I've wanted to interview Dr. Herb Smith for sometime, and finally I got my chance ~ what a privilege to spend some quality time with his insightful and caring individual. Dr. Herb Smith is both a renowned educator of Jazz music and a fine Alto Saxophonist to boot... Listen in as Herb shares memories of his high school days which produced many icons of Jazz...Herb names them all ~ WOW! Miles Davis said about this high school - "That must have been the greatest Jazz school in the world!" He talks about his time and friendship with Sonny Rollins ~ about what makes an icon of Jazz, and a funny anecdote about Sonny being very curious about Herb's Volvo car! How the daily music playing practice of the Greats such as John Coltrane provides many vital lessons for ALL Jazz musicians and beyond... Herb explains what Jazz means to him and he provides valuable insight on the meaning of music success for up and aspiring Jazz musicians. Dr. Herb Smith playing his Alto Sax ~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhzN5mVzVxQ Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: If you’re interested in being a guest email: speakingofjazz.guest@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
My special guest is Washington, D.C. very own standout Jazz vocalist Sharón Clark. Constantly bringing festival and concert audiences to their feet across the U.S. and Europe. Her New York run drew raves from the NY Times and the Wall Street Journal, and she won New York’s Bistro Awards for Best Vocalist. Ms. Clark won the Gold Medal and top prize at the Savannah Music Festival's American Traditions Competition. She then took first place in the Billie Holiday Vocal Competition, which included a featured appearance with the Baltimore Symphony. Her most recent release, “Do it Again — My Tribute to Shirley Horn,” is on its third printing, and she grabs top honors wherever she goes. Ms. Clark appears regularly in DC at Blues Alley and Loews Madison Hotel. A featured soloist with the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra, the Richmond Symphony, and the Baltimore Symphony, Clark has headlined the Duke Ellington Jazz Festival, the Cape May Jazz Festival and the Savannah Music Festival. Both the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra and The Ludacris Foundation chose Ms. Clark to perform for their separate tributes to Quincy Jones. Sharón Clark has made multiple international tours in recent years. Please checkout her website and other social media channels for a chance to listen to her perform. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1EE5F289C48158E0 https://www.facebook.com/sharonclarkjazz/?ref=hl https://www.bandsintown.com/a/528459?came_from=257 https://www.sonicbids.com/band/thesharonclarkquintet/ https://www.sharonclarkjazz.com/index.htm Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: If you’re interested in being a guest email: speakingofjazz.guest@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
Listen in on my super fun chat with the highly respected keyboardist, producer, writer, Jason Miles , a really nice man with a huge story. He shares snippets of his exciting and revealing 'New Book' titled: The Extraordinary Journey of Jason Miles ~ A Musical Biography A series of short stories that brings you into the inner-sanctum of what it was like to work with artists like Miles Davis, Luther Vandross, Chaka Khan, Marcus Miller, David Sanborn, Roberta Flack, AMO... You are right in the studio, and on the road getting a birds eye view of Music History... Below are some quotes from Musical luminaries about working with Jason Miles. “Genius” -Miles Davis-1991 "Jason Miles is a Great Musician" -Chick Corea-2021 “Jason Miles has raised the level of excellence for the musicians who have had the good fortune of working with him, myself included. He has enriched the lives of the millions of people who have listened to the music he plays, the recordings he produces and the countless musicians he mentors and inspires. The work he did with my friends, Miles Davis and Marcus Miller have helped to define the modern face of jazz music." - Roberta Flack Please checkout Jason Miles 'New Book' ~ and his website ~,and his social media channels. https://music.apple.com/us/artist/jason-miles/81372193 https://open.spotify.com/artist/1ydw5TMqZC6HCz5l9z3xvL https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsaENQ28A9rTF3YzYJlJuWQ https://twitter.com/JasonMiles https://www.facebook.com/jasonmilesmusic Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: If you’re interested in being a guest email: speakingofjazz.guest@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
My special guest on this episode is DC-based jazz artist Aaron Myers, whose life story is anything but typical. Originally from Goodlow, Texas, Myers found his passion for performing at an early age while playing music in the church, eventually choosing the piano as his instrument of choice. His soulful baritone voice, second-to-none stage presence and captivating personality make him one of the most exciting up-and-coming acts in jazz! As a young man, Aaron joined the United States Army where he served for 2 years before enrolling at Navarro College where he majored in business and theater. While at Navarro, Aaron ran for Mayor of Corsicana, the town where the school was located. Despite losing a closely contested election, Myers decided then and there that politics and advocacy would continue to play a major role in his life. After college, Aaron packed up and headed out west to Los Angeles where he got his first taste of life as a professional entertainer. While in California, he was the featured talent at the Fashion TV's 10 year Anniversary Party, made his rounds as a studio musician and served as a Music Supervisor for the film “A Song and a Prayer.” Within ministry, he was the Assistant to the Youth Pastor at West Angeles Church of God in Christ while also serving as the musician for the Youth Department - never straying too far from his gospel roots. After a life-altering accident that almost claimed his right hand, Aaron decided he needed a change. So, he joined the Obama Campaign for Change in 2008 as a Field Organizer in the battleground states of Texas and Florida, finding his love for community organizing and engagement, and slowly working his way back into playing shape. After the campaign was over, he moved to Washington D.C. where fostered his gift for advocacy and began establishing himself as a musician-to-know in the vibrant jazz scene of Chocolate City. Upon Aaron’s arrival in our Nation’s Capital, he immediately began activating spaces for live performances around the city, ultimately serving as Resident Artist at the Black Fox Lounge for 5 years while producing over 150 shows before becoming the current Resident Artist at the storied Mr. Henry's Restaurant in Capitol Hill. He remained committed to his role as an activist as well, becoming the National Director for the now defunct Global Family Program headed by the late Linda Grover, staying active with the DC Young Democrats and by forming the DC Jazz Lobby in 2016 which focuses on music and arts policy initiatives at the federal and local levels. Mr. Myers is a stout advocate for Mental Health and LGBTQI Rights. As part of his advocacy, he chairs the Board of Directors for the Capitol Hill Jazz Foundation as well as serves as Board Secretary of Crittenton Services of Greater Washington. He sits as a member of the board of directors for CTE Vision Foundation and Covenant Full Potential Development Center. During the ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic, he has led the DMV Music Stakeholders cohort as they share resources, offer relief, and advocate for community needs to help strengthen and preserve Washington’s music ecosystem. Myers has been lucky enough to have had his share of performance, festival and hosting opportunities throughout his career as a musician. He’s played numerous events in his hometown of DC including the 50th Anniversary of the Peace Corps, the National Legal Aid & Defender Association 100th Anniversary, Rehearsing/Directing/Performing with the 100 Voice Choir at the World AIDS Conference, performing at the Library of Congress and having the pleasure of being a repeat featured artist for the DC Jazz Festival. In 2019, Myers was invited to participate in the Folk Alliance Festival in Montreal Canada, speaking on a panel that discussed the intersection of Arts & Activism, before embarking upon a 6-week, 24 show Jazz Revolution Tour that saw him playing in 20 different cities throughout Russia - a once-in-a-lifetime experience that reinforced his belief in his craft and his ability to make his dream come true. His credits include 3 albums: "Leo Rising", "The Lion's Den" (both included on the Grammy Voting Ballot) and the holiday album "Snowing in Vegas." He is a voting member with the Recording Academy and also the host of "Jazz Stories" on WPFW 89.3FM. You can listen to his music on Pandora, Spotify, Apple Music, GooglePlay, Amazon, and other digital streaming services. Check some of them out and his website, an social media links below: https://www.aaron2.me/ https://twitter.com/aaronmyers https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdP-gelmQPw https://www.instagram.com/aaronlmyers/ https://open.spotify.com/artist/5JqWYlpaw2lH5PrAXxFtqK Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: If you’re interested in being a guest email: speakingofjazz.guest@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
The Son of a Jazz Icon Born in 1967 to the late, great bassist Jamil Nasser, Muneer 's exposure to the jazz idiom was early and powerful. In 1976, "My dad took me to see Dizzy Gillespie at the Village Gate and Dizzy blew the place apart. I had to get a trumpet and weeks later I did." In 1979, he went to the International Art of Jazz Workshop for college students. Dave Burns, a trumpeter in Gillespie's Big Band, had reservations about his age. Muneer's talent, however, overshadowed this concern. "Mr. Burns acceptance fortified my confidence and I began studying with him." Muneer also received private instruction from George Coleman, Jimmy Owens, Oliver Beener, and Webster Young. These workshops and lessons taught him the basics of jazz improvisation, which were tested at serious jam sessions conducted by Eddie Henderson, Ted Curson, Tommy Turrentine, Barry Harris, C Sharpe, and Gil Coggins. "If you couldn't play, they would bench you with quickness and give you a homework assignment." As a youngster, Muneer saw many masters in concert such as George Coleman, Randy Weston, Lou Donaldson, Woody Shaw, Roy Eldridge, and Phineas Newborn. After graduating from high school, he attended Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina, where he played with Paul Jeffrey, gigged at churches and various cultural venues around town. He also was the host of a weekly jazz broadcast "Jazz Spectrum" on WSHA. He transferred to Howard Howard University and graduated with a BBA in International Business. While in Washington DC, he performed at the Lincoln Theater, Bohemian Caverns, Westminster Church, Takoma Station, Cafe Nema, The Kennedy Center, and Twins Jazz. In 1993, Muneer embarked on a musical journey to Europe and North Africa. He performed in Paris, Amsterdam, Turkey, Morocco, London, and Geneva. In 1995, he toured the United Kingdom with Jazz Jamaica performing in London, Liverpool, Birmingham, and Manchester. “I had a chance to meet the great drummer Clifford Jarvis and he shared musical and trumpet gems from Kenny Dorham and Freddie Hubbard." In the year 2000, Muneer, started the Friday night jam session at HR-57, the Center for the Preservation of Jazz and Blues. In 2002, he played gospel music every Sunday at Union Temple Baptist Church. He also played regularly in Baltimore with alto saxophonist, Arnold Sterling at the Arch Social Club, The Edison Lounge, and The Baltimore Museum of Art. In 2013, he played trumpet and flugelhorn simultaneously at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, which pleasantly surprised the audience. In addition to teaching jazz improvisation at the University of Maryland, Nasser's passion and knowledge for jazz history was evident in educational forums he held at the University of the District of Columbia and Howard University. Muneer has written and recorded over 200 reggae, jazz, rock, EDM, Rap, and R & B compositions. Some appear on Soundcloud and YouTube. In 2015, he won an award for the best soundtrack at the DC 48-hour Film Festival. Muneer developed a lifelong commitment to the study of jazz. Consequently, he read over one hundred books, magazines, and conducted informal interviews with jazz masters whose answers stimulated his quest to document jazz history. “My father shared many compelling stories about his career.” Unfiltered by the political imperatives and agendas of the traditional publishing industry, Upright Bass: The Musical Life and Legacy of Jamil Nasser unveils previously undisclosed yet important jazz history. Check out Muneer's new CD "A Soldier's Story", and his social media channels, below: https://muneernassermusic.com/ https://www.facebook.com/muneer.nasser.58 https://www.instagram.com/muneernassermusic/ https://twitter.com/ladybyby?lang=en https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V-kxCOc5u8k&list=OLAK5uy_nk1H1HwttZGwzAvFXtDuWvdxQ3Dtl0KTk Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
My special guest on this episode is the wonderful jazz vocalist and recording artist, Bonnie Harris. Bonnie combines a winning stage presence and soulful vocals with a deep sense of swing reminiscent of Etta Jones and Gloria Lynne. Long a favorite of DC jazz fans, she’s appeared at festivals and clubs throughout the region. Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
Paul Carr, a Houston native and 1985 Howard University graduate, has dedicated his professional career to performing and promoting Jazz through education and community outreach. He carries on the Texas tenor tradition espoused by great heroes such as the late Houstonians Arnett Cobb and Don Wilkerson who served as his early idols and mentors. He grew up in inner-city Houston, Texas and was a member of the Kashmere High School Stage Band, whose director, the late Conrad Johnson, is the subject of a documentary, Thunder Soul, produced by actor, Jamie Foxx. Though never having had private music lessons, Paul has received several outstanding musician awards at high school and college jazz festivals. Paul has recorded 8 CD’s, which have been well received by critics and jazz fans alike. His new CD “The Real Jazz Whisperer” features Allyn Johnson, Michael Bowie, Lewis Nash and will be released September, 2020. His CD “DC-NYC Organ Sessions” reached #9 on the Jazz Week radio play charts. His CD released in 2013, “Standard Domain,” reached #3 on the Jazz Week radio play chart and stayed on the chart for 16 weeks. Paul has toured Russia, Europe, the Middle East, the Caribbean and Central and South America and has shared the stage with many of the greatest names in jazz. Paul was a favorite of President Clinton during his term in office and Paul performed at many of the Clinton’s private events. He also did a special performance for the late King Hussein and Queen Noir of Jordan at their residence in Aqaba, Jordan. Paul is passionately committed to the education of children and young adults, particularly as it relates to the preservation of jazz. In 2002, he founded the Jazz Academy of Music, which hosts summer camps and jazz ensembles for kids throughout the year. Paul also serves the Director of the Gettysburg College Jazz Ensemble. Paul has changed the lives of hundreds of his students by selflessly sharing his knowledge of music and life. Several of his students have been admitted and even received full scholarships to some of the top music schools and conservatories in the country. In fact, five of Paul students have been admitted to the prestigious Julliard School of Music in New York. Many of his former students are touring and performing all over the world, sharing the stage with some of the top names in jazz music today. Paul’s work was acknowledged in 2012 by ABC Channel 7 News when he was selected as a “Harris Hero” for his amazing work with music students across the area. In March 2014, Paul received the prestigious, Howard University, “Benny Golson Jazz Master Award”, for his outstanding work as a performer, presenter and educator. He also served as a panelist at the 2014 Congressional Black Caucus where he spoke on the importance of jazz education and advocated for a Bill that was circulating in Congress that to offer federal support toward the advancement and preservation of traditional Jazz. In March, 2015 Paul received the County Executive’s “Education Award” for Montgomery County Maryland. Finally, in 2019, Paul was selected as a “Jazz Hero” by the Jazz Journalist Association. In 2010, Paul re-established the East Coast Jazz Festival as the Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival, and serves as its Executive and Artistic Director. The festival enjoys over 3,000 attendees that travel from states across the U.S. and beyond. Held every Presidents Day weekend in Rockville, MD, the festival incorporates a strong educational component, with a high school band competition and free master classes for students as well as an entertainment component with performances by NEA Jazz Masters, such as Benny Golson, Jimmy Heath, Ellis Marsalis, Roy Haynes and Branford Marsalis, just to name of few. In 2015, Paul presented his teaching technique for improvisation, “The Theoryless Approach to Jazz Improvisation”, at the JEN Conference in San Diego, to a standing room only audience. The presentation was well received by the audience with many questions and request for a copy of the presentation. Paul also present the techniques at the 2015 Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival to the high school band directors in attendance. When you think of an ambassador for jazz music today, you have got to include Paul Carr in that grouping, as his work touches all fronts including jazz education, performance and presentation. Paul Carr - Social media channels - https://www.paulcarrjazz.com/ https://twitter.com/paulcarrjazz https://www.facebook.com/PaulCarrJazz Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
My friend and special guest for episode 01 of season 03 is Rusty Hassan - Kick back and listen in on the story of this fascinating Jazz radio/educator...known both on WPFW 89.3 FM in the Washington DC area, and worldwide on the popular streaming service at WPFWFM.org ~ on Thursday nights from 10 pm to Midnight. Rusty Hassan talks about falling in love with Jazz music as a teenager, especially the music of John Coltrane and how the music gave him an education about race in America. He then speaks about moving to Washington, D.C. to attend Georgetown University where he continues his interest in Jazz, eventually getting involved in labor and community organizing while attending D.C.’s legendary jazz clubs including Blues Alley and the Cellar Door. He continues to stay involved in the jazz world by DJing for WAMU and WPFW, while he develops his career in labor. Finally, he speaks about how he continues to cultivate more enthusiasm for jazz through teaching courses on jazz at universities around D.C. Rusty Hassan, born in Bound Brook, NJ November 26, 1945, and raised in Greenwich, CT, has been the producer and host for weekly jazz radio programs for the past fifty years, starting as a student at Georgetown University on WGTB. Since then he has hosted shows on WAMU, WD.C.U and WPFW. He currently hosts Thursday Night Jazz on WPFW 89.3FM. Among the prominent jazz artists he has interviewed include Dexter Gordon, Art Blakey, Mary Lou Williams, Ramsey Lewis, Jimmy Heath, and numerous others. He was a union representative with the American Federation of Government Employees for thirty-four years. He has taught jazz history courses at American University, Georgetown University, University of Maryland University College and the Smithsonian Institution. He currently teaches at the University of the District of Columbia. The D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities recognized him with a special award for his contribution to the community with his years of broadcasting in Washington, D.C. Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: If you’re interested in being a guest email: speakingofjazz.guest@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
My special guests on the last episode of this second season, are the three wonderful talented and fun ladies that make up the 3D Jazz Trio (note: the D in 3D stands for Divas :) ~ pianist, Jackie Warren ~ on drums, Sherrie Maricle ~ and on Contra bass, Amy Shook. This podcast chat was quality time well-spent, fun, a little rambunctious, very insightful and a real joy. Each lady in their own right are consummate professional musicians and Musical educators - together they're like Marvel Comic Super Jazz Hero's. I will leave links to their music and website for all updates and don't forget to read their bio/discography ~ Especially lookout for their NEW 3D Jazz Trio CD :) This YouTube Video will give you a snapshot on the powerhouse that is 3 D Jazz Trio... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-8VmM4kWF0 https://www.facebook.com/3DivasJazzTrio/ https://twitter.com/3DivasJazzTrio https://www.instagram.com/3divasjazztrio/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7GL_qwcThKIq_EOj34Ge2A https://3divasjazztrio.com/about/ Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
On this episode 09, season 02, my special guest and good friend is Lou Jerome, a Blues, Gospel and Soul Singer, Arranger, Blues Harmonica and Rhythm Guitar Professional. Listen in and here about his interesting life and how he's balanced a f/t career while still enjoying and performing great music. Below is a short bio for context: Lou Jerome was born Louis Jerome Price in southwest Virginia town of Christiansburg. He attended the Historical Christiansburg Institute graduating In 1965. As a child he sang on the choir at Asbury United Methodist Church. Lou enlisted in the U S Navy after high school and did a tour in Vietnam with the Marines as a Hospital Corpsman. He was awarded a Purple Heart for wounds received in combat. After being discharged from the military he relocated to Washington DC and was employed by the FBI and Secret Service. After leaving government service he joined Equifax Service as an Account Executive also worked as an Assistant VP and Director of Community Lending for Chase Home Mortgage. While living in Philadelphia he was often performing "open mic's" at Warm Daddy's and various clubs in the area. A friend Bryan Mc Lean who was the sound tech a Warm Daddy's started my first Band an named it The Lou Jerome Band. Setting up the first gig at the Greater Philadelphia Blues Fest with headliners Delbert Mc Clinton and Blues Great Little Milton Campbell. Bryan also gave me first harmonica lesson stating "this is a harp; once it makes sense to you; you can play it!" I have been playing it along with singing ever since! I have taken numerous courses in music theory, harmonica and guitar at community colleges. Also graduating.. from The American University in Administration if Justice. You can connect with Lou Jerome and his Band via Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/louis.j.price Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
My special guest is Hawaiian Jazz Queen and good friend Azure McCall - classic jazz vocalist. With stylings like Sarah Vaughn, Carmen McCrae, and Ella Fitzgerald, yet her voice is unique and just sultry smooth, like crushed velvet. Azure has a fascinating musical and acting bio - here is just a summary: Azure is an extremely versatile vocalist. Put her with a pianist or a 45 piece symphony, and she's comfortable. Azure is also a Jazz vocal coach and teacher, including teaching at the California Jazz Conservatory in Berkeley, California. Her music career has included working as a vocalist on cruise ships, touring with Ray Brown, Freddy Hubbard, Frank Morgan, Dizzy Gillespie. Azure McCall is an actor, having appeared in Lost, Magnum P.I. and Hawaii Five-0. Listen to Azure on YouTube, and connect on her social media channels: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vp0NRUzk_LQ https://www.facebook.com/azure.mccall https://www.instagram.com/auntieazure/?hl=en Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
My special guest on this episode is Saxophonist Antonio Parker, a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is known for his dynamic, energetic and virtuosic performances as well as his versatility in a variety of musical genres. His artistry is deeply rooted in the jazz tradition but incorporates a wide spectrum of musical influences. He is a visionary artist who has been performing nationally and internationally for over 20 years. Antonio is a graduate of Howard University where he received undergraduate and graduate degrees in jazz studies. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of the District of Columbia. His many artistic achievements include serving as a USIA (United States Information Agency) Jazz Ambassador to Africa, where he performed and conducted jazz workshops in Nigeria, Ghana, Togo, Zaire, Congo, Morocco, and Tunisia. He has also toured and performed in Japan, London, Scotland, Paris, Spain, Canada, Austria, as well at the pyramids in Egypt with Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra. Antonio has recorded and/or shared the stage with many well-known artists and entertainers, including Go-Go legend Chuck Brown, The Blackbyrds, The O’Jays, Peabo Bryson, Ruben Studdard, Betty Carter, Illinois Jacquet, Jean Carne, and Christian McBride. His 2002 debut CD, “The Exchange,” was very well received. His latest recording, the 2-disc “Steppin’ Out” Live @ HR-57 (released in 2012 on his Airegin Label), documents is constant growth as a performer, composer, and bandleader. His latest recording, “Planetentiary” was released in 2016 and shows the dynamic range of his artistry, as he explores a mixture of jazz, funk and groove, with collaborations from the likes of renown trumpeters Roy Hargrove and Russell Gunn. Antonio has taught music in the Washington, DC public schools and the Prince George’s County Public School system. He is the founder and executive director of the Inner City Jazz Foundation and continues to inspire and educate young people on the importance of jazz music. Checkout his music and social media channels: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkn856k97oIS-hsEOipzyNA/featured https://twitter.com/PMOOD https://www.facebook.com/2213ewdsdd https://www.discogs.com/release/12310146-Antonio-Parker-Steppin-Out-Live-HR-57 Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
My Special guest on episode 06, season 02 is trumpeter Leslie Drayton. His professional career in music spans more than five decades. During that time, he has served as a founding member of Earth, Wind and Fire; Musical Director and Conductor for Marvin Gaye; Professor of Music; along with leading a critically acclaimed jazz orchestra and small ensembles. Since 1980, he has recorded 13 albums as leader. A Los Angeles native, born into a musical family, he began to show an interest in music at an early age. While studying the trumpet as a teenager, he was also tutored in learning the skills of arranging, composing and music preparation. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from University of California at Los Angeles and a Master of Arts from University of Denver. In 2002, he began teaching and mentoring young scholars at various educational institutions in Southern California (Los Angeles City College, Santa Monica College and Ventura College). Leslie has been a resident of Houston, TX since 2016 and continues his musical journey through composing, performing, and recording new music. He still finds great satisfaction in mentoring young musicians-some of which appear on his latest recording, Changing Landscapes, released in March 2020. Please checkout his website: https://www.draytonmusic.com/ and his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/leslie.drayton https://www.instagram.com/leslie.drayton/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RYIiBiaXToA Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
I was slightly apprehensive to chat with Amy – for me she is someone whom I admire for her music talent and especially her bass playing phrasing – without further ado I hope you enjoy this podcast as much as I did chatting with Amy. Read below a short summary of all things Amy Shook and the 3D JazzTrio Amy Shook is one of the most in-demand acoustic bassists in the mid-Atlantic, coveted for her huge sound and infectious, driving groove. In addition to being a premier performing and recording artist, and a multi-instrumentalist (acoustic bass, electric bass, violin, viola, and cello), she is an accomplished composer, and her personality truly comes through in her writing. Amy co-leads the all-women powerhouse trio the 3D Jazz Trio (3Divas), with drummer Sherrie Maricle and pianist Jackie Warren. 3D is the super-swingin’ trio that sparked the fire that ignited the award-winning show Maurice Hines is Tappin’ Thru Life, described by the New York Times as “blistering hot.” In 2017, 3D’s eagerly awaited debut CD, simply titled 3Divas, was met with widespread critical acclaim. Both of 3D’s 2020 recordings, I Love To See You Smile, (released in April 2020), and Christmas in 3D (released October 2020) were recorded at Red Rock Recording Studio in Saylorsburg, PA. Both 3D’s albums received widespread critical acclaim, with I Love To See You Smile landing a four-star review in Downbeat Magazine and inclusion on Downbeat’s year end “Best of 2020 albums,” and a ranking of #10 overall on RMR’s “Top Jazz Album Chart 2020,” as well as in the top 50 of “Top Albums of 2020” on the NACC year end chart. Christmas in 3D was featured first in line in the New York Times “20 Albums That Put a New Spin on the Holidays,” and Ranked #4 overall with Christmas in 3D on RMR’s Top Holiday Album Chart for the Year of 2020, peaking at #1. All of their recordings can be purchased directly through their website, Amazon, downloaded from Bandcamp and iTunes, and streamed on your favorite service. 3D was also featured on The Kate TV’s “live” music series with Maurice Hines (on PBS), and twice on WVIA radio’s Homegrown Music Series, the first performance having been recorded and released as 3D's debut album 3Divas. For more info about the 3D Jazz Trio, please visit their website www.3djazztrio.com. Please checkout all things Amy Shook and 3D Jazz Trio – what a Swinging Jazz sound they have. https://www.amyshook.com/ https://3divasjazztrio.com/ https://www.facebook.com/3DivasJazzTrio/ https://twitter.com/3DivasJazzTrio https://www.instagram.com/3divasjazztrio/ Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
My special guest this time has a double bass playing Jazz style sound that harps back to the Jazz Trio era of the late 50s into the 60s. Very laid back, easy listening and still with that wonderful swing ~ Kent Miller has been compared to many great double bass players, Not surprising when his bass studies have included Rufus Reid, Ray Drummond and in later years, Ron Carter. Kent has played with many of the great known Jazz luminaries. Kent started started the Kent Miller Quartet know as TNEK Jazz 2016 and has produced 4 CDs to date, and TNEK Jazz Quintet plays on a regular basis. Checkout the Kent Miller and the TNEK Jazz Quintet @ https://www.tnekjazz.com/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1056455184 https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=TNEK+Jazz+Quintet Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ www.JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
Founded in 1992, Mike Moloney Entertainment is a full service production company providing entertainment solutions for cruise, casino, and corporate clients. MMEC's products include: National & Headliner Booking: MMEC has booked great acts such as B.B. King, Jay Leno, Drew Carey, Tower of Power, ZZ Top, Babyface, Michael Bolton, and many, many more. Production Shows: MMEC has a number of production shows available for any casino or cruise ship stage including the multi-tribute act Showstoppers that includes the music of Elvis, Reba, Tina Turner, and Garth; the music of the shores in Jersey Rocks; tunes of the fab four in Beatle Mania; or even the Vietnamese variety show MU'A RÙ'NG. Musicians, Comedians & Specialty Acts: Mike Moloney supplies entertainment venues on cruise ships, at casinos, and corporate events with musicians, bands, comedians, magicians, and much more. Costume Design: MMEC can design great costumes for your next show. And much much more! Visit Mike's website for more information. www.mmec.com Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ www.JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
It was a real pleasure to chat with Greg C. Holloway. This gentleman has an impressive music bio. Frankly is to long for this page - so here is a summary. Drummer/percussionist Greg C. Holloway, is a native of Washington, D.C. where he received an undergraduate degree in Music Education and Percussion Performance from Howard University. He also participated in the Jazz Studies summer program at Eastman School of Music. Greg later pursued Masters in Education with an phasis in Jazz Drumming/Percussion Methodology and Masters in Science (Counseling Psychology) from University of LaVerne in Southern California. Holloway has since performed with Hank Jones, Freda Payne, Carl Fontanna, Rob McConnell, Chuck Israel, Jim Pugh, Gene Bertincinni, Maguire Sisters, Blackstone the Magician, Sheri Lewis, Bruce Conti, Rich Little, sista Monica Parker, Aretha Franklin, Jimmy Heath, Master Chorale of Washington DC, Nena Freelon and Vanessa Rubin. Just go to Greg's website for ALL his amazing Musical experience and contact details. http://www.greghollowayjazz.com/ Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ www.JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
Member of Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show Band/Bandmaster/Musical Director Mike Daigeau is my special guest on episode 1 of our new season 2 of Speaking Of Jazz with Manny Kellough. What a great guy...and he sure can play that trombone! He hails from New Orleans and has a bio as long as it gets. As mentioned, Mikes primary instrument is Tenor Trombone. He also plays the Alto and Bass Trombone, Tuba, Baritone Horn, Euphonium, and Keyboards. He's a composer and arranger for all music styles and configurations of musicians, from the Solo Performer to the Symphony Orchestra. A member of Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show Band led by Doc Severinsen for two years. Lead trombonist with Doc Severinsen’s Big Band for over a decade Guest soloist with the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra, the Colorado Symphony Orchestra, the St. Louis Symphony, Milwaukee Symphony and The Minnesota Symphony Orchestra. Mike has performed live on four continents. Performing and recorded with many musical luminaries. These include: Doc Severinsen, Don Henley, Ray Charles, Dizzy Gilespie, The Four Tops, Aretha Franklin, Billy Preston, Rosemary Clooney, The Temptations, Gladys Knight, Louie Bellson, Joe Williams, Chaka Kahn and Stevie Wonder. Mike is always open to new music projects and you can email him at trombro425@gmail.com Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and thanks for keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ www.JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
From Brisbane, Australia, my dear friend and a genuine jazz swing pianist Ross Nixon is my guest on the final episode (10) on season 01 of Speaking Of Jazz with Manny Kellough. I’ve had the pleasure to play with Ross and I can assure you Ross has a genuine inner feel for what makes swing Jazz sound great. Here is a short bio of the many accomplishments thus far of this extraordinary Swing jazz pianist. Ross Nixon is a professional musician whose career has spanned over thirty years. Ross has played in every setting; as a solo pianist, in bands playing funk, rock, blues, latin, jazz, and in Duos, trios, quartets and more . He has performed in prestigious venues worldwide including the Ritz Carlton in Osaka, Sheraton resort hotel Miyasaki, Tokyo Shiba Park Hotel , Japan , Abu Dhabi Sheraton Hotel and including international jazz festivals . His experience extends to cruise ship contracts including "The World", and the famous Royal Caribbean “Oasis of the Seas” (Jazz Quartet) and “Allure of the Seas” (International Jazz Quartet), which included cruises throughout Europe, The Caribbean, Mediterranean. He was also especially invited to play for the inaugural release of the "Harmony of the Seas" in the UK, Europe and the US, with the “Manny Kellough All Star band” which included playing with New York bass player Curtis Lundy, Ross has released "The Removalist" album (2017) recorded in New York with Curtis Lundy on bass, and famous Victor Lewis on drums. To keep up to date with Ross Nixon just shoot over to his Facebook page ~ https://www.facebook.com/ross.nixon1/ Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ www.JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
My special guest and good friend this time is Michael Campagna - live music & booking Manger for Royal Caribbean Cruise line, and a fine multi-instrumentalist to boot! Listen in as Michael share his experience and background that led him to his current position. Michael has met and worked alongside some of the current Jazz icons. Please check out Michael's LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-antonio-campagna/ Until next time - 'Keep on Swinging, and keeping Jazz alive! Find out more about Manny Kellough and upcoming podcast on his social media channels: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjazz https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjazzpodcastshow SOJ is produced in association with Nigel J ~ www.JazzTribe.News and Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris