music by melting together the various styles of musical expression that have made him a sought after musician on stage and in the recording studio. During his 8+ years in the recording industry, Rob has played almost every style of music possible on his 3 saxophones, but has landed in Gospel and Jazz music for his foundation. Often called upon for his "anointed expression" as one radio DJ calls it, Rob has succeeded in creating his own style of Inspirational Jazz that is easily heard on Smooth Jazz radio and Gospel radio simultaneously.
Born and raised in the Washington D.C. suburb of Manassas Virginia, Rob was able to surround himself with music at an early age. Having
music teachers for parents didn't hurt either. After High School, Shenandoah University became Rob's home for 4 years. Learning about the Music Business and Jazz Performance there put him in numerous situations in which he was able to perform with legends Billy Taylor, Bob Berg, and Randy Brecker. Rob credits saxophone professor Joe Eckert with guiding his playing in the right direction throughout the college years.
Big NY, Christian De Mesones, Willie Bradley and Elliott Levine will be stopping by to promote Saturday's Show at K-2 Lounge in Woodbridge VA
Paul Brown has had over 60 # 1 airplay hits to his credit as an artist and producer, not to mention being a two- time Grammy Award winner. Paul has got the groove down as a hit maker and he is the most go to guy that every top artist in the contemporary/urban jazz genre relies on for their next smash hits.
His latest release Truth B Told is due out 7/29 and Paul will be on show to share this very eclectic and powerhouse filled CD like only he can create.
Saxophonist Richard Elliot has arrived at a very special anniversary for blowing audiences away with his soulfully robust playing. 2014 marks 30 years since the release of his debut solo album, Initial Approach (ITI – 1984), on which he stepped out showcasing his tenor sax, soprano sax, Lyricon and writing skills. What does a red-blooded Scottish sax man raised in Los Angeles – now with a wife and five children – do for a 30-year encore? Well, this one-time member of the classic soul band Tower of Power proves he’s “not a young man” and drops the most overtly sensual, romantic and intimate album of his career in collaboration with contemporary jazz production/guitar giant Paul Brown. The title of this 17th solo project is Lip Service (the artist’s first for Heads Up/Concord Music Group).
Over time, he became a part of that country’s scene of young rising jazz artists and freelance musicians, featured as both a singer and saxophonist. Lie toured Norway, Sweden, and Finland with different groups and appeared on the jazz shows of NRK, the Norwegian equivalent of the BBC. Lie was also a recipient of a grant from the Norwegian State Fund for Performing Artists.
Lie later decided to move to the U.S. since his favorite styles of music “were being created in this country 24/7 everywhere.” Loving the Southern California climate and being “a certified beach bum,” he chose L.A. as his new base. Since then he has been a jazz artist and freelance musician, performing in clubs and at festivals and concerts throughout the West Coast.
Cal Harris Jr.’s upbringing in Los Angeles was not a typical one. His earliest exposure to music took place literally in the company of legends. As the son of Grammy-nominated sound engineer Calvin Harris, Cal Harris Jr. grew up wandering the halls of the renowned Motown Studios in Los Angeles. In fact, one of his fondest childhood memories was a trip to the candy store with Melvin Franklin of the Temptations—a treat he would appreciate even more as an adult. It was within this environment that Harris would develop a love affair with music…and a well-groomed talent.
“I fell in love with arranging music after attending a Commodores session with my dad. It was a great track and I fell asleep as they began working on the orchestration. I woke up a few hours later in a wonder land of music. Soaring strings and horns, and sizzling cymbal swells. It was amazing to hear the transformation, an experience I'll never forget." It's no surprise that Cal Harris Jr. went on to a career as a very sought after sound engineer and producer. He has worked with such music monsters as Earth Wind and Fire, Lenny Kravitz, Prince, Whitney Houston, and Beyonce. Harris found a comfortable niche as a very sought after recording engineer, programmer, and keyboard player for music giants. Still, it wouldn’t be long before he could no longer control the desire to combine his talents and record his very own works. The time had come for Cal Harris Jr. push his abilities to the next level and reveal the gifted composer within him.
Cal has a passion and talent for composition as well as a lifetime of priceless experiences in the industry. He drives home the idea of creating solid, seductive, and infectious melodies through impeccable production. He is involved in nearly every part of his music's production, including writing, keyboards and mixing.
Jeff Antoniuk and The Jazz Update
Saxophonist Jeff Antoniuk is internationally respected as a jazz composer and musician. Now living in Annapolis, Maryland, the Canadian born artist appears on numerous recordings and has been consistently well received by critics.
With a master’s degree from the University of North Texas in jazz performance and West African ethnomusicology, Antoniuk spent a decade touring and recording with the Unified Jazz Ensemble. In 2004, he formed his own heavy hitting quartet, the Jazz Update.
The group celebrated the release of their first album together in 2007. Brimming with Antoniuk originals and luscious covers, the CD Here Today quickly climbed the jazz radio charts in the US and Canada and achieved stellar success in the world of high tech music sourced through high speed cable, Internet and broadband.
With the quartet’s 2010 album Brotherhood Antoniuk and company step out with fresh, memorable, and beautifully executed compositions. The progressive jazz disc delivers sophisticated and compelling rhythm, melody and harmony. Its global themes are brought home with depth and humor. Brotherhood began receiving significant airplay and advance sales even before the official release date.
Popular shows at Blues Alley, the Kennedy Center, the Smithsonian and U Street clubs show the Jazz Update to be equally adept at live performance. The group surprises and satisfies wherever they perform.
Hailing from the "birth place of jazz",Vandell Andrew's destiny was not too hard to find. Vandell started studying music at the age of 13 at a local jazz summer camp in the treme area of New Orleans. It was then that he learned to play the trumpet. After a whole summer of playing the trumpet, Vandell was approached by one of his teachers that his embouchure would be better suited playing the saxophone.
Being that this teacher was the COOLEST sax player in the world, Vandell took this ultimatum as a compliment that his teacher would be even considering teaching him. Soon after learning to play the alto saxophone, Vandell joined the infamous St.Augustine "Marching 100" band. Playing in events and parades all over the world, convinced Vandell that this was what he wanted to do for a living after high school. Following high school, Vandell enrolled in music classes at Southern University at New Orleans, and studied with the legendary Edward "Kidd" Jordan. Shortly after about a month of studying with Kidd, the horrible hurricane Katrina took the city of New Orleans by storm. Vandell found himself relocating to Dallas,Tx. This experience was extremely hard to cope with at first , but Vandell began to like living in Dallas a little more, after checking out the music scene around town. Vandell began writing and working on his own solo compositions. This has led to him sharing stages with many local acts,at many different venues .As well as nationally known acts like Kirk Whalum, and Tom Braxton. This is only the beginning for this young entrepreneur, he is soon to record his debut album in the very near future.
Jazz/Pop artist Pete Belasco began playing piano at a young age, later turning his concentration to saxophone. Both of his parents played piano as well. In high school, Belasco played in rock bands, but he soon became primarily interested in jazz and studied sax at Rutgers University and the Hartt Conservatory. He was also preparing a demo at the time, but was involved in a severe boating accident that broke both of his hands. For several months, he was unable to play, but in the interim he turned to composing and singing. In retrospect, Belasco has referred to the accident as a watershed experience because it forced him to develop his songwriting and singing skills. Belasco’s demo made its way to Verve Records, and A&R Executive, Guy Eckstine, who signed him. Upon healing, Belasco moved to New York to record his debut, Get It Together, which was released on Verve Forecast in the fall of 1997. The album was a concoction of influences such as, Marvin Gaye, the Beatles, and Curtis Mayfield, along with jazzy pop and lounge music cool. As Pete Belasco created the songs that would become his second album, Deeper, he kept returning to a common theme-intimacy. The grooves were sensual, relaxed, erotic. The lyrics were passionate, tender, generous. In a time of confusion and strife, Belasco wanted to sing about love, about faith, and about supporting one another. In a feature article in The Village Voice, music journalist James Hunter rhapsodizes about Belascos second effort
Saxman Sam Rucker, come on down! You’re the next prospective big performer on the contemporary jazz scene. Truly an artist with finesse and character, Rucker steps out with hissophomore release Tell You Something on the heels of his 2011 Heat From the Heavens debut. Mixing some tight hip hop tanginess with the tasty sauce of smooth and the inspirational and energetic touch of gospel, Rucker is looking for it all in one fell swoop…and he can easily get it all with material like that found on this masterfully produced album.
Working with the likes of Norman Connors, Bobby Lyle, Tom Browne, Alyson Williams, and Euge Groove (Euge is handling the mixing and mastering at his Groove House for this one), the saxman saunters through cover grooves like “Footsteps in the Dark,” “You Are My Starship,” and “Before I Let Go,” along with striking originals like the catchy, sassy mid-tempo lead and title track that immediately captures the essence of the man and his love for this music. You can bet Sam Rucker is not a name you are likely to forget any time soon.
Ronald Jackson
The Smooth Jazz Ride
It’s one thing for a world class musician to write a book with a great title like “How To Make
Your Guitar Talk,” but Nils has gone further--living, embracing and even transcending those
words he once penned since becoming an instrumental sensation in 2005 with “Pacific Coast
Highway.”
The Munich born, Los Angeles
based guitarist’s breakthrough debut album on Baja/TSR Records was the most heavily played
track in the smooth jazz format over the past ten years with nearly 30,000 spins. The song was a
true phenomenon in its initial release, staying at #1 on the Radio & Records airplay chart for
more than 10 weeks on its way to being named the most played song in the U.S. and Canada for
the year since then the most played song of the decade .
Now Nils is back with a new release, Jazz Gems..Best of Nils, which will take us down memory lane and remind us as to why we love him and his extraordinary music.
He contributed as a musician and co-writer of “Keep Rollin’” on Benson’s 1998 album Standing
Together, and the guitar and vocal legend returned the favor by playing a duet with Nils on Nils’
1998 debut CD Blue Planet. He has also become a core part of many fans’ summer and fall
festival experience.
Red-hot guitarist and vocalist Nick Colionne continues his blazing success into 2014. BET Jazz has described him as "one of the most exceptional performers to come along in a long time." His newest CD, "INFLUENCES" a musical journey of self re-discovery, offers a palate of moods and flavors born of life experiences, challenges, and the effect of the people past and present who have helped shape and mold his sound, and promises to give fans more of what they expect from the talented Colionne.
Long known for his dynamic, musically eclectic live performances, "Influences" demonstrates his dynamic command of the guitar, rich baritone vocals, and varied music styles, all of which make this latest CD a reflection of why he is a true force when performing in concert. His long string of Top 10 hits from his previous CDs is a testament to his musical talent.
Son of the three-time Oscar nominee and most prolific composer for movies Carlo Rustichelli, the eclectic Paolo studied composition and orchestra conducting at Accademia Chigiana, as well as classical piano studies. He started his career at age 16 simultaneously as a soundtrack composer and as a rock keyboard player with the album "Opera Prima"on RCA Records, considered by critics a Rock progressive masterpiece.
Among his album projects, Paolo recorded, performed and produced for rock-jazz superstars like Carlos Santana and Miles Davis.In 1997 he released the album "Mystic Man" in the US through Island Records, which featured the legendary Miles Davis, Carlos Santana, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Andy Summers and the disco diva Jill Jones.
As a young turk on the contemporary jazz scene, saxophonist Jackiem Joyner is far from complacent and staid in his sound and style. Not afraid to challenge the fan base that took him to No. 1 twice and Top 3 two more times on the Billboard chart, Joyner gets adventurous on his fifth album, “Evolve,” which will be released April 29th by Artistry Music/Mack Avenue Records. It’s his first on which he wrote and produced the entire set, including the first single going to radio in mid-March, “Generation Next,” an up-tempo urban-pop track with vibrant flashes of strings that provide a contrast to Joyner’s gentle melodic sax.
Juxtaposing invigorating otherworldly sonicscapes under tender sax melodies, “Evolve” is a dynamic, highly-rhythmic session that is unpredictable laced with traces of the familiar. Listening will take you to a different place while defining Joyner as a musician and a writer beyond what we have already heard from the chart-topping rhythm and groove guy. The imaginative new set has a greater purpose with the introductory single, “Generation Next,” serving as “a declaration that the next generation of jazz musicians is here to stay.
Chances are you have heard of the Contemporary Smooth Jazz group Freeport as they are regulars at festivals, top venues and notable events. Recently they have shared the stage with rising artists, legends and Grammy award winners in the jazz community such asBob James, Marion Meadows, Joyce Cooling, Paul Brown, Nils, Bob Baldwin, Matt Marshak, Dee Lucas, and the list goes on. Some past highlights have been recording and performing with Tower Of Power, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Special EFX, and Grover Washington Jr. Freeport provides a very soulful, appropriate, inquisitive, and smooth approach to performing. They offer a combination of Smooth Jazz, Contemporary Jazz, and Jazz Standards. The four piece Smooth Jazz group consists of Steve Thornton on saxes, flute, Jo Daniels on keyboards, Tony Testa on drums, and Scott Marvill on basses and guitar.
Wednesday at 6:00 pm EST on "Up Close & Personal" with Latinjazzy ..From Berks!, I will be chattin' it up Generation Next!!!
Lin Rountree , Julian Vaughn , Lebron Dennis and Nicholas Cole ...
We all LOVE these young Trippin 'N' Rhythm Records Artists.
Individually these Fellas have stolen our hearts with their versatile and unique styles and amazing performances ...and NOW get ready to be BLOWN away as they come together as "Generation Next", making their Debut appearance at Berks Jazz Fest , this coming Sunday!!!
Ohh yeah that's is definitely going to be yet another Berks SOLD OUT hit show!!!! <3
The Parrrrty in ON!! Boom Boom Room style today with Chance Howard and I.
Chance Howard....Singer, Keyboardist, Writer, Producer. Plays keys bass and sings for Candy Dulfer, Prince, Morris Day and The Time, and many others.
Chance will be sharing with us some fascinating facts about his musical endeavors, past and present.
Nathan East!!
The Funkiest Bassist Ever!!! Releasing his FIRST album...and it is HOT!!! A Non-stop celebration !!
Born in Madrid, Spain, Carmen grew up singing from a very early age. A member of the choirs in both church and school, she was often asked to be a soloist, as she displayed a natural gift for singing. At home, she took up the guitar, and self-taught by the age of fifteen, she began composing the lyrics and music to her own songs. Around this time, while playing and singing at a party with some friends, she met singer, and now journalist, Jos Martin, of the group "Somos". Within a short period of time they began doing concerts as a duo, with Carmen presenting herself as a singer and composer in public for the first time. With the recording of the group by the EMI Record Company, Carmen got her first taste of working in the recording studio, and became a published songwriter. Shortly thereafter, while pursuing her degree in education at the University of Madrid, Carmen auditioned, and was asked to join the cast of the show "Godspell" in the role of Mary Magdalena.
And so, at the age of seventeen, she put her studies on hold to perform both in Madrid, and throughout the rest of Spain with this theater troupe. The cast included many talented performers, comedians, actors, dancers and singers, many of whom later went on to become well known personalities in the world of Spanish entertainment.
Over the past three decades, saxophonist, Walter Beasley, has artfully and dynamically redefined the phrase “musical Renaissance Man” for the modern generation. Considered by fans and critics alike as the “heir to Grover Washington, Jr.’s Throne,” Beasley is the acclaimed saxophonist, vocalist, educator, and entrepreneur of the decade. As the highest selling full-time Professor / Recording Artist in history, the Boston-based musician has long mastered an exhilarating high wire act of balancing a successful career as a contemporary jazz recording artist and performer with an equally thriving presence in the field of music education.
A leading alto and soprano saxophonist and prominent vocalist all the same, Beasley is hailed by fans for his thrilling performances along the East Coast and throughout the U.S. and Caribbean. Notable performances include the all-star tour To Grover, With Love, performing alongside Chuck Loeb, Buddy Williams and Andy Snitzer and performing as the headlining act for the 2011 Playboy Jazz Festival.
On today's show I will be chatting with Kenwood Anderson and shaaring with you his latest project appropiately titled Handful of Grooves, which is a 5-song EP of smooth jazz that won’t put you to sleep. Bursting with memorable melodies, percolating grooves, and tasteful improvisation.
Kenwood is a seasoned drummer with plenty of stage and studio experience, most notably with the bands RioSoul and The Reall Deall Band. Now he is stepping out on his own with his original music. His keyboard skills and songwriting talent are brought to the forefront. The music suggests the influences of Jeff Lorber, George Benson, and Stevie Wonder, but Kenwood has a style is all his own. The music is available now at www.kenwoodsmusic.com also available on iTunes, Amazon, and CDBaby
Jay Rodriguez is a Grammy Nominated Saxophonist, Flautist, Clarinetist, Film Composer, Producer and Arranger. He was born Hernan Ramiro Rodriguez-Sierra in the coastal port city of Barranquilla Colombia on September 17, 1967. His family immigrated to NYC when he was 3 in 1970. He commenced his musical studies at the age of 7 on clarinet. When he turned 10 he began studying alto saxophone and conducting with Tito D Rivera (Father of the famed Paquito D’Rivera ). Mr Tito D Rivera was a famed Classical saxophonist of his generation. By the time Jay turned 12, he had begun studying saxophone with Joe Allard. Other teachers included Saxophonist/flautist – Jesus Garcia, Mark Friedman, Kenny Hitchcock, and Emile De Cosmo. At 13 Paquito D Rivera would take Jay to sit in and play with him around town. He featured him as a guest soloist at the famed Salsa Meets Jazz concerts at the then well known Village Gate. There he met Jazz legends like Stanley Turrentine, Ray Barretto, Tito Puente, Victor Venegas and Dizzy Gillespie to name a few. He went on to work with the well known Jazz and Latin artists like Wilfredo Vargas, Bross Townsend, Vincente Pacheco, Celia Cruz, Jose Alberto, Candido and many more. At 14 he was chosen to attend the High School for the Performing Arts (now known as La Guardia) in NYC at the time located on 46th st. His classmates at the time included Billy Charlap, Jon Gordon, Jennifer Aniston and Justin Robinson.
Prolific Bassist/Composer Kyle Eastwoodchannels his earliest Jazz influences on The View From Here,
available March 12 on JazzVillage
It has been 15 years since bassist Kyle Eastwood burst onto the jazz scene with his 1998 debut, From There To Here. At that moment in his budding career, the press seemed more preoccupied with his paternal lineage (he’s the son of famed actor-director Clint Eastwood) than his music. Over the course of the four subsequent releases – 2004′s Paris Blue, 2005′s Now, 2009′s Metropolitan and 2011′s Songs from the Chateau – Eastwood built up an impressive body of work while earning respect in musician circles. With his sixth release as a leader, The View From Here on the JazzVillage label, he demonstrates a strong command of both electric and upright basses while expanding into more adventurous territory that is informed as much by jazz as it is by world music. “I’ve always loved music from other countries,” says the Carmel, California native who has resided in Paris for the past eight years. “Living in France, you hear a lot of North African and Middle Eastern music, and you can hear some of those influences on this new recording.”
Known for crafting music that makes audience members dance like it’s second nature, Lassiter’s arrangements and organ gyrations are embodied with the soul and passion that comes from being a preacher’s son and letting the “spirit” take hold of a ready heart. Beyond his deep connection to gospel music, it’s easy to get a sense that his time living in St. Louis, Pensacola, and Dallas has also seeped into the soil of his sense of musicality.
St. Louis gave Lassiter a stronger connection to a big band sound. Pensacola, (where he attended Southeastern University and graduated with a degree in music), inspired him to begin arranging and writing and introduced him to Salsa.
It was Salsa that further sparked his creative process and changed his early formulaic view of music, as he began to realize that he didn’t need to know “...all this music stuff to make great music.”
The Dallas scene in particular afforded Philthy the opportunity to connect with many artists and musicians who would have a steady hand in molding his sound today, as well as add the “chicken grease” that is such a hallmark of that culture
Ever since the 20th century turned into the 21st singer songwriter and guitarist Raul Midón has earned renown as one of as one of music’s most distinctive
and searching voices. He is “a one- man band…
who is spiritually connected,” according to The New
York Times, and “an eclectic adventurist,” in the
words of People magazine.
Artists from Jeff Beck to Jason Mraz are on record
as big fans, and Midón has collaborated with such
heroes as Herbie Hancock and Stevie Wonder, along
with contributing to recordings by Queen Latifah and
Snoop Dogg and the soundtrack to Spike Lee’s She Hate Me.
The New Mexico native, blind since birth, has released seven albums since 1999, including the hit
studio productions State of Mind (Manhattan/EMI,
2005), A World Within a World (Manhattan/EMI,
2007) and Synthesis (Decca/Universal, 2009).
Midón’s most recent release is the captivating CD/DVD Invisible Chains – Live from NYC,
which documents an intimate concert in Joe’s Pub
from 2012.
Attuned listeners can hear the inspirations of Donny
Hathaway and Richie Havens in his work, as well
as Sting and Paul Simon. But Midón’s questing musicality makes him, as the Huffington Post put it,
“a free man beyond category.”
Search for “Raul Midón” on YouTube and
you’ll find a clip of of him appearing on The Late Show With David Letterman in 2006. Performing
“State of Mind,” Just INCREDICLE!!
Chris Standring’s got a little piece of advice for fans checking out his latest – and for sure his funkiest ever – collection on Ultimate Vibe Recordings: don’t talk, Dance!
Continuing to find fresh, dynamic ways to break new ground in contemporary jazz 16 years after seducing us with his debut album Velvet, the versatile composer, guitarist and producer lets the groove – along with his loyal archtop Benedetto and Fender Stratocaster - do all the conversing on a set that bridges old school R&B/soul-jazz with a trippy, soundscape rich, ultra-contemporary electronica vibe. Taking yet another dramatic and spirited left turn four years after his critically acclaimed classical/jazz set Blue Bolero redefined his and the genre’s creative boundaries, the versatile guitarist and composer – amping up to 120 bpm on most cuts - goes deep with his love for Euro-styled drum/bass driven chill, progressive dance music, ambient trance, electronic dance music (EDM) and even dubstep.
From his groundbreaking synth programming on Miles Davis’ 80s masterpieces Tutu, Music From Siesta and Amandla to his current partnership with DJ Logic and Falu in the pioneering global fusion group Global Noize, the Grammy Award winning New York native—dubbed by one insightful veteran journalist as the “Quincy Jones of Contemporary Music”—has consistently brought the highest level of artistry to his multi-faceted recordings (as both producer and artist) and live performances.
Miles has not only helped shape the landscape of contemporary jazz, but also brought his rich sonic textures as a keyboardist, arranger and producer to artists in a multitude of genres, from R&B/pop to Latin Jazz, Brazilian music and even children’s music and country (producing Suzy Boguss’ Sweet Danger).
His many years of collaboration with Marcus Miller include not only the Miles Davis projects but also classic recordings by David Sanborn (A Change of Heart, Close Up, Upfront) and Luther Vandross (The Power of Love, Any Love, Give Me the Reason). Committed to pushing the envelope of sonic possibilities and bringing out the best in the artists and musicians he vibes with, Miles has worked over the years with a proverbial who’s who of contemporary music: Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, Michael Brecker, The Crusaders, Ruben Blades, Freddy Cole, George Benson, Joe Sample, Herb Alpert., Vanessa Williams, Grover Washington Jr, Lea Salonga.
In addition to conceiving, producing and arranging two very successful tribute recordings dedicated to Grover, Miles—who did the synth programming on Washington’s 1987 album Strawberry Moon --has paid tribute to the late sax great in an even more intimate way: by producing and executive producing Grover Live...More abou this on the show..
Four-time GRAMMY nominee Boney James has returned with a dynamic, genre-busting album "The Beat". One of the most successful instrumental artists of our time with sales totaling over 3 million records, James’ new project fuses his R&B/Jazz roots with Latin rhythm and percussion.
In addition to his GRAMMY nominations, James is a Soul Train Award winner (Best Jazz Album) and has been honored with an NAACP Image Award nomination for Best Jazz Album. He has accumulated four RIAA Certified Gold Records. To date, nine of James' albums have reached No. 1 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Chart and two have reached the top 10 on the R&B Albums Chart, a rare feat for an instrumental artist.
In 2009 Billboard magazine named James the No. 3 Billboard Contemporary Jazz Artist of the Decade. Boney James is a four-time Grammy Award nominee (Best Pop Instrumental Album, 2001, 2004, 2014 and Best Traditional R&B Performance, 2009 ) and a Soul Train Award winner (Best Jazz Album 1998). He has also been honored with two NAACP Image Award nominations for Best Jazz Album. He has accumulated four RIAA Certified Gold Records.
Since May 2011, Vincent has become an ever-increasing presence on the Smooth Jazz circuit, performing as a solo artist at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach Jazz Festival, Catalina Island Jazz Trax Festival, the Seabreeze Jazz Festival and was a featured artist on the Dave Koz & Friends 2011 Alaskan Cruise. He will also be on board for Koz’s 2013 Mediterranean Cruise this fall. Most recently, Vincent has joined forces with saxophonists, Marion Meadows & Paul Taylor and will be touring together this summer as ‘Sax & The City.’
A Yamaha Performing Artist, Vincent cites Elvis Presley, Sam Butera, Wilton Felder and Richard Elliott as being among some of his major influences in music. Family is also a core value for Vincent. He enjoys nothing more than spending time with his parents and their large, extended Italian family. With more dates in support of ‘Can’t Stop Now’ already planned for this year, there has never been a better time to experience the magic of Vincent Ingala.
Nearly twenty years into his solo career, Rick Braun’s done just about everything, from backing the likes of Rod Stewart and Sade to stepping out into the spotlight as a vocalist and a master of the trumpet and flugelhorn.
The Allentown, Pennsylvania-born Braun began playing music in elementary school, ultimately winding up at the prestigious Eastman School of Music. There he hooked up with like-minded musicians to form a jazz-fusion combo, Auracle.
Braun’s first big break came when he composed “Here With Me,” a Top 20 hit for REO Speedwagon. He soon became a highly regarded pop sideman, touring and recording with the likes of Rod Stewart, War, Sade, Tina Turner, Natalie Cole, and Tom Petty.
The trumpeter became a NAC fixture with his debut, Intimate Secrets. His records have ranked in the Top 10 of Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz Chart with Kisses in the Rain reigning at #1 for 11 weeks and his singles have held the #1 position on the R&R NAC/Smooth Jazz album charts.
The recipient of numerous National Contemporary Jazz Awards, he shared a Best Collaboration award with Boney James for their hit Shake It Up. He also teamed up with Richard Elliot in RnR and their duet project hit #1 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Chart. A much-in-demand producer, he has delivered #1 radio hits with artists including David Benoit, Marc Antoine and Jeff Golub.
His most recent recordings continue to reflect his versatility with the instrumental album All It Takes and his vocal talents in Rick Braun Sings With Strings. This past year saw Braun getting into the swing of the holiday season with his first-ever Christmas album, Swingin’ In The Snow.
Performing since age seven, bandleader of Funky Stuff since age fourteen, international recording artist since age nineteen, touring the world since age twenty.Has recorded and / or performed with artists like Prince, Dave Stewart (Eurythmics), Van Morrison, Maceo Parker, Sheila E., Mavis Staples, Lionel Richie, Beyoncé, Pink Floyd, Chaka Khan, David Sanborn, Larry Graham, Marcus Miller, Aretha Franklin, Jimmy Cliff, George Duke, Blondie, Jools Holland, Jamie Cullum, Angie Stone, Tower of Power, The Time, Alan Parsons, Fred Wesley, Pee Wee Ellis, Joey DiFrancesco, Jonathan Butler, and many others.
‘Lily was here’ - her first collaboration with former Eurythmics Dave Stewart, in 1989 - was a Number 1 hit all over Europe, in 1999 they worked together on the soundtrack of the Robert Altman motion picture ‘Cookie’s Fortune’, and in 2002 they toured Europe with his project Da Univerzal Playaz, featuring reggae legend Jimmy Cliff.
With an expressive style that is compelling, exciting, and romantic, Blake Aaron continues to receive glowing acclaim from both fans and critics alike. Fusing jazz, R&B, soul, blues, and latin music, Blake Aaron has created a unique, distinctive musical experience that remains unparalleled. Whether it is the passion of his CDs, the humor and spontaneity of his weekly radio show, or the excitement, fun and truly unforgettable experience of his live shows, come share in the music that is Blake Aaron.
Joe Caro is a guitarist, composer and singer born and raised in New York City. He got his first guitar at the age of eight after seeing the Beatles on TV.
Early influences include the British Invasion and Jimi Hendrix and The Cream. A stint discovering the blues came next, listening to all the greats from Robert Johnson to Howlin’ Wolf and Elmore James. Soon after playing in local “garage” bands, he became interested in jazz focusing on Mile Davis, John Coltrane and all the great jazz guitarists.
With those varied influences, at age 18, he moved to Manhattan and started working in the New York recording studios and touring with Jazz and Rock/Pop artists in the US, Japan and Europe. He has recorded with many diverse artists such as Bette Midler, Blue Öyster Cult, Carly Simon, Dr. John, Michael Franks, Bobby McFerrin, Gato Barbieri, Michael McDonald, Fania Allstars, Chaka Khan, Irene Cara, Candido, Randy Brecker, Elements and many more.
He has also toured extensively with notables such as Dr. John, Herbie Mann, Carly Simon /James Taylor, Gato Barbieri, Michael Franks, Akiko Yano, played live and or TV for Jon Bon Jovi, Clint Black, Ashford and Simpson, Crosby, Stills and Nash, Roberta Flack,The Eagles, Brookes and Dunn, Sheryl Crow, Olivia Newton-John, James Taylor, Lenny Kravitz, Aretha Franklin, Willie Dixon, KD Lang, Stanley Clarke, Johnny Mathis and Luther Vandross.
Additionally, Joe has appeared with various artists and in the house bands on TV shows such as “The Late Show with David Letterman,” “Saturday Night Live” and “The Grammy Awards” and participated in countless recording sessions for TV commercials and movies.
OLA ONABULÉ is an inspiring artist for the 21st Century in a time of great change in the music industry. Ola has been incredibly tenacious in his career forging ahead to create a body of work that is quite remarkable for an artist of independent means. Ola has written, recorded and produced 7 albums on his label, Rugged Ram Records, with the most recent album entitled, SEVEN SHADES DARKER. The quality of Ola’s production and recording has attracted endorsements from the illustrious Neumann and Sennheiser of Germany and ACS in the UK. Neumann has been a considerable support to his work in terms of resources and equipment.
Ola’s emotionally charged live performances and impactive shows have taken Ola and his band to some of the most prestigious festival stages, concert halls and jazz clubs as well as several different tours in the UK and around the world. In Germany, Ola has collaborated with The WDR Big Band in Cologne Philharmonie, The Babelsberg Film Orchestra in Nikolaisaal Potsdam and most recently with The SWR Big Band at the Jazzfest Aalen with arrangements of his beautifully crafted songs
Three Beautiful and Super Talented Sultry Vocalists..3 Inspiring & Unique Stories...
International Jazz vocalist Anita King
National recording artist & Grammy considered inspirational pop/soul vocalist Geneva Renee
Actress, Dancer, National recording & Grammy considered R&B/Jazz vocalist Mycah Chevalier
...with a band of national recording artsts / musicians...
Bass guitarist and Musical Director, Kevin Walker (who has worked with artists such as Patti Labelle, Prince and Najee to name a few)
Songwriter. Storyteller, and lead guitarist Kevin Jackson from Baltimore MD
Saxophonist Dee Lucas from Atlanta, GA
Songwriter and smooth jazz keyboardist Kevin Howard, and his drummer Greg Morris, Jr., both from Pittsburgh
Saxophonist Elan Trotman, has quickly become one of contemporary jazz’s most thrilling and emotive performers, and continues to stand out and push boundaries as a composer, performer, and recording artist. So much so that he's becoming the go-to sax-man for smooth jazz artists like Peter White, Paul Brown, Keiko Matsui, Brian Simpson, Rick Braun, and a guest spot on the Dave Koz 2012 Cruise to Europe.
Trotman’s playing, though inspired by Grover Washington, Jr. and Kirk Whalum, among others, displays his own fresh ideas and distinctive tone. So much so that he's a 3-time winner of the New England Urban Music Award for Best Jazz Male, 2-time nominee for a Boston Music Award, and winner for Instrumentalist of the Year (Barbados) in 2011. Born and raised in Barbados, the native island of pop star Rihanna, and educated at the world-renowned Berklee College of Music in Boston, Trotman approaches jazz in his own way. Blending Caribbean rhythms from his roots with skillful horn textures, his playing is full of surprises. “I like to stretch out, take chances on my solos and on my records.” Inspiring and eminently listenable, Trotman’s music is never predictable.
Kevin Howard is a world class keyboardist,writer,composer,producer, and businessman.
Born and raised in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, Kevin is President and CEO of Key
Chapter Entertainment a company which includes full service recording and production.
Kevin has received several awards which include three “Best Jazz Performer Awards”
from renowned local urban radio station WAMO; the WQED Harry Schwab Excellence
in the arts award; Best Jazz Performer Champions Association; Pittsburgh City Paper “top three jazz performers”. Kevin, along with his band served as the Pittsburgh's WJJJ Smooth Jazz Band for more than two years, performing at various events sponsored by
the radio station.
Kevin recently toured with and was the musical director for jazz saxophone legend Ronnie Laws, also recorded and performed with saxophonist Marion Meadows, Norman Connors, Lonnie Liston Smith, Najee, and George Benson. In addition has shared the stage with Roy Ayers, Pieces of a dream, Joe McBride and John Legend.
Kevin also headlined concerts in Parkersburg, WV Jazz on the Green and Mid-Ohio
Valley Multi-culture Festival, Jazz under the Stars Harrisburg PA, International Festival Baltimore MD., National Urban League Convention, and several venues nationwide.
Kevin has three CD's “Random Groove”, “Collage”, and “Special Edition” which includes special guest saxophonist Marion Meadows and guitarist Rohn Lawrence. Kevin is currently in production with his fourth CD titled “Travels” due Spring 2014.
Kevin Howard's smooth dynamic sound, warm personality and infectious smile will have you yearning for more. Together with his band of world class musicians, the sounds you experience are tantalizing, smooth, dynamic , and mesmerizing. They project energy, passion and charisma in concert. Kevin is a true entertainer.
Jessy J burst onto the contemporary jazz scene in 2008, blending her love for Latin rhythms and jazz on her chart-topping, award-winning debut album Tequila Moon. Jessy earned the Radio & Records’ ‘Debut Artist of The Year’ Award and Contemporary Jazz ‘Song of the Year’ by both R&R and Billboard for the title track, which held the #1 spot on the chart for eight weeks. The talented saxophonist, pianist, singer and songwriter who has worked with everyone from The Temptations to Michael Bublé, has been developing her musical voice since she was very young, when she could be found practicing the saxophone, instead of heading out to play with friends. Words like dedicated, focused and hard-working all describe her drive and motivation to succeed and make music a life-long career. With her fourth release, Second Chances, due out on Shanachie Entertainment on September 10, 2013, Jessy reaches a major milestone as she takes over the reigns as the producer of the new album. The set features collaborations with Grammy Award nominated keyboardist-producer Jeff Lorber, Grammy Award-winning guitarist Norman Brown, renowned bassist Jimmy Haslip (formerly with The Yellowjackets) and legendary pianist Joe Sample.
Willie Bradley was in the midst of recording a group project with
his contemporary jazz/funk band Essential Elements earlier this year when an extraordinary opportunity to do a solo project came up and inspired him to take his career in a new direction. The Fayetteville, North Carolina based trumpeter had invited several young urban jazz sensations, including saxophonist Marcus Anderson and then 18 year old keyboardist Nicholas Cole, to join him onstage during one of his regular First Saturday of the Month gigs at the Holiday Inn Bordeaux. At the urging of Cole’s manager at the time,
Cole to produce & co-write Bradley’s first solo album. Several
months later, the trumpeter and Nicholas are halfway through the trumpeter’s edgy, urban jazz flavored solo debut Another Day & Time. Released as a preview for the full collection, the title track has already been picked up and played regularly by the national cable service Music Choice.
‘Another Day & Time’ refers not only to the fresh
start my collaboration with Nicholas is bringing to my
career, but also a new chapter in my spiritual life
after God helped me survive and kick addictions.
Another Day & Time will also feature many
special guests from the contemporary urban jazz
realm, including saxophonist/producer Darren
Rahn, guitarist Matt Marshak, bassist Julian
Vaughn and saxman Marcus Anderson.
Rodney Williams is a producer, arranger, and musician. Rod (short for Rodney) was born in Newark, NJ. He developed a love for music at an early age while growing up in the Newark Public School System. He started out with the violin and moved on to the clarinet. Rod later became interested in the saxophone after hearing Grover Washington Jr.'s "Mr. Magic" which he used as his audition piece to get into Arts High School in Newark, NJ. Rod is a talented musician who's diverse style includes a blend of R&B, Smooth Jazz, Classic Soul, Old School and New.
He arranged, recorded and produced all of his music in his own home studio.
Rod has been making a name for himself while playing at various local venues such as "Chico's House of Jazz", events throughout the state of NJ and local Jazz Festivals.
Rod has performed as a guest at the Red Cat Jazz Cafe pre celebration party jazzfest along with such artists as saxophonists Dean James,Kyle Turner, Marion Meadows, keyboardists Darrell Lavigne,Bobby Lyle, trumpet player,Joey Sommerville, and Ronnie Laws in Houston, Texas in October of 2011 .
December 2011, he took to the stage with Bob Baldwin at "Chico's House of Jazz along side of Darrell Lavigne and Kyle Turner.
His CD's "The Journey", "Hands Down" and now "Everything & More" will be available through amazon, itunes and cd baby.
David P. Stevens
Multi-talented Contemporary & Nu-Jazz, Neo~Fusion, R&B, Nu~Soul guitarist, singer, songwriter, producer, arranger, multi-instrumentalist, and recording studio engineer David P. Stevens invites you to take a musical journey with him through the “The DPS Experience”. “The DPS Experience” deftly incorporates elements of the modern jazz, R&B, soul, dance, hip-hop, rock, blues, and pop, resulting in a signature sound that embodies the legacy of The Sounds of Philadelphia’s own Gamble & Huff, Thom Bell, MFSB, Dexter Wansel, Grover Washington Jr., Roy Ayers, Baker-Harris- Baker productions, vocal elements of The Jones Girls, touches of Salsoul Orchestra, the creamy retro~soul of Norman Connors, the expansiveness of Ronnie
& Herbert Laws, vibes of Roy Ayers, and the eclectic
nuances of Pat Metheny, Chick Corea, Chuck Loeb, Larry
Carlton, Paul Jackson Jr., Norman Brown, the gospel riches of Dottie Rambo, the rock edges of Slash, and the musical production & coordination chops inspired from the school of The Q: Mr. Quincy Jones & super producer George Duke.
Born in Hagerstown, Maryland, Groove began his ascent toward musical notoriety and Internet stardom in second grade, when he started playing piano, taking his mother's lead - she taught the children's choir. "I always knew I wanted to play music. I started playing sax when I was nine or ten years old and
immediately took a liking to it," Groove affirms.
Although Euge Groove listened to everything from urban to pop to big band and country, his playing didn't reflect this cornucopia of sounds: "My teacher was strictly classical. I had played nothing but classical concertos and sonatas, either transcribed for sax or written for sax. I worshipped Marcel Mule, the French classical saxophonist--he was absolutely brilliant. He made the sax sound like a cello.”
There is a LOT More...so please join us!!
Mr. Phil Perry
A former member of the Montclairs, Phil Perry later teamed with Richard Sanlin in a duo that had a short stay at Capitol in 1980. Their first single stalled at number 81 and the album fizzled. They continued as songwriters and freelance producers. Perry issued his first LP, The Heart of the Man, for Capitol in 1991, but it didn't chart either, but its single, a cover of Aretha Franklin's version of "Call Me," hit the top spot on the R&B chart. Despite the hard knocks, he was undaunted. Perry established himself as a "go-to" session vocalist. He has worked with Lee Ritenour, the Rippingtons, Patti LaBelle, Anita Baker, Peabo Bryson, George Duke, Quincy Jones, Barbra Streisand, Boz Scaggs, Sergio Mendes, Bill Withers, Johnny Mathis, Bobby Womack, Chaka Khan, Fourplay, and Rod Stewart, and many others. Perry also continued to issue his own recordings. They include 1994's Pure Pleasure, 1998's One Heart, One Love (a top five entry in Billboard's contemporary jazz chart), 2000's My Book of Love, 2001's Magic, 2006's Classic Love Songs, 2007's Mighty Love, 2009's Gift of Love, and 2013's Say Yes, which was produced by Chip "Big Dog" Davis, and included a guest spot by Naje
National recording artist and contemporary jazz soprano saxophonist Dee Lucas has just released his fourth CD titled 'Rebirth of the Smooth' which he continues to take SOUL jazz in a different direction with his unique melodic styling. This Atlanta-based saxophonist has been consistently expanding his fan base since the release of his well-received 2004 debut solo CD 'Remembrance' which was a tribute to the late legendary saxophonist George Howard in addition to his 2007 sophomore sensation 'Something To Ride 2' and 2010 release of ‘Standing Room Only’. Dee Lucas further develops his own distinctive style by bringing more of an aggressive sound to the soprano sax on top of his smooth compositions that is more than just pleasing to the ear.
The new CD ‘Rebirth of the Smooth’, which features the single ‘Reconcile’, is a true testimony of reincarnating contemporary jazz with a fresh and honest approach to an already competitive genre of music.
Tony Exum, Jr. brings to mind the soulfulness of a David Sanborn, the sultry sounds of the late great Grover Washington, Jr. and silky smoothness of the late George Howard. Not a carbon copy of these
greats but a distillation of those influences that formulates a unique approach to the saxophone and thus
creating a voice of his own. His musical interests were sparked by his uncle Larry Francis, Jr., a saxophonist
in the Ft Carson, CO. army bands and his mothers vast record collection containing the sounds of jazz and funk such as Jeff Lorber, the saxophone of Washington, Sanborn and Howard, Charlie Parker, Ronnie Laws, Najee, P-Funk, Slave, Boosty Collins.... the list goes on and on. At age 18, Exum began studying music at the prestigious Lamont School of Music at the University of Denver under world renowned saxophonist M. Lynn
Baker, M.A. and first call woodwind doubler Art Bouton, M.A. These days at D.U. brought the world of music
with challenges and achievements that found Exum discovering the vast world of music and the possibilities within. In 1996, Exum joined Ft. Collins, CO. based band Meadowlark Jivin, a funky, jazzy blues and soul outfit spearheaded by singer-songwriter Brian Hull. He toured with them for 7 years recording two CDs in the process. Throughout this time Exum stepped on his own on the local CO scene as he performed with and opened up for such notable acts like The Temptations, the Four Tops, the Chi-Lites, the Manhattans, WAR, Dennis Edwards and the Temptations Review, Lenny Williams, Chelli Minucci and Special EFX, Nelson Rangell, Marion Meadows and Dotsero just to name a few.
Rick Parma
With superb tone and fierce playing style, Rick has taken music fans of all genres by surprise. With a passion for Jazz, Funk, R&B, Rock, Latin & blues, and he blends them beautifully in one song after another that captivates all audiences. Rick has been performing all over the Chicago for the past 12 years and since January of 2009 Southern California as well in venues and events such as Newport Beach Jazz Fest, Close Up 2 Jazz Fest, Spaghettini Jazz Club, 94.7 the Wave’s Sunday Brunch. Rick has performed with such groups as Heatwave, Stanley Jordan, DW3, Steve Oliver, and many more…
Chi-Town Soul
An intense dose of Chicago Soul mixed with Jazz, R&B, Funk, Old School R&B, Blues and even Latin jazz. When 4 to 7 piece band bring the styles of Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, David Sanborn, Al Green, EWF, Kool and the Gang, Marvin Gaye and so many more all lead by Rick Parma’s stylishly smooth vocals and stellar sax playing backed by incredible top professional musicians that make up one of the top bands in Southern California and anywhere else.
Jay Rowe is a pianist and keyboard player from Milford Connecticut. For more than 10 years he has performed as a solo pianist and with other artists such as Heads Up recording artist Marion Meadows, Angela Bofill, Private Music recording artist Phil Perry, Shanachie recording artist Chieli Minucci and Special EFX, Positive Music recording artist Ken Navarro and Atlantic recording artist Wayman Tisdale. He has also composed music for GRP/Shanachie recording artist Nelson Rangell, Marion Meadows, and Peak recording artist Dotsero.
Jay also performs with his own group "The Jay Rowe Band". He has performed as the opening act for David Benoit, the Rippingtons, Bela Fleck and the Fleck Tones, Stanley Jordan, Jeff Lorber, and Candy Dulfer. As a solo recording artist he has recorded four CD's:
Jay is also responsible for The Annual "Smooth Jazz for Scholars" concert. This event is going on its 12th year and for 2014 the event has been set for Friday April 18 and Saturday, April 19, and will be held at the Veteran's Memorial Auditorium at the Parsons Complex 70 West River Street Milford. Doors will open at 7 p.m., concert begins at 8 p.m.
For tickets and information, you may also visit "http://www.jayrowemusic.com" http://www.jayrowemusic.com or call 203-874-4150.
Lin Rountree, the Soul-Jazz/R&B Trumpeter, is the latest artist to emerge from the ‘new’ Detroit music factory. His playing has been described as soulful, funky, and sensual. Be it R&B/Soul or Groove Jazz, he has an innate ability to connect his music to his listener’s soul.
SERENDIPITOUS, Lin Rountree's fourth project to date and debut album on CutMore Records is available NOW! Produced and co-written by Grammy Nominated producer Nate Harasim, this auspicious project establishes the Soul-Trumpeter as a bona-fide leader in the new sound of Soul-Jazz.
Chieli Minnuci
For 14 years (1982-1996), guitarist Chieli Minucci was half of the popular World Fusion band Special EFX, forming a musical partnership with percussionist George Jinda and creating accessible yet slightly unusual music. Minucci attended Ithica College, playing guitar in a variety of rock and pop groups, and had developed his own approach to the guitar when he met up with Jinda in 1982. Their band recorded extensively with GRP (1984-1992) and also made three CDs for JVC (1993-1995) before finally breaking up. Minucci in the 1980s and '90s also worked as a producer and writer for other musicians including Deborah Henson-Conant and Kim Pensyl, plus he worked in the studios. Minucci appeared on a variety of R&B dates by the likes of Chaka Khan, Roberta Flack, Noel Pointer, and Angela Bofill and began his solo career in 1995, cutting three CDs as a leader without Jinda for JVC during 1995-1997. Since that time, Minucci has continued to release albums, some of which include Sweet on You in 2000, Night Grooves in 2003, and Sweet Surrender in 2007.
Louis Fouche'
Louis Fouché is a dynamic young alto saxophonist and composer. He performs across genres but has his roots in New Orleans music. You can find him in various parts of the world performing with renowned artists such as pianist Eddie Palmieri, trumpeter Brian Lynch, trumpeter Christian Scott, bassist George Porter of the Meters, pianist Jonathan Batiste, and the Curtis Brothers Band, featuring pianist Zaccai Curtis and bassist Luques Curtis. Louis hasreleased his first project with his original music and arrangements.
For music clips and information about performances, visit www.louisfouche.com.
Darren Rahn
After making his segue to Trippin ‘N’ Rhythm, the stage is set for the release of this, his third and most revealing record to date.
Having firmly established himself as a first call producer, mixing up #1 hits for Dave Koz, Tim Bowman and his longtime friend and collaborator, the late great Wayman Tisdale, Darren Rahn puts it all out on full display, proving that beyond being a serious producer, he is equally adept at songwriting and proves again that his saxophone chops rank with the best in the business.
A master at melody, Rahn is also a true craftsman when it comes to creating strong hooks, and they are both on full display with the lead single “Magnetic”, an apropos title for a song with a pull so strong that it sticks to you and you’ll not soon get it off.
Rahn brings some of his closest friends along for the ride with cameo appearances from Dave Koz, Paul Brown, Najee, and Nate Harasim. The album also features two very special vocal tracks, the title track “Speechless” highlighted by the breathtaking voice of Maxine Hardcastle and he also welcomes the exciting and dynamic new vocal sensation Joshua on the track “Magical”, which is truly that and is destined to become a pop smash.
Phil Denny
Since emerging onto the smooth jazz scene in 2012 much traction has been made by the efforts of saxophonist and businessman, Phil Denny. Some might describe him as a people’s musician having developed a very active and loyal fan base even before the release of his internationally recognized 2012 debut, Crossover; an album which has already earned him two Billboard charted hits. A buzz has been rippling from coast to coast as either his music or marketing prowess reaches those who follow smooth jazz almost always earning him a new fan. Described as a passionate and soulful player who has a way of captivating audiences with his smooth, sexy yet energetic style. In fact, Phil has sold out every show he has produced since the summer of 2012 and continues to build quite the international following.
RiShon Odel
RiShon Odel Northington is perhaps one of the most creative talents in this era; he is currently tours with 3x-time Grammy-Nominated Saxophonist NAJEE whose last 3 singles have rode the Billboard Top 10 in two categories, Smooth Jazz and R&B. As part of NAJEE’S 2-year 5-Star band (Ticketmaster), Odel is a member of the International Society of Bassists and endorses DR “Black Beauties” Strings; along with other bassists like Marcus Miller, Thaddeus Tribbett, Sting, Mike Harrington and more. In addition, Odel has traveled and recorded with a pastiche of great artists throughout his career, such as: Marvin Winans, Phil Perry, Me’Lisa Morgan, Donnie McClurkin, Special Gift and (Love & Hip-Hop star) “Stevie J” Jordan…
Marcus Johnson, a name that speaks for itself..but in case you've lived under a rock for the past plus decade..Lol here you go..!
Distinguished Musician and Owner of FLO Wine
An independent Billboard-ranked musician and NAACP Image Award-nominated jazz keyboardist and pianist, Marcus Johnson is also the CEO and Founder of Flo Brands, LLC and more recently Flo Wine, LLC. He has combined an eminently successful musical career with his love of wine by marrying the two in a unique endeavor.
Over the last decade, Marcus Johnson has released 15 successful studio albums. On Pandora, Marcus receives 5.1 million spins per year with 2,000 new stations added each month, and his music receives a 74% “thumbs ups” rating verses an average of 56%. Johnson is the owner of a music label, Three Keys Music, and has emerged as one of the young lions of the music world. His unique self-taught style of piano play has earned him distinction among his peers, praise from the media and accolades across the music industry. Marcus is on the cutting edge of ‘Euro Jazz’ having formed JURIS, a musical collaboration with acclaimed Parisian DJ and producer Pulse. The duo quickly developed a name within the international music community, enjoying large-scale performances.
Sam Hankins
Offering up a fresh and exhilarating vibe with his full length debut Nothing Between Us, trumpeter and composer Sam Hankins draws on a powerhouse resume as a music educator and R&B/jazz sideman that includes multiple awards as a middle school Band Director and performances with numerous legendary artists, including Al Jarreau, Clark Terry, The O’Jays, The Temptations, The Dells, The Impressions, Aretha Franklin and the Glenn Miller Big Band.
Carl "C-Man" Anderson is a vigorous and resourceful musician, innovative producer, adaptable singer, and self-taught drummer extraordinaire. As a youth, C-MAN was one of the founding members of local Go-Go style band, OCCUPATION, and youth gospel group, UNIFIED. He has performed on over 15 recordings with various artists. Throughout his childhood, his budding talents allowed him to proudly travel beside his father, the late Evangelist, KENNNETH FREDERICK ANDERSON, SR., and the gospel quartet sensation the DYNAMIC TRAVELERS of Annapolis, MD (of which his father was a founding member). These experiences would later prove to be the foundation of who we now know to be the “solid drummer with the quick foot,” C-MAN.
This journey has taken him all over the nation. Some of his gospel credits include: THE MIGHTY CLOUDS OF JOY, THE SOULSTERS, THE NIGHTINGALES and REGI McCLURKIN & PRAISE AGENDA.
...With his formative years spent in New York City, Roberto's musical talents were highly enriched through in-depth exposure to vast musical styles. Classical, Jazz, Latin, Funk, Rock, Hip-Hop, Pop, and Soul music became an integral part of his musical palette. Years of traveling and performing with notable artists around the world have made Roberto's already broad repertoire one of outstanding magnitude. The combination of his innate groove, musicality, dexterity, and worldwide playing experiences make
Roberto a world-class bass virtuoso, and as many will attest, with a heart as big as his 6 string.
2013 has been a particularly busy year for Oli, with the first half of the year spent mainly in his recording studio masterminding and completing his new CD entitled ‘Razor Sharp Brit’. This was released to the masses on September 17th 2013. However this was preceded by the 1st single release entitled ‘At Your Service’ which features the extraordinary talents of bass guitarist Julian Vaughn and is currently flying up the Billboard Top 30 Smoothjazz Radio Chart.
A virtuoso on the alto, soprano, and tenor saxophones, as well as the unique EWI breath controller, Jaared is an internationally acclaimed recording artist. He is also an accomplished singer, who often brings the house down with his vocals.
Jaared entered the Washington, D.C., music scene at a very young age, rapidly gaining prominence for his work on the alto sax. As he continued as a full-time entertainer, he received more and more recognition for his music, and was soon known to audiences all over the world. Always wanting to keep things fresh, Jaared chose to expand his musical message with the soprano sax, EWI, and tenor sax, and now plays all three, while continuing with his main voice, the alto sax. His soaring soprano is one of the sweetest you will ever hear.
In 2002, Jaared was nominated as ‘Best New Artist of the Year’ by the National Smooth Jazz Association.
The beauty of his playing and his ability to connect with his audience, whether recorded or live, has gained him international acclaim. G.
Jaared has performed in Dubai, South Africa, West Africa, Poland, Germany, Austria, and other countries in Europe as well as all over the U.S. Jaared is loved in the United States and has a huge and dedicated fan base in Europe, where he regularly performs. His music is gaining national and international fans daily. Jaared is also a generous collaborator, and a favorite of the talented guitarist Peter White, who often asks Jaared to perform with him if Jaared’s schedule allows.
Jaared’s live shows are electric. He values the support of his fans, connecting with the audience in a way that few performers ever master. Listening to Jaared play, while seeing him live, is a fabulous entertainment experience. Jaared has assembled a band of top-notch musicians, but has also lent his talent to the shows of others such as Maysa, Peter White, Gregg Karukas, Dan Aykroyd, Freddie Jackson, and more.
Carmelo "Kar" Munet was born in Carolina, Puerto Rico. He began to take interest in percussion instruments during his early childhood years. His first instruments were an empty tin can, an old electric fan and two sticks made from a wooden hanger. By the age of 14, he was studying music and his instrument of choice was the drums. Later, he became an integral part of this first organized band in his hometown. By the age of 15, he was part of a rock band with the infamous DJ of "La Mega" Radio Station in New York City, together with Roberto Reveron.
During the past 20 years, he has shared numerous stages at various festivals and concerts with acclaimed musicians such as Jon Secada, Jorge Laboy, Humberto Ramirez, Jerry Gonzalez, Anthony Carillo, Lannie Battistini, Pedro Guzman, Paoli Mejias, Rie Akagi, Edwin Zayas, Luis Marin, Angel David Matos, Zeny & Zory, Millito Cruz and many others.
Karmunet continues his stage appearances and promotion of his CD, "Sopilongo," in Puerto Rico, the U.S. and abroa
Kevin Jackson is a guitarist, bassist, and producer from Baltimore,
Maryland, with over 25 years in the music business. “I’ve always loved
music,” reminisces Jackson. “My earliest memory is when I was 13 and
my mother would take me to all these gospel quartet groups in
Baltimore. I eventually went on to tour with the Singing Disciples and
haven’t looked back.”
Jackson has been influenced by many musicians ranging from Marcus
Miller, James Brown, Dean Brown, Sting, The Edge, John Scofield,
Robin Ford and Keith Urban, to name a few. "Number 1 on the list is,
Hiram Bullock, without a doubt,” quips Jackson. “His ability to play all
genres is amazing, but to still have his sound behind it is awesome.
That’s talent.”
Join me as I welcome Guitarist Jonathan Butler and share with you some classical tunes that make up Jonathan Butler's very first holiday recording. ..Yes - It's his furst and truly worth the wait!! Plus with Jonathan's performing on this year's annual Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour it will seen like the holiday fun never stops!!!! Level 10 Come and discover this AMAZING Band, as we go into the worlds of pianist Levy Andrade, sax player Rex Freligh, legendary Cuban bassist Yovannis Roque and Cuban percussionist Ivan Diaz. This dynamic group of seasoned players that make up Level 10 is living up to its name and taking it to the top with blistering live performances
The Brooklyn born and raised, NYC based Williams built such an enthusiastic fan base that his few years away from recording due to personal issues and other business endeavors led many of his supporters to reach out asking when he would be back in action, and supporting him every step of the way as he did so. While still grounded in the style of his personal musical hero Grover Washington, Jr., Williams takes some outside the box risks on his second full-length project It's All About You. Explaining the title of the album, he says, "While my fans were asking me about the next CD, they would tell me what they loved about the first one. So I decided to create a CD based on what they said they loved. It's about my fans, those people who kept me uplifted during this challenging time in my life. I'm always writing songs that reflect everything I'm going through, and my goal was for them to identify with my music. I started out with 25 songs and chose the ones that stuck with me and which I felt they would enjoy best."
Well It's about that time to start sharing the Joy of Christmas!!
Peggy Duquesnel (Pianist / Vocalist / Composer) A musician of stunning range and complexity, Peggy Duquesnel's achievements in music are a testament to her incredible devotion to the art of music.
All I Ask for Christmas PEGGY DUQUESNEL is pleased to present her latest recording, "All I Ask for Christmas," a double album with 21 tracks separated into an instrumental disc and a vocal disc. The project features several popular Christmas standards along with four of Peggy's original Christmas songs. It highlights her fluid piano improvisations and inviting vocals with a trio that includes Brian Bromberg on bass and Joe La Barbera on drums. Extra finesse and colors are added by Brian Kilgore on percus-W. Rick Braun on flugelhorn and Jay Leach on guitar. Vocalist Bill Cantos is featured on three duets with Peggy, including the title cut, as well as introducing vocalist Emma Werderman, who joins Peggy on Mary Did You Know for another moving duet. Duquesnel's jazzy / pop arrangements and songwriting capture her eclectic jazz background and warm personality.
Ray Mantilla continues to raise the bar for Latin jazz while he welcomes you to the land of rhythm and groove with The Connection!
Ray Mantilla is the "connection" as referenced in this aptly titled release from Savant. At 79, Mantilla is that all important standard bearer for the connection between the jazz he cut his teeth on and the Afro-Caribbean rhythms that make up his musical DNA. The Latin flip side to the great Art Blakey, Mantilla has a keen eye for young talent and this dynamic septet includes some of the finest up and coming players not just on the Latin scene but in jazz today. Walking the sonic tightrope between his Puerto Rican roots and the Afro-Caribbean vibe made famous during his stint with Gato Barbieri, Mantilla is making music his way and with stellar results.
Recording and performing my music has been my lifelong dream. I hope that everyone enjoys my songs and finds a connection to each and every one of them. My first introduction to music came at the age of three. I remember sneaking into my grandfather’s closet to strum his old acoustic guitar. Later, at the age of six, my family relocated from North Africa to Rome where I was able to enjoy the romantic sounds produced by my father’s accordion. Next, at the age of eight I found myself, along with my family, relocating to the good old USA. Finally, at the age of thirteen, I was introduced to the great sounds of, a well known band known as, the “Beatles”. After that, life as I knew it would never be the same. I guess, that’s how it all started
Hardcastle started to specialise in television soundtracks and remixed work, for artists as such as Five Star, Barry White, Third World, Sinitta, Johnny Logan, Hiroshima and Ian Dury.
In 1988, Hardcastle released the concept album, No Winners, which focuses on the potential negative effects of the Cold War arms race. In 2000, he released Hardcastle III, which included a remake of "Rainforest" and a hit single, "Desire."
Hardcastle has also recorded several synth jazz albums, alternating releases under the artist names Kiss The Sky (with Jaki Graham), The Jazzmasters, and Paul Hardcastle.[1] Working regularly with vocalists such as Helen Rogers, Becki Biggins, and Margo LeDuc, Hardcastle has recruited several saxophonists including Gary Barnacle (on the first album), Snake Davis, Phil Todd, Tony Woods, and Rock Hendricks. All these albums have been played on smooth jazz radio in the United States, where some of the most played tracks include "Northern Lights", "Lost in Space", "Desire", "Shine", and "Serene". He won the Billboard Smooth Jazz Artist Of The Year award in 2008.
Profusely creative, highly energetic, sensitive and yet dynamic are a few words that describe the artistry of this extraordinary bassist.
Calvin Napper, drummer for MAZE featuring Frankie Beverly, describes him as "…gifted and talented…". 2 time Grammy Award winning producer Cedric Thompson labels him as "…phenomenal…an asset…my GO TO guy…". Saxophonist Mike Phillips adds "…one of the funkiest bassists that I've played with
. As John's love and dedication has grown throughout the years, his musical world has been colored by bassists such as Jaco Pastorius, Marcus Miller, Gerald Veasley, Ray Brown, Ron Carter, John Patitucci, Nathan East, Fred Hammond and Joel Smith, to name a few. Often asked who is his greatest influence, John’s response is always “Too many to name and enough to keep me humble and always practicing”.
Blending a unique mix of jazz, R&B, classical and Latin music, Andrew Neu is one of the most exciting, multi-genre musicians today.
Andrew is well respected throughout the industry for his work as a saxophonist, woodwind player, arranger, composer and recording artist. Whether he’s in concert as a solo artist or a sideman, Neu’s musicianship and powerful stage presence continue to get the attention of audiences and critics alike. Passionate best describes him.
Regularly touring the world with Bobby Caldwell, Diane Schuur and Smokey Robinson, Neu has shared the stage with Elton John, Patti Labelle, Mellissa Manchester, Mel Torme, The Philadelphia Orchestra, The Four Tops, and The Temptations among others. He has also recorded as a soloist with Bobby Caldwell, Sister Sledge, Manhattan Transfer, Peter White, David Sanborn, Steve Oliver, Jeff Lorber, Brian Culbertson and Buddy DeFranco. Neu has appeared at major festivals and concert halls throughout the world and performed with jazz artists Pat Martino, Randy Brecker, Joey DeFrancesco, Lew Soloff, Rick Braun, Richard Elliot, Mindi Abair, Gerald Albright, Euge Groove, Kim Waters, Warren Hill, Nick Colionne, David Benoit, Eric Darius, Chieli Minucci and Brian Simpson. He was a featured soloist on CDs by Bobby Caldwell, Steve Oliver and Peter White’s number 1 song and record, ‘Here We Go’ on Billboard all in 2012.
After his breakthrough in contemporary jazz circles as the 2009 winner of the Capital Jazz Fest Challenge and currently on tour with PRINCE. Marcus Anderson is still embracing every opportunity to perform and inspire fans – and most importantly, as the title of his third and latest CD attests, fully living in the NOW. The multi-talented producer, song writer, composer, saxophonist, vocalist and flutist’s original working title was “Transition,” a nod to the powerful ongoing development of his career and his move toward the top tier of contemporary jazz. Anderson realized that the career he had always dreamed of was indeed happening right NOW, and it’s exciting. With the release of NOW, , his third solo CD, Anderson’s goal is to capture the energy from his live shows and make this collection of music his most dynamic, joyful and creative recordings yet.
ce and DeBoer set the other moods of Off Duty with an expansive variety of melodic, harmonic and rhythmic textures, beginning with the bubbling bass, sax fills and ambient old school soul atmospheres of “Sandbar” (which builds in intensity to later include a fiery fusion of DeBoer’s electric guitar and Stewart’s sax) and wrapping with the haunting, stormy reflections of “Gare Du Nord” (also concluding with a soaring guitar solo). The cab may be off duty, but the duo never is.
A very special 2 hour show to sit back and chillax with my favorite band..Lol.. sore of a reunion with friends if you will, with some amazing and talented guys, who will share their latest music from UNSTOPPABLE and a lot of laughs!! ZOE’ is one of the hottest Smooth Jazz bands originating from the South Jersey / Philadelphia area. The group is comprised of five talented musicians whose melodic compositions produce extraordinarily compelling music. Currently, members of ZOÉ include: saxophonist Reggie Harris, keyboardist Cleveland Belin Jr., drummer David Ferebee, bassist H. Maurice Fonville and percussionist / trumpeter Bolivar "Chico" Guadalupe, all of which contribute to the original songwriting and vocals.
National Recording Artist/Saxophonist Will Donato is an exciting performer and award-winning composer, whose new upcoming CD release, Universal Groove, will be his fifth solo CD release with Innervision Records. Will currently has a hit radio single, “GRAND SLAM” produced by hitmaker Steve Oliver on the Billboard Chart Top 30.
Will has performed with some of the best known musicians of the genre, namely Al McKay of Earth Wind and Fire, Bruce Conte of Tower of Power, Steve Reid of The Rippingtons, Steve Oliver, Greg Karukas, Nick Colionne. He also fronted Steve Reid's Bamboo Forrest for four years.
He has worked outside the smooth jazz genre as well, most notable with Gerald Levert, Toni Childs, and pop star Richard Marx. Will can also be heard on the number one legacy hit from Steve Oliver, High Noon, as well as on the sound soundtracks from several movie scores including Thelma and Louise, The Wedding Planner, Under the Boardwalk, and No Man's Land.
Recognized as one of music's most dynamic performers, gifted with the ability to bond and connect with his audiences, Will Donato was quoted by NewJazz.com as "....A Must See Show!...."
Grayson’s Live2Love is an almost perfectly paced conceptualized look at the American pop scene from Aretha Franklin to Sade and from Hall & Oates to Maroon 5. Far more than an above average coverage artist, toss in some wildly creative originals including the first radio single “Afterthoughts” highlighting a prolific ability on soprano sax not to mention the ability to bring the long lost vocal art of scatting back to the modern audience. Who does that? While some of her contemporaries struggle with vocals that are “passable” at best, Grayson is a solid vocalist and uses her ability as flavor and texture without ever seemingly pushing the envelope in search of the elusive crossover hit despite the fact this release contains roughly a half dozen. Now firmly settled and established in the Washington, D.C.-Baltimore scene, Bach has by way of a dedicated fan base and an ever-growing list of corporate and reputable clients honed a craft worthy of recognition. As recipient of two Gold Records and winner of the 2004 Maryland State Art Council Performance Award, he has tasted the fruit of his efforts firsthand. His band, The David Bach Consort, was the winner of the Jazz Discovery Showcase on BET, has performed at Jazzmatazz with B.B. King, and has played at the Kennedy Center.
Trumpeteer Joey Sommerville’s musical essence lies in the Baptist church. "When I was a teenager, I would judge the caliber of my playing by the number of people in the congregation who 'got happy'. If you aren't touching the listener's soul, then you aren't really playing music. Soul communication is the key." His latest offering entitled, "The Get Down Club" is iconic, forward thinking contemporary jazz featuring funk, gospel and bop influences delivered with pop sensibilities. At 30-something, jazz saxophonist Jarez realizes hip-hop rules the world for most young men his age. But that hasn’t stopped the young musician from claiming his fame while pursuing the music true to his heart. Like the name of his new CD “On Top Of The World” on his own independent label, Jarez is taking it all the way. With a vision as innovative as his sax styling,
James Colah is from London, England and is an accomplished keyboards player, producer, arranger, composer, session man and International Songwriter Award winner with an impressive resumé in the music industry.
He began his music studies at the age of four with a classical training which progressed to a dynamic and creative flare for composition and performance, much of which is undertaken at his own south London studios.
He has composed, performed, recorded and produced music for more than 300 artists of
Paris Escovedo- “The Paris Escovedo Project” “Exhilarating sounds of Latin Funk fusion that differentiates them from others… a unique sound all their own.” Son to the legendary Thomas “Coke” Escovedo, Paris Escovedo, of Mexican and Puerto Rican descent was born with talent running through his veins. Paris Escovedo comes from a musical talented family. His roots stem from his father and the Escovedo Brothers Band. His father and his uncle Pete Escovedo played with Santana among other legendary artists and his cousin Shiela E. is also no stranger to the entertainment music world.
Charlie Sepúlveda was born in the Bronx, NY in 1962. He remembers his parents playing music in their house and seeing movies with Louis Armstrong on TV and liking the sound of the trumpet. When he was 4 years old his mother bought a couple of albums by Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass whose recordings had a big impact on him. In 1970, Charlie and his parents moved to Caguas, Puerto Rico where Charlie found a mouthpiece for a trumpet in the backyard. It is quite possible that Charlie is a world-renowned trumpeter by chance, since no one had lived in that house where Charlie had found that special mouthpiece.
Eddie Palmieri, known for his charismatic power and bold innovative drive, has a musical career that spans over 50 years as a bandleader of Salsa and Latin Jazz orchestras. With a discography that includes 36 titles, Mr. Palmieri has been awarded nine Grammy Awards. Born in Spanish Harlem in 1936, Eddie began piano studies at an early age, as did his celebrated older brother, the late Salsa legend and pianist, Charlie Palmieri. For Latin New Yorkers of Eddie’s generation, music was a vehicle out of El Barrio. At age 11, he auditioned at Weil Recital Hall, which is next door to Carnegie Hall, a venue as far from the Bronx as he could imagine. Possessed by a desire to play the drums, Palmieri joined his uncle’s orchestra at age 13, where he played timbales. Says Palmieri, “By 15, it was good-bye timbales and back to the piano until this day. I’m a frustrated percussionist, so I take it out on the piano.”
Joe comes from a family of world class musicians and has grown up immersed in the passion of musical performance.Initially, being exposed to classical music as a young boy, Joe fast developed his interest in saxophone and Jazz. Together with his band at school, he won the “Daily Telegraph Young Jazz Awards” at the tender age of sixteen.This marked the beginning of his musical journey. Trained in performance by his mother, South African concert piano champion, Lucille Leader, Joe learned how to communicate emotions and feelings to an audience, creating an atmosphere so that people can live in the passion of each note, each phrase and each song, taking them on an emotional musical journey.After school, Joe continued to develop his craft, studying privately with some of the finest teachers from the Guild Hall school of Music in London, and then at the University of Cape Town, South Africa. Finally back in London, Joe completed his studies in Music Technology, receiving 1st class honors. Joe’s well rounded studies now gave him a solid grounding in music as well as in the intricacies of music recording and production.
Airborne is a multi-cultural Contemporary Jazz group based from New Haven, CT USA.
Formed in the 1980’s these veterans of jazz celebrate years of recordings, jazz festivals, concerts, and clubs. The members have toured across the World. Airborne has many award winning and chart topping CD’s and has received worldwide airplay and international acclaim.
Airborne the proclaimed “Musical Peacemakers” of Contemporary Jazz sends out an Inspirational Message of Hope to the World.
In 1988 while a little known singer from Brooklyn released a self-titled debut on Island Records called Will Downing. Fast-forward to 2013, CDs have taken a backseat to MP3s but that singer from Brooklyn has withstood the test of time. Today, Will Downing, the Grammy® nominated reigning “Prince of Sophisticated Soul”, celebrates an incredible 25 years of recording excellence with his 16th album, “Silver”. Silver is not a “Best of” or “Greatest Hits” collection. Silver is a personal invitation from Will Downing to his fans to jointly celebrate a quarter-century of giving his heart and soul through every song, concert and note. For loyalists that have been there from day one, it’s their Silver Anniversary.
Ms. Keiko is stopping by for a another chat with me, bringing great updates since her release of Soul Quest!!! :) A true humanitarian, Keiko has lent her voice to raise awareness for such causes as The Daniel Pearl Foundation, The United Nations World Food Programme, Be The Match Marrow Registry and The National Donor Program and Marrow Foundation. She has also lent her efforts to the continued revitalization and healing of Japan in the wake of the recent Tsunami and Fukushima disasters. musician to top the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Charts. “But when I think about the people who did survive, I think that they may be the strongest souls there are. Out of this pain, I have found the greatest strength from these individuals.” Keiko Matsui’s new recording Soul Quest, is a riveting new collection of songs that unfold like an epic journey. With an all-star cast that includes such heavyweights as producer and drummer Narada Michael Walden, guitarist Chuck Loeb, saxophonist Kirk Whalum and bassist Marcus Miller, among others, Keiko explores themes of love, loss, spirituality and environmental consciousness Marion MeadowsThe one and only Sexy & Saxy Marion Meadows will be stopping by Up Close and Personal for a chat and update about all of the great things that have occurred in his life since our last conversation earlier this year, as he was about to release his latest project Whisper, his tour and much more!!
Contemporary jazz and pop music scene. New York-based Atherton has opened for the likes of Chuck Loeb, Patti Austin, Tito Puente and saxophonist Najee. In 2004 her debut CD ‘Let Me Inside Your Love’ made its mark on the national contemporary jazz charts, and in 2006 a cut from this album, ‘I Long For Your Love’ was included on the compilation ‘Ladies of Jazz,’ which also featured Natalie Cole, Candy Dulfer and Eliane Elias. Mindi AbairSaxophonist/vocalist/songwriter Mindi Abair has been surrounded by talented musicians her entire life. Her paternal grandmother was an opera singer, and her father was a saxophonist and B3 player in a blue-eyed soul group called The Entertainers – a gig that kept the whole family on the road for several years throughout the early ‘70s. By the time the band broke up and the Abairs put down roots in St. Petersburg, Florida, five-year-old Mindi had already demonstrated musical aspirations of her own by taking up the piano.
Contemporary jazz keyboard player Alex Bugnon, nephew of trumpeter Donald Byrd, grew up going to the Montreux Jazz Festival in his hometown in Switzerland. He attended the Paris Conservatory of Music for two years, then moved to the U.S. and went to the Berklee School of Music, meanwhile performing as an accompanist to gospel groups. He spent four years working as a session musician in New York, backing urban and jazz performers such as Patti Austin, Freddie Jackson, James Ingram, and Keith Sweat. Signed to Orpheus Records, he released his debut album, Love Season, in 1989. It reached the pop charts and the Top 40 of the R&B charts, as did its follow-up, 1990's Head Over Heels. Subsequent releases -- 107 Degrees in the Shade (1991), This Time Around (1993), and Tales From the Bright Side (1995), the last on RCA Records -- all placed in the R&B charts. After five years away from recording under his own name, Bugnon signed to the jazz division of Narada Records, which marketed him as a jazz artist, and his sixth album, Alex Bugnon...As Promised, reached the contemporary jazz charts. He followed in 2001 with Soul Purpose.
Smooth and urban jazz saxophonist Art Sherrod Jr grew up in Palestine, Texas surrounded by parents who made music a main part of the Sherrod household. At the age of five he was singing in the choir and at the age of thirteen Art joined the high school band and had to make a big decision, what instrument should he play? After deliberating over the idea of drums or a trumpet Art finally settled on the instrument that he thought might get the most attention of the girls and chose the saxophone. But in time he would come to realize that it was the saxophone that had chosen him and to this day his heart has been devoted to this mesmerizing instrument and the musical messages it conveys. By the time he graduated from high school he had received numerous awards and had been recognized as an All-Area, All Region and All-State Alto, Tenor and Baritone Saxophonist and was chosen as an alternate to the McDonalds All-American Band..A lot much more and latest release as well as tour dates
This new Trippin N Rhythm artist, saxophonist Lebron, not only brings us another level of freshness with his debut release Shades, but the Lebronsaxman has some pretty profound and pleasantly to-the-point opinions and observations.
When asked about his music, he responds, “Sound. It’s all about the sound.” His sound has been described simply as sweet and smooth. He adds, “To me, it’s never been about playing a bunch of notes as fast as I can or being too technically complex. The average listener can’t relate to that. Sometimes all that’s needed is the RIGHT note. I’m a strong believer that you can say more musically with less, just as long as it sounds pure.” I couldn’t agree more. He goes on to say, “I want people to leave my shows feeling better than they did before they arrived. If I play a love song, I want them to feel the love.
After catapulting to smooth jazz stardom in the United States with two Top-20 Billboard chart singles and two #1 New York Music Chart singles from his CD, After the Night, Canadian saxophonist Walle Larsson is looking to build on his success with the release of his new CD, One Step Closer.
The CD, which was recorded in Los Angeles, Stockholm and Winnipeg, is a collaborative effort. This time around, Larsson has teamed up with a host of top-notch international talent such as acclaimed guitarist and producer Steve Oliver, Swedish composer, producer and instrumentalist Jonathan Fritzen and legendary keyboardist Tom Schuman of Spyro Gyra fame.
Whether the debonair multi-instrumentalist is engaged in a verbal or musical conversation, his alluring charisma has a way of seducing you into his world. A quadruple threat who is equally adept on soprano, tenor and alto saxophones and flute, Najee’s technical agility, grace, compositional prowess, unbridled passion, fearless genre bending and superior musicianship have made him one of the most sought after musicians of his generation. In a business where trends and artists come and go, Najee’s name is synonymous with innovation, consistency and the best in contemporary jazz.
With two Platinum and four Gold albums under his belt, he is an icon whose musical vision spawned an entire new genre by fusing the music close to his heart (R&B and jazz). Three decades later he is showing that he is not done yet!
Versatility and virtuosity characterize the career of multi-talented songwriter-producer Benjie Porecki, who is often called a “musician’s musician.” He has earned that moniker by performing equally well as a jazz/gospel/funk B-3 organist, jazz/blues pianist, rock keyboardist, and reggae/blues guitarist while holding his own as a solo artist. Porecki enjoys the distinction of being among the top picks of many artists representing diverse genres.
Contemporary jazz guitarist Matt Marshak taps into the wonderful diversity of music in Colors of Me (Nuance Music Group), shading his classic and fluid style with jazz, blues, rock, pop and even down-home boogie. Marshak's seventh major release follows 2011's highly received Urban Folktales, which captured a sophisticated late-night vibe and boasted a No. 1 song on the 2011 indie jazz chart, "Silent Knowing." It's a busy time for Marshak, who is popular on the tour circuit (Seabreeze, Rehoboth, Hartford Jazz, Low Country, etc.) and finding new audiences with his new, fresh music in a time when it seems the entire music industry is shrinking. Keeping his music evolving in new directions is important to the guitarist.
6’7” lead bass player from Kansas City, Julian Vaughn laid down a strong statement with his self-released debut entitled “The Purpose Project” in 2010, one that garnered the attention of radio and in turn the attention of record companies clamoring to sink their claws into his dynamic young talent. Trippin ‘N’ Rhythm Records one of the genres most active and aggressive labels knew a star when they saw one and jumped at the chance to add Vaughn to its ever growing roster of fresh and inventive young artists. “Breakthrough” marked his label debut and has already made waves across the country with a two week debut on the national Billboard chart at #24 and eventually reaching and staying at #1 for three consecutive weeks on the Billboard charts with his first hit single “On Your Feet