PRESALE TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!
Thu-Fri, Apr 9-10 at Yoshi's Oakland
Featured in the Academy Award winning documentary "20 Feet From Stardom" and backing vocalist forThe Rolling Stones, Luther Vandross and more.
Showing posts with label MyGen365. Show all posts
Showing posts with label MyGen365. Show all posts
Saturday, January 10, 2015
Thursday, May 15, 2014
RemoteJazz CD title : Through The Eye Of The Storm
RemoteJazzCD
title
: Through
The Eye Of The StormGenre:
Smooth JazzCountry: USA
"Through the Eye of the Storm" by Remotejazz (Smooth Jazz Contemporary Jazz, Electronica) is a musical journey to obtain peace and contentment by utilizing personal faith.
"As I have Loved You"
features Dave Jarvis on Saxophone
Produced by Robert L. Bryant For
Key Music Productions, LLC. Copyright 2013, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED CD
released December 19, 2013 available on
ITunes, Amazon, Spotify and other
online download outlets. more music is available at: Main artist
website: http://www.remotejazzmusic.com Artist Press Kit:
http://www.reverbnation.com/rpk/remotejazz ReverbNation Artist's
Page: http://www.reverbnation.com/remotejazz SoundClick Artist's
Page: http://www.SoundClick.com/remotejazz Soundcloud Artist's Page:
http://www.soundcloud.com/remotejazz
Contact artist's directly at:
rlbryant04@msn.com
Sunday, May 11, 2014
Jazz Café Exclusive: Hiroshima, Cassandra Wilson Shine at Oakland Yoshi’s and San Francisco Story and Photos by Shelah Moody
It is rare that a band achieves a high
level of success and still remains humble and accessible to their
audience and fan base.
The weekend of May 3-4 marked the
return of the Asian-American jazz/funk/fusion band Hiroshima,
consisting of core members June Kuramoto (koto), Dan Kuramoto (wind
instruments, keyboards), Kimo Cornwell (keyboards), Dean Cortez (bass
guitar) and Danny Yamamoto (drums).
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Hiroshima performed tracks from their
latest release “J-Town Beat,” including “Da Kitchen,” “Meiji
Mambo,” “State of Mind” and “Cruisin' J-Town.” Formed in
1974, Hiroshima is known for their Far East melodies fused with
KBLX/quiet storm/smooth jazz rhythms. Hiroshima closed their
ebullient set with the funky “One Wish,” the 1985 composition
that established them on the Adult Contemporary charts. I remember
seeing Hiroshima perform this track at the pristine Waikiki Shell,
the venue where I first saw Anita Baker, Ziggy Marley, Steel Pulse
and Miles Davis live, in Honolulu, HI,
June Kuramoto’s koto virtuosity is
indeed one of the highlights of Hiroshima’s performances. The koto
is a traditional Japanese stringed instrument imported from China.
Wikipedia cites June Kuramoto as one of the first performers to
popularize the koto in a non-traditional fusion style. Born in Japan,
Kuramoto became heavily influenced by the Motown sound and has
recorded with the likes of Angela Bofill and George Duke to name a
few. Kuramoto has released three solo albums and added her koto
radiance to A Taste of Honey’s 1981 pop/soul ballad “Sukiyaki.”
After the show, Hiroshima hosted a
meet and greet backstage for media and fans. Dan Kuramoto (June’s
ex-husband) was heavily influenced by Ornette Coleman and James Moody
(no relation to this writer). In fact, Moody would give Kuramoto
private saxophone lessons.
“I have a way
of playing over D-minor, and I got this 20 minute saxophone lesson
from (Moody) on a long distance phone call from New Zealand,”
Kuramoto reminisced. “He was my mentor, my visionary; he taught me
everything. He always told me to be true to myself and not to listen
to anybody about what you do—words of wisdom.”
In 1990, a year before his passing,
Hiroshima opened for Miles Davis on his world tour.
“Miles was the coolest,” said
Kuramoto. “He was terrifying at first, but we realized that it was
because he was about what he was about. Once you got that Miles was
the coolest cat, the nicest guy. He loved to see how you reacted to
him. He loved June as a world class musician. He was always blown
away.”
Check out the band on
www.hiroshimamusic.com.
Sunday, April 20, 2014
More Jazz On Streetwise Radio
Streetwise Radio is proud to announce new times for the Jazz Cafe. We are adding 2 hours on the weekends Saturday & Sunday from 12pm -2pm And on Sunday evening we have a new 8pm show! And don't forget our regular hours 12pm noon Mon -Fri.
Friday, April 4, 2014
Jeanette Harris
I love the sound of a
saxophone. While listening to the Jazz Cafe on Streetwise Radio, I
heard Jeanette Harris’s rendition of Stevie Wonder’s “All I
Do”. I must say this lady has talent, she can blow the saxophone.
Jeanette’s “Summer Rain” CD show cases her flair for
captivating her audience with her spirited playing. Jeanette was born
and raised in Fresno, California. Jeanette was blessed to have
parents that believed in the art of music. She started playing music
at an early age. Jeanette first learned the guitar, switched to
the piano and eventually found her passion with the saxophone. Jeanette was classically trained at
Berklee College of Music in Boston. Did not know that Jeanette
played saxophone for the late Teena Marie in her final years of
touring? Jeanette is a silky smooth sax player that keeps it sounding
fresh. You can tune into Streetwise Radio and listen to songs like
“Chillin”, “Ja Licious” and “Just Keep Holding On” from
Jeanette Harris CD “Summer Rain”. Also tune into MyGen365,
Live365, Athena365, iTunes, Pandora and Gilroy Radio.
LM
Monday, March 17, 2014
Miles Bonny
I
was listening to Streetwise Radio this morning when I heard this deep
sexy voice. I clicked on this to see who the artist was and the song.
It was Miles Bonny singing “Lumberjack Soul.” I never heard of
him. I knew I had to listen to more of his music and find out where
he was from. To my surprise, he was a robust white guy, with a beard
and a whole lot of soul. I thought I had been missing out on this
amazing artist. Well not anymore, I can’t get enough of his voice.
He can sing! His genres include Jazz, R&B, Blues, Hip hop, Soul
and Neo Soul. Miles Bonny was born in New York, NY; he grew up in
Teaneck, New Jersey and lives in Kansas City, Missouri. Miles Bonny
is a 33-year-old record producer, singer, trumpeter and DJ. His music
is down to earth music for the soul. DJ Michael Ealey witnessed him
in action last summer at the San Jose Jazz Festival. I’m sure upset
I missed him. I know if he comes anywhere near San Jose, I won’t
miss out again. Here are some of my favorite songs from Miles Bonny”
“Lumberjack Soul,” "On Impulse,” "Closer Love,”
“Yes I Do,” “Desperado (Nicholas Kopernicus Rework),” “What
It Is I See” and “Sing Your Song.” That is why I love Internet
radio. You get hear true talent like Miles Bonny. Who in my opinion
blows the doors off theses so called artist that DJ’s are playing
on the on-air stations. Check out Miles Bonny Songs on Streetwise
Radio, you will become a fan. You can also listen to Streetwise Radio
on Pandora, iTunes, Live365, Athena365, MyGen365 and Gilroy Radio.
LM
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
SAXOPHONIST AND COMPOSER ERIC DARIUS IS ON A MISSION.
Eric Darius to preform at Yoshi's Oakland Thursday February 13 Th 2014
8pm & 10pm
$27 advance / $32 day of show
Premier seating + Meet and Greet $55
$27 advance / $32 day of show
Premier seating + Meet and Greet $55
PREMIER SEATING + MEET and GREET tickets: Yoshi's will provide seating in the first two rows for the performance. The Meet and Greet (approx. 20 mins) will be one hour before the performance (7PM) and will take place in the club.
Yoshi's Oakland
510 Embarcadero West
Jack London Square
Oakland, CA 94607
Phone: 510.238.9200
510 Embarcadero West
Jack London Square
Oakland, CA 94607
Phone: 510.238.9200
SAXOPHONIST AND COMPOSER ERIC DARIUS IS ON A MISSION.
“I want my music to be a vehicle for change and to transcend boundaries from age to race. I believe my music can make a difference in the world,” states the commanding and strikingly handsome 20-something musician, composer, and performer, known for his dynamic and exhilarating live shows. Darius’ explosive arrival on the contemporary jazz scene at age 17 caused a frenzy. This was not a surprise as the ambitious saxophonist, who has shared the stage with everyone from Prince, Carlos Santana, Wynton Marsalis, Wyclef Jean, George Benson, and Brian McKnight, had just released an auspicious recording debut and several years prior had already made an appearance at the famed Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland. Garnering accolades from critics, musicians and fans alike, there seemed to be a consensus that this young man was bringing a sense of history but yet a youthful and forward-thinking approach to the genre. Eric Darius, who has scored a #1 on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz Charts and several top ten hits, has steadily proven to be anything but your typical ‘smooth jazz guy.’ The savvy business school grad whose iPod features a mix of everyone from John Coltrane and Bob Marley to Jay-Z , the Rolling Stones and Alicia Keys, confesses, “Contemporary jazz is the genre that has embraced my music, but I see myself as a musician first. I play every style of music from Jazz, R&B, Pop, Reggae, Hip-hop, Rock to Gospel. As I continue to evolve and grow musically, it’s the journey to explore new things that keeps me excited and hungry to do what I do.”
“Contemporary jazz is the genre that has embraced my music, but I see myself as a musician first".“I want my music to be a vehicle for change and to transcend boundaries from age to race. I believe my music can make a difference in the world,” states the commanding and strikingly handsome 20-something musician, composer, and performer, known for his dynamic and exhilarating live shows. Darius’ explosive arrival on the contemporary jazz scene at age 17 caused a frenzy. This was not a surprise as the ambitious saxophonist, who has shared the stage with everyone from Prince, Carlos Santana, Wynton Marsalis, Wyclef Jean, George Benson, and Brian McKnight, had just released an auspicious recording debut and several years prior had already made an appearance at the famed Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland. Garnering accolades from critics, musicians and fans alike, there seemed to be a consensus that this young man was bringing a sense of history but yet a youthful and forward-thinking approach to the genre. Eric Darius, who has scored a #1 on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz Charts and several top ten hits, has steadily proven to be anything but your typical ‘smooth jazz guy.’ The savvy business school grad whose iPod features a mix of everyone from John Coltrane and Bob Marley to Jay-Z , the Rolling Stones and Alicia Keys, confesses, “Contemporary jazz is the genre that has embraced my music, but I see myself as a musician first. I play every style of music from Jazz, R&B, Pop, Reggae, Hip-hop, Rock to Gospel. As I continue to evolve and grow musically, it’s the journey to explore new things that keeps me excited and hungry to do what I do.”
Eric Darius released his latest album and Shanachie Entertainment debut, On A Mission, in the summer of 2010. Danny Weiss, VP of Jazz A&R for Shanachie states, “If you think of jazz as a wonderful tree whose trunk is its great tradition and whose branches are the never ending innovations of its young disciples, then Eric Darius is the newest branch of that tree. He can swing like the masters and funk like a hip-hopper; truly the blossoming of tomorrow's jazz.” The seeds have been sown and Eric Darius unearths his talents not only as a saxophonist but equally important, as a composer and co-producer onOn A Mission. The saxman ,who first started experimenting with writing at age thirteen, cites Stevie Wonder and Herbie Hancock as among his biggest compositional influences. Darius acknowledges that music has always been an outlet for him to express his emotions and experiences. The Tampa-based musician says, “Stevie Wonder is incredible and I love the way his music can’t be categorized. The same is true for Herbie Hancock. With Herbie, his whole music catalog varies from album to album and even to this day, he continues to evolve as an artist and is not afraid to take chances, artistically.”
The highest praise maestro, Duke Ellington bestowed on people or music he loved was the phrase ‘beyond category.’ Expanding on this concept, Eric Darius sets out to make an album of purely good music fusing all of the music that has inspired him along the way. A particular mission of Eric’s was to capture the same energy and vibe of his live shows in this studio recording.
“In the past I have tried to tailor my recordings to fit a certain sound or style that fits within the boundaries of what contemporary jazz is ‘supposed to be,’” explains Darius. “This time around, I scrapped all the rules and said ‘I want to make music my way that best defines me as an artist. Eric Darius’ approach to playing is muscular, visceral, imaginative, technically proficient and soulfully free-spirited. It is evident that he is in his element when his reed presses his lips. The joy he derives from playing is evidenced on many songs on his latest release. “I think one of the staples of what I do is my live show; it is young and energetic! I wanted to bring this element to On A Mission. There is often a big disconnect from people’s live shows and studio albums. I want people to be able to close their eyes and feel like we are playing right in front of them,” exclaims Darius.
"I want to make music my way that best defines me as an artist"
Hailing from a musical family (his father from Haiti and mother from Jamaica) and raised in Tampa where he still lives, Eric Darius realized his calling for music at an early age. “ I remember being nine and hearing a saxophonist play at my church. I instantly loved the sound…I remember being blown away by the soul and emotion of the instrument. It was as if I could almost hear the words and lyrics with each note being played…it was at that point that I fell in love with the instrument. The saxophone has a way of reaching people in a way that no other instrument does. It is the closest to the human voice.” Darius is one of those musicians who was fortunate to benefit from music programs in the school system. He shares, “It is important to me that these types of music programs remain available for children today. One of my goals is to expose young kids to music with substance and to help make them aware that music can be an outlet for their emotions…that it can be a positive influence in their lives. I believe that music is a vital part of every child's complete education. I would not be here had it not been for the opportunities I had in school early on."
By age eleven—after only playing for one year—Eric was chosen to be in Sonny LaRosa and America's Youngest Jazz Band, which consisted of young musicians, ages 5-12. The group toured the country and even played at the prestigious Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland. Throughout Eric’s young but already dynamic career, he’s had the tremendous opportunity to travel and perform worldwide with numerous groups. Even as a college student, he had the fortune to travel internationally with the South Florida Jazztet (The University of South Florida is where he studied both Music Performance and Business). The much in demand saxmans’ worldwide gigs include Japan, Indonesia, London, France, Italy, among numerous other countries.
Darius concludes, “As a young person into jazz, it is important for me that the music stays alive and remains relevant in today’s music scene. I am trying to bridge the gap and create music that appeals to all age demographics, especially the high school and college kids. I am bringing them music that they can relate to. I strive to make music that is always true to myself, and hopefully that will reach people. The greatest joy to me is connecting with people through my music. ” His friend and mentor, Dave Koz, may have summed it up best…”Eric’s energy and musicality are undeniable. He’s fusing Jazz with Hip-Hop, R&B, Soul, and Rock for a new sound that’s exciting and truly innovative!”
Eric Darius’ mission continues….
Friday, January 3, 2014
Streetwise Radio Exclusive: Acclaimed Saxophonist Robert Stewart Endorses R&B Star Brian McNight
Brian
McNight performs through Jan. 5, Yoshi’s San Francisco, 1330
Fillmore St., San Francisco (415) 655-5600,
www.yoshis.com/sanfrancisco
Greetings to
All,
I
wish all of you a joyous & prosperous new year!
For
those in the Bay Area, a great way to celebrate this new year would
be to go and support my friend, Brian McKnight.
He
is performing at Yoshi's in San Francisco with his full band.
However, I told him that he needs to hire actual HORN PLAYERS,
and stop trying to make synthesizers their substitute. He
giggled then said: "I feel you Rob." He's a funny dude &
super cool, indeed. For those here who don't know him, he is an
R&B icon; one of the best pianists / vocalists in the world,
so check him out if you are able.
Hope
to see you all at some point during this new year!
Yours,
Robert
About
Brian McKnight
As
an artist who needs no introduction, Brian McKnight has earned
himself a spot in contemporary music history. He has released 15
albums to date, seven of them have gone platinum, with several going
2 and 3x platinum, and he has sold more that 20 million albums
worldwide. McKnight is also a multi- instrumentalist who plays nine
instruments including piano, guitar bass, drums, percussions,
trombone, tuba, flugelhorn and trumpet.
In an industry known for a constantly revolving door of artists, McKnight has easily established himself with an enviable record of chart consistency, has toured successfully for over a decade, and has collaborated with performers across every genre including Quincy Jones, Justin Timberlake, Mariah Carey, Diddy, Christina Aguilera, Rascal Flatts, Nelly, Vanessa Williams, Willie Nelson and Kenny G.
McKnight’s 15th studio album, “More Than Words,” once again shares with the listener the songwriting, production, and vocal talents that have been at the forefront of Brian’s lasting and acclaimed career. McKnight continues to release music and perform to sold out audiences globally. He has sold well over 20 million albums worldwide, with several albums going multi-platinum.
McKnight is the recipient of numerous awards including Soul Train Awards and Image Awards, as well as 16 Grammy nominations. Additional nominations include MTV Video Music Awards, BET Awards and American Music Awards.
With seemingly endless talent, McKnight has successfully crossed every medium in entertainment. From producing some of today’s hottest acts, to a red carpet host for “Extra!” to scoring movies for Tyler Perry, and garnering outstanding reviews in “Chicago” on Broadway. Brian has hosted both his own syndicated radio and TV shows simultaneously.
In an industry known for a constantly revolving door of artists, McKnight has easily established himself with an enviable record of chart consistency, has toured successfully for over a decade, and has collaborated with performers across every genre including Quincy Jones, Justin Timberlake, Mariah Carey, Diddy, Christina Aguilera, Rascal Flatts, Nelly, Vanessa Williams, Willie Nelson and Kenny G.
McKnight’s 15th studio album, “More Than Words,” once again shares with the listener the songwriting, production, and vocal talents that have been at the forefront of Brian’s lasting and acclaimed career. McKnight continues to release music and perform to sold out audiences globally. He has sold well over 20 million albums worldwide, with several albums going multi-platinum.
McKnight is the recipient of numerous awards including Soul Train Awards and Image Awards, as well as 16 Grammy nominations. Additional nominations include MTV Video Music Awards, BET Awards and American Music Awards.
With seemingly endless talent, McKnight has successfully crossed every medium in entertainment. From producing some of today’s hottest acts, to a red carpet host for “Extra!” to scoring movies for Tyler Perry, and garnering outstanding reviews in “Chicago” on Broadway. Brian has hosted both his own syndicated radio and TV shows simultaneously.
McKnight
is that uniquely talented individual who can multi task effortlessly
with a never ending supply of creativity.
About
Robert Stewart
Amazingly,
Robert Stewart did not even begin to play the saxophone until the age
of 17. Born and raised in Oakland, CA, basketball had been the
primary passion of his youth. His 6 ft. 4 inch frame, earned him
varsity shooting guard status on the Fremont High School basketball
team for two years. However, Stewart was struck by divine revelation
shortly after graduating from Fremont. While surfing the radio to
find a rap or R&B station, Stewart stumbled upon a traditional
jazz piece being performed by a tenor saxophonist who sounded as
though he were literally possessed or enraged. The intense pace of
the tune was unbelievable. This piece was immediately followed by
another of romantic or heavenly qualities, by a different individual;
However, playing the very same instrument. These two jazz giants were
John Coltrane and Ben Webster. The contrast in mood and timbre of the
instrument played by the previously mentioned so overwhelmed Stewart,
that he immediately asked his father to purchase a saxophone;
Stewart's father happily obliged.
Though
completely self-taught on the saxophone and music in general
(incorporating only an elementary saxophone manual for guidance),
Stewart enrolled in a Jazz Jam Session class (under the persuasion of
his ever insightful mother) hosted by the Bay Area piano legend, Ed
Kelly. Another giant of the present day was also enrolled in this
class with Stewart, Joshua Redman. As though the two previously
mentioned weren't enough for a wonderful beginning, the saxophone
titan Pharaoh Sanders would regularly jam in the class room with
Stewart and the rest. Stewart's initial reaction to the eclectic,
white bearded, tenor titan was: "Mr. Kelly, who is the dude with
the white beard hanging down to his stomach like Santa Claus?"
Kelly's response: "Man, that's Pharaoh Sanders; He played with
Trane (Coltrane)." Consequently, the mere mention of the name
(Coltrane) induced immediate respect and admiration for the bearded
tenor titan. On a similar note, Pharaoh (while Stewart was playing)
leaned over to Kelly and stated: "Ed, I hear something in this
one." Hence, Pharaoh passed Stewart a note which stated: "Come
over to my house tomorrow afternoon. I can help you with your horn."
Stewart (living only 6 blocks from Pharaoh at that time) did as
instructed. Stewart and Sanders maintain a blood brother relationship
to this day.
However,
it was through an elder Bay Area trumpeter (Robert Porter) that
Stewart was introduced to the saxophonists and music of early
America, such as Coleman Hawkins, Lester Young, Sidney Bechet, Lucky
Thompson, etc. Consequently, it was Stewart's vast knowledge and
performance of early American music styles that compelled the trumpet
colossus and living legend Wynton Marsalis (whom Stewart first met
and played with in a Jam Session in Oakland over a decade ago) to
hire him for his Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra (in which Stewart
served a 4 year stint), and purchased a new horn for Stewart to do
so. Stewart (whom Wynton has tellingly dubbed: "THE REVEREND")
performs with Wynton and orchestra on the Columbia/Sony recordings:
“They Came To Swing,” and the Pulitzer prize winning “Blood On
The Fields.” The latter is a three-hour oratorio featuring
Cassandra Wilson and John Hendricks. Stewart has also been filmed
with Wynton on the award-winning television program Sessions At West
54th Street, “Marsalis On Music” (with legendary conductor Segi
Ozawa), and the South Bank Series for Bravo Television. Stewart has
toured the world with Marsalis and has also performed, recorded, or
toured with the following: President Bill Clinton, Dizzy Gillespie,
Max Roach, McCoy Tyner, Doc Cheatham, Benny Golson, Jimmy Smith,
Pharaoh Sanders, Eddie Harris, Freddie Hubbard, Milt Jackson, Billy
Higgins, Donald Byrd, Barry Harris, George Coleman, Branford
Marsalis, David Murray, Kenny Kirkland, Jeff "Tain" Watts,
Bobby Hutcherson, Pony Poindexter, Big Jay McNeely, John Lee Hooker,
John Handy, Donald "Duck" Bailey, Freddie Redd, Jon Faddis,
Billy Mitchell, Etta Jones, Cassandra Wilson, Ernie Andrews, Eddie
Moore, George Cables, Ray Drummond, Chico Freeman, Roy Hargrove,
Marcus Roberts, John Hendricks, Les McCann, Cyrus Chestnut/Donald
Harrison, Joshua Redman/Brian Blade, James Carter, Bobby Watson,
Sonny Simmons, Lavay Smith, Jules Broussard, Greg Philingains
(Michael Jackson), Terri Lynn Carrington (Arsenio Hall), Lenny White
(Tower of Power), Felton Pilate (Confunkshun) and many others.
Monday, December 23, 2013
DJ INC & the Soul People
After listening to DJ INC
& the Soul People’s song “Bubbs to do List” on Streetwise
Radio, I knew I had to hear more. Their sound is pure harmony! The
musicianship is fantastic. These Chicagoans with their pulse on a
variety of music styles has been doing their thing for over a decade.
I like their music because of the jazz, acid jazz, hip hop,
house/dance, dancehall, soul, neo soul and Brazilian styles. It
makes for an amazing trap sound. While listening to the CD “The
Afterset Session, Volume 2,” I knew DJ INC and the Soul People’s
songs were going on my playlist. Here are three songs that I like:
“Outfit Together,” “Steppers Swagger,” and ‘Bubbs to do
List.” Check out DJ INC & the Soul People’s music on
Streetwise Radio. You can also listen to Streetwise Radio on
MyGen365, Athena365, Live365, iTunes, Pandora and Gilroy Radio.
LM
Friday, October 11, 2013
Four PLay
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For two decades, the contemporary jazz quartet known as Fourplay has enjoyed consistent artistic and commercial success by grafting elements of R&B, pop and a variety of other sounds to their unwavering jazz foundations. In the course of a dozen recordings – six of which have climbed to the top of Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz Album charts – the supergroup has continued to explore the limitless dimensions and permutations of jazz while at the same time appealing to a broad mainstream audience.
The Fourplay story begins in 1990, with keyboardist Bob James, who had already established himself as a formidable figure in keyboard jazz – not just as an instrumentalist but as a composer and arranger as well – with solo recordings dating as far back as the mid 1960s. In 1990, James reunited with his old friend, session drummer, producer, composer & recording artist Harvey Mason (Herbie Hancock, Barbra Streisand, Notorious Big), during the recording of James’ Grand Piano Canyon album. Also involved in the project were guitarist Lee Ritenour (Sergio Mendes) and bassist/vocalist Nathan East (Barry White, Eric Clapton, Phil Collins).
The original lineup of James/Ritenour/East/Mason stayed together for three successive albums, including Elixir (1994), a set that features some high-profile guest vocalists: Phil Collins, Patti Austin and Peabo Bryson. East also delivers some noteworthy vocal contributions on Elixir, and has continued to do so throughout most of Fourplay’s subsequent studio outings.
Ritenour, whose guitar work in tandem with James’ keyboards served as the cornerstone of the early Fourplay sound, left the lineup in the mid-1990s. Chuck Loeb made his debut with the quartet on Let’s Touch The Sky, released in October 2010. The album also includes thrilling performances by guest vocalists Anita Baker and Ruben Studdard. The infusion of new blood into the Fourplay lineup created an opportunity to bring an even higher level of energy and inspiration into a band that is already known for taking chances and pushing the limits of contemporary jazz.
The group’s latest recording explores the place where four unique perspectives become a single creative force. That symmetry and creativity are at the heart of Esprit De Four, set for release on September 18, 2012. The CD includes the poignant but hopeful “Put Our Hearts Together,” written by James – with lyrics by his daughter, Hilary James, and vocal featuring Japanese superstar Seiko Matsuda – as a tribute to the victims of the devastating tsunami that struck Japan in March 2011.
Friday, September 27, 2013
Sandra Nkake
While
listening to Streetwise Radio I heard Sandra Nkake's song “Fairy Tales” and
thought who is this singer with this unique voice. This 39 year old singer from
Yaounde , Cameroon
LM
http://translate.google.com/translate?sourceid=navclient-menuext&hl=en&u=http%3A//fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandra_Nkak%25C3%25A9
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vUj_G3PnD4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgVmDaeGovg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TcVmxS9Ghc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VO7uhqSBMHQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6g44Dfifqpk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VO7uhqSBMHQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKUR5EyJpIQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cojZsmLG0v0
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Snarky Puppy
|
|
DJ
Michael Ealey is playing Snarky Puppy on Streetwise Radio. He told me that he
would like to see Snarky Puppy at the 56 Annual Monterey Jazz Festival. I've
never heard of Snarky Puppy. I thought, that is an unusual name for a band, I
had to find out about Snarky Puppy and listen to some of their music. This
instrumental fusion band from Denton ,
Texas
LM
Saturday, September 7, 2013
McCoy Tyner
Growing up in the 60s and 70s was an amazing era for music. McCoy
Tyner has been one of those prolific jazz pianists of our time a true living
legend. Listening to his music throughout the years has been memorable. This 74
years young from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania first gained notoriety in 1960
playing with Benny Golson’s band, Golson's and Art Farmer's legendary Jazztet.
He also played with other famous musicians like John Coltrane, Joe Henderson,
Freddie Hubbard, Wayne Shorter, Hank Mobley and Stanley Turrentine. If you love
piano players McCoy Tyner is one of those musicians that blazes on the keys, he
is truly amazing. Some of my favorite songs are “Atlantis”, “Fly With the
Wind”, “Passion Dance”, “My Favorite Things” and “Giant Steps”. Tune into
Streetwise Radio’s Jazz Café` and listen to tunes from McCoy Tyner, you will be
amazed. You can also tune into Streetwise Radio on iTunes, Pandora, MyGen365,
Athena365, Live365 and Gilroy Radio.
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
George Duke- January 12, 1946 – August 5, 2013
One of the world greatest
Jazz fusion, R&B, funk, alternative rock, rock and roll, jazz
pop, post-disco, crossover jazz visionaries has passed. George
Duke was battling chronic lymphocytic leukemia. George Duke was an
amazing musician he played the piano, synthesizer, Keytar, keyboards,
contrabass, trombone and he was also a vocalist. George Duke was born
in San Rafael California and grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area.
He went to Tamalpais High School in Mill Valley California. He earned
bachelor's degree in trombone and composition with a minor in
contrabass, from the San Francisco Conservatory in 1967. I grew up on
George Duke’s music. I remember seeing George Duke at many venues
in the San Francisco Bay Area throughout the years. Every time I saw
him, he amazed me. He was the jazziest funkiest musician of our time.
Here are some of my favorite songs of George Duke’s, “No Rhyme No
Reason”, “Dukey Stick”, “The Way I Feel”, “Old Slippers”,
"6 O'Clock", “Morning Sun”, “Feel”, “Sweet Baby”
and “Reach For It” to name a few. R.I.P. Mr. Duke you will be
missed but your gift lives on through your music forever! Tune into
Streetwise Radio and listen to songs from George Duke. You can also
listen to Streetwise Radio on Athena365, MyGen365, iTunes, Live365
and Pandora.
LM
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Frank McComb
Ok, how come I’ve never
heard of this amazing singer-songwriter and keyboardist from
Cleveland Ohio? It baffles me that someone this remarkable is not
being played on the on-air radio stations. Frank McComb reminds me of
a mixture of three of my all-time favorite artists Stevie Wonder,
Fred Hammond and the late Donny Hathaway. In February 1983 Frank’s
aunt began teaching him piano at their family church. That’s when
his singing career started. Frank played with the 90’s group The
Rude Boys and was musical director. Frank also toured with some of my
favorite artist like Teena Marie, Philip Bailey and Branford
Marsalis. He is not only a fantastic singer he also writes amazing
songs. Some of my favorites are “Love Natural”, “Better Off
Without You”, “If this is love 2000”, “Wasting your time”,
“Do You Remember Love”, “Never Letting Go”, “Another day”
and “Future Love”. I am hooked on this 43 year old R&B,
smooth jazz singer with amazing vocals and song writing skills. Keep
giving the world such beautiful music Frank McComb you have a fan for
life. Tune into Streetwise Radio and listen to songs from Frank
McComb you will become a fan. Also you can listen to Streetwise Radio
on Pandora, iTunes, MyGen365, Live365 and Athena365.
LM
Friday, July 19, 2013
Coen Bais
The
mid 1990’s was an excellent era for smooth jazz music. There were a
lot of artists and musicians who didn’t get the consideration and
publicity to show case their talent. Coen Bais happened to be one of
those artists. This jazz piano player from the Netherlands blends
smooth jazz with new age and contemporary sounds. Streetwise Radio is
playing Coen Bais song “On My Way To You”. I can listen to this
song while kicking back on a Saturday afternoon. Some of my favorite
songs are “On My Way To You”, “A Touch Of Magic”, “Broken
Promise”, “Story of Parabrahma” and “Socu”. Check out this
artist on Streetwise Radio, I think you will enjoy him. Also tune
into Streetwise Radio on Pandora, iTunes, Athena365, MyGen365 and
Live365.
LM
Thursday, May 30, 2013
R.Stewart & Marcus Printup
Robert Stewart and Marcus Printup: A
Dialogue Between Two Jazz Greats
By Shelah Moody
Have you ever wondered what jazz
musicians are thinking about when playing together onstage, when the
fluid, melliferous and serpentine improvisations of the regal
saxophone interact with the fiery declarations, squeaks and wa-wa’s
of the mighty trumpet? Indeed, it sounds like an intelligent
conversation between two kindred spirits.
This insightful dialogue between
saxophonist Robert Stewart and trumpeter Marcus Printup took place
after the two musicians played together with trumpet icon Wynton
Marsalis and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra in the Bay Area this
spring. Stewart and Printup had not seen each other in five years.
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Robert Stewart
One of the most accomplished and
original saxophonists of his time, Stewart, who was born and raised
in Oakland, CA and currently lives in SF, began playing music at age
17. Stewart is a completely self- taught musician as well as a devout
Muslim. He was dubbed “The Reverend” by his Wynton Marsalis, who
recruited him to perform with the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra.
Stewart performs with Marsalis and LCJO on the Columbia/Sony
recordings: “They Came to Swing” and the Pulitzer Prize winning
oratorio “Blood on the Fields.” In the Bay Area, Stewart has
performed with his own band at venues such as Yoshi’s, Pier 23 and
Rassela’s in San Francisco. Stewart’s solo albums include “Heaven
and Earth,” “The Movement,” “Nat the Cat,” “The Force,”
“In the Gutta,” “Soft Ballads” and “Judgment.”
www.therobertstewartexperience.com,
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Marcus Printup
Born and raised in Conytheers, GA, Marcus
Printup is one of the most accomplished trumpeters of his time.
Printup, whose music was partly influenced by his southern Baptist
church experience, attended the University of North Florida on a
music scholarship and went on to win the International Trumpet Guild
Jazz Trumpet Competition. Printup has been touring and recording with
Marsalis and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra since 1993; and like
Stewart, he played on “Blood on the Fields,” which explores the
legacy of slavery in America. Printup’s solo albums include “Song
for Beautiful Woman,” “Unveiled,” “Hub Songs,”
“Nocturnal Traces,” “The New Boogaloo,” “Peace In The
Abstract,” “Bird of Paradise,” “London Lullaby,”
Ballads All Night,” “ A Time for Love” “Homage.” www.marcusprintup.net
Ballads All Night,” “ A Time for Love” “Homage.” www.marcusprintup.net
Marcus Printup: Reverend! Man, it did
my soul good to see/hear you tonight with Wynton Marsalis. It is
indeed a blessing!
Robert Stewart: I felt the same
regarding yourself, my blessed
brother! No trumpet player of our
generation plays with such unmitigated
soul / force. You are my favorite,
indeed!
Marcus Printup: I have to thank you. I
listened to the CD you gave me tonight of us playing together back in
the 90's. Hearing that recording reminded me of who I am,
musically. That has escaped me through
the years. I hear veracity
in my sound that isn't there anymore. I
still have it inside but I have to
find it again. Hearing us play back
then is the first step.
Robert Stewart: That was a spiritual
day. The living force was
upon us, indeed. I'm overjoyed that
someone elected to record / document our
musical excursions that evening. Your
soul-force remains within
you. Your dilemma lies in performing
ORCHESTRATED music (READING)
on gigs all night. This HINDERS your
ability to completely release your individuality.
It's impossible to completely delve
into your soul, when you have to be overly concerned about an
upcoming written section that you must hurry back to play. This is
the reason
John Coltrane elected to play
avant-garde or completely free music by
the end of his life; he had an
epiphany. Consequently, Trane agrees with my
stance wholeheartedly.
Marcus Printup: When I said you have
"God" in your sound, I really meant it. I'm
listening to the way I'm playing
alongside you and I hear it in my sound too.
I need more of that! I feel like
something just woke up inside me that
has been dormant for years. THANK YOU
BROTHER!
Robert Stewart: You echo my sentiments
precisely, my beloved
brother! You are of a rare breed,
indeed! Al-Hamdulillah! (Praise is due
to Allah / God).
Marcus Printup: Man, before I die I
want to do another one with you. Let's make it
happen. You inspire me brother. PEACE!
Robert Stewart: In Sha llah (God
Willing), we will perform
together again. You are the only
trumpet player of our generation that I
would want to record with. Your sound
is unrelentingly UNIQUE. You
have been truly blessed by the Lord of
the Worlds. Ma Sha llah! (It is the
will of Allah - God). Stay strong &
may the force be with you.
Follow Robert Stewart and Marcus
Printup on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/therobertstewartexperience?fref=ts
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Marcus-Printup/362564883813924?fref=ts
Follow Jazz at Lincoln Center:
www.jalc.org
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