Smooth Style - Magazine of Europe's only Smooth Jazz Festivals

Smooth Style

International Line-Up feat. Grammy winners, multiple Grammy nominees, No.1 hit & album chart breakers and many more

7 Days 4 Areas

34 Artists

20 Shows plus Aftershow-Parties

The Soul, Funk & Jazz Party in Sa Coma

9th Mallorca

Smooth Jazz Festival

EVERETTE HARP PAUL JACKSON JR

JEFF LORBER ANDY SNITZER

JAZZ FUNK SOUL

PAULA ATHERTON RYAN LA VALETTE

Impresión Impressum Imprint

Editor / Herausgeber / Editor

smooth entertainment GmbH, Perzheimstraße 48, D-86150 Augsburg

Tel. +49 (0)821 2292711, Fax +49 (0)821 2292712 info@smoothentertainment.de www.smoothentertainment.de

Redacción / Redaktion / Editorial Staff:

Sandra Hoffmann, Christian Bössner

Director de proyecto / Projektleiter / Project Manager:

Christian Bössner

Diseño / Gestaltung / Layout: Conny Anders

Ventas de anuncios / Anzeigenverkauf / Ad Sales:

Christian Bössner

Fecha de edición / Erscheinungstermin / Date of publication: 10/2022

Alle Angaben trotz sorgfältiger Bearbeitung ohne Gewähr. No responsibility is taken for the correctness of the details provided.

Foto de portada / Titelfoto / Cover photo:

JEREMYCHURCH; Phil Denny

Presentado por: / Präsentiert von: / Presented by:

Medios asociados / Medienpartner / Media Partner

Amb

25 Smooth Jazz Festivals

7 different destinations in 5 countries

>130 different artists

>250 concerts/shows

39064 tickets sold

310 guests per concert block

Guests from 20-30 different countries per festival

Guests from >49 countries worldwide in total

TOUR STOPS

5x Algarve, Portugal, 2016 - ∞

1x Lago Maggiore, Italy, 2015

9x Mallorca, Spain, 2012 - ∞

1x Biberwier-Lermos, Austria, 2011

7x Augsburg, Germany, 2010-2016

1x Munich, Germany, 2009

1x Bregenz, Austria, 2008

Acoustic Alchemy | Adam Hawley |

Adani & Wolf | Alex Bugnon | Althea

René | Bart Brandjes | Blake Aaron |

Bob Baldwin | Bob James Trio | Bobby

Lyle | Brian Bromberg | Brian

Culbertson | Brian Simpson | Candy

Dulfer | Chieli Minucci | Chris Standring

|

Chris Walker | Chuck Loeb | Cindy

Bradley | Club de Belugas | Dan

Cipriano | Darren Rahn | Dave Koz |

David Benoit | De Phazz | Down To The

Bone | DW3 | Elan Trotman | Elle Cato |

Eric Darius | Eric Marienthal | Euge

Groove | Everette Harp | Four80East |

Gabin | Gabriel Mark Hasselbach | Gail

Jhonson | Gerald Albright | Gerald

Veasley | Gianni Vancini | Grace Kelly |

Greg Manning | Gregg Karukas | Harvey

Mason | Ilaria de Robertis | Incognito |

Jaared | Jackiem Joyner | James Lloyd |

Javier Colon | Jazmin Ghent | Jeanette

Harris | Jeff Golub | Jeff Kashiwa | Jeff

Lorber | Jeff Lorber Fusion | Jeff Ryan |

Jessy J | JJ Sansaverino | Joey

Sommerville | John Stoddart |

Jonathan Fritzén | Joyce Cooling | Julian

Vaughn | Kayla Waters | Keiko Matsui |

Keith Slattery | Ken Ford | Ken Navarro |

Kim Scott | Kim Waters | Kirk Whalum |

Larry Braggs | Lin Rountree | Lindsey

Webster | Marc Antoine | Marcus

Anderson | Marcus Johnson | Marion

Meadows | Mark Jaimes | Martin Ehlers

Trio | Matt Marshak | Melina |

Mezzoforte | Michael Lington | Michael

Manson | Mindi Abair | Nathan East |

Nelson Rangell | Nick Colionne |

Nighthawks | Nils | Norbert Fimpel &

Tolo Servera | Norman Brown | Oli Silk |

Pat Appleton | Paul Brown | Paul

Jackson Jr. | Paul Taylor | Peet Project |

Peter White | Phil Denny | Pieces Of A

Dream | Praful | Ragan Whiteside |

Renato Falaschi | Richard Elliot | Rick

Braun | Rob Zinn | Rocco Ventrella |

Sara Gazarek | Saxophobia | Selina

Albright | Shakatak | Shilts | Soul Patrol

| Spencer Day | Spyro Gyra | Steve Cole |

Steve Oliver | Team Harmony (Tim

Welvaars & Naomi Adriaansz) | Tim

Bowman | Tom Braxton | Tom Browne |

U-Nam | Uné | Vincent Ingala | Warren

Hill | Will Donato | Willie Bradley

www.smoothjazzeurope.eu

Anniversary: The 25th Smooth Jazz Festival in Europe!!!

Wir sind stolz zu verkünden, dass diese 9. Edition des Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival das insgesamt 25. Smooth Jazz Festival seit unseren Anfängen in 2008 ist. Danke an alle Künstler, Musiker, Agenten, Manager, Sponsoren, Partner, unser Produktionsteam und, natürlich, danke an unsere weltweiten Gäste. Ihr seid die Besten! Und nun… Lasst uns feiern!

We are proud to announce that this 9th edition of the Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival will be in total the 25th Smooth Jazz Festival since our beginnings back in 2008. Thank you to all artists, musicians, agents, managers, sponsors, partners, our production team and, of course, thank you to our worldwide guests. You are amazing! And now… Let’s have a party!

Estamos orgullosos de anunciar que esta 9ª edición del Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival será en total el 25º Smooth Jazz Festival desde nuestros comienzos en 2008. Gracias a todos los artistas, músicos, agentes, mánagers, patrocinadores, socios, nuestro equipo de producción y, por supuesto, gracias a nuestros invitados de todo el mundo. Sois fabulosos. Y ahora… ¡Vamos de fiesta!

Images: Christian Nordström

Nick Colionne, †1. January 2022 | Legendary Singer, Guitarist & Entertainer and 4x festival attendee

Jaume Nebot Morey, †24. June 2020 | Guest from the first hour and Co-Founder of the Mallorca festival

Celebrating with us from the other side: We dedicate this anniversary festival to our friends, the festival icons, Nick Colionne and Jaume Nebot Morey. And we think also of the guests that cannot be with us anymore. Thank you for your support and believing in us.You won’t be forgotten. RIP ♥

Christian Bössner & Sandra Hoffmann

HEADLINER ARCHIVE

Reserva / Reservierung / Reservation

Lugar evento / Veranstaltungsort / Venue

Protur Biomar Sensatori Resort | C./ Baladres, 5 | 07560 Sa Coma, Mallorca

Entradas para conciertos y Paquetes de hotel Konzerttickets & Hotelpakete

Concert Tickets & Hotel Packages

Ticket-Hotline: (+34) 971 587 520 | www.mallorca.smoothjazzfestival.de

Lunes, 31 de Octubre / Montag, 31. Oktober / Monday, October 31

18:45 h ART/MUSIC/DINNER feat. MARC ANTOINE – exclusive CONCERT & dinner (free seating)

@Art Gallery

21:30 h Pre-CONCERT (free seating) @Piano Bar

Martes, 1 de Noviembre / Dienstag, 1. November / Tuesday, November 1

10:00 h BOAT TRIP WITH NORBERT FIMPEL & TOLO SERVERA (free seating)

@Boat (outside of the resort)

21:30 h SOUL PATROL FEAT. BLAKE AARON & TOM BRAXTON (free seating)

@Open-air Stage

Miércoles, 2 de Noviembre / Mittwoch, 2. November / Wednesday, November 2

20:45 h PHIL DENNY / TOM BROWNE (numbered seats) @Theatre Stage

23:45 h

AFTERSHOW PARTY @Piano Bar

Jueves, 3 de Noviembre / Donnerstag, 3. November / Thursday, November 3

15:00 h COOL BY THE POOL @Pool Stage

The afternoon hang…

feat. chilled drinks & loungy DJ grooves

feat. Live artist interviews

feat. Live-Pool-CONCERT

20:45 h LINDSEY WEBSTER / PAUL TAYLOR (numbered seats) @Theatre Stage

23:45 h

AFTERSHOW PARTY @Piano Bar

Viernes, 4 de Noviembre / Freitag, 4. November / Friday, November 4

15:00 h

COOL BY THE POOL @Pool Stage

The afternoon hang…

feat. chilled drinks & loungy DJ grooves

feat. Live artist interviews feat. Live-Pool-CONCERT

Programa adicional Rahmenprogramm Additional Program

www.mallorca.smoothjazzfestival.de

20:45 h TOM BRAXTON / NORMAN BROWN (numbered seats) @Theatre Stage

23:45 h

AFTERSHOW PARTY @Piano Bar

Sábado, 5 de Noviembre / Samstag, 5. November / Saturday, November 5

11:00 h U-NAM / BRIAN SIMPSON (free seating) @Open-air Stage

15:00 h

COOL BY THE POOL @Pool Stage

The afternoon hang…

feat. chilled drinks & loungy DJ grooves

feat. Live artist interviews

20:45 h

23:45 h

ERIC MARIENTHAL / DOWN TO THE BONE (numbered seats) @Theatre Stage

AFTERSHOW PARTY @Piano Bar

Domingo, 6 de Noviembre / Sonntag, 6. November / Sunday, November 6

11:00 h

15:00 h

BLAKE AARON / DAVID BENOIT (free seating) @Open-air Stage

COOL BY THE POOL @Pool Stage

The afternoon hang… feat. chilled drinks & loungy DJ grooves feat. Live artist interviews

20:45 h BOBBY LYLE / MICHAEL LINGTON (free seating) @Open-air Stage

23:45 h

AFTERSHOW PARTY @Piano Bar

Festival5

FACTS

Gitarrist, Komponist und Produzent Marc Antoine wurde in Paris, Frankreich, geboren und bekam seine erste Gitarre, als er elf Jahre alt war. Nach seiner Ausbildung an der International School of Classical Guitar ging er 1988 mit Basia auf Tour und machte so erstmals Urban-Jazz-Publikum auf sich aufmerksam. Im selben Jahr zog er nach London, wurde dann ein gefeierter Session-Musiker in Tokyo und zog in den späten 90ern nach Los Angeles. Dort blieb er zwölf Jahre lang und spielte für Musikgrößen wie Sting, Celine Dion, Rod Stewart, Cher und George Benson. 1994 veröffentlichte Marc seine erste Solo-CD. Viele erfolgreiche andere folgten und so war er bald schon aus dem Genre nicht mehr wegzudenken. Zudem wirkte er auf zahlreichen Alben anderer Künstler, z. B. Philippe Saisse, Rick Braun, David Benoit, Dave Koz oder Mindi Abair, mit, und war auf vielen der alljährlich stattfindenden Jazz Cruises dabei. Nachdem er zwölf Jahre in Madrid/ Spanien – der Heimatstadt seiner Frau Rebecca – gelebt hatte, zog der vielseitige Gitarrist, der auch Keyboard und Percussion spielt, 2015 nach Südkalifornien zurück. 2021 jedoch zog es ihn und seine Familie wieder nach Spanien.

Guitarist, composer and producer Marc Antoine was born in Paris, France. When he was 11 years old his parents bought him his first guitar. Classically trained at the International School of Classical Guitar, Marc first became known to urban jazz audiences when he toured with Basia in 1988. That year, he also moved to London, then became an acclaimed session player in Tokyo and landed in Los Angeles in the late 90ies. He stayed there for 12 years playing for music royalty such as Sting, Celine Dion, Rod Stewart, Cher and George Benson. In 1994, Marc released his first solo CD. Lots of successful others followed, establishing him as a mainstay in the genre. He has also appeared on numerous albums for other artists, e.g. Philippe Saisse, Rick Braun, David Benoit, Dave Koz or Mindi Abair, and has been featured in many of the annual jazz cruises. After having lived and recorded in Madrid, Spain, – his wife Rebecca’s hometown –for 12 years, the multi-talented guitarist, who also plays keyboards and percussion, relocated back to Southern California in 2015. But in 2021, he and his family moved back to Spain.

Something About Her (2021)

Laguna Beach (2016)

Guitar Destiny (2012)

My Classical Way (2010)

Hi-Lo Split (2007)

Modern Times (2005)

Mediterráneo (2003)

The Very Best Of (2003)

Cruisin‘ (2001)

Universal Language (2000)

Madrid (1998)

Urban Gypsy (1995)

Classical Soul (1994)

www.marcantoine.com

El guitarrista, compositor y productor Marc Antoine nació en París, Francia, y recibió su primera guitarra a los once años. Después de su formación en la „International School of Classical Guitar“ salió de gira con el grupo Basia y así logró, por primera vez, llamar la atención del público del urban jazz. En el mismo año se trasladó a Londres, más tarde se convirtió en un músico de sesiones celebrado en Tokio y al final de los años noventa se trasladó a Los Angeles. Allí se quedó durante doce años y tocó para autoridades de la música como Sting, Celine Dion, Rod Stewart, Cher y George Benson. En 1994 Mark publicó su primer disco compacto solo. Siguieron muchos discos exitosos más y en poco tiempo logró que el género no sea pensable sin él. Además colaboró en numerosos álbumes de otros artistas como, p.ej., Philippe Saisse, Rick Braun, David Benoit, Dave Koz o Mindi Abair y estuvo presente en muchos de los jazz cruises anuales. Después de haber vivido doce años en Madrid – la ciudad natal de su mujer Rebecca – el guitarrista multifacético, que toca también las teclas y la percusión, regresó a California del Sur en 2015. Pero en 2021 él y su familia se sintieron atraídos de regresar nuevamente a España.

Marc Antoine

Marc Antoine live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2022 on Monday, 31. October, 18:45 h

Artists | Marc Antoine

Image: Marc Antoine

3 No.1 & 7 Top10 hits plus 3 Top10 albums at the Billboard jazz charts | Several “Best Artist of the Year” awards

DISCOGRAPHY

NORBERT FIMPEL & TOLO SERVERA

Der Saxophonist Norbert Fimpel stammt aus Argentinien und zog im April 2002 nach Mallorca. Er trat u. a. mit Air Supply und Roger Hodgson (Supertramp) auf und war 2004 Teil von „Night Of The Proms“, einer Tour während der er 50 Konzerte mit James Brown, Joe Cocker, Cindy Lauper, Tony Hadley (Spandau Ballet) sowie John Miles spielte. Ein Jahr später wurde er Mitglied der Joe Cocker Band und spielte mit Joe über 500 Konzerte in vier Welttourneen. 2012 lernte er den mallorquinischen Sänger, Akustikgitarristen und Percussionisten Tolo Servera kennen. Letzterer besitzt ein Tonstudio auf der spanischen Insel, wo er Songs für verschiedenste Künstler schreibt und produziert. Aber Tolo macht auch seine eigene Musik. Sein Gesang und Spiel erinnert an Sting. Im Winter 2014/15 taten sich Tolo und Norbert (der auch chromatische Mundharmonika spielt) zusammen, um ihre erste CD aufzunehmen. „Ours & Theirs“ beinhaltet 8 Originalsongs der beiden sowie sieben Coverversionen von Rock- und Popklassikern. Ihr Hauptziel war es, einen frischen und warmen Sound zu schaffen aus Saxophon, Mundharmonika, Stimme und Gitarre. Letztere wurde dabei sehr traditionell und als Percussion-Instrument gespielt. Im Februar 2018 präsentierten „N&T“ ihr zweites Studiowerk „2“.

Norbert Fimpel & Tolo Servera live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2022 on Tuesday, 1. November, 10:00 h

El saxofonista Norbert Fimpel nació en Argentina y emigró a Mallorca en abril de 2002. Tocó con Air Supply, Roger Hodgson (Supertramp) entre otros y fue parte de “Night Of The Proms” en 2004, tocando en 50 conciertos con James Brown, Joe Cocker, Roger Hodgson, Cindy Lauper, John Miles y Tony Hadley (Spandau Ballet). El año siguiente, se puso miembro de la banda de Joe Cocker y participó en 4 giras mundiales y más de 500 conciertos con Joe. En 2012, conoció al cantante mallorquín, guitarrista acústico y percusionista Tolo Servera. Tolo es dueño de un estudio de grabación en la isla española, donde escribe y produce música y letras para todo tipo de artistas. Aparte de eso, Tolo también hace su propia música. Su canto y su estilo recuerdan a Sting. Tolo y Norbert (que también toco la armónica cromática) unieron sus talentos en el invierno de 2014/15 para grabar su primer CD. “Ours & Theirs” está compuesto por 8 temas originales y 7 versiones de clásicos del pop y rock. El objetivo principal era alcanzar un sonido fresco y cálido, usando el saxo, la armónica, la voz, y la guitarra acústica, esta última tocada de forma tradicional y como instrumento de percusión. En febrero de 2018 “N & T” presentaron su segundo trabajo de estudio “2”.

Saxophonist Norbert Fimpel hails from Argentina and moved to Mallorca in April 2002. He performed with Air Supply, Roger Hodgson (Supertramp) amongst others and was part of “Night Of The Proms” in 2004, playing 50 concerts with James Brown, Joe Cocker, Cindy Lauper, Tony Hadley (Spandau Ballet) and John Miles. One year later, he became a member of the Joe Cocker band, playing over 500 concerts in 4 world tours with Joe. In 2012, he met majorcan singer, acoustic guitarist and percussionist Tolo Servera. The latter owns a recording studio on the Spanish Island, where he writes and produces songs for all kinds of artists. Apart from that, Tolo also makes his own music. His singing and playing remind of Sting. In the winter of 2014/15, Tolo and Norbert (who also plays chromatic harmonica) joined forces to record their first CD. “Ours & Theirs” includes 8 original songs and 7 covers of rock & pop classics. Their main goal was to achieve a fresh and warm sound, using the sax, harmonica, voice and guitar, the latter played in the traditional way and as a percussion instrument. In February 2018, “N & T” presented their second studio work, “2”.

Image: Norbert Fimpel & Tolo Servera

Local heroes, teamed up in 2012 | 4x World tours with Joe Cocker (Norbert)

2 (2018) Ours & Theirs (2015)

Norbert Fimpel & Tolo Servera | Artists

FACTS

Phil Denny

DISCOGRAPHY

Urban Troubadour (EP, 2020)

Align (2018)

Upswing (2015)

The Messenger (2013)

Crossover (2012)

www.phildenny.com

Er erobert die Billboard Charts und hat sich im Contemporary Jazz längst einen Namen gemacht: Saxophonist Phil Denny. Beschrieben als leidenschaftlicher und gefühlvoller Spieler, der das Publikum mit seinem geschmeidigen, sexy und dennoch energiegeladenen Stil fasziniert, hatte sich der nahbare Musiker schon eine sehr aktive, loyale und stetig wachsende Fangemeinde aufgebaut, bevor er im Jahr 2012 überhaupt seine Debüt-CD veröffentlichte. Der typisch seidig-weiche Klang seines Tenorsax‘ ist vielleicht am geläufigsten von seinem Hit „Diggin’ On“, der es 2017 auf Platz 13 der Billboard-Charts schaffte. Seit Phil in der Smooth-Jazz-Szene aufgetaucht ist, gastierte er schon auf vielen namhaften Festivals, darunter z. B. das Dubai International Jazz Festival, das Arizona Jazz Festival, das Hyatt Regency Newport Beach Jazz Festival, das Cancun Jazz Festival oder das Seabreeze Jazz Festival. Auch auf Clubbühnen ist er oft unterwegs. Zudem genießt es Phil, als Sideman mit Gitarrist Peter White und anderen zu spielen.

Young # 1 Billboard recording artist Phil Denny has become a household name in contemporary jazz. Being described as a passionate and soulful player who captivates audiences with his smooth, sexy yet energetic style he is a people’s musician having developed and maintained a very active, loyal and ever-growing fan base even before the release of his debut CD in 2012. The identifiable sound of his silky smooth tenor sax is perhaps most familiar on the hit track ‘Diggin’ On’ which scored an impressive #13 position on the Billboard chart in 2017. Since emerging onto the smooth jazz scene, Phil has also played a lot of great festivals. Performances of note to date include e. g. appearances at the Dubai International Jazz Festival, Arizona Jazz Festival, Hyatt Regency Newport Beach Jazz Festival, Cancun Jazz Festival or Seabreeze Jazz Festival. And apart from frequently performing on the venue/club scene, Phil enjoys playing as sideman to guitarist Peter White and more.

Conquista los superventas de Billboard y desde hace mucho se ha hecho un nombre en el jazz contemporáneo: el saxofonista Phil Denny. Caracterizado como un músico apasionado y de mucho sentimiento, que fascina al público con su estilo suave, sexy y al mismo tiempo lleno de energía, el cercano músico ya contaba con una comunidad de aficionados activa, leal y cada vez más creciente antes de que publicara su disco compacto debut en el año 2012. El sonido sedoso y suave, típico de su saxo tenor, tal vez es el más familiar en su hit „Diggin’ On“ que alcanzó en 2017 el puesto 13 en los superventas de Billboard. Desde que Phil apareció en la escena del smooth jazz ha actuado en muchos festivales de renombre, entre ellos el Dubai International Jazz Festival, el Arizona Jazz Festival, el Hyatt Regency Newport Beach Jazz Festival, el Cancun Jazz Festival o el Seabreeze Jazz Festival. También gira mucho sobre los escenarios de los clubes. Además Phil goza tocando como acompañante del guitarrista Peter White y otros.

2 No.1 & 3 Top10 hits at the Billboard jazz chart | host/founder of Phil Denny‘s Armory Smooth Jazz Fete

Phil Denny live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2022 on Wednesday, 2. November, 20:45 h

Artists | Phil Denny

Image: Marvin Hall

Tom „Jamaica Funk“ Browne – Multi-Gold-Album-Künstler und Billboard „Best Of“-Preisträger – hat eine unaufhaltsame Leidenschaft für neue Musik. Da er überzeugt ist, dass „die Leute nicht nur kommen, um deine Musik zu hören – sie kommen, um sich mit dir zu verbinden“, fasziniert er die Zuhörer als Entertainer, der erfolgreich Bühnenpräsenz und musikalische Kunstfertigkeit mit einer aufrichtigen Publikumsbindung verknüpft. Als er die High School of Music and Art in New York City besuchte, lernte Tom mit elf zuerst ein Jahr lang Klavier, bevor er auf Trompete umsattelte. Ursprünglich an klassischer Musik interessiert, entdeckte er Mitte der 70er-Jahre während seines Studiums den Jazz. Von 1979 bis 1989 war Tom, der poporientiertes Material aufnahm, regelmäßig in den R&B-Charts vertreten. Dann – in den späten 80er-Jahren – kehrte er der Musik weitgehend den Rücken, kehrte aber 1994 zurück. Seither tritt er regelmäßig auf. Mit in Summe über drei Jahrzehnten des Komponierens, Aufnehmens und Auftretens – auch als Session-Musiker und Sideman – hat Tom mit den besten und schillerndsten Stars der Branche zusammengearbeitet, u. a. mit Bob James, Dave Grusin, Najee, Joe Sample, Jeff Lorber, Najee und vielen mehr.

Tom „Jamaica Funk“ Browne – un artista de muchos álbumes de oro y ganador de un Billboard „best of“ – tiene una pasión imparable por música novedosa. Porque está convencido de que „la gente no sólo viene para oir tu música – vienen para relacionarse contigo“, fascina a los oyentes actuando como un entertainer que une exitosamente la presencia en el escenario, la destreza musical y una relación sincera con el público. A los once años, cuando fue a la High School of Music and Art en la ciudad de Nueva York, Tom aprendió piano durante un año para después cambiar a la trompeta. Interesado inicialmente en la música clásica descubrió el jazz durante sus estudios a mediados de los setenta. Desde 1979 hasta 1989 Tom, que grabó un material orientado en la música pop, estuvo presente regularmente en los superventas del R&B. Luego – a finales de los ochenta – le dio en gran parte la espalda a la música para después regresar a ella en 1994. Desde entonces se presenta regularmente en los escenarios. En las casi más de tres décadas de componer, grabar y actuar – también como músico de sesiones y acompañante – Tom a trabajado con las mejores y más relucientes estrellas del ramo, entre ellos Bob James, Dave Grusin, Najee, Joe Sample, Jeff Lorber y muchos más.

Tom Browne

FACTS

Multi-gold album artist | Billboard

“Best Of” awards recipient | No.1 & No.4 hits plus No. 1 & 3 Top10 albums at the Billboard Jazz & R&B charts

DISCOGRAPHY

Come What May (2020)

R ‚N‘ Browne (1999)

Another Shade of Browne Hip Bop (1996)

Mo‘ Jamaica Funk (1994)

No Longer I (1988)

Tommy Gun (1984)

Rockin‘ Radio (1983)

Yours Truly (1981)

Magic (1981)

Love Approach (1979)

Browne Sugar (1979)

www.tombrowne.org

Multi-gold album artist and Billboard ‘Best Of’ awards recipient Tom ‘Jamaica Funk’ Browne has an unstoppable passion for new music. As he is convinced, that ‘people don’t just come to hear your music – they come to connect with you’, he continues to captivate listeners as an entertainer who successfully mixes stage presence and musical artistry with a sincere audience connection. When he was 11, Tom studied piano for a year and then switched to trumpet, attending New York City’s High School of Music and Art. Originally interested in classical music, he discovered jazz while in college in the mid-’70s. During 1979 and 1989, Tom was a familiar figure on the R&B charts, recording pop-oriented material. By the late ‘80s, he largely dropped out of music, but came back in 1994. Since then, he can be found on tour regularly. With over three decades of composing, recording and performing – also as a session player and sideman – Tom has worked with the industry’s best and brightest, having shared the concert stage with Bob James, Dave Grusin, Najee, Joe Sample, Jeff Lorber, Najee and many more.

Tom Browne live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2022 on Wednesday, 2. November, 22:15 h

Tom Browne | Artists

Image: Tom Browne

2 No.1 & 5 Top5 hits plus 2 Top3 albums at the Billboard jazz charts | Billboard magazine’s “Artist of the Year of 2016 & 2017”

DISCOGRAPHY

Reasons (2022)

A Woman Like Me (2020)

Love Inside (2018)

Back To Your Heart (2016)

You Change (2015)

Lindsay Webster (2013)

lindseywebstermusic.com

Eine Stimme wie Honig, eine beneidenswerte Range und ein einzigartiger Klang: Das ist Lindsey Webster. Die temperamentvolle junge Sängerin und Komponistin wuchs als Tochter liebevoller Hippie-Eltern in einer Künstlergemeinde in Woodstock, NY, auf, wo sie die Jimi-Hendrix-, Beatles- und Elvis-Costello-Platten ihrer Eltern hörte. Doch ihre musikalischen Einflüsse reichen noch viel weiter: von Mariah Carey und Gwen Stefani bis hin zu Steely Dan und Earth Wind and Fire. Bevor sie sich endgültig für die Musik entschied, hatte sie die Medizinische Oberschulde besucht. 2016 schrieb Lindsey dann Musikgeschichte: Der Song „Fool Me Once“ aus ihrem Album „You Change“ landete auf #1 der Billboard Contemporary Jazz Charts. Diese mit einem Stück anzuführen, bei dem der Gesang im Vordergrund steht, war zuvor bislang nur Sade mit „Soldier Of Love“ (2010) gelungen. Und Lindsey toppte deren Erfolg sogar: Sade führte die Charts drei Wochen lang an, Lindsey blieb vier an der Spitze. Ihre neueste CD, „A Woman Like Me“, steht für Lindseys Entwicklung als Künstlerin und Frau. „Ich habe privat viele Veränderungen durchgemacht. Ich musste wohl mit 30 endlich erwachsen werden,“ scherzt sie. Das Album eröffnet mit einem Sophisti-Pop und Bacharach-angehauchten Track, präsentiert aber auch eine breite Palette an verträumten sowie R&B/ Soul-Sounds bis hin zu bluesigen Vibes.

Honey-toned voice, enviable range, uniquely identifiable sound: That’s Lindsey Webster. The sultry young singer and composer grew up in an artist community, the daughter of loving hippie parents, in Woodstock NY, listening to her parent’s Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles and Elvis Costello LPs. Influenced by everyone from Mariah Carey and Gwen Stefani to Steely Dan and Earth Wind and Fire, she once pursued medical school before finally settling on music. Lindsey made history in 2016 with her original ‘Fool Me Once’ from the album ‘You Change’, which was the first vocally driven song to top the Billboard Contemporary Jazz charts since Sade’s ‘Soldier Of Love’ in 2010, beating Sade’s three-week run at #1 with a four-week stay at the top of the chart. Her latest CD, ‘A Woman Like Me’, is certainly a declaration of Lindsey’s evolution as both an artist and woman. ‘I’ve been through a lot of changes in my personal life. I joke and say that I had to finally become an adult when I turned 30,’ she says. The album opens with a Sophisti-pop and Bacharach-tinged track, but also presents a wide range from dreamy as well as R&B/Soul sounds to bluesy vibes.

Lindsey Webster

Una voz como miel, de una capacidad envidiable y un sonido único. Eso es Lindsey Webster. La joven y temperamental cantante y compositora creció como hija de amorosos padres hippie en una comuna de artistas en Woodstock, NY, dónde oyó los discos de sus padres de Jimi-Hendrix, los Beatles y Elvis Costello. Sin embargo, sus influencias musicales son mucho más amplias: van de Mariah Carey y Gwen Stefani hasta Steely Dan y Earth Wind and Fire. Antes de decidirse finalmente por la música, estudió en la escuela secundaria de medicina. Luego en 2016 Lindsey hizo historia en la música: la canción „Fool me once“ de su álbum „You change“ alcanzó el número uno en los superventas Billboard del jazz contemporáneo. Liderar esta categoría con una pieza en la que el canto está en primer plano, eso antes sólo lo había conseguido Sade con „Soldier of love“ (2010). Y Lindsey incluso superó el éxito de esa: Sade lideró los rankings durante tres semanas, Lindsey estuvo cuatro en la cabeza. Su compacto más reciente, „A woman like me“, representa el desarrollo de Lindsey como artista y mujer. „Tuve que vivir muchos cambios en mi vida personal. Creo que, al fin y al cabo, con 30 años tenía que convertirme en una adulta,“ dice de broma. El álbum abre con un „track“ que tiene toques de sophisti-pop y de Bacharach pero presenta también una amplia gama de sonidos románticos así como del R&B y del soul, y hasta „vibes“ de bastante blues.

10Artists | Lindsey Webster

Lindsey Webster live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2022 on Thursday, 3. November, 20:45 h

Image: Lindsey Webster

Another groundbreaking force among the sax elite of contemporary jazz: Denver native Paul Taylor took up the saxophone aged seven and graduated as a music performance major from University of Nevada. Though having lived in Las Vegas, the proximity of his adopted hometown to Los Angeles gave him many opportunities to vibe with other R&B and contemporary jazz stars, including Jeff Lorber, The Rippingtons and Keiko Matsui. In addition, the charismatic showman and longtime basketball enthusiast was part of ‘Gentlemen of the Night’ (with Marion Meadows and Warren Hill), ‘Sax and the City’ (with Meadows and Vincent Ingala) and ‘Peter, Paul and Euge’ (with Peter White and Euge Groove). His latest CD, ‘And Now This’, fully created via the exchange of digital files between Paul and his longtime musical compadre, collaborator, co-writer and producer Dino Esposito, features the saxman’s ongoing exploration of an expansive range of dynamic danceable grooves and intricate pop/electronica vibes.

También él pertenece a la élite saxo del jazz contemporáneo. Paul Taylor, nacido en Denver, ha tocado el saxofón desde que tenía siete años y estudió Music Performance en la Universidad de Nevada. A pesar de vivir en Las Vegas, ya ha colaborado – gracias a la cercanía de su patria adoptiva con Los Angeles – con muchos otros grandes nombres del R&B y del jazz contemporáneo, entre ellos Jeff Lorber, The Rippingtons y Keiko Matsui. Además el animador carismático y aficionado empedernido del baloncesto era parte de „Gentlemen of the Night” (con Marion Meadows y Warren Hill), „Sax and the City“ (con Meadows y Vincent Ingala) así como „Peter, Paul and Euge“ (con Peter White y Euge Groove). Su disco compacto más reciente, „And now this“, se produjo al intercambiar archivos digitales con su compañero de camino musical de muchos años, co-autor y productor Dino Esposito. También en este álbum el saxofonista, al que gusta sondear las fronteras estilísticas del género con influencias de otros tendencias musicales, demuestra una amplia gama de grooves dinámicas y bailables así como „vibes“ complejos del pop y de la música electrónica.

sensuality

DISCOGRAPHY

3 No.1 & 6 Top10 hits plus 7 Top10 albums at the Billboard jazz charts | known for his mix of funk & And Now This (2021) Countdown (2016)

Tenacity (2014)

Prime Time (2011)

Burnin‘ (2009)

Ladies‘ Choice (2007)

Nightlife (2005)

Steppin‘ Out (2003)

Hypnotic (2001)

Undercover (2000)

Pleasure Seeker (1997) On The Horn (1995)

paultaylorsax.com

Auch er gehört zur Sax-Elite des Contemporary Jazz: Der in Denver geborene Paul Taylor spielt Saxophon, seit er sieben Jahre alt ist, und studierte an der Universität von Nevada Music Performance. Obwohl er in Las Vegas lebt, hat er dank der Nähe seiner Wahlheimat zu Los Angeles schon mit vielen anderen großen Namen des R&B und Contemporary Jazz zusammengearbeitet, darunter Jeff Lorber, The Rippingtons und Keiko Matsui. Zudem war der charismatische Showman und eingefleischte Basketballfan Teil von „Gentlemen of the Night” (mit Marion Meadows und Warren Hill), „Sax and the City“ (mit Meadows und Vincent Ingala) sowie „Peter, Paul and Euge“ (mit Peter White und Euge Groove). Seine neueste CD, „And Now This“, ist entstanden, indem Paul Dateien digital ausgetauscht hat mit seinem langjährigen musikalischen Weggefährten, Co-Autor und Produzenten Dino Esposito. Auch auf diesem Album zeigt der Saxophonist, der die stilistischen Grenzen des Genres gerne mit Einflüssen aus anderen Musikrichtungen auslotet, eine breite Palette an dynamischen, tanzbaren Grooves sowie komplexe Pop/Electronic-Vibes.

Paul Taylor live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2022 on Thursday, 3. November, 22:15 h

Image: Paul Taylor

Saxophonist und Komponist Tom Braxton wuchs in Texas auf. Schon in jungen Jahren begeisterte ihn sein Vater, Saxophonist James (J.T.) Braxton, für Jazz. Tom begann in der 4. Klasse Klavier zu spielen, aber zwei Jahre später drückte ihm sein Vater das Alt-Saxophon in die Hände. Am College gründete er die Jazz-Fusion Band „No Compromise“, die Konzerte für Joe Sample, Stanley Clarke, George Howard und viele andere eröffnete. Nachdem er sein Studium summa cum laude mit einem Bachelor of Music/Performance abgeschlossen hatte, startete er seine Solo-Karriere. 1992 veröffentlichte Tom sein Debütalbum mit dem Produzenten Bernard Wright. Bernard machte ihn mit Wayman Tisdale bekannt und Tom tourte 17 Jahre lang mit Wayman, auch als sein Musical Director. Über die Jahre ist Tom mit Künstlern wie Dave Koz, Candy Dulfer, Brian Culbertson, Bob James, George Duke, Earl Klugh, Marcus Miller, Aretha Franklin, Luther Vandross und Sheila E. aufgetreten. Der energetische, charismatische Performer weiß, wie man Fans aller Altersklassen verzaubert. Sein unverwechselbarer Klang vereint Elemente von Jazz, Latin, Funk und R&B.

FACTS

Musical director of legendary bassist Wayman Tisdale for 17 years | World tours with Earl Klugh & Keiko Matsui

DISCOGRAPHY

Lookin’ Up (2021)

The Other Side (2016)

The Next Chapter (2014)

Endless Highway (2009)

Imagine This (2007)

Bounce (2004/2005)

Comfort And Joy (2001)

Face To Face (1999)

Katallasso (1998)

Your Move (1992)

www.tombraxton.com

Saxophonist and composer Tom Braxton grew up in Texas. At an early age, his dad, saxophonist James (J.T.) Braxton, introduced him to jazz. Tom started to play piano in the 4th grade, but two years later, his father put the alto sax in his hands. During his college years, he formed the jazz-fusion band ‘No Compromise’ which opened concerts for Joe Sample, Stanley Clarke, George Howard, and many others. After graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Music/Performance degree, he decided to launch his solo career. In 1992, Tom released his debut album with producer Bernard Wright. Bernard also got him to gig with Wayman Tisdale and Tom toured extensively with Wayman for 17 years, also serving as Musical Director. Through the years, Braxton has shared stage with many well-known artists such as Dave Koz, Candy Dulfer, Brian Culbertson, Bob James, George Duke, Earl Klugh, Marcus Miller, Aretha Franklin, Luther Vandross and Sheila E. The energetic, charismatic performer knows how to charm audiences of all ages. His distinctive and recognizable sound incorporates elements of Jazz, Latin, Funk, and

El saxofonista y compositor Tom Braxton creció en Texas. Ya en su infancia su padre, el saxofonista James (J.T.) Braxton, le entusiasmó por el jazz. Comenzó a tocar el piano en el cuarto año, pero dos años más tarde su padre le dio el alto saxo. En el instituto creó la banda de jazz fusión „No Compromise“ que abrió conciertos de Joe Sample, Stanley Clarke, George Howard y muchos más. Después de terminar sus estudios de Bachelor of Music Performance con un sobresaliente cum laude, comenzó su carrera de solista. En 1992 Tom publicó su álbum debut con el productor Bernard Wright. Este le presentó a Wayman Tisdale y Tom giró con Wayman durante 17 años, también como su director musical. En el transcurso del tiempo Tom ha actuado con artistas como Dave Koz, Candy Dulfer, Brian Culbertson, Bob James, George Duke, Earl Klugh, Marcus Miller, Aretha Franklin, Luther Vandross y Sheila E. El artista energético y carismático sabe como se hechiza a los aficionados de todas las edades en el escenario. Su sonido unconfundible reúne elementos de jazz, música latina, funk y R&B.

Tom Braxton

12Artists | Tom Braxton

R&B.

Tom Braxton live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2022 on Friday, 4. November, 20:45 h

Image: Luis Perez »Billy«

Norman Brown live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2022 on Friday, 4. November, 22:15 h

Norman Brown

Gitarrist, Komponist, Sänger und Grammy Award-Gewinner Norman Brown wuchs in Kansas City auf. Mit acht Jahren kam er zum ersten Mal mit einer Gitarre in Berührung. Inspiriert von Jimi Hendrix entdeckte er bald auch den Lieblingskünstler seines Vaters – Wes Montgomery – und fand damit seinen stilistischen Heiligen Gral. Nach der High School zog Norman nach Los Angeles und besuchte dort das Musicians Institute, wo er auch eine Zeit lang unterrichtete. Während er mit seiner Band in lokalen Clubs spielte, wurde er entdeckt. Sein Debüt gab er 1992 mit „Just Between Us“. Es folgten viele weitere erfolgreiche CDs, aber es war „Just Chillin‘“, die ihm endlich den Grammy in der Kategorie „Best Pop Instrumental“ einbrachte. Zwischenzeitlich hat Norman fast zwei Millionen CDs verkauft und führt regelmäßig die Billboard Contemporary Jazz Charts an. Auf der Bühne gestanden hat er auch schon mit fast jedem Contemporary-JazzSuperstar – von Boney James, über Dave Koz bis hin zu Gerald Albright. Mit Saxophonist Kirk Whalum und Trompeter Rick Braun gründete er 2002 zudem das Kollektiv „BWB“.

FACTS

Grammy winner | 8 No.1 & 13 Top10 hits plus 5 No.1 & 12 Top 3 albums at the Billboard jazz charts

DISCOGRAPHY

Let‘s Get Away (2022)

Heart To Heart (2020)

The Highest Act Of Love (2019) Let It Go (2016)

24/7 (2012)

Sending My Love (2010)

Stay With Me (2007)

The Very Best Of Norman Brown (2005)

West Coast Coolin‘ (2004)

Just Chillin‘ (2002)

Celebration (1999)

Better Days Ahead (1996)

After The Storm (1994)

Just Between Us (1992)

www.normanbrown.com

Guitarist, composer, singer and Grammy Award winner Norman Brown grew up in Kansas City. Aged 8, he first picked up a guitar. Inspired by Jimi Hendrix, he soon discovered his father’s favorite artist, Wes Montgomery, and found his stylistic holy grail. After high school, Norman moved to Los Angeles, attending the Musicians Institute where he also taught for a time. While playing with his band in local clubs, Brown was discovered. He delivered his 1992 debut ‘Just Between Us’ and followed with a lot of other successful CDs, but it was ‘Just Chillin’’ that finally earned him a Grammy Award in the best pop instrumental category. Meanwhile, Norman has sold close to 2 million albums and virtually lives at the top of the Billboard Contemporary Jazz charts. He also has shared stage with almost every Contemporary Jazz superstar from Boney James to Dave Koz to Gerald Albright. With saxophonist Kirk Whalum and trumpeter Rick Braun he founded the smooth jazz supergroup ‘BWB’ in 2002.

El guitarrista, compositor y ganador de un Grammy Award Norman Brown creció in Kansas City y tiene por primera vez a los ocho años contacto con una guitarra. Inspirado por Jimi Hendrix descubre poco después al artista favorito de su padre – Wes Montgomery – y en él encontró a su Santo Grial estilístico. Después de la High School Norman se mudó a Los Angeles y allí visitó el Musicians Institute en dónde imparte por un tiempo clases. Mientras que tocaba con su grupo en clubes de la región fue descubierto. Debuta en 1992 con „Just Between Us“ y prosiguen lanzamientos de muchos otros CDs más pero fue „Just Chillin‘“ con el que, por fin, ganó el grammy en la categoría „best pop instrumental“. Entretanto Norman ha vendido casi dos millones de compactos y lidera regularmente los Billboard superventas del jazz contemporáneo. También ya ha compartido el escenario con casi cada uno de las superestrellas del jazz contemporáneo – de Boney James sobre Dave Koz hasta Gerald Albright. Con el saxofonista Kirk Whalum y el trompetista Rick Braun fundó en 2002 el colectivo „BWB“.

Image: Norman Brown

Geboren und aufgewachsen in Paris (Frankreich), begann U-Nam – geboren als Emmanuel Abiteboul – im Alter von zwölf Jahren Gitarre zu spielen und entdeckte schnell die Musik von Künstlern wie George Benson, Stevie Wonder und George Duke. Zwischen 1986 und 1989 studierte er am Pariser CIM – der ersten europäischen Schule für Jazz. Mit 19 Jahren begann er seine professionelle Karriere als Studiomusiker. Seine Arbeit als Produzent brachte ihm mehrere Gold- und Multi-Platin-Auszeichnungen ein, aber 2005 gab er sein Solodebüt. Zwei Jahre später zog er in die USA und veröffentlichte sein zweites Album „Back from the 80s“, das den Nummer-1-Hit „Street Life“ enthielt. „Street Life“ blieb drei Monate in den Top 3 der US-Billboard-Charts und ein ganzes Jahr in den Top 10 der Charts. U-Nam hat mit einigen der Top-Künstler in den Genres Smooth Jazz, R&B und Soul gespielt und im Studio zusammengearbeitet, darunter George Duke, Marcus Miller, Eric Benet, Dave Koz, Rick Braun, Jonathan Butler, Jeff Lorber, Jeff Golub, Oleta Adams, Candy Dulfer, Brian Simpson, Euge Groove, Tom Braxton, Joey Sommerville und viele mehr. Und er wurde auch in drei Kategorien für die Grammys 2009 in Betracht gezogen, darunter Best Improvised Solo und Best Pop Instrumental Song.

Nacido y crecido en París (Francia) U-Nam – de nombre de pila Emmanuel Abiteboul – comenzó a tocar la guitarra a los doce años y descubrió pronto la música de artistas como George Benson, Stevie Wonder y George Duke. Entre 1986 y 1989 estudió en el CIM parisience, la primera escuela de jazz en Europa. A los 19 años inició su carrera profesional como músico de estudios. Su trabajo como productor le otorgó más de una distinción de oro y de platino múltiple, pero en 2005 hizo su debut como solista. Dos años más tarde se trasladó a los Estados Unidos y publicó su segundo álbum „Back from the 80s“, que contenía el hit número uno „Street Life“. Esta canción ocupó por tres meses los top 3 de los superventas Billboard de los EEUU y todo un año los top 10. U-Nam ha tocado y colaborado en estudio con algunos de los artistas top de los géneros smooth jazz, R&B y soul, entre ellos George Duke, Marcus Miller, Eric Benet, Dave Koz, Rick Braun, Jonathan Butler, Jeff Lorber, Jeff Golub, Oleta Adams, Candy Dulfer, Brian Simpson, Euge Groove, Tom Braxton, Joey Sommerville y muchos más. Y en tres categorías fue nominado para los grammy del 2009, entre ellas el mejor solo improvisado y la mejor canción pop instrumental.

Born and raised in Paris (France), U-Nam – born Emmanuel Abiteboul – began playing the guitar at age 12 and quickly discovered the music of artists like George Benson, Stevie Wonder and George Duke. Between 1986 and 1989, he studied at the Paris-based CIM – the first European school for jazz. At age 19 he turned professional, becoming a fixture at Paris studio sessions. His work as a producer earned him several Gold and Multi-Platinum records but in 2005, he made his solo debut. Two years later, he moved to the US and released his sophomore album, ‘Back from the 80s’ which included the #1 hit ‘Street Life’. ‘Street Life’ stayed in the Top Three on the US Billboard Charts for three months and the Top Ten charts for an entire year. U-Nam has played, recorded and worked with several of the top artists in the Smooth Jazz, R&B, and Soul genres. e. g. George Duke, Marcus Miller, Eric Benet, Dave Koz, Rick Braun, Jonathan Butler, Jeff Lorber, Jeff Golub, Oleta Adams, Candy Dulfer, Brian Simpson, Euge Groove, Tom Braxton, Joey Sommerville and many more. And he was also considered for the 2009 Grammy’s in three categories including Best Improvised Solo and Best Pop Instrumental Song.

U-Nam live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2022 on Saturday, 5. November, 11:00 h

Image: Emmanuel Abiteboul

FACTS

1 No.1 & 7 Top10 hits plus 4 Top10 albums at the Billboard jazz charts | toured

DISCOGRAPHY

All That Matters (2021)

Unified (2020)

Something About You (2018)

Persuasion (2016)

Out Of A Dream (2015)

Just What You Need (2013)

South Beach (2010)

Above The Clouds (2007)

It‘s All Good (2005)

Closer Still (1995)

www.bsimpsonmusic.com

Brian

Simpson

Brian Simpson live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2022 on Saturday, 5. November, 12:30 h

El teclista Brian Simpson creció en Illinois, pero vive en Los Angeles desde su graduación en la Universidad de Illinois del Norte. Sabe crear melodías inolvidables y grooves irresistibles. Su manejo sensible de la música, su persuasivo sentimiento al tocar, las armonías sofisticadas emparejadas a los tonos blues, un toque de R&B y una ración fuerte de percepción en cuanto a lo que debe contener una canción para que lleve el pulso de la época, llamaron la atención de autoridades reconocidos como George Duke, Larry Carlton, Billy Cobham, Gerald Albright, Norman Brown y Dave Koz. Al último le ha acompañado casi 20 años como director musical; además fue el director musical de „The Smooth Jazz Cruise“ durante 10 años. Nunca ha dejado de trabajar como músico de jazz a pesar de encontrarse en este tiempo en giras mundiales con divas del pop como Teena Marie, Sheena Easton y Janet Jackson. En 1991 colaboró escribiendo el éxito pop no. 1 „The first time“ de Surface, el cual conquistó los rankings de R&B así como los de adult contemporary. Su aparición en la escena como solista la logró en el 2005, con el éxito no. 1 de la radio „It’s all good“. La popularidad de su música le llevó en 2019 a una gira mundial casi interminable por Japón, Australia, Korea del Sur, Indonesia, las Filipinas, España, EEUU, Portugal y Sudáfrica.

Hailing from Illinois, keyboardist Brian Simpson has been living in Los Angeles since having graduated from Northern Illionois University. He creates unforgettable melodies with irresistible grooves. His soulful approach to music, his eloquent approach to playing, sophisticated harmonics sense, bluesy overtones, R&B flavor and keen sense of how to craft a song that stands the test of time have made him first call for many big names, including George Duke, Larry Carlton, Billy Cobham, Gerald Albright, Norman Brown, and Dave Koz, whose musical director he had been for close to 20 years; another 10 years he had been musical director of ‘The Smooth Jazz Cruise’. He has always been a working jazz musician, even when he found himself touring the world with pop divas Teena Marie, Sheena Easton and Janet Jackson. In 1991, he co-wrote the #1 Pop hit ‘The First Time’ by Surface, which conquered both the R&B and Adult Contemporary charts. His breakthrough as a solo artist began in 2005 with the #1 radio hit ‘It’s All Good’. The popularity of his music kept Brian on a seemingly endless world tour which in 2019 included Japan, Australia, Korea, Indonesia, Philippines, Spain, UK, Portugal, and South Africa.

Keyboarder Brian Simpson wuchs in Illinois auf, lebt jedoch seit seinem Abschluss an der Northern Illinois University in Los Angeles. Er kreiert unvergessliche Melodien und unwiderstehliche Grooves. Sein gefühlvoller Umgang mit Musik, sein beredtes Spielgefühl, die raffinierten Harmonien, gepaart mit bluesigen Obertönen, einem Hauch R&B und einer gehörigen Portion Gespür dafür, was einen „It-Song“ ausmacht, haben ihn ins Blickfeld bekannter Größen wie George Duke, Larry Carlton, Billy Cobham, Gerald Albright, Norman Brown und Dave Koz gerückt. Letzteren begleitete er fast 20 Jahre lang als Musical Director; zudem war er zehn Jahre lang Musical Director der „The Smooth Jazz Cruise“. Er hat nie aufgehört, als Jazzmusiker zu arbeiten, auch wenn er sich zwischenzeitlich auf Welttourneen wiederfand mit Pop-Diven wie Teena Marie, Sheena Easton and Janet Jackson. 1991 schrieb er an dem # 1 Pop-Hit „The First Time“ von Surface mit, der die R&B- und die Adult Contemporary-Charts eroberte. Den Durchbruch als Solokünstler schaffte er 2005 mit dem # 1 Radio-Hit „It‘s All Good“. Die Popularität seiner Musik führte in 2019 auf eine schier endlos lange Welttournee durch Japan, Australien, Korea, Indonesien, die Philippinen, Spanien, UK, Portugal und Südafrika.

with George Duke, Dave Koz, Wayman Tisdale, Gerald Albright, James Ingram, Anita Baker, etc.

Nueve veces nominado para un grammy, dos veces ganador de un grammy – eso dice bastante. El saxofonista Eric Marienthal estudió en el Berklee College of Music en Boston, entre otros con el legendario catedrático de saxofón, Joe Viola. Allí terminó su formación con la valoración de aptitud más alta. En 1995 siguió el Berklee Distinguished Alumnus Award por rendimientos extraordinarios en el campo de la música contemporánea. Su carrera profesional comenzó en 1980 en Nueva Orleans con el trompetista Al Hirt. Después de su regreso a Los Angeles Eric se afilió a la „Chick Corea Elektric Band“, grabó seis discos compactos con ellos y ganó los dos grammy mencionados. Además actuó con artistas como Elton John, Barbra Streisand, Billy Joel, Stevie Wonder, Dionne Warwick, Lee Ritenour, George Duke, David Benoit, David Lee Roth y muchos más. En total, el saxofonista ya elegido una vez por los lectores de la revista Jazziz Magazine, junto con David Sanborn y Phil Woods, como el „musico favorito de alto saxo” del año ha lanzado solo algunos compactos. Se agregan actuaciones en más de 75 países diferentes así como centenares de apariciones en la tele y en películas, y en discos en los que colaboró. ¿A usted le gustaría tomar clases con él? Eric imparte clases de jazz saxofón online …

Neunmal für einen Grammy nominiert, zweimal mit einem Grammy ausgezeichnet – das spricht für sich. Saxophonist Eric Marienthal studierte am Berklee College of Music in Boston, u. a. bei dem legendären Saxophon-Professor Joe Viola. Seine Ausbildung dort schloss er mit der höchsten Eignungsbewertung ab. 1995 folgte der Berklee Distinguished Alumnus Award für außerordentliche Leistungen im Bereich Contemporary Music. Seine berufliche Laufbahn begann 1980 in New Orleans mit dem Trompeter Al Hirt. Nach seiner Rückkehr nach Los Angeles trat Eric der „Chick Corea Elektric Band“ bei, nahm sechs CDs mit ihnen auf und gewann besagte zwei Grammys. Zudem trat er mit Künstlern wie Elton John, Barbra Streisand, Billy Joel, Stevie Wonder, Dionne Warwick, Lee Ritenour, George Duke, David Benoit, David Lee Roth u.v.a. auf. Insgesamt hat der Saxophonist, den die Leser des Jazziz Magazine zusammen mit David Sanborn und Phil Woods schon einmal zum „Favorite Alto Sax Player“ des Jahres gewählt haben, einige Solo-CDs veröffentlicht. Hinzu kommen Auftritte in über 75 verschiedenen Ländern sowie Hunderte von Fernsehshows, Filme und Schallplatten, auf denen er mitwirkte. Unterricht bei ihm gefällig? Eric gibt online Jazz-Saxophon-Stunden…

FACTS

DISCOGRAPHY

Double Dealin’ (2020) Bridges (2015)

It’s Love (2012)

Just Around The Corner (2007)

Got You Covered (2005)

Sweet Talk (2003)

Turn Up The Heat (2001)

Walk Tall (1998)

Easy Street (1997)

Collection (Compilation; 1997)

Street Dance (1994)

One Touch (1993)

Oasis (1991)

Crossroads (1990)

Round Trip (1989)

Voices Of The Heart (1987)

www.ericmarienthal.com

Eric Marienthal

Nine-time Grammy nominated, two-time Grammy Award winning – that speaks for itself. Saxophonist Eric Marienthal studied at the Berklee College of Music in Boston,with the legendary saxophone professor, Joe Viola. By the time he left Berklee, Eric had achieved the highest proficiency rating given by the school. In 1995, he was awarded the Berklee Distinguished Alumnus Award for outstanding achievements in contemporary music. His professional career started in 1980 with trumpeter Al Hirt. After returning to Los Angeles Eric became a member of the ‘Chick Corea Elektric Band’. He recorded 6 CD’s with them and won the two already mentioned Grammy Awards. Eric went on to perform with artists such as Elton John, Barbra Streisand, Billy Joel, Stevie Wonder, Dionne Warwick, Lee Ritenour, George Duke, David Benoit, David Lee Roth and many others. Overall, the saxplayer has since gone on to perform in over 75 different countries, recorded several solo CD’s and has played on hundreds of records, films and tv shows. And Eric was voted as being one of the year’s ‘Favorite Alto Sax Players’ in Jazziz Magazine’s Reader’s Poll along with David Sanborn and Phil Woods. Interested in classes with him? Eric offers online jazz saxophone lessons…

16Artists | Eric Marienthal

Eric Marienthal live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2022 on Saturday, 5. November, 20:45 h

2x Grammy winner | 9x Grammy nominee I 2 No.1 hits plus 5 Top10 albums at the Billboard jazz charts

Image: Eric Marienthal

Down To The Bone

Down To The Bone ist Stuart Wade als Produzent, Songtexter und Mastermind, der mit anderen Musikern und Co-Textern ein gut-groovendes Bandprojekt inszeniert. Das Groove-Projekt nahm 1995 seinen Lauf, als Stuart beschloss, einen Track der Soul-Band Think Twice, bei der er damals war, neu zu mixen, um ihm einen raueren, prägnanteren Touch zu verleihen. Das Ergebnis war der Down To The Bone-Remix des Tracks „Joy Is Free“, der beim Publikum sehr gut ankam. Nach diesem Erfolg tat sich Stuart mit Think Twice-Keyboarder Simon Greenaway zusammen und sie veröffentlichten die 12‘‘-Single „Staten Island Groove“. Zu dieser Zeit entschloss sich Stuart auch, ein ganzes Album mit dem Titel „From Manhattan To Staten“ fertigzustellen. Der Titel sollte auf seine Einflüsse von jenseits des Teiches verweisen und das Album sollte seinen Sound nach Amerika bringen. Stuart wollte sehen, was passiert. Erwartet hatte er nichts, umso erstaunter war er über die enorme Resonanz in den USA. Seit damals hat DTTB viele weitere erfolgreiche Solo-Alben auf den Markt gebracht und weltweit über eine halbe Million Alben verkauft.

No.1 & 3 Top10 hits plus 11 Top10 albums at the Billboard jazz charts

Down To The Bone live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2022 on Saturday, 5. November, 22:15 h

Dig It (2014)

Main Ingredients (2011)

Future Boogie (2009)

Supercharged (2007)

The Best Of Down To The Bone (2006)

Spread Love Like Wildfire (2005)

Cellar Funk (2004)

Crazy Vibes & Things (2002)

Spread The Word (2000)

The Urban Groves (1999)

From Manhattan To Staten (1997)

www.downtothebone.com

Down To The Bone is Stuart Wade as producer, writer and mastermind behind the whole groove project, working with other musicians and co-writers to bring together a project of good grooves. Set up at the tail end of 1995 when Wade decided to remix a track from the soul band he was in at the time, Think Twice, to give it a rawer and stripped down feel. The result was the Down To The Bone remix of the track ‘Joy Is Free’ which had great success. Following on from this success Stuart teamed up with Think Twice keyboardist, Simon Greenaway, and they released the 12”single ‘Staten Island Groove’. It was at this time that Stuart decided to try to complete an album, “From Manhattan To Staten”, a title he came up with to show his influences from across the pond. With this CD, Stuart wanted to take the whole sound over to America to see what would happen. Not expecting anything, Wade was astounded by the huge response in the U.S. Since then, DTTB have released many more successful solo albums and accumulated well over half a million sales worldwide.

„Down to the bone“, eso es Stuart Wade como productor, autor (de temas) y cérebro guía que escenifica un proyecto de banda de mucho „groove“ con otros músicos y co-autores. El proyecto groove tomó su rumbo en 1995 cuando Stuart decidió mezclar de nuevo una pista sonora de la banda de soul Think Twice, a la que pertenecía en esta época, para darle un aire más riguroso, más característico. El resultado fue el Down To The Bone-Remix del track „Joy is free“ el que fue muy bien acogido por el público. Después de este éxito Stuart se asoció con el teclista de Think Twice, Simon Greenaway, y ambos publicaron el 12’’-sencillo „Staten Island Groove“. En esta época Stuart también decidió finalizar un álbum completo titulado „From Manhattan to Staten“. El título debía remitir a sus influencias del otro lado del charco y el álbum debía llevar su sonido a los Estados Unidos. Stuart quería ver lo que iba a pasar. No había esperado nada. Tanto más le sorprendió la enorme resonancia en los EEUU. Desde entonces DTTB ha lanzado muchos otros exitosos álbumes solo y ha vendido más de un medio millón en todo el mundo.

Image: Graeme Holiday

Von der Los Angeles Times als „Genie an der Gitarre“, vom Critical Blast als „Gitarrist eines Gitarristen“ und von Dave Koz als „unglaublich talentiert“ bezeichnet, hat der südkalifornische Gitarrist Blake Aaron seine Karriere in LA als Studiomusiker und Sideman begonnen. Dabei stand er mit Künstlern wie Carlos Santana, Bobby Womack, Philip Bailey, Sheila E., The Gap Band, Keiko Matsui, Warren Hill u.v.a. auf der Bühne und im Studio. „Die Leute kennen mich heute als Contemporary-Jazz-Künstler, aber ich war schon in verschiedensten Bands, habe Rock, Funk, R&B und Straight Ahead Jazz gespielt. Ich konnte also nie nur auf einen Stil fokussieren. Viele Künstler fokussieren gerne auf den einen Trademark-Sound, aber ich muss einfach verschiedene Ausdrucksformen verwenden, weil das ich bin. Das hält die Alben fresh und den Auftritt auf der Bühne spontan“, sagt Aaron, der bei Live-Shows auch gerne mit verschiedenen Gitarren spielt. Seine Favoriten: D‘Angelico Hollow Body, Fender Stratocaster und Cordoba Nylon String.

FACTS

DISCOGRAPHY

Color & Passion (2020)

Soul Stories (2015) Desire (2007)

Bringin’ It Back (2003) With Every Touch (2001)

www.blakeaaron.com

Llamado un “genio en la guitarra” por el Los Angeles Times, un “guitarrista de guitarristas” por el Critical Blast y un “talento increíble” por Dave Koz, el guitarrista de California del Sur, Blake Aaron, comenzó su carrera profesional en LA como músico de estudios y acompañante de otros músicos. En esto compartió el escenario y el estudio con artistas como Carlos Santana, Bobby Womack, Philip Bailey, Sheila E., The Gap Band, Keiko Matsui, Warren Hill y muchos más. “Hoy en día la gente me conoce como un artista del jazz contemporáneo, pero ya he estado en bandas más diversas tocando rock, funk, R&B y straight ahead jazz. Nunca he podido enfocarme sólo en un estilo. Muchos artistas prefieren concentrarse en su marca tonal pero yo tengo que usar simplemente diferentes formas de expresión, porque eso soy yo. Esto mantiene los álbumes frescos y la aparición en el escenario es espontánea”, dice Aaron. En actuaciones en vivo le gusta tocar diferentes guitarras. Sus favoritas son: D’Angelico Hollow Body, Fender Stratocaster y Córdoba de cuerdas nailon.

Blake Aaron

Blake Aaron live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2022 on Sunday, 6. November, 11:00 h

Named ‘a genius on the guitar’ by the Los Angeles Times, ‘a guitar player’s guitarist’ by Critical Blast, and ‘amazingly talented’ by Dave Koz, the Southern California based guitarist Blake Aaron launched his career as an L.A. studio musician and sideman. He has recorded and performed with artists such as Carlos Santana, Bobby Womack, Philip Bailey, Sheila E., The Gap Band, Keiko Matsui, Warren Hill and many others. ‘People are most familiar to me now as a contemporary jazz artist, but I’ve been in different bands playing rock, funk, R&B and straight ahead jazz. So I’ve never been able to focus on just one style. Many artists like to focus on one trademark sound, but I have to use different modes of expression because that’s really who I am. It keeps the albums fresh and allows for more spontaneity onstage’, says Aaron, who loves working with different guitars at live shows. His favourites: D’Angelico hollow body, Fender Stratocaster and Cordoba Nylon string.

Artists | Blake Aaron

No.1 hit & 7 Top10 hits at the Billboard jazz chart | hosts a live music radio since 2008 (now called ‚Blake Aaron Live w Tina Anderson‘)

Image: Blake Aaron

David Benoit wuchs in LA auf. Mit dem Jazz-Virus infizierte er sich 1965 – als er ein Charlie-Brown-Special im Fernsehen gesehen und die Musik von Vince Guaraldi gehört hatte. „Als ich dieses Jazz-Klavier-Trio hörte, wusste ich, dass ich wie er spielen wollte“, sagt der Pianist, der als einer der Gründerväter des Contemporary Jazz gilt. Mit dem Klavierspiel begann er, als er 13 war. Später studierte er Musiktheorie, Komposition, Orchestrierung und Filmmusik bei verschiedenen namhaften Lehrmeistern. Seitdem hat er mit einer Menge beeindruckender Musiker zusammengearbeitet, darunter die Rippingtons, Dave Koz, Faith Hill, David Sanborn, CeCe Winans und Brian McKnight. Sein erstes Album veröffentlichte David 1977, danach folgten viele weitere Chartstürmer. Wenn er nicht selbst Musik macht, dirigiert David. Er leitete etwa bereits das Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra, das Asia America Symphony Orchestra und das London Symphony Orchestra. Und zurzeit moderiert in Kalifornien eine Radiomorgensendung auf KKJZ 88.1 FM. Insgesamt wurde David viermal für den Grammy nominiert und 2010 hat er den Lifetime Achievement Award der American Smooth Jazz Awards erhalten.

David Benoit grew up in Los Angeles. He was bitten by the jazz bug after watching a Charlie Brown special on TV and listening to the music of Vince Guaraldi in 1965. ‘When I heard that jazz piano trio, that was the defining moment when I decided that I wanted to play like Vince Guaraldi’, says the pianist, composer and arranger. Aged thirteen, he began studying piano and later he also studied music theory, composition, orchestration and film scoring with several designated masters. Since then, he’s worked with an impressive potpourri of musicians including the Rippingtons, Dave Koz, Faith Hill, David Sanborn, CeCe Winans and Brian McKnight. David released his first album in 1977, followed by many other chart toppers. Apart from playing his own music, David has served as conductor with a wide range of symphonies including the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Asia America Symphony Orchestra and the London Symphony Orchestra. And currently, David hosts a morning radio show on KKJZ 88.1 FM in California. Overall, he has received four Grammy nominations and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Smooth Jazz Awards in 2010.

David Benoit

David Benoit live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2022 on Sunday, 6. November, 12:30 h

FACTS

Four-time Grammy nominee |

3 No.1 & 8 Top10 hits plus 2 No.1 & 11 Top 3 albums at the Billboard jazz charts

DISCOGRAPHY

A Midnight Rendezvous (2022)

Old Friends (2021)

It‘s A David Benoit Christmas! (2020)

David Benoit & Friends (2019)

The Steinway Sessions (2017)

So Nice! (2017)

Believe (2015)

2 In Love (2015)

Conversation (2012)

Earthglow (2010)

Jazz For Peanuts (2008)

Heroes (2008)

Standards (2006)

Full Circle (2006)

Orchestral Stories (2006)

40 Years: A Charlie Brown Christmas (2005)

The Benoit | Freeman Project 2 (2004)

Right Here, Right Now (2003)

Fuzzy Logic (2002)

Here’s To You, Charlie Brown: 50

Great Years (2000)

Great Composers of Jazz (2000)

Professional Dreamer (1999)

American Landscape (1997)

Remembering Christmas (1996)

The Best Of 1987-1995 (1995)

The Stars Fell On Henrietta (1995)

The Benoit | Freeman Project (1994)

Shaken Not Stirred (1994) and many more...

davidbenoitmusic.com

David Benoit creció en LA. Se contagió con el virus jazz en 1965 – cuando vio un especial „Charlie Brown“ en la tele y escuchó la música de Vince Guaraldi. „Cuando oí este piano trio de jazz supe que quería tocar cómo él,“ dice el pianista que es considerado uno de los fundadores del jazz contemporáneo. Comenzó a tocar el piano a los 13 años. Más tarde estudió teoría de la música, composición, orquestación y bandas sonoras con diversos maestros de renombre. Desde entonces ha trabajado con un montón de músicos impresionantes, entre ellos los Rippingtons, Dave Koz, Faith Hill, David Sanborn, CeCe Winans y Brian McKnight. David publicó su primer álbum en 1977, luego siguieron muchos más que conquistaron las listas de éxitos. Cuando no toca él mismo David está dirigiendo. Ya ha conducido la orquesta filarmónica de Los Angeles, el Asia America Symphony Orchestra y la orquesta sinfónica de Londres. De momento modera un programa matinal de radio en la emisora KKJZ 88.1 FM. En total David fue nominado para el grammy cuatro veces y en 2010 se le otorgó la distinción por el rendimiento en su vida artística de los American Smooth Jazz Awards.

19 David Benoit | Artists

Image: David Benoit

Schon seit erstes Album haute alle Jazz-Enthusiasten um: Mit „The Genie“ mischte Bobby Lyle nicht nur die Billboard-Charts ordentlich auf. Das ist nun mehr als 40 Jahre her – und immer noch begeistert der Pianist/Keyboarder und Komponist Musikliebhaber in aller Welt mit seiner großartigen Bühnenpräsenz. Seine Karriere begann Bobby im Alter von 16 Jahren in lokalen Clubs in Minneapolis. Nach der Highschool schrieb er sich am Macalester College in St. Paul ein, wo er zwei Jahre lang Klavier studierte, bevor er als Berufsmusiker durchstartete. Als er von Minneapolis nach Los Angeles umgezogen war, lernte er zufällig den Mitbegründer von Jazz Crusader, Wayne Henderson, kennen. Dieser wurde Bobby‘s Mentor, sicherte dessen ersten Plattenvertrag und produzierte dessen erste Platte. Seine musikalische Reise hat Bobby auf der ganzen Welt schon auf verschiedenste Festivals geführt und er arbeitete als Musical Director für Künstler wie Al Jarreau, Anita Baker, Bette Midler und Phyliss Hyman. Zudem unterrichtet er Jazz-Piano-Studenten. 2014 startete Bobby zusammen mit Guy Michaels, einer bekannten Persönlichkeit aus der Welt des Smooth-Jazz-Radio, „The J-Spot“ –die erste Jazz-Show Houstons im Fernsehen.

Bobby Lyle

FACTS

Emmy nominee | 3 Top20 hits at the Billboard jazz chart | Musical director of Al Jarreau, Anita Baker & Bette Midler | Toured with George Benson, Sly and the Family Stone, Ronnie Laws, Gerald Albright, etc.

DISCOGRAPHY

Ivory Flow (2021)

The Way I Feel (2013)

Hands On (2006)

Straight And Smooth (2004)

Joyful (2002)

The Power Of Touch (1997)

Rhythm Stories (1994)

The Best of (1993)

Secret Island (1992)

Pianomagic (1991)

The Journey (1990)

Ivory Dreams (1989)

Night Breeze (1985)

Night Fire (1979)

New Warrior (1978)

The Genie (1977)

bobbylylethegenie.com

Bobby Lyle live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2022 on Sunday, 6. November, 20:45 h

Ya su primer álbum dejó boquiabierto a todos los entusiastas del jazz: con „The Genie“ Bobby Lyle no sólo dejó un rastro fuerte en los superventas de Billboard. Eso fue hace ya 40 años – y todavía el pianista/teclista y compositor entusiasma a los melómanos en todo el mundo con su gran presencia en el escenario. Bobby comenzó su carrera a los 16 años en los clubes locales de Minneapolis. Después de la secundaria se inscribió en el Macalester College en St. Paul, dónde estudió piano durante dos años antes de que arrancara como músico profesional. Cuando se trasladó de Minneapolis a Los Angeles, conoció por casualidad al co-fundador de Jazz Crusader, Wayne Henderson. Este se convirtió en el mentor de Bobby, consolidó su primer contrato discográfico y produjo su primer disco. El viaje musical de Bobby le ha llevado a festivales muy diversos en todo el mundo y trabajó como director musical para artistas como Al Jarreau, Anita Baker, Bette Midler y Phyliss Hyman. Además da clases para estudiantes del jazz piano. En 2014 Bobby inició junto con Guy Michaels, un personaje conocido del mundo radiofónico del smooth jazz, el programa „The J-Spot“ – la primera emisión de la televisión de Houston dedicada al jazz.

Right from the start, he blew the minds of jazz enthusiasts everywhere: ‘The Genie’, the first album being released by Bobby Lyle, exploded onto the Billboard charts. That’s more than 40 years ago, and still, the pianist/keyboardist and composer continues to impress music lovers all over the world with his stage presence. He began his career at the age of 16, playing in local clubs in Minneapolis. After high school he enrolled in Macalester College in St. Paul, where he took two years of advanced piano studies before hitting the road as a full-time musician. A move from Minneapolis to Los Angeles set in motion a fortuitous set of circumstances that led him to Jazz Crusader co-founder Wayne Henderson, who secured his first record deal; and also became his first record producer and mentor in the business. His musical journey has taken Bobby all over the world to various festivals and he has served as musical director for such notable artists as Al Jarreau, Anita Baker, Bette Midler, and Phyliss Hyman. Bobby is also involved with teaching and mentoring jazz piano students. In 2014, in association with smooth jazz radio personality Guy Michaels, he launched Houston’s first ever TV Jazz Show called The J-Spot.

20Artists | Bobby Lyle

Image: Kathleen Tauer

Saxophonist Michael Lington stammt aus Dänemark. 1990 zog es ihn nach Los Angeles, 2008 wurde er amerikanischer Staatsbürger. Den Einstieg ins Musikgeschäft hat er in Bobby Caldwell’s Band geschafft. Seit Michael 1997 sein Debütalbum veröffentlichte, erobert seine Musik immer wieder vorderste Ränge in den Billboard Contemporary Jazz Charts und begeistert seine Fans mit mitreißenden Melodien, reichen Emotionen, funkigen Grooves und seiner Kraft. In seiner mehr als 20 Jahre langen Karriere hat er neben Bobby Caldwell schon mit vielen anderen Topmusikern zusammengearbeitet, darunter Michael Bolton, Barry Manilow, Taylor Dayne, Kenny Lattimore, Randy Crawford u. v. a. Michael hat auch schon mehrfach für die dänische Königsfamilie gespielt. Wenn er nicht gerade im Studio oder auf der Bühne steht, leitet er seine Zigarrenfirma und „Lington Wines“ – seine Linie feiner Boutique-Weine aus Kalifornien. Sein neuestes Album, „Alone Together“, ist mitten in der Corona-Pandemie entstanden. Durch das Virus in Live-Auftritten ausgebremst, startete Michael virtuelle Shows und lud befreundete Künstler ein, mit ihm zu spielen. Da echte Live-Duetts technisch nicht möglich waren, hat jeder für sich Vorab-Aufnahmen gemacht, die dann zusammengeführt wurden. So entstand die CD buchstäblich „Alone Together“.

El saxofonista Michael Lington es de Dinamarca. En 1990 se sintió atraído por Los Angeles, en 2008 se convirtió en un ciudadano estadounidense. Logró su ingreso al negocio músical en la banda de Bobby Caldwell. Desde que Michael publicara su álbum debut, repetidamente su música conquista los rangos más altos en los rankings Billboard del jazz contemporáneo y entusiasma a sus aficionados con melodías apasionantes, ricas emociones, grooves de funk y su fuerza. En su carrera de más de 20 años ya ha colaborado, además de Bobby Caldwell, con otros top músicos, entre ellos Michael Bolton, Barry Manilow, Taylor Dayne, Kenny Lattimore, Randy Crawford y muchos más. Michael ha tocado también muchas veces para la familia real danesa. Cuando no está en el estudio o en el escenario, dirige su empresa de puros y „Lington Wines“ – su línea boutique de vinos finos de California. Su álbum más reciente, „Alone together“, se produjo en medio de la pandemia covid. Obstaculizado en sus apariciones en vivo por el virus Michael comenzó con actuaciones virtuales y invitó a sus amigos artistas a tocar con él. Como los reales duetos en vivo no eran posibles, por razones técnicas, cada uno produjo sus grabaciones de antemano y luego se las juntó. Así el compacto se produjo literalmente „Alone together (juntos pero solos)“.

Saxophonist Michael Lington is a native of Denmark. It was in 1990 that he moved to Los Angeles, becoming a U.S. citizen in 2008. He got his musical start in Bobby Caldwell’s band. Since his self titled major-label debut in 1997, Michael’s tracks keep conquering the Billboard Contemporary Jazz charts and he has wowed and seduced his fans continuously with infectious melodies, rich emotion, funky grooves and a powerful innate force. In his career, that spans more than 20 years, apart from Bobby Caldwell Lington has collaborated with many other top artists like Michael Bolton, Barry Manilow, Taylor Dayne, Kenny Lattimore, Randy Crawford and many others. Michael has also performed for the Danish royal family numerous times. When he’s not recording or performing, he manages his own cigar company and ‘Lington Wines’, his own boutique line of fine wines out of California. His latest album, ‘Alone Together’, was created in the middle of the corona pandemic. Slowed down by the virus in live performances, Michael started virtual shows and invited fellow artist to play with him. But as technology wasn’t allowing for ‘live’ duets they did it literally ‘alone together’ from separate locations as a pre-record.

FACTS

DISCOGRAPHY

Image: Michael Lington

FEATURED ARTISTS

Westley Joseph – Drums

Richard Edwards – DJ, Radio Personalilty

FEATURED ARTISTS

Orefo Orakwue – Bass www.orefo.com

Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019:

Start me up

Review by Peter Böhi of smoothjazzvibes.com

Images by Christian Nordström and Bianca Berger

The 8th annual Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival took place like usual at the hospitable Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa in Sa Coma, Mallorca, May 13-19, 2019. The festival had been pushed a little closer to summer to allow for warmer temperatures. The skies were blue and the weather nice, fans were gathering from all over the world, and everybody was ready to meet friends, hear their favourite music and have a good time. The festival started on Monday with a pre-program with a dinner accompanied by Oli Silk (keys), followed by a show of the local band Saxophobia Funk Project and a welcome gala dinner on Tuesday, followed by show of singer Bart Brandjes and Rob Zinn (trumpet) on the smaller open air stage.

I arrived on Wednesday, when the major acts started to appear. Like every year, two alternating house bands supported the main players. Guitarist Chieli Minucci opened the festival, supported by Westley Joseph (drums), Orefo Orakwue (bass), Oli Silk (keys), local players José (percussion) and Miguel Ramon (sax), plus Rob Zinn (trumpet). They went right into it with “Kicking It Hard” and “Body Beat”, bringing things up to speed. The band was cooking and Chieli played his electric guitar beautifully, with a wide range of expression and technical prowess. Next were his radio hit “Cruise Control” and the classic “Ballerina” he wrote for his daughter 30 years ago. The highlight of the whole show for me was his rendition of Stevie Wonder’s “Cause We’ve Ended

Chieli Minucci

Rob Zinn Bart Brandjes

As Lovers” reaching a tremendous climax. His show was well received, and he was visibly impressed by the whole festival and the great vibe in the room.

Next were DW3, the “three Mexicans from LA living their dream” according to their own statement, who brought us their mix of originals and well selected covers, providing a great party vibe. DW3 are brothers Eric (keys) and Billy Mondragon (percussion), plus Damon Reel (vocals), all share harmony and lead vocals, propelling the music forward. They were supported by Marcus Finnie (drums), Marius Goldhammer (bass), Lutz Deterra (keys), Martin Feske (guitar; hereinafter “band a”), plus a horn section consisting of Rob (trumpet) and Miguel (sax). Their music falls more into the R&B category, but they have strong ties to the smooth jazz scene with Ricky Lawson having produced their music, people like Gerald Albright and Dave Koz guesting on their albums, apart from sailing on smooth jazz cruises. They opened with “Let The Music Be Your Guide”, followed by songs like “I’ll Be By Your Side” and “Hold Me, Love Me”, showing their impeccable vocal skills and great

harmonies. They did a beautiful version of “California Dreaming”, then shifting gears with EWF’s “Can’t Hide Love” and Stevie Wonder’s “Do I Do”, bringing people to their feet. They were asked for an encore and did an abridged version of JB’s “Sex Machine”, bringing a great concert evening to an end.

Thursday night after a nice “Cool By The Pool” party in the afternoon with lots of artists jamming on a small stage next to the pool, we got the next headliner, singer Chris Walker who honed his skills as bass player and background vocalist as a member of Al Jarreau’s band for 22 years. On one hand he is carrying his mentor’s legacy incorporating large parts of Al’s techniques into

Eric Darius

his singing, while remaining his own man at the same time. He was supported by Oli and Lutz (keys), Westley (drums), Orefo (bass), Dave Ital (guitar), plus Elle Cato and Bart (backing vocals). He kicked off his show with a great cover of the Gap Band’s “Outstanding”, having the crowd in the palm of his hand right from the start. The old school vibe continued with a tremendous rendition of “If Only For One Night”, dedicated to Doreen in the audience who celebrated her birthday, getting his full attention. Later he invited Bart to scat with him, both pushing their creativity to its limits. The Al Jarreau mode continued with an awesome rendition of “Take Five”, showing his vocal prowess. Another highlight was a medley of James Ingram songs, with pieces like “Just Once”, “One Hundred Ways” and others, showing his mature and soulful singing. His show was totally professional and entertaining on the highest level of musicianship, so he was asked for an encore doing George Benson’s “Give Me The Night”, ft. Dave on guitar, finishing a great show.

The late night show was done by Eric Darius with “band a”. The saxophonist entered the room from the rear, making his way to the stage, where they gave him a lot of room to move around to deliver his energetic playing. He went through a string of songs like “Goin’ All Out” and more of his uptempo material, with simple, yet effective melodies and not too much improvisation. Martin got several opportunities to contribute burning guitar solos,

Julian Vaughn

Four80East

Chris Walker

adding considerably to the music. A really nice segment was when he did “L.O.V.E.”, a slow and heartfelt track that allowed him to wander through the audience, paying birthday girl Doreen one more visit. With the current album “Breakin’ Thru”, Eric is trying to connect to younger audiences, fusing trap music with jazz and funk, so he did “Trazz” showing where he wants to go musically in the future. His show went past midnight and was well received.

Friday afternoon, I joined the “Cool At The Pool” jam session, after some music provided by DJ Richard Edwards and a Q&A session with Four80East, “band a” got ready to play supporting players like Eric Darius and Matthias Beckmann (trumpet) doing Grover’s “Winelight”, Bart singing “This Masquerade” beautiful, while James Lloyd (keys) and Curtis Harmon (drums) did a funked up version of the “Flintstone Theme”, which was a lot of fun. Despite the strong winds, people were grooving to the music and having a good time.

In the evening, saxophonist Marion Meadows did his show, he was with the festival from the start and wanted to come back again. He was accompanied by “band a”. He went through a string of his songs and thanks to the band who provided several hot solos, things were kicked up a notch. Among the songs played was “Suede” and “Humanity”, a cool touch was when he addressed a song to his wife building up a great solo that provided some nice improvisation. He did a stroll to the audience looping the same melody over and over again, getting closer to his fans. Nevertheless, his show was well received.

Next were the legendary Islandic band Mezzoforte which was founded in 1977 and still is going strong, the lineup consisted of founding members Eybor Gunnarsson (keys), Johann Asmundsson (bass), Gulli Briem (drums) and Fridrik Karlsson (guitar), plus Jonas Wall (sax) and Ari Bragi Karason (trumpet). The band was super tight going through their catalog of funky songs like “Midnight Sun”, “Action Man” and “Spring Fever”, with each member of the band contributing lots of solos, especially the horn section stood out with impeccable playing and great solos. Despite the fact, that they have been on the scene for such a long time, they were playing with a lot of joy and energy. They wrapped it up with their biggest hit “Garden Party” and came for an encore, giving us “Rollercoaster”, ending a great show.

Saturday morning, the double bill of Julian Vaughn and Four80East were scheduled outside in the open air theatre, but due to windy and chilly weather, it was moved inside. Bass player Julian Vaughn was supported by Dave (guitar), Westley (drums), Orefo (bass), Oli (keys; hereinafter “band b”) and Miguel (sax). He played his higher tuned bass as a lead instrument, going through some of his funky songs like “Your Mine” and “Initiate” which had everybody bopping their heads, which also was true for “Ju Ju’s Groove”, a reference to his nickname as a child. He also played a couple of tracks from his upcoming release “Black Dynamite”. Then he invited special guest Jeff Ryan onto the stage who tore it up, a great player to watch. Then he flipped the switch to party mode with songs like the Whispers’ “Rock Steady”, complete with audience participation, having everybody on their feet. He came back for two encores, among the songs played was the immortal “Ain’t No Stopping’ Us Now”, definitely giving the people what they wanted.

Next were Canadian duo Four80East ft. Rob DeBoer (keys) and Tony Grace (percussion), they were accompanied by Martin (guitar), Marcus (drums), Marius (bass) and Miguel (sax), working nicely together as a group. They started out slowly and built it up, ultimately falling into their trademark groove with excellent percussion and smooth keys, caressing the audience with their melodies and hooks, providing a very enjoyable musical experience. The band contributed great solos, most notably Martin and Miguel. Among the songs played were “Sandbar”, “Easy Come, Easy Go”, “Eegee Beegge” and “Cinco Cinco Seis” from their current “Four On The Floor EP”, among others. Their show was very well received.

Ragan Whiteside opened Saturday night, her band consisted of “band b”, plus Jeff (sax) and Rob (trumpet). She went through a few of her own songs, like “Early Arrival” and others, before she gave us her rendition of the Ohio Players’ classic “Sweet Sticky Thing”, delivered in style. She slowed it down with “In Love”, a beautiful track dedicated to her husband who was present in the audience. The groove picked up with Patrice Rushen’s “Remind

Marion Meadows

Jeff Ryan

Peter White

Pieces of a Dream

Ragan Whiteside

REVIEW

Me”, showing also her vocal skills. Things got even funkier with “Funktuation”, which required some participation from the audience providing the vocal part and offered several band members some solo space. Her great flute playing and funky vibe went down very well with the crowd, she was asked for one encore and left a satisfied crowd.

Due to health reasons, the scheduled Richard Elliot and his band had to cancel their European tour, filling in was his friend and festival favourite guitarist Peter White, who was an appropriate replacement. He also appeared with “band b”, plus sax player Jeff, who repeatedly joined him not only for the sax parts, but also provided some smoking solos, ironically reminding me a lot of Richard Elliot. Despite the fact that his shows have become a little predictable, he played with finesse and seemed to have a ball, we got the usual selection of songs like “Groovin’”, “Who’s That Lady”, “Papa Was A Rolling Stone”, “Bueno Funk”, “Bright”, “San Diego” and more, the moving “My Prayer” played solo was a nice breath of fresh air. He gave his fellow players ample room to play, Matthias joined in to deliver some great trumpet playing during “Papa Was A Rolling Stone”, providing another highlight. His show was very entertaining, he is a consummate artist that delivers smooth jazz on the highest level, possibly the best the genre has to offer.

Sunday morning keyboardist Greg Manning and rising sax player Jeff Ryan did their show, thanks to the nice weather, it was held outside. Their band consisted of “band b”. Greg had collaborated with Jeff in the past, so playing with each other was a natural thing for them, both were in a fine playing mood alternating between material from their own catalogs and complementing each other just fine. They opened with “Groove Me” and “Sweet Spot”, bringing things nicely up to speed. Highlights of the show were Greg’s “The Calling” which

Mezzoforte

Steve Oliver

Oli Silk

Jeff Ryan

Greg Manning

had a great west coast vibe, while Jeff killed it with the intense “Embrace” boasting his gutsy tenor sound with lots of soul and feeling, it was pure bliss. Both players were a breath of fresh air to the genre and discoveries of the festival, I am sure we will hear a lot more from them in the future. They were asked for an encore and did their cover of Pharrell Williams’ “Happy”, having a happy crowd of people dancing in front of the stage.

Next was Steve Oliver, a musician that helped to shape the smooth jazz genre, giving us his blend of smooth jazz, world, latin, new age and even rock. Accompanied by “band a”, he impressed us with his great acoustic guitar

playing and vocal artistry, doing songs like “We Are”, “Global Kiss”, “High Noon”, “Illuminate” which started out acoustically, before the band kicked in, “World Citizen” and more. He was raising the bar with “Chips & Salsa”, having people dance in front of the stage. Other highlights were when keyboardist Lutz played the accordion, showing an unexpected side of his talents. To expand his musical palette, he incorporated synth sounds to his guitar, mimicking a whole orchestra at one point. Later, he wandered into the audience, doing a Spanish solo piece on the acoustic guitar. Towards the end of the show, he even incorporated some rock into his music, having many people on their feet. His show was varied and entertaining.

Sunday night, the grande finale took place at the Església Nova, Son Servera, an unfinished church that only had most of its walls, but no roof, a great venue with a special vibe. People were transferred by bus from the hotel. The stage was set for Pieces Of A Dream ft. James Lloyd (keys) and Curtis Harmon (drums), they were supported by Martin (guitar), Marius (bass) and Oli (keys). They kicked off their show with the energetic “Wakeup Call”, “Right Back Atcha” and “Night Vision”, before the delved into their classics like “FoFi-Fo” and “Mt. Airy Groove”. They gave us a premiere of the title track of their soon to be released album “On Another Note”, before they slowed it down with “For You” which was dedicated to the people running this festival. The whole band was in a fine playing mood, and James was killing it on the keys. At the end of the concert, he strapped on his keytar to play “Come Together” walking around in the audience, bringing a great show and the festival as a whole to a close.

Impressions

It‘s the good life...

at the Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival –Impressions of 2019 and 2022

Images by Christian Nordström and Peter Böhi

Elan Trotman

Kim Scott

Eric Darius

Gregg Karukas

REVIEW

Pieces of a Dream

Willie Bradley

Peter White

Oli Silk

Adam Hawley

Jeff Kashiwa

Blake Aaron Brian Simpson Rick Braun

Mark Jaimes

Kayla Waters

Nils

Jonathan Fritzén

REVIEW

Mindi Abair

Everette Harp

Christoph Lindner

Four80East

Ken Navarro

Jam Session

Kim Waters

Javier Colon