Pre-Grammy 2020 Jan Feb

CD Reviews: Cindy Bradley, Elaine Elais, Euge Groove, U-Nam and more

SmoothJazz Jan /Feb 2020

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54 JFLY The Grammy ATL President Concert Talks Passion For the Community 58 Kenny Seymour On Broadway 10 Avery Sunshine Shines W/Grammy Nominee Ain’t To Proud @ The Theater at Ace Hotel

62 Bobby Rush Up for Grammy 14 Mike Phillips at City And Still On Top Of The World Winery Chicago Images 65 GRAMMY Nominees 17 Dave Koz and Friends CD Reviewed in 2019

Christmas Tour in Chicago

Lifestyle 39 Grammy Museum New

22 A Peter White Christmas Tour in Orlando

Latin Grammy Wing

43 Westin Grooves

A Music Oasis in the Desert

52 Industry Radio Insiders

Top 5 Songs of 2019

25 Jackiem Joyner and

Marcus Johnson at the 7th Annual Jazz Legacy

Jazz Notes 08 Herb Alpert Provides Grant and Jazz Sculptor in New Orleans

CD Reviews 71 Slim Man - Live at Vickys 74 Spyro Gyra - Vinyl Tap 77 Euge Groove - Slow Jams 80 Cindy Bradley The Little Things

83 U-Nam - Future Love 87 Eliane Elais - Love Stories CD Releases

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SmoothJazz Jazz January / February 2020

Art Jackson - Publisher/CEO Ahava Talon-Jackson—Editor in Chief Doris Gee - Research Manager Mann - Graphic Artist Manager

Contributing Writers Tracey Whitney Brandon Foster Erika Nash Giget C. Johnson Maria L. Lewis Robin Munro Althea Turner Keivu Knox Dianna Moore Kenyon Carter Azval Ismail

Smooth Jazz Magazine 3751 Motor Ave. Suite #34531 Los Angeles, CA 9 0034 E-Mail: info@smoothjazzmag.com Web: www.smoothjazzmag.com

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No part of this publication ma y be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written consent from the publisher.

Copyright @ 2019 by Smooth Jazz Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

Contributing Photographers Larry Williams Dawn Stephens Althea Turner Mann Lisa Jay Tina Pruitt

Atlanta Chicago D.C. Los Angeles New York Orlando

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The week of January 18, 2020 Full Bloom Kayla Waters

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Listen To This Lisa Addeo

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Afro Caalypso Julian Vaughn

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Dancing Galaxies Paul Hardcastle

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Korogocha Amends Kirk Whalum feat Marcus Miller & Barry Likumahuwa

Jazz

Notes Herb Alpert and his Foundation recently installed the latest addition to the sculpture garden, “The Bass Player” at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. Herb generously provided the incredible bronze sculpture and awarded a grant for programs, live performances and support for the new Jazz Education Center.

New Orleans Jazz Museum Sound Collage: A #LUNAFête Celebration of Light & Music will illuminate the grounds and gardens of the New Orleans Jazz Museum Check out Dark Moon Designs Drum Circle.

Hitting each drum releases a distinct sound and brightly colored visual. It's bang-able art!

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3/5 Brooklyn, NY Barclays Center 3/24 Denver, CO Pepsi Center 3/26 Salt Lake City, UT Vivint Smart Home Arena 3/29 Glendale, AZ Gila River Arena# 3/31 San Diego, CA Pechanga Arena 4/2-4/3 Los Angeles, CA STAPLES Center 4/7 Sacramento, CA Golden 1 Center 4/9 Oakland, CA Oakland Arena 4/10 San Francisco, CA Chase Center# 4/13 Portland, OR Moda Bank 4/15 Tacoma, WA Tacoma Dome 4/17-4/18 Vancouver, BC Rogers Arena 4/21 Edmonton, AB Rogers Place 4/25 Saskatoon, SK SaskTel Centre 4/27 Winnipeg, MB Bell MTS Place Let the music take you‌ SmoothJazz Magazine | 09

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Concert By: Dee Patience Avery Sunshine!

Sunshine… it’s in the name and definitely in the performance! It would be impossible to sit in the audience of an Avery Sunshine concert and not have, in the words of James Brown, a funky good time!

The concert was held at The Theatre at Ace Hotel, a beautiful historic venue, located in downtown Los Angeles. If I had to describe Avery’s style, I would say it’s Cross Over Jazz with just the right amount of funk and RnB built on strong Gospel roots. Whether it was call and response or a medley that included a gospel favorite, a praise and worship theme could be felt throughout the show. Her gregarious personality and commentary brought the audience along as they journeyed through her set of original hits, mixed with snippets of classics woven throughout! Gladys Knight, Aretha Franklin, Al Greene, and Prince can all be heard as she pays homage to those who have influenced her sound.

Avery is playful, visibly grateful, full of love, and even flirtatious with her guitar Carlos Nino player, who happens to be her husband of three years. The entire band mused over their two-week, early November European tour with t-shirts proclaiming “Wine, Bread, Cheese, and Meat” which was a rundown of their diet while on tour, Avery joked. The audience resembled a mix of what you might see at an Anita Baker or Jill Scott concert - women enjoying a girl’s night out as well as couples on date night. The evening ended with the audience on their feet, singing with hands in the air celebrating as Avery sang a soulful version of a gospel classic! The Avery Sunshine tour continues here: http://averysunshine.com/tour/ Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 11

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*JAN 09 2020 GERMANTOWN, TN. GERMANTOWN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER *JAN 10 2020 FAYETTEVILLE, AR. BAUM WALKER HALL, WALTON ARTS CENTER *JAN 11 2020 CONWAY, AR. REYNOLDS PERFORMANCE HALL, UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS *JAN 12 2020 NASHVILLE, TN. CITY WINERY *JAN 14 2020 BIRMINGHAM, AL. THE LYRIC THEATRE *JAN 15 2020 ASHEVILLE, NC. DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE AT PACK PLACE *JAN 16 2020 ATLANTA, GA. BUCKHEAD THEATRE *JAN 17 2020 CHARLOTTE, NC. BLUMENTHAL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER *JAN 18 2020 RALEIGH, NC. DUKE ENERGY CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

https://tour.jessecook.com/

*JAN 19 2020 ORLANDO, FL. THE PLAZA LIVE *JAN 21 2020 JACKSONVILLE, FL. WJCT SOUNDSTAGE

Concert Photos By: Dawn Stephens

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Concert By: Maria L. Lewis

Photos By: Dawn Stephens

Smooth Jazz Magazine was in attendance for the 22nd annual Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour at the renowned Chicago Theatre recently.

The tour line-up of Artists featured Jonathan Butler, Melissa Manchester, Michael Lington, and Chris Walker. The members of the band on tour were Brian Simpson on keyboards, Randy Jacobs, on guitar, Nathaniel Kearney Jr. on bass, among others.

The show began with Dave Koz opening up with “Winter Wonderland,” a selection from his latest album titled “Gifts of the Season,” followed by Jonathan Butler joining Koz on stage with “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” The stage lighting was festive with colorful strobe lights, dynamic patterns, and shapes from start to finish – making the atmosphere of the majestic theater warm and full of light.

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Michael Lington joined in on the action with a duo with Koz performing a jazzy, souped-up version of “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.” Melissa Manchester made her debut of the night with “All I Want For Christmas;” later taking us back to her 1978 tune “Don’t Cry Out Loud”. Chris Walker opened up with a tribute to the late great Al Jarreau performing Jarreau’s signature tune “Mornin:’” later followed by a beautiful arrangement of “Mary Did You Know” that touched the hearts of the crowd. Dave Koz filled the auditorium with angelic sounds performing a song from his latest titled “A Prayer for Peace; soon followed by Jonathan Butler with “O Holy Night” on acoustic guitar - filling the theatre with the spirit of Christmas. The night had something special for everyone that attended, making the night one that will be unforgettable.

At the end of the concert, Smooth Jazz Magazine was invited to come backstage for the Dave Koz and Friends after show, where we were able to meet and greet the Artists of the night.

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Concert Photos: Tina Pruitt

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CD Review

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Concert Review & Photos By: Althea Turner t was certainly a gala weekend. There was the music, of course, but then there was so much more to it. This event featured some of jazz music’s top artists.

Photos By: Lisa Jay

More than just the music and artists were the obvious friendships that have been formed over the past seven years. People I talked to have been attending this gala since it’s inception, coming from near and far, and meeting up for a weekend of music and fun.

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More important than the gala itself is Alvin E. Keels, President/CEO, Jazz Legacy Foundation Inc. He has stated his mission “to transform young lives through charitable support by way of educational scholarships, creative arts, leadership development, mentoring workshops, and community partnerships, all with the aspirations of enhancing the appreciation and preservation of the art of Jazz.” He’s been quite successful at fulfilling this mission each year, through the generous donations and support from attendees. It requires a lot of planning and behind-the-scenes organizing to make this annual event the success it is. Mr. Keels has succeeded.

Amongst this year’s performers were a couple of well-known artists who just had newly-released CDs. Jackiem Joyner released “Touch” and Marcus Johnson released “Ballads In My Voice.” Both artists allowed time to sit and chat about their new projects.

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“It’s a romance album.

This is my most special record.“

The concept behind the album is romance and sexuality. That is the whole purpose behind it. It’s the first album that I’ve done like that, because most of my records are funky, so I wanted to try something new. Some of the song titles like “Beautiful Seduction,” “When We,” “Touch,” “Fairytales,” “Secrets,” “Close 2 You” . . . it’s all lusty, it’s sexy, it’s grown and sexy, it’s adult, it’s a romance album. This is my most special record.

The way I play on the album is I play very gently, very softly throughout the record. Most of my stuff I play more technical, but on this record, I had the microphones up really high and I played very gently on the horn. That’s the only way it came out the way I wanted . . . playing it this way. This album has more soprano on it than alto. I like soprano and I like alto; they both do something different.

They both bring something different to the table. Like, you have one guy who’s the point guard, but the point guard can’t play better than the center so you need them both.

I’ve collaborated with Najee on this record, and that was a fun collaboration. I had never collaborated with him before. I also collaborated with Peter White.

This is mostly an R&B produced record. We go in with trap beats and mix it in with the saxophone. For example, “Sweetness,” when people hear that song, it’s like wow it’s like saxophone doing its thing. People love that song because it has that trap beat to it but it really fits with the saxophone, and at the same time it’s much R&B. Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 27

Concert mellow. It’s like a favorite, but it’s not a single song, because it’s got a little too much R&B. Jackiem talked about his very first CD, “Baby Soul.” Baby Soul has “Say Yes” on it. “Say Yes” was the biggest song from that record. I was going to play it tonight; it was going to be between that or “Can We Talk.” I played “Can We Talk.” I read the audience; I do that all the time. I don’t feel the same at every concert, and that’s what makes it different. Sometimes I’m in the more party mood, and the audience really gets the artistic side of me when I’m up there. It’s really how I’m feeling on that day.

When asked the question if he “hears music” or “listens to music” he responded with it depends on what you mean by “hear.” It depends on whether I’m enjoying it, or if I’m even going to listen to it. I’m not going to listen to it if I don’t like it. I can hear it if I want to, and a lot of people don’t hear music. People don’t hear you; we want people to hear us as artists, so we just don’t want you to listen to us.

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Concert his is more than just about the album. I think the thing that has stunted the growth of smooth jazz in general is about do we really want to talk about just the music or do we want to talk about the stories behind the people who are creating the music and know whether it’s a certain amount of words and a certain format; it’s bigger than just putting a label on it, and it kills it. The thing I don’t understand is why people can’t work without having labels on them, when it relates to you, but nobody wants to be labeled, because they feel restricted. Nobody wants a label. Nobody wants to be where you’re too old, you’re too young, or you’re too black, or you’re too white, or you’re too male or too female. What they should do is say, well, you’re a jazz piano player and tell me about the album. The story behind the album, the story behind the person is much more important.

This CD comes from the fact that I ended up in the ER in Atlanta last December. I thought I was having a heart attack and/or a stroke. Through the process of being scared out of my wits, and being in the ER, the doctor came in with a smile on her face and told me I was probably one of the healthiest men my age she’s seen. She asked me when I planned to take a vacation. That let me know that I really needed to re-evaluate some of the things I was doing in my life.

Running too much, drinking too much, traveling too much, hanging out too much, and I got to the point I asked God, “what do I need to do?” I immediately heard back that Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 29

Concert “you’ve asked the right person; get back to Me and you.” I did a lot of work and found my voice and my balance and thought, you know what, I want to do a ballads CD. This is where my voice is, and I picked about eight of my favorite new ballads to record and pulled “Believe,” “Say Yes,” “Morning Light,” and I think a few others off some of the old CDs. I included songs by Musiq Soulchild, Janet Jackson, H.E.R., and Ella Mai. This CD is about the epitome of a musical expression of me finding my voice and using this as a platform for things like men’s mental health; black men’s mental health in particular, because I think African American males have been forgotten, especially young black boys. And being able to go out and say I faced a mental challenge that I NEVER thought I would have, I looked it in the face, got back to God, sent him a message, found my voice and let my voice be heard and now I’m chillin’ having fun doing this. If I can do it, you can do it. And if you’re feeling the way I was feeling when I was in that ER, you’re not alone. Whether you’re male or female, to know you’re not alone and somebody else is going through it that you think is just smiling all the time, that’s where all this comes from.

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Concert right away. For him it’s a feeling. You look at the way I play music. The piano is more percussive; it’s a melodic, percussive instrument. It’s also the words you understand; it’s the empathy, the understanding. “In The Air Tonight,” that’s one of the reasons it’s on the new album. It’s not really a ballad but it’s not an up-tempo beat either. The first time I heard that song I loved it.

On relationships - I think now at least people try to “court” a little bit, but not like back in the day. Now there’s no pretense, it’s just about the act not about the enjoyment of the process to even get to know somebody. The end thing is the act.

Relationships are about relations and that’s what we don’t teach anymore. I think these songs are what we need; we need more ballads where you can feel something in the process. You have so much going on in life that you can’t enjoy music.

So what we do is, we go back in time when we did have the time. It’s like you “remember when.”

Marcus been playing all over the country, and Atlanta is his No. 1 market now. He sold out City Winery there last month.

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Art Sherrod Jr., Althea Turner, BK Jackson, Will Downing

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CD Review

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Lifestyle - Grammys Photos By: Mann

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Lifestyle - Grammys Fashion Latin GRAMMY, 20 Years Of Excellence is the inaugural exhibition in the Museum's newly constructed Latin music gallery, which is a result of The Latin Recording Academy's commitment of more than half a million dollars over a three-year period to expand the Museum's Latin music-focused exhibits and education programs and toward the hiring of a Latin music curator.

LOS ANGELES (NOV. 19, 2019) — The GRAMMY Museum® unveiled the Latin GRAMMY®, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Gabriel Abaroa Jr., President/ CEO of The Latin Recording Academy®, Michael Sticka, President of the GRAMMY Museum, along with Latin GRAMMY® and GRAMMY® nominee Ángela Aguilar and Latin GRAMMY winner Christian Nodal, local government officials and prestigious Latin artists and personalities; as well as performances at the Clive Davis Theater

by Latin GRAMMY winner Flor de Toloache and Latin GRAMMY and GRAMMY nominee Raquel Sofía.

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Lifestyle - Grammys Fashion Latin GRAMMY, 20 Years Of Excellence highlights a variety of iconic moments and performances from the Latin GRAMMY Awards' 20year history and celebrates the accomplishments of various Latin GRAMMY- and GRAMMY-nominated and -winning artists. The exhibit also includes a comprehensive overview of The Latin Recording Academy's Person of the Year celebrations, highlighting each honoree from the program's 20-year history. Some of the featured original pieces include artwork, personal items, instruments, media components, and audio playlists. The exhibit will run through spring 2020.

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Lifestyle - Travel Fashion

Review and Photos By: Kenyon Carter Tom Scaramellino, general manager at Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort and Spa said it beautifully…

“Our mission is for everyone to leave better than they arrived…”

Mission accomplished, Tom. Mission accomplished!

As I write these words from the private balcony of our luxurious room on a beautiful Sunday morning, there is no question that both my wife and I feel better than we did when we were warmly greeted by this picturesque property’s smiling staff just two days ago.

We’re here enjoying a romantic weekend in beautiful Palm Springs California and welcoming in the season with the popular “Grooves @ The Westin” concert series’ “Sax for Christmas” show.

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Lifestyle - Travel Fashion We met a couple of friends for a drink before the show and enjoyed making our way through the beautifully illuminated palm trees, festively decorated jewel toned Christmas trees, and even a candy cane lane lining our path.

The Westin definitely had us in the holiday spirit before we even entered the large yet intimate ballroom for the show.

“Sax for Christmas” is part of the 8th season of “Grooves @ The Westin” and featured series producer and world renowned saxophonist, Michael Paulo with special sax star guests Paul Taylor and Jessy J, backed up by an all-star band.

Michael’s undeniable energy was easy to feel as soon as we walked into the Westin’s Ambassador Ballroom which had been transformed into a topnotch music venue featuring a full light show and crystal clear sound system. Smiles abound from a friendly audience eager to get its groove on. The Westin had done a magnificent job setting the room for us to enjoy the show. The cocktail-style seating was intimate but allowed plenty of space to move around, meet new people, and best of all -dance!

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Series Producer Michael Paulo opened the show with a high-energy number that not only showcased his killer sax playing but also warmed the crowd up in a hurry with his infectious joy and dance moves that made it hard to believe that he really is a grandpa (his grandson eventually joined him on stage with some pretty impressive moves of his own!).

Chart-Topping Saxophonist Jessy J, known for her distinctive Latin-infused sound, came to the stage next.

One of smooth jazz’s hottest sax stars, Jessy charmed the audience with intimate tenor sax performances of some of her biggest hits including a bluesy rendition of “Silent Night” from her 2016 release, “California Christmas.”

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Paul Taylor took the stage for the third tune of the night, the party was already rocking!” Paul’s sweet and powerful alto sax sound and room-filling smile had the crowd on their feet moving with the groove as he played chart-topping hits from his illustrious career that is already in its third decade.

One of the highlights of the entire show was Taylor’s performance of his superhit, “Ladies’ Choice” with dozens of beautiful fans who chose to dance with Paul at the front of the stage!

After taking turns playing their hearts out for the sax lovers in attendance during the first half of this show, it was time for intermission.

This amazing group of musicians took their break WITH the fans giving everyone the chance to get to know the artists and feel even more connected with the music. When the band takes the stage for the second half, there is no doubt that “Christmas Time Is Here!”

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Lifestyle - Travel Fashion Another smooth jazz chart-topper, Gregg Karukas, playing keys in the band and prominently featured all night, even took the lead to play the Vince Guaraldi classic and gave guitarist Michael O’Neal, bassist Daryl Williams, and drummer Lan Richards a chance to “stretch out.”

The sax trio individually played holiday favorites from their Christmas albums before gathering together to jam out and take the party to a whole new level!

Deep pockets and strong grooves from the top-tier band gave the sax players extra fuel to trade fiery solos and even join together for a “Rockette-style” kick line!

The multiple standing ovations and smiling faces all around proved that this crowd was thrilled to get “Sax For Christmas.” Thank you Michael, Jessy, and Paul -now we’re in the mood for Christmas!

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Lifestyle - Travel Fashion After the show, we took a stroll and enjoyed the meticulously landscaped grounds, illuminated fountains, and of course, holiday lights before retiring to our spacious room for the night.

We woke up well rested and refreshed Saturday morning and enjoyed a lazy morning before taking a short walk to Pinzimini, the property’s immaculate fine dining restaurant for breakfast.

As a life-long lover of breakfast buffets, my choice of the “Full Breakfast Table” featuring omelet station, cinnamon french toast, waffles, pancakes, scrambled eggs, and much, much more was an easy one to make.

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After our breakfast feast, we treated ourselves to a walk around the lush grounds, taking in the rock wall waterfalls, manicured greens, and snow capped mountains. What a perfect way to burn off those extra calories!

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Lifestyle - Travel Fashion When we returned for dinner that evening, we were greeted by our waitress Stephanie, whose smile lit up the room.

Once again, our already high expectations were exceeded by both the kitchen and service staff.

Our meal began with tender and perfectly cooked crispy calamari and a fresh Caesar Salad served with a unique and tangy dressing.

For our main course, we enjoyed the Shrimp scampi linguine with huge tiger prawns, grape tomatoes, capers, white wine garlic sauce, snipped garden herbs, and handmade linguine pasta.

From first bite to last, the food was fresh and delicious, the service superb, and the atmosphere clearly manifested the “leave better than when you arrived” company mission. Well done, Pinzimini!

Before we left the resort, we had the chance to enjoy the spectacular pool and hot tub, a true vacation oasis.

So if you’re dreaming of a romantic getaway, make that dream a reality with a “Grooves @ The Westin” week- weekend in beautiful Palm Springs, CA. Experience a perfect blend of world class musicians in an intimate venue with the sights and sounds of a big show in a reinvigorating atmosphere that, as their mission simply states, is sure to leave you better than when you arrived.

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Lifestyle - Top 5 Songs Countdown 5 to 1 (#1 being the top Ahmed K. Dents On-Air Host San Diego’s Smooth Jazz KIFM 98.1 HD2 #5 Marqueal Jordan “Conversations” Paulette Jackson #4 Kayla Waters “Obsidian Rain” Founder/Music Director #3 Herb Alpert “Ain’t No SunJazz Zone Radio shine” #2 Vandell Andrew ft. Raheem #5 Zemill “Feeling Saxxy” Devaugn “Chill AF” (Remix) #4 Brian Culbertson “Morning #1 Ben Tankard “Rise!”

Walk” #3 Frank McComb “DC & Me” It was hard to narrow down my #2 Marqueal Jordan “The top 5 tracks from 2019 but no Edge” doubt Ben Tankard’s Rise! is my #1 Walter Beasley “No No” #1. The title track to his 2019 release featuring Saxophonist Walter Beasley “Going Marion Meadows takes me Home” CD is one of his best back over 40 years of music and projects, in my opinion, betwo genres in the first three sec- cause it’s very personal and onds. Rise! is a cover of the he has put his emotions into 1980 classic from Bob James every track. and features the iconic grunt of the late Hip Hop Legend The No- Making the transition from torious B.I.G. whom also sam- Boston, MA to Yuma, AZ to be pled the James track for the closer to his parents, is how 1997 Hypnotize. It is a reminder “Going Home” was born. “No of why Tankard is considered the No” (featuring Will Downing) godfather of the gospel jazz mu- is my favorite from his fantassic scene and is the genre's best- tic CD and that’s why I’ve selling artist/producer of all made it #1 on my list. time, earning several gold and platinum records and awards.

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Russ Naughton Owner/Operator WSRN-DB Jazz Oasis #5 Christian de Mesones “Thob” #4 Mikael Man “In all My Wildest Dreams” One of his best efforts to date. #3 Carol Albert “Suns Out” hung in on the top ten for weeks before reaching #1. #2 Will Donato “infinite Soul” a #1 Hit For Will. #1 Greg Manning Chart Topping for Months and still going at it!

Lifestyle--Grammys Feature Fashion n 2019, Smooth Jazz Magazine has had the pleasure to listen to music of several of this year’s Grammy nominees. We wish all of the artists selected the best for the upcoming 62nd Annual GRAMMY AWARDS® airing Sunday January 26, 2020.

Our broad coverage in this issue will range from a Grammy insider President of the Atlanta Chapter JFly to theatrical music director Kenny Seymour for the Temptations on Broadway while jazz vocalist Jazzmeia Horn and blues artist Bobby Rush showcase the diversity of our readers interests. As the Grammy slogan states… “Un Expect Every Thing.” conversation with Jorel “JFly” Flynn, a humble servant in the music industry. When we figure out that our lives are not for By: Giget C. Johnson ourselves but for service to others then we move in purpose and not for our “A portal of GRAMMYs own personal gain. JFly gets it. And he information Atlanta did not just get it by taking the volun– a conduit Chapter teer-position as President / Chairperof sorts.”

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Lifestyle--Grammys Feature Fashion tion “How Big Is Your Dream” and the Academy of Arts, based in Georgia. He partners with music departments of school systems. The funding for these programs in the schools does not come from grants but rather through events such as the Unity Concert and the Academy of the Arts. JFly has a passion for people, with a soft spot for the youth.

The Recording Academy is now under the direction of Deborah Dugan, whom JFly describes as being very intentional, very aggressive, and very passionate. JFly states that Dugan is “moving swiftly to a means that is gonna benefit the whole.” Dugan follows her predecessor Neil Portnow, who made a comment that overshadows all of the work that he has done in the industry.

However, we cannot discount Portnow’s contribution to the industry. Portnow’s comments ignited efforts to be intentional about inclusion and diversity. This will benefit the industry as a whole.

When asked about his work in his position as President of the Georgia / Alabama region for The Recording Academy, JFly honed in on his passion to stay connected to emerging artists, who would otherwise be known underground, to ensure that those artists who drive the industry are not just those well-known celebrities. He considers himself as a portal of information – a conduit of sorts to ensure that those who would not normally have access to inside infor“Anything that mation get the right information. speaks to what When asked about whether he’d like to see jazz and blues was birthed in shown in the prime time telecast of The Grammy’s, he thinks the United anything that speaks to what was birthed in the United States States should should get prime time exposure. He’s passionate about jazz and get prime time gospel. He was sure to include GOSPEL. When setting up the exposure.” time for the interview, it was scheduled around normal church J-Fly hours in the South.

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Lifestyle--Grammys Feature Fashion Asked if his position garners him more influence, and JFly was quick to assure me that his “core work” was already established prior to him taking his position a year or so ago. He’s been relevant in the industry, in the Music / Arts field, long before taking his position with The Recording Academy.

JFly has recent projects such as Dream Vol. I and Dream Vol. II, as well as Hynotic by JFly. He has some other projects in the works wherein he will collaborate with artists such as Peabo Bryson, Najee, Alex Bugnon and others.

JFly is not all about himself. He has put together a new band “Under 21”, which is comprised of youth ages 12 – 18, who auditioned before judges who are not affiliated with his “How Big Is Your Dream” foundation. However, many of those who auditioned had matriculated through said program.

JFly’s unselfish character was evermore on display when he ensured to give a SHOUT OUT to Bernard Hill Management & Consulting for setting up this interview, stating that it is independent consultants such as Mr. Hill who help to connect the dots. We, at Smooth Jazz Magazine, are also grateful for the connection.

You can catch JFly & Friends Tour Edition, where he will be showcasing the music of other artists with whom he has worked, and some of his own tunes. Recently, he did a live performance at St. James Live in Atlanta, Georgia on December 14, 2019.

Sometimes in life God gifts us with very talented people who are humble enough to give of self, knowing that God will return our giving in double portion or more.

JFly is a class act. We are blessed to have him in the music industry and representing the regions of Georgia / Alabama in The Recording Academy. JFly is Super Fly! 56| SmoothJazz Magazine Let the music take you…

Lifestyle--Grammys Feature Fashion

Feature - Grammys By: Michelle King

When you sit down with a multi-talented creative musician like Kenny Seymour, many topics come up, thanks to the musical diversity of what Kenny experienced growing up, and what he seeks to create for himself and others through a rich music panorama that expands from theater, television and film, to live orchestral and jazz concerts.

Currently the music director/music supervisor and arranger of the 12 time Tony nominated hit Broadway show “Ain’t Too Proud: The Life & Times of the Temptations,” Seymour delivers a true Motown experience nightly that wows the audience and the many celebrities who have attended, including Berry Gordy himself.

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Feature - Grammys Achieving this high standard of authenticity includes using the same Fender Precision 1969 model that bassist James Jamerson (of Funk Brothers fame) played in so many Motown sessions in the 60’s and 70’s.

Working with Lifetime Achievement Tony Winner Harold Wheeler, who orchestrated “Ain’t Too Proud,” has brought Seymour and Wheeler full circle. Kenny fondly remembers being five years old and playing keyboards together with Wheeler, and playing his first adult theatrical role in a Coconut Grove production of “Fame” with Wheeler, then in charge of music for the show. Through the years Wheeler has become Seymour’s mentor, good friend and colleague.

This eclectic musical heritage that infuses Seymour’s work comes from being part of a musical family, including Broadway actress, Mary Seymour, of “Hair “(Original Broadway Cast) and “Raisin: The Musical” for a mother, late grandmother, entertainer Wilhelmina C. Pappy, and late father Kenny W. Seymour formerly of “Little Anthony and the Imperials.”

As a small child, young Kenny performed many voice overs and jingles for commercials, which helped him earn admission to Fiorello H. Laguardia High School as a vocal student (“Fame” High School), then on to Manhattan School of Music and Berklee College of Music where Kenny expanded his interests and talents for performing, to composing, arranging, directing and orchestrating.

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Feature - Grammys Concert Kenny Seymour has received a Global Music Award for Best Original Score of the independent film “Talking with the Taxman About Poetry.” As a film composer, current technology allows Seymour to create a finished prototype of orchestration that a director can work with to collaborate much earlier in the filmmaking process than before. Seymour has learned not to be too attached to a particular idea, and to appreciate every creative contribution that serves the greater purpose of the narrative in a film or show.

Remembering how music makes him feel good and wanting to convey that to others motivates Kenny Seymour to play and to tell a story musically. Melody can have a conversation, and adding words brings a whole other dimension. As a composer his work was performed by the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. Seymour is currently working on a new jazz fusion project (think Jeff Lorber, David Benoit and Joe Sample for style inspiration). One day Kenny would like to create a jazz composition that shows colors and tapestry and movement with both lush orchestral arrangement and intimate quartet and quintet arrangements.

To continue bringing music to the world stage in various forms from composing to orchestration, music direction to arranging in order to touch someone the way music touches him is Kenny Seymour’s mission and gift to all who experience his music.

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Feature - Grammys By: Robin Munro

I had the distinct honor to interview Blues legend Mr. Bobby Rush. Nominated for a Grammy this year for his Album, “Sitting on Top of the Blues” in the category Best Traditional Blues Album. He took home a Grammy in 2017 for “Porcupine Meat,” so being nominated is nothing new for this gracious and humble entertainer.

I asked him about this year’s 2020 nomination, he stated, “Being nominated is a win to me. I am proud to be a part of it.” He shared being in the industry for 67 years and recording over 397 records very casually and with little fanfare. However, I had to let him know how phenomenal those achievements were. While he will be in attendance at this year’s 2020 Grammy awards on January 26th, I did ask him his take on why his category is never aired during the awards show. He was very forthcoming and reflected, “I feel bad. Blues is the root of all music.” When he expressed that he felt that Blues was disrespected, I felt it in his voice and delivery. He stated, “If you don’t like the blues, you probably don’t like your mama.

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Feature - Grammys So, Blues is the Mama of all music.”

Bobby Rush is not only a musician, but also a actor with a cameo appearance in the movie “Dolamite is My Name,” starring Eddie Murphy and an amazing cast of actors. Bobby shared that he knew Eddie Murphy as an entertainer and Saturday Night Live, but not on a personal level. When he met Eddie, he said he embraced him and it blew him away on how down to earth he was. Not only Eddie Murphy, but Snoop Dog and the rest of the cast were so welcoming. He said, “I was the oldest man on the set. They all knew me, but some of them I did not know.” He laughed and described how some of the cast members shared how their mothers and grandmothers are fans of his music. He thoroughly enjoyed that experience.

He has a very busy 2020 Tour Schedule, but when he is not performing, he likes reading, writing, basketball and fishing with his grandkids.

What’s next on the horizon for a very busy Bobby Rush? Well, he is writing a book and in negotiations for a movie on his life. He is a class act and we will be cheering for that Grammy win on January 26th!

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Concert - Grammys Feature Smooth Jazz Magazine is proud to have reviewed these 3 Grammy Nominated Jazz artists. Best Jazz Vocal Album: Catherine Russell to newcomer Jazzmeia Horn to the improvisation of Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah Best Contemporary Instrumental Album. Best of Luck to one and all.

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Smooth Jazz Magazine

“When you thought the Lies, Betrayal and Deceit could not get any worse…”

Author Robin Munro

“Pure Revenge picks up right after the end of Pure Deception with even more twist and turns.”

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New CD Releases 2020

Kyle Eastwood “Cinemantic” 11/08/19 BUY

Karrin Allyson “Shoulder Terri Lyne Carrington to Shoulder” 11/29/19 “Waiting Game” 11/08/19 BUY BUY

Kirk-Whalum “Humanité” Brian Simpson & Steve Oliver “Unified” 01/17/20 12/03/19 BUY BUY

Wynton Marsalis “The Music of Wayne Shorter” 01/31/20 BUY

Special EFX “All Stars” 02/14/20 BUY

Joey Alexander “Warna” 01/31/20 BUY

Pat Metheny “From This Place” 02/21/20 BUY

Festival CD Review - Photos By: Brandon Foster

A Double LIVE CD “Peter Gunn” is the opening groove best known as the theme of the musical comedy Blues Brothers. With its recurring menacing piano, the accompanying saxophone adds more flavor to the tune.

“Every Beat of My Heart” starts off with a brief rap dialogue with its funky bassline and flute throughout its duration. Some of the subsequent tracks have feminine names, so maybe they conjure up pleasant memories for Slim of past or present girlfriends. “Slim’s Shady Trailer Park” is a lighthearted, playful interlude that paints the picture of him and his crew on a goat farm in Palm Springs as they lounge around in their bathrobes and smoke marijuana.

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Festival CD Review - Photos group War called “Lowrider;” the priceless piano solo is inevitable mixed with its Latin elements. Smooth jazz fans will be familiarized and blown away when they hear “U Best Believe” live, a 2019 single popularized by one of Slim’s bandmates named Chase Huna. If you do not get on your feet for the danceable “Bona Fide Club”, who knows what will. “Take Me to the River” is not a baptismal ode, but this rock-tinged track is left up to the listener to interpret its deeper meaning.

“Mitch Mitch” is a relaxing contemporary instrumental with similar elements like jazz group Down to the Bone. This collection is not your typical jazz album, but it is brilliant entertainment at its finest that was recorded on June 5, 2019, in Indian Wells, California. It is a unique assortment of energetic up-tempos and soft-rock mid-tempos that will evoke a variety of emotions.

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CD Review By: Keivu G. Knox

fter fortyfive years and thirty plus albums, jazz super group Spyro Gyra has reached that point in their career where most people would think there is no need ground for them to cover.

That assumption is what makes their newest release, Vinyl Tap, so appealing. The thought of these top shelf musicians putting their spin on popular songs released over the years may seem like a formulaic concept. However, the freshness and improvisation displayed throughout this concept album is what truly separates it from other albums that tried the same approach.

Where this album succeeds is in the premise that the songs are not simply covered, or updated to sound like 2019. Instead, each of the nine songs on the album are stripped, and reimagined to the point where it can be difficult to hear the original version. On the album's opening track, the aptly titled “Secret Agent Mash,” not only is a swing vibe brought to Johnny Rivers' “Secret Agent Man,” but there is an infusion of “Alfie” that gives the song a totally different spin.

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CD Review On their version of Cream's “Sunshine of Your Love” we get a Latin-tinged version that is driven by Jay Beckenstein's sax and Lionel Cordew's drumming. There is also a confident take on The Beatles' “You’ve Got To Hide Your Love Away” that is slowed down a bit from the original. This approach is effective, as it gives the listener and opportunity to enjoy the song and its rich melody.

One of the more dating takes is the interpretation of Michael MacDonald's classic “What a Fool Believes.” While the sax helps to place the familiar melody in the forefront, it’s the keys of Tom Schuman coupled with the jazz arrangement that becomes most memorable. This approach is also found on the groove within their version of War's “Cisco Kid.” There’s a different tempo used that breathes fresh air into a song that so many are accustomed to. It’s yet another example of a talented group of artists willing to challenge themselves and push boundaries for the sake of providing an alternative musical perspective.

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CD Review “Vinyl Tap,” at first glance, seems like a daring attempt to tackle due to the varied styles and genres of the songs selected, but Spyro Gyra was able to meet this challenge head on, and pass the test with flying colors. When legends approach legendary content, especially with the amount of confidence and assurance that is heard on this project, it is no surprise to see the accolades that have already rolled in regarding this project, and there should be a slot held on a plethora of “Best Albums of 2019” lists for it.

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CD Review By: Erika Nash Jazz extraordinaire, saxophonist, Eugene Groove, has inspired many listeners with his collection of mellow tunes under his latest album titled Slow Jam, on the Shanachie Entertainment label.

These collection of songs are previously released recordings.

The first track of this masterpiece is Slow Jam, which truly sets the stage of the rest of the album. t is a friendly invitation into his heartloving, kind, ad true. The track “The Healing,” is mesmerizing, reflective and soothing as it starts us off gentle and leads to a place of hopefulness with the shakers, keys, and strings in the first several seconds. As the strings fade out then enters that tenor sax with something to say as he calms us with the vibration and soft warm tones.

Soon, Phillippe Saisse’s string arrangement reappears. The intensity increases as we are led to a place of victory, celebration and freedom. The Healing is timed at 5:58 so it gives us plenty of time to be “healed” and forget about our worries.

“God Bless You” has a strong influence of percussions in the beginning, which is reminiscent of a coming of age, community, togetherness sound.

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CD Review surprise of vocals by Kate Miner Moebel, gracing us with her sweet mellow alto voice and expressions of blessings- “May God bless you in all you do…”

After the invitations, healing and blessings, it’s time for an evening walk on the beach looking up at the stars with that special someone. “Indian Summer” pleasantly embraces us by its rhythmic positioning. The heartbeat of the drums is felt, the strumming strings cry out for affection and the tickling of the keys lays out the structure for Eugene to bring it all together with confidence as he now begins to lead, in sync, as the arrangement makes one great sound, one great song.

“Tango In Tio” sounds of told with a strong piano to closely, you can see a painted. And let’s not ballad Love, Passion and beat song with some chords and trumpets

a dramatic story being influence. When listened perfect picture being forget the ever so sultry Joy, which is a nice upwell orchestrated key throughout.

“Rain Down on Me” starts off simple yet intentional. This beautiful acoustic piano playing is the main one that begins this scene. After about a minute or two, the others are greeted in. Such beautiful piece of cooperation.

“The Good Truth” hugs us with those gospel keys and gospel chords while escorting the saxophone in. The piano and horn serenade one another then join as one. The other instrumentation is welcomed in to be a part of this union like a sweet wedding procession. The love expressed here is undeniable.

As peace is a never ending effort to behold, Prayers for Peace gets our attention with cymbals and smooth bass line. Right after the strings have their say, the sax comes in expressing the intentness of the message. The keys take a subtle back seat but are heard clearly while being a great support to the entire piece.

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Festival - Photos

CD Review

I enjoyed reading the magazine on the app! It was easy to follow. Easy to navigate. And, most of all, very informative! Thanks again for sharing. Keep GREAT music and TALENTED artist alive!

Rhonda McDaniel Swann

FREE PREVIEW

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CD Review By: Phillip Martin Trippin ‘N’ Rhythm Records released : The Little Things is the latest album by Cindy Bradley that further solidifies her as a sublime smooth jazz musician.

The trumpet and flugelhorn player’s sixth album contains 10 new songs.

These songs feature iterations of Bradley’s signature sound — the contrast between “blissful” and “chill.”

Song-by-song review 1. “Wind Chill Factor” opens up the album well. It is a gleeful tune that features Bradley on muted trumpet. Ultimately, the song reminds me of “Button Legs,” from her 2014 album, Bliss.

2. “Stockholm Summer” became one of my favorites when I first heard the entire album months ago. Ironically, the soft tone of this song makes me think of the mild and crisp air of fall rather than summer.

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CD Review 3. “I’m All Ears” is the single that preceded the album release. Rightly so, this single is the most popular song from the album. Bradley plays some really fun beats on this song. At the time of one of my drafts for this post (Oct. 23, 2019), the song had earned over 755,000 plays on Spotify.

4. “Snack Grouch” is a very good rhythmic track. Keyboards and piano, by Michael Broening, and bass and rhythm guitars accompany Bradley on muted trumpet in this song.

5. “Grey Area” features two distinct solos by session players — a short improvisation of alto saxophone, by LeBron (not the basketball player), and Broening playing simple piano notes.

REPORT THIS AD 6. “Surrender” is real melancholy. This song reminds me of “Everyone But You,” from 2017’s Natural, though not as dismal in tone.

7. “Exhale” is another rhythmic track. It is not very dynamic at all. However, the way the mix layers Broening’s simple bass guitar riffs beneath Bradley’s chill trumpet melody does more than enough for me.

8. “The Little Things” reminds me a lot of two past songs I relax well to — “Lifted” and “A New Day,” from Bradley’s 2011 album Unscripted. My ears are always thrilled to capture the sound of the pre-chorus in this title track. I find the prechorus to be brilliant use of phrasing by Bradley. The pre-chorus comprises of a few short trumpet notes that quickly deviates from the melody and gets the listener’s attention at the 0:55 and 2:11 marks.

9. “Sonny’s Home” is similarly mild in tone to “Stockholm Summer.”

10. “Reminisce” appropriately evokes feelings of nostalgia, or remembrance of good feelings or events that one should cherish.

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CD Review

By: Giget C. Johnson “Just like the CD pulled me from writing from the artist’s perspective, to full on owning my own journey and feelings thereof, it shall grab you by the hand, pull up a chair for you, pour your favorite adult libation, and live inside your head, as if you are living out those good memories in the now. Excellent CD.” The opening track “Changes” is very lively. It’s on fire! A great pick me up song.

It beckons one’s zeal for life to ignite. Energy low? Spirit beaten? Que “Changes”.

Embrace the forthcoming.

Follow up “Changes” with “Future Love” and you’re left daydreaming of the love that you desire. Create it. Make love where you are, if only in your mind.

My favorite aunt says, in all of her Southern Charm, when you get my age all you’ll have is your ‘membrances; make some good ones.

“Good Old Days” is reminiscent of footpatting, finger snapping good times.

While it sounds influenced by George Benson, “Is That So” has a chord that is strikingly familiar to “Mama Used To Say” by Junior.

This song has an 80s’ flair.

“Never Knew Love” is when it hit me that the artist is at a crossroads in life, a crossroads in love. Stuck between the love he once knew and the love he desires. One foot in and one foot out. It’s over but he’s stuck in his has Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 83

CD Review been, all that is, and all that could be.

Like all who have come to a crossroad, one must take inventory of where they are.

Take a look around. Figure out where you’ve come from and how you arrived where you are. “Artbeat” is exhibitive of the goulash, the mumbo jumbo, a collaboration of many loves appearing all in one place. It is the state of confusion coming to a head. And afterwards, one can move forward, clear-minded. When the memories appear one is not thrown off track, but rather can appreciate the beauty of what it was without it affecting the future.

The artist dumped his baggage in “Artbeat.” That OLD LOVE is now shit out of luck.

It’s over and he thinks he is ready to move on.

But “Before You Leave” know that you were “My Joy” and perhaps we can “Get It Right”. But of course, we’ve tried that. Over and over again. But we still come back to the same place. So now we’re left with only memories. “Every Time I Think Of You”, I’ll know that I gave it all that I had to give. I can move on, leaving my baggage behind.

I’ve had “A Change Of Heart”. I’m no longer angry. I’m no longer hurt. I’m no longer regretful of the love that once was, the love that was lost. For before me stands “El Fuego” and he is bad, bad, bad. A sexy love that’s calling me to come hither. If I “Stick 84| SmoothJazz Magazine Let the music take you…

CD Review place, for I know now how to make things right. And when the day arrives, when I run into you on the street, when life calls me to your town, and you decide to stop by, I can sit with you, listen to how life has been for you and say to myself “Is That Right?” The whole of “Future Love” is for all lovers who have loved and lost but keep trying no matter how many times they get it wrong, for there is still a yearning deep down inside to “Get It Right”.

Did U-Nam make this album just for me? It’s the story of my life! But for me, I continue to lead with love, for I love with a love that shall be returned to me.

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CD Review By: Tracey Whitney

Elias says, “The idea for this album was to bring to life various stories of love and loving through this collection of songs.” “From the moment of conception, it couldn’t be more integrated,” she explains. “From the first note that’s chosen, every color I create in the arrangements, the modulations, the choice of keys, the small group arranging, the possibilities for orchestra – it’s as deep into my personal taste as it can go…because I’m envisioning the arrangement; deciding how to convey the song and perform it Debuting at #4 on the Billboard Current Jazz with the band, and being mindful Chart, Grammy winner Eliane Elias’ LOVE of the future orchestrations all at STORIES is presented as an “Orchestral pro- once.” ject.” The term alone conjures up all sorts of lushness in your imagination: strings (naturally), keyboards, guitars and harmonies, oh my... And it does not disappoint!

Elias says, “The idea for this album was to bring to life various stories of love and loving through this collection of songs.” “From the moment of conception, it couldn’t be more integrated,” she explains. “From the first note that’s chosen, every color I create in the arrangements, the modulations, the choice of keys, the small group arranging, the possibilities for orchestra – it’s as deep into my personal taste as it can go…because I’m envisioning the arrangement; deciding how to convey the song and perform it with the band, and being mindful of the future orchestrations all at once.”

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CD Review The album features seven covers of some of your favorite standards and bossa nova classics: “A Man And A Woman” from the 1966 movie of the same title, romantically sets the orchestral stage for what’s to come, “Baby Come To Me” (Grammy winning Mark Kibble of Take 6 contributes divine background vocals on the James Ingram/Patti Austin classic. It’s a brilliant arrangement filled with tempo and genre bending changes, and Kibble’s vocals are all you’d expect from a Take 6 alum), followed by “Bonita,” a delicately sensual tribute to her muse, Antonio Carlos Jobim. Frank Sinatra’s “Angel Eyes” gets a glorious Latin twist, and her second nod to Sinatra, “Come Fly With Me” is a tour de force showcase of the piano virtuoso’s chops. The final cover “Little Boat” is the only song performed primarily in Portuguese. I will admit to preferring her voice in her native tongue. It’s such a beautiful, romantic language (someone could order a ham sandwich and it would sound like a love call to me) but I’m sure that preference is singularly mine… There are also three originals, and they easily hold their own amongst the classic tunes. In addition to everything else - vocalist, pianist, arranger, composer, and producer - Eliane Elias is a wonderful lyricist. “The Simplest Things” (“The sound of your voice/When You’re Singing Alone/To Your Favorite Song/I Know I Belong In Your Arms”) opens with a

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CD Review sublime string orchestration courtesy of Rob Mathes in their fourth collaboration. Elias says of “Silence:” “My voice here is the most exposed on the album;” “I believe that most everyone has experienced disappointment or disillusionment at some point in their lives.

The question is how does one respond to that?” The final tune, “The View,” was inspired after she fractured her shoulder in an accident in her hometown of Sao Paulo, Brazil, leaving her practically immobile for months. “During that period, I wasn’t allowed to move, my left arm was in a sling and so to avoid surgery I had to stay immobilized and really still,” she recalls. “Meanwhile, I created and wrote all of these arrangements in that state.”

There’s a deep intimacy to this collection. Eliane Elias’ vocals are so effortless you feel as if she’s singing for an audience of one. However, where her vocals are laid back, her piano is anything but! I’ve probably played “Come Fly With Me” ten times now simply for her piano work. It’s truly joyful playing which, when combined with Conductor Mathes’ strings, equals My. Mind. Blown.

Co-produced by her husband, bassist Marc Johnson (credits include Bill Evans, Stan Getz, and Bill Frisell, he’s recorded with Elias since 1991), Steve Rodby (formerly bassist of The Pat Metheny Group, he’s co-produced 9 albums with Elias) and Rob Mathes, the band is rounded out by Brazilian master musicians Texiera on guitar and Edu Ribeiro, Rafael Barata and Celso Almeida on drums. These core musicians’ accompany Elias with never too much, but just enough complement to allow the Maestro’s string players to shine.

Eliane Elias remains one of the preeminent Latin jazz artists of our time. Although “Love Stories” is her 27th offering (not including compilations and collaborations, of which there are equal amounts) she appears to only be getting started, lucky us. Now, I believe I’ll listen to “Come Fly With me” one last time…

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