Lebron Dennis

TALKING “NIGHT SESSIONS” WITH NICHOLAS COLE

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“Unapologetic” and “innovative” both describe Nicholas Cole precisely. His youthful yet old soul approach to music is a welcomed breath of fresh air. His presence in contemporary smooth jazz is undeniable. Having a number one song from his last album, “Endless Possibilities,” didn’t steer him to play it safe, but quite the contrary. Nicholas went into the creative writing process of his latest album, “Night Sessions,” with specific goals. He knew who he wanted to collaborate with and feature. Among the list of enlisted talent: Anthony Saunders, Julian Vaughn, Kayta Matsuno, and Steve Cole. Nicholas was also very clear that he wanted to infuse elements of different genres into “Night Sessions.” In doing so, he created a fresh new sound without limitations; he has managed to captivate listeners seventeen years old and older. Nicholas has opened a door in jazz music that will lead to the future. As of September 8, 2015, his first single, “Mary Ann,” was number one on Billboard Smooth Jazz songs chart, and “Night Sessions” was number seventeen for top Smooth Jazz albums–not bad for the album that was released on August 21, 2015. In addition to his solo career, Nicholas is a member of “Generation Next” with his peers Lebron Dennis and Lin Rountree. The sky is the limit for Nicholas Cole.

As per our usual conversation, Nicholas and I keep it real. Listen:

Nicholas Cole

IT’S A “NEW ERA” ACCORDING TO LEBRON DENNIS

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Although “New Era” is the sophomore project for saxophonist Lebron Dennis, when listening, you wouldn’t think so. Fusing playing ability and freedom of expression, Lebron proves why he has staying power. “New Era” is comprised of ten original tunes featuring Julian Vaughn, Lin Rountree, vocalist Keith Fluitt, and violinist Rachael Gehmlich. Bass player Julian Vaughn wrote and produced the romantic “Just Us” and was featured on “Spotlight.” Lin Rountree graced the smokin’ song “Give Love A Try” with his trumpet. Lebron–like many of his peers–feels that the genre is moving in a new direction. He says, “the genre needs something new and fresh.” Lebron senses the shift in demand for new artists that adds something new, subsequently gaining new contemporary jazz listeners. The future is bright for Lebron Dennis.

Lebron and I discuss music and the future:

Lebron Dennis

IT’S A “NEW ERA” ACCORDING TO LEBRON DENNIS

Pink and Blue NotesLeave a comment

Although “New Era” is the sophomore project for saxophonist Lebron Dennis, when listening, you wouldn’t think so. Fusing playing ability and freedom of expression, Lebron proves why he has staying power. “New Era” is comprised of ten original tunes featuring Julian Vaughn, Lin Rountree, vocalist Keith Fluitt, and violinist Rachael Gehmlich. Bass player Julian Vaughn wrote and produced the romantic “Just Us” and was featured on “Spotlight.” Lin Rountree graced the smokin’ song “Give Love A Try” with his trumpet. Lebron–like many of his peers–feels that the genre is moving in a new direction. He says, “the genre needs something new and fresh.” Lebron senses the shift in demand for new artists that adds something new, subsequently gaining new contemporary jazz listeners. The future is bright for Lebron Dennis.

Lebron and I discuss music and the future:

Lebron Dennis

JULIAN VAUGHN’S FUTURE IS “LIMITLESS”

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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

Lebron Dennis

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Lebron Dennis is not only a skillful saxophone player, but he’s arrived on the smooth jazz scene and proved he has exactly what it takes. At a young age, Lebron developed a love for the saxophone. He taught himself to play and soon became an integral part of the elite Young Sounds of Arizona. Over the years, he developed a sound that uniquely sets him apart from others. His ability to express himself with every note he plays engages his audience, transporting them into his musical world. He is the future of smooth jazz, and that future is looking very bright. Alongside Darren Rahn and Paul Brown, Lebron’s CD “SHADES” is a telling story of who he is. The title track is indicative of the shades of Lebron. His single, “Groove City,” debuted at #1 on the most added groove jazz chart. He is also a member of generation next along with his musical peers Nicholas Cole, Julian Vaughn, and Lin Rountree. In his own words: “Sound. It’s all about the sound.”

Listen, and you’ll feel his passion for the music he creates.

Lebron Dennis
Lebron Dennis
Lebron Dennis
Lebron Dennis