Jazz Artist

PHIL DENNY: ON THE “UPSWING”

Pink and Blue NotesLeave a comment

Phil Denny is showing and proving exactly why he is on the “Upswing.” It is the perfect title for his latest album, set to be released on July 1, 2015. Just in time for summer, “Upswing” is a perfect backdrop. It was written and produced by Phil and Nate Harasim. The duo exemplifies what music, artists, and chemistry are all about. Featured on the album are Julian Vaughn, Oli Silk, and vocalist Confidence Killion. “Upswing” will take you on ride evoking an array of emotions and contains a bonus track, “Radio Flyer.” It is soulful, funky, and groovy. The album’s first single, “Soak It Up,” is gaining steam, and Phil’s fans are loving it. With its finger snapping, fun, and lively groove, it is the perfect way to welcome the summer. Phil’s passion and courage can be heard throughout “Upswing.” He is moving onward and upward. Stay tuned, there is much more of Phil Denny to come.

Phil and I discuss the evolution of “Upswing”:

10982035_10206857323575106_6287971955109007068_n

Jessy J’s “MY ONE AND ONLY ONE”

Pink and Blue NotesLeave a comment

Jessy J sets out on a new journey–a journey of love and new beginnings–releasing her fifth album, “My One and Only One.” Jessy demonstrates a diverse variety of emotions and music. Again, she collaborated with friend and producer, Paul Brown. Together, their chemistry shines throughout the entire project. Jessy drew inspiration for “My One and Only One” from love and her travels to Cuba and South Africa. She also beautifully covers “Strawberry Letter 23” by Shuggie Otis and “You’re Makin’ Me High,” originally produced by Paul Brown for Babyface and Toni Braxton. Her first single, “Tango Boy,” is garnering rave reviews and lots of attention. Along with the single, Jessy released a video conveying the sexy, carefree expression of a man living life to the fullest.

She and I discuss how the album came to be:

 

 

Jessy J Flower Hi res

 

JULIAN VAUGHN’S FUTURE IS “LIMITLESS”

Pink and Blue NotesLeave a comment

He is never complacent but rather, just the opposite. He is always striving to be better, realizing that he has embarked upon a journey–one that has been promising thus far. I offer that after the release of his latest album “Limitless,” there is no doubt that Julian Vaughn is on this journey to stay. He understands the highs and lows of the business; embracing every opportunity to make his mark. Vaughn has persevered, even after almost giving up his musical dream. Having become fond of the bass at age 14 and after hearing “Power Forward” by Wayman Tisdale, Julian knew he was on to something promising. “Limitless” is a comprised of all original songs. Julian is joined by a few of his friends and fellow musicians on the album. They include: Nicholas Cole, Elan Trotman, Lebron Dennis, Marcus Anderson, Darren Rahn, and Althea Rene. “Limitless” also features two great vocalists, Anthony Saunders and Kim Griddine. The first single, “Ride Along,” features saxophonist, Elan Trotman. It is a funky, melodic dance between the two. “Limitless” also has a few love songs that are on their way to becoming fan favorites. Julian admits that he is a “hopeless romantic” and that “love songs reflect his personality.” While fans feast on “Limitless,” they can rest assured that Vaughn is still making new music and can anticipate a new album in the summer of next year.

Julian and I discuss music, life, and reality:

Julian Vaughn

A “BRIGHTER DAY” FOR SHA SHATY

Pink and Blue NotesLeave a comment
Sha Shaty has been a part of the music scene for a very long time. However, his latest album is a reflection of a new beginning, thus aptly titled, “Brighter Day.” The masterpiece is comprised of all original music produced by Steve Oliver, a long-time fellow artist. Sha Shaty approached this album as he always has, appreciating his gift and using it to make the world a better place. He loves the process of creating, and “Brighter Day” is an expression of him evolving as an artist and “an extension of him.” The first single, “Dream Ride,” is inviting with just the right tempo enhanced by saxophonist, Will Donato. Also joining Sha Shaty on the album is drummer from Spyro Gyra, Bonny B, and vocalist, Usay Chu. He believes that “music should be a part of lifestyle,” and “Brighter Day” is a shining example of music variety at its best–full of depth and rich with layers that will captivate and stimulate listeners. Familiar fans as well as new fans will enjoy the unpredictable journey that is a “Brighter Day.”
Sha Shaty and I talk music and its impact:

ShaShaty

KEN NAVARRO GIVES US “HOPE, JOY, STRENGTH”

Pink and Blue Notes1 Comment

Ken Navarro kicks 2015 off with a trilogy full of positivity and inspiration: “HOPE, JOY, STRENGTH”- Sentiments everyone needs to hear. What a way to ring in the new year! Navarro created the trilogy following the success of his 21st album, “Ruby Lane.” The beautiful single he wrote for his wife in honor of their anniversary,  “Ruby Lane” was a Top ten hit. Ken has been in the industry for over 25 years and remains a chart topping guitarist and composer. In addition, he has his own record label, Positive Music Records. It would seem that Navarro has the perfect formula for success. However, for Ken, it isn’t a formula, per se; but a willingness to evolve and embrace variety.

I enjoyed listening to Ken expound upon his career and music:

Ken Navarro

BRIAN SIMPSON STRAIGHT “OUT OF A DREAM”

Pink and Blue NotesLeave a comment

Brian Simpson knows quite a bit about making hits. After all, he has had a few of them since his solo career began in 2005. He has been and continues to be the guy that his fellow musicians call upon when it comes to producing. Brian’s belief is that “the melody is still king.” To go along with that, he also remembers what a teacher once told him he should always remember: “unity, variety, and continuity.” While it may have been unbeknownst to him at the time, those three vital components would later become very clear. While embarking upon the creation of his latest album, “Out Of A Dream,” Brian embraced the idea of variety and enlisted a host of co-composers. “Out Of A Dream” could be viewed as an album of duets. Simpson features the superb saxophone skills of Grace Kelly and the flute of Najee on the title track, “Out Of A Dream.” Brian’s collaboration with longtime friend Dave Koz exhibits why the two have such a successful working relationship. Keeping variety front and center, Simpson’s first single, “Sky Watcher,” was co-written by Ryan Farish–who only does electronic music. Furthermore, being an international traveler, Brian takes his listeners on a global journey from Spain to Brazil through songs featuring Marc Antoine and Maysa. And as a tribute to Joe Sample, Simpson penned “Lets Get Away” with Oliver Wendell. Other collaborators include Jonathan Fritzen, Maurice Brown, and Norman Brown.

Brian and I discuss the importance of variety and the creation of “Out Of A Dream”:

Brian Simpson

MARION MEADOWS: THE “SOUL TRAVELER”

Pink and Blue NotesLeave a comment

Marion Meadows is eclectic. In his own words, “he’s always been a Gypsy and a daredevil.” His latest album, “Soul Traveler,” is truly symbolic as the soundtrack to his life. Meadows worked with Carlo Pennisi to write all original songs–albeit, with a little resistance. Although thinking outside the box is how Marion usually operates, it took a little more urging on behalf of Pennisi to bring “Soul Traveler” into existence. He describes the evolution of “Soul Traveler” much like a blooming flower. Meadows amorously says that “he loves the people he works with.” Graciously, he was joined by longtime friend and fellow saxophonist, Najee, Elan Trotman, Vincent Ingala, Juan Benevides, Phil MacArthur, Joey Sommerville, Kyle Turner, Ragan Whiteside, Toni Bias, and Lamar Gaines. Unwittingly, unknowingly, and with all of himself, Marion created a record that his fans will relish.

Listen as Marion and I talk all things “Soul Traveler”:

marion meadows 2

“A BETTER MAN”……HE IS PHIL PERRY

Pink and Blue NotesLeave a comment

With a career spanning 46 years, Phil Perry encapsulates what it is to be “A Better Man.” The vision for his latest album is simple yet powerful, and it stems from realizing that at this point in his life, he still has room to grow into more than he is. Perry says he wanted the album to “touch on different facets of relationships, from different perspectives, be informative, enlightening, but entertaining as well.” Having an understanding of the importance of being “audience inclusive,” he has always been able to capture and engage listeners. The romanticism heard throughout the entire album is sure to warm the hearts of fans old and new. Taking this journey with Phil is his longtime friend and colleague, Chris “Big Dog” Davis. Together, they created a collection of eight original songs, two covers, and sailed into romance paradise. Phil invited Kim Waters, Rick Braun, and Howard Hewett to collaborate on the project, as well. Collectively, the album is intimate and romantic with a twist of old school and infused with heartfelt sentiments.

Listen to the “hopeless romantic at heart” talk about how he believes in love:

Phil Perry 2

ERIC DARIUS IS NOT LOOKING BACK

Pink and Blue NotesLeave a comment

Listening to Eric Darius’ new album, “Retro Forward,” you can believe the title to be true. After ten years in the business, he is not looking back. Well… not really. As an extension of himself, he drew inspiration from the music of those whom he admired from the past and fused that essence with who he is evolving into. In doing so, he allows his fans to enjoy a refreshing vibe from the Eric Darius they love, and new fans are climbing on board. Like a painter gazes at a blank canvas in preparation to create, Darius embraced forging forward into the unknown. He moved into a new world, reinventing himself and his music by working with producers Tony Dixon and Blu2th–both who, by the way, weren’t familiar with his music. Together, they created everything from the anthem driven title song, “Retro Forward,” to a dance tune, ballads, and two covers–one on which he sang and the other being Pharrell’s “Happy.” It has been so successful that it has made it to the Top 25 Billboard; a giant leap but one that he was sure would help bring forth music for everyone. In my opinion, Eric’s success at taking on the unfamiliar and pushing the envelope is exciting and welcome. I asked him what would best describe what he has accomplished with “Retro Forward.” His response: “a breakthrough.”

Listen to Eric describe his journey:

10702195_10152842125857764_3597855667176529865_n

JOEY SOMMERVILLE: EVERYTHING BUT AN “OVERNIGHT SENSATION”

Pink and Blue NotesLeave a comment

What do you get when you release an album enriched with songs–some of which were written over a decade ago? You get Joey Sommerville’s latest album, “Overnight Sensation.” With over 20 years of experience, Joey is still motivated to pour his heart and soul into every song because he is keenly aware that he has a gift that is meant to be shared through music. Although the industry has changed significantly over the years, Sommerville remains comfortable in his skin and true to his craft. Joey brings his music to life when performing, fueled by energy from the crowd. It helps that he is not a shy kind of guy. He shares the sentiment of most musicians that music is meant to be felt. From start to finish, “Overnight Sensation” is a powerhouse of music that can be overwhelmingly felt. Each song, leading with the title track and first single, “Overnight Sensation” sends the listener on a whimsical journey amassed with emotional twists and turns. The album was produced by Joey along with Jeff Lorber on a couple of songs–definitely a match made in heaven. Also lending their talents to the album are Earl Klugh, Jeff Bradshaw, Elan Trotman, and Eric Essix. Each collaboration enhances the treasure trove of songs in Joey’s vault. You will be spell bound after listening to “Overnight Sensation” and taking the heartfelt musical journey led by Joey.

I had an awesome interview with Joey:

 

untitled