Whats Happening Jazz Lovers…
This one was a ‘selective’ choice, not chosen because it was a big Billboard Singles hit or blazed the charts throughout the globe back in the day. Considering how big of a fan I am of legendary contemporary jazz pianist Bobby Lyle‘s work, I came to a decision to add the title track from stellar 1989 album “Ivory Dreams” (Atlantic Records).
Here’s a good one. It just might go on ‘repeat.’
Quite possibly one of the finest “sleepers” in contemporary jazz singles is this spiritually revealing track “Joy” from collaborative ensemble The Staff. Featured on their debut self-titled album (Pioneer Entertainment) from 2000, “Joy” received a great deal of spins and playback on countless cjazz – smooth jazz radio dials and channels no less than 20 years ago and is now getting ready to receive some more on T.U.M.S.
William Bell provides a lifetime teaching moment with his latest track, “Let’s Make Loving Great Again”
With an extensive list of credentials including membership in The Memphis Music Hall of Fame, William Bell is one of Stax Records’ eternal southern soulful gems. His current label Wilbe Records was voted Record Label of the Year at the Southern Konnection Radio and DJ Conference in 2004.
Singer/Songwriter Miki Howard’s brand-new single, “Number One Fan” is a track off her unique tribute CD
Through the on and off-stage tribulations that shadowed her career, her stunning voice bridging soul and gospel with stunning jazz phrasing has always been appreciated by her audiences. Miki Howard’s defining hit, ”Love Under New Management” (the inspiration for the 2016 autobiographical film of the same name) demonstrated a vocal finesse that produced several albums in the top R&B 100 charts since the mid-eighties.
Janet Jackson’s smash dance video “Make Me” returns remastered
2009 was an historical and emotional year for the Jackson family – sparked by Michael Jackson’s death. And the MTV Video Music Awards dedicated their platform towards this international pop & R&B music phenomenon, including an appearance by yet another global icon Janet Jackson. Shortly afterwards, Janet released the second installment of her artistic songbook, Number Ones.
Contemporary/Urban Jazz Saxophonist Tony Exum Jr. Releases Anticipated New Single “Everything”
It wasn’t too long ago that we heard of the special announcement regarding the signing of Colorado Springs, CO resident, up-and-coming contemporary jazz saxstro Tony Exum, Jr. to well-known record label BSE Recordings. Heavily influenced by the likes of legendary contemporary jazz luminaries Grover Washington, Jr., David Sanborn, George Howard…
Jazz Saxophonist Boney James Drops 2nd Single “Coastin'” feat. Lalah Hathaway
Without missing a step, or shall we say “A Beat” – Boney James returns the favor for his fan base & more by releasing another hot gem from his forthcoming new album “Detour” entitled “Coastin'” featuring Grammy Award winning songstress Lalah Hathaway. Silky, smooth, & sultry…the track sizzles from the very start of the mix, sending urban jazz lovers a special message of whats’ to come from Mr. James’ repertoire of soul-jazz music.
Boney James is Bringing It Back featuring Dontae Winslow as part of James’ upcoming fall release
Boney James has ruled the contemporary jazz world for over three decades sprinkling his funky R&B attitude. For his body of work as a saxophonist, producer and composer, James earned one of the Top 3 Billboard Contemporary Jazz Artists of the Decade in 2009.
Saxophonist Fostina Dixon impresses on Silk Sonic’s “Leave the Door Open”
Once upon a time, the Wilmington, Delaware born woodwind player electrified an Apollo Theater audience with a bluesy saxophone solo of Prince’s masterpiece, “Purple Rain.” Since then, Fostina Dixon has performed at numerous jazz festivals, toured several European countries, and played with a host of superstars including soul icon Marvin Gaye.
Modern day soul man Kem is “Stuck on You” for his latest track
For almost two decades, Kem (AKA Kim Owens) still calls Motown Records his home since the iconic label re-released his independent debut Kemistry in 2003. The Detroit Michigan native who has charted nothing less than top 25 hits from “I Can’t Stop Loving You” to “Lie to Me” continues pumping up romance and relationships with his distinct suave voice.