CoffeeTalk Jazz Magazine October 2021 Version 8

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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Wh o We A r e

CoffeeTalk Jazz Magazine is the leading voice for today’s most affluent, sophisticated, and accomplished musicians. We get up-close and personal inside the minds of the world’s most accomplished and innovative music makers giving you a global perspective on the artist and their music.

As a one stop publicity team for many of today’s indie artist and legends in the music business. My team and I working to maximize the value of each artist, songwriter, musicians, and author we interview, promote and market.

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w w w . c o f fe e t a l k j a z z . c o m c o f fe e t a l k j a z z COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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LETTER From the Editor T

here’s a thrilling calm that settles over

over us like a sweet warm blanket comforting

me this time of year. Most of my days

us with every note. In the October issue Ac-

are spent listening to and pouring over

tress and Singer Connie Jackson, shares her

contemporary music from emerging artist

debut single “This Day” reminding all of us

and seasoned musicians.

that we only have today, not tomorrow.

As the summer months have come and

Veteran keyboardist and composer Nick

gone. Fall begins to make her way across

Smith tickles the ivory sharing his take on

the country. There’s a change in the air you

good love with his current project entitled

can see and feel. As the world continues to

“Romance”. I’ve had the pleasure of reading

slowly adjust to our new normal, we mourn

two powerful books the first book was writ-

the loss of friends and family members be-

ten by Author Bridgette Porter-Stubbs min-

cause of Covid-19. There are days when I

ister and teacher of liturgical dance moving

see tiny bits of lights breaking through the

with grace and joy. And Felicia Brookins has

sometimes-cloudy skies in Los Angeles. The

authored an award-winning fictional novel

weather lets me know there‘s a change in the

“Sister Nadeen’s Ways” taking you on a roll-

atmosphere.

ercoaster ride of emotions. Her book keeps you engaged and eager to finish. Keyboard-

At Coffee Talk Jazz Magazine, we are inten-

ist and vocalist Wade C. Long has been mu-

tional about every step we take, and every

sically inclined for as long as he can remem-

move we make. We’re embracing the ev-

ber. He began singing at the age of three

er-changing tides that come with adapting

his new project is “Longitude Part One Keys

and shifting to a global pandemic. It is with

Please.”

music in our heart and jazz in souls that have helped us cope and stay centered.

Our cover Artist and feature story starts with Saxophonist Antoine Knight. After being away

Each artist and author you’ll meet in our Fall

from the jazz scene for nearly two years

October issue brings their unique voice, style,

Antoine is back with his new single “Some-

melodies, lyrics and exquisite sounds. I can

thing About You.” Released in April 2021 just

honestly say music and writing has been the

as every fingerprint is unique and no two

saving grace for so many of us. It washes

are exactly alike the same holds truth about

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each Saxophonist presented in our fall issue.

showmanship, and capacity to entertain with

As Sydney and Melbourne based Saxophon-

just the right note. Each musician highlighted

ist, Gary Honor steps into the spotlight he’s

shares one common thread they love and

bringing plenty of “Momentum” with his latest

breathe music. If you like gospel, straight

project.

head jazz, neo-soul, pop, classical, funk or gospel music it’s all here. Enjoy this music

Let’s talk about Saxophonist Chris Godber. He

read and have some steaming hot coffee on

is one of Florida’s most versatile musicians,

us.

his new EP “West Coast Soul” bridges genres while appealing to a broad audience. Saxophonist Shawn Raiford has quite the story to

Musically yours,

tell with his “Man with A Horn” project. It is his

Bridgette Lewis

first full length LP, his engaging ability on the

Founder and Editorial Director

alto saxophone combines his enthusiasm,

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

Email: CoffeeTalkJazzRadio@msn.com OCTOBER 2021

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Antoine Knight The Soulful Side of Jazz

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Chris Godber West Coast Soul

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Felicia Brookins

International Jazz Days

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Sister Nadeen’s Way’s

All Star Global Concert

After 7

Gary Honor

Legendary Hit Makers

You Need Some Momentum

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Shawn Raiford

Bridgette Porter-Stubbs

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The Man With a Horn

The Power of Dance

Connie Jackson

Red Carpet Arrivals

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Musically Inclined

Songs of Hope Partnership

Musician, Director & Actress

Wade C. Long

Oscars 2021

City of Hope

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Gift of Music

Jazz Behind The Lens

The Future of Jazz

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Marius Billgobenson World Citizen

Bobby Roebuck

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The Billboard Music Awards Celebrating Music’s Greatest

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Acoustic Guitarist

All That Jazz

Andy McKee 6

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Nick Smith

con t e n t s

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Antoine Knight Feature

Respect: Jennifer Hudson on embodying soul legend Aretha Franklin Before her death in 2018, 8

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A

retha Franklin personally selected Jennifer Hudson to play her in Respect, the new biopic released in the UK. But even if the queen of soul hadn’t left behind such a clear instruction, you get the impression

producers might have picked Hudson anyway.

Already an Oscar winner for her performance in the Supremes-inspired musical Dreamgirls, Hudson was a natural and fitting choice. Not only could she sing and act, but she had performed a Franklin song in her audition for American Idol, the show which catapulted her to fame in 2004.

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Saxophonist

ANTOINE KNIGHT 10

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New Album “Something About You”

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fter being away from the jazz scene for nearly two years, Antoine Knight is back with his new single “Something About You,”

released in April 2021. But Antoine wants you to know when it comes to a live performance; it’s an immersive experience that he is truly a “Knight 2 Remember,” which is the title track off his latest CD. In 2017, Antoine opened for jazz music icon Boney James at the Gulf Coast Jazz Festival in Pensacola, Florida. Antoine found it fitting to release “A Knight 2 Remember”, which it was, and he received multiple encores from his hometown fans. Since the release of “A Knight 2 Remember”, Antoine has gone on a world tour playing tenor sax for the legendary “BB King All-Star Band,” based in Memphis. In the first year of joining the quintessential band, Antione traveled to Amsterdam, Portugal, the Caribbean, Sydney & Melbourne, Australia.

In 2018 Antoine’s travels took him to France, Italy, Greece, and Spain. On his final leg of the tour in 2019, Antoine traveled to Singapore, Tokyo, HongKong, and Beijing, China. This tour was a memorable experience that inspired him to return to the United States and start working on his new single

University distinguished military graduate, as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army. Antoine served over 20 years as a reserve officer, climbing the ranks to major. On his last command, Antoine retired as a Battalion Executive Officer at Fort Gillem, GA. When asked about his life experience’s involving his musical journey, Antoine states, “For me, I have been around the world, and “A Knight 2 Remember” is the musical journey of my life testimony that will never end. I’ve been battle-tested with mistakes, but I will always emerge stronger than ever at

called “Something About You.”

what lies ahead. It is my way of conveying my own

Antoine was inspired on sax by the Motown sounds

On Stage

of Jr. Walker & the All-Stars from his aunt’s 8-Track tapes with his cousin. He continued his music listening to jazz giants like John Coltrane, David “Fat Head” Newton, Sonny Rollins, and Cannonball Adderley from his dad’s old vinyl records. Subsequently, Antoine Knight became a Florida A&M

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

experience through music.”

Antoine is a versatile entertaining artist. His masterful artistry as a saxophonist; is captivating, compelling, and drawing you into the passion of his sound when performing live. Antoine was a VIP performer for the NFL’s Atlanta Falcon football and numerous jazz/music events and festivals. He also

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made a few appearances as part of The Atlanta Jazz Festival. Antoine gained national recognition with the release of his 1st album, “In the Red.” He became the 1st Atlanta jazz artist to be picked by Radio One Broadcasting (formerly known as WJZZ 107.5 FM) thanks to Doc Robinson, CEO of “Jazz Beat Promotions. “Antoine now has a recording with Eric Essex, Althea Renee & Nick Colionne. Antoine has also opened for some significant artists like Gerald Albright with Norman Brown, Boney James, Althea Renee, and Steve Oliver. He has also shared the stage with his Kim Waters, Najee, Mike Phillips, Alex Bugnon, Lin Roundtree, Deon Yates, Tom Braxton, Eric Darrius, legendary jazz artist Roy Ayers and legendary R&B producer Teddy Riley and, personal friend/trumpeter Willie Bradley.

Notable Live Performances : The Music Fest - Atlanta, GA

Blues Alley - Washington DC Discovery Jazz Series - Detroit, MI Humphreys by the Bay - San Diego, CA Gulf Coast Jazz Festival- Pensacola, FL

Music

A Knight 2 Remember is 11 tracks treasured for its infectious charm, relaxed improvisations, and deep urban grooves. Like the previous album “Walk Da Walk,” this album “A Knight 2 Remember” is a source of energy, emotions & beginnings featuring flute Althea Renee. Her solo raw, colorful expression was the highlight on the title track. ‘I can’t Go “ is Antoine’s take on a Daryl Hall & John Oates pop-classic arranged & co-produced by Jimmy “Slam” Jones. Also, on this classic, Antoine makes his tenor sax debut on this iconic cover tune. Antoine shows off his funky-side with “Calling

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Mr. Parker. “ The track heavy on saxhorn in honor of James Brown’s legendary alto saxophonist “Maceo Parker.” Antoine believes, “it is to best honor a person when they live, not when they have passed away. Maceo is one of my most admired saxophonists. “Antoine’s track “Brazilla” is about a fictitious island deep in the tropic with an exotic mixture of African-Caribbean vibe with renowned guitarist Nick Colionne who added the Colombian flavor with a smooth melody and a crisp guitar solo. Antoine ended “A Knight 2 Remember” on a spiritual note with “Pastor William Murphy’s” inspiration song “He Reign.” The theme is jam-packed with meaningful expression giving GOD all the praise & glory arranged by a talented producer Abe Poythress. Antoine Knight is a 2x nominee for “The Atlanta Gospel Choice Award” for “Best Musician” in 2015 & 2017.

www.theknowcontemporary.com COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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Antoine

Knight “Something About You”

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Q&A

nean.

Q. Let’s take a page from the movie back to the future. If you could

change any part of your life or experience, what would it be? The only thing

Q. At what age did you realize you had a gift to play, write and understand

music? I’ve known for quite sometime that I had a beautiful gift.

Q. Tell us two things we don’t know

about you? I have a minor in military

science from Florida A&M University. As

a former military officer, I’ve always had an obsession about understanding War. Q. You’re a world class musician, what impresses you most about a well-

trained musician? A great musician is

an artist that has the ability to be himself and do what he does. A great mu-

sician is someone that would never try

to be phony emulating somebody else’s talents or gifts.

Q. You’ve traveled the world and your passport has been stamped many

times. What’s your favorite Ports of

Call? The first port that impressed me most was kerosene off the coast near Venezuela. I love the tropic food the weather and their culture.

The second port would be Greece in

Santorini it’s breathtaking the city sits on top on the mountains overlooking

the cluster of islands in the mediterraCOFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

that I’d probably change is majoring in music. I regret that I did not follow

my passion in music. Growing up in the 70’s and 80’s it was about getting an education and then getting a job.

Q. You’ve had an opportunity to expe-

rience various cultures while traveling.

If you could settle into a new country, where do you see yourself? It would

definitely be Barcelona, Spain. I love

the weather the atmosphere and the

diversity of the people from Europe and Africa. If had one more opportunity to pick I would definitely be Curacao In

the Caribbean a country above South America.

Q. Prior to hitting the stage for a live

performance do you have any rituals

that get you ready? Yes, I’d like to meet and greet the crowd before the show

in plain clothes just being Antoine, and then transform into show mode as the artist “Antoine Knight. ”It’s almost like being Clark Kent turning into “Superman”.

Q. There’s a lot noise on the music

highway. How did you find your voice

among all the sax players? I do agree

there is a lot of noise but an artist must OCTOBER 2021

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understand that everybody has a fre-

quency. If you find your frequency, everyone will hear your voice musically.

ing overseas in Europe helped me get the part.

Q. If you could sit down and have

steaming HOT coffee with any musician past or present. Who would it be and

why? It would definitely be Miles Davis.

I don’t believe he was the nicest guy on the planet but he was an innovator in

straight ahead jazz, Be Bop jazz with Dizzy & Charlie Parker. Miles also give birth to Jazz -Fusion which lead to Contem-

porary Jazz that is now called “Smooth Jazz” today.

Q. Last year you were blessed and se-

lected to play a musician in the number one biopic movie “RESPECT” featuring

Academy Award and 2 X Grammy winning Jennifer Hudson. Tell more about

this experience? OMG! That was unbelievable! I was honored to be selected

as one of the musicians. She really liked me as musician we actually had a con-

versation with Jennifer for a few minutes between the sets.

She is a beautiful person and an incredible vocalist. I was selected as the tenor saxophonist with her overseas band in

Paris for the movie. They needed a cast

of musicians who can actually play Aretha’s music because the casting director wanted a very authentic look with

us performing behind Jennifer on stage in Paris. The casting director was im-

pressed with my resume. My time playCOFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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Felicia Brookins Author & Founder of The Literary Touring Event

Felicia Brookins is the Founder of Inspired Resources, LLC. She is an Award-Winning Author of her first Christian Fiction Novel, ‘Sister Nadeen’s WAYS. She is also the Founder of ‘Book Launch Party’ Hosting Services, which debuts new published authors and their literary work. Her Literary Touring Event, ‘Write the Vision’: Writer’s Conference has been held in Mississippi, Tennessee and Georgia.

S

he is also a transformational speaker. Her book

focuses on the foundation

of Women and what their true responsibilities are in the role

of Mother, Wife and Mentor in

the lives of their sons, daugh-

ter, husbands and other family

members. She challenges these women to locate the root of

their own ‘WAYS’ and how the

fruit that they bare from them affects the lives of everyone they come in contact with.

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QA &

With Felicia Brookins Q. Who is your book for? My book is for anyone that has gone through a traumatic childhood and does or does not realize they have carried that trauma and those ways into other relationships including that of Mother or even Father of a child or children.

Q. What’s unique about your book “Sister’s Nadeen’s Ways” My book discusses issues of faith that are relatable not just a feel good book about being a Christian but a book that shows people that being a believer in God does not prevent you from dealing with issues of the flesh and the affects of that on the mind and emotions of others when you manipulate that choice and use it as a weapon instead of as a true look into the journey of choosing to do things God’s way. There are obstacles and temptations that still get in our way and we sometimes fall victim to them so we should be honest with others about that so that they can see how we get up from those things and how much we are all just alike.

Q. Describe the profile of a successful writer?

I believe a successful writer causes the reader to experience emotions when they read the book, they cause them to be transported into the scene in the book and they hold the reader

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

captive throughout the entire story. I also believe a successful writer makes it easy for the reader to understand what is going on in the book. A successful writer is also patient, because they want to produce a quality product out of concern for their image and reputation as a writer. A successful writer also reads the work of other authors.

Q.What’s your best beauty secret? I don’t really consider it to be a beauty secret, but I drink lots of water and I take my collagen mixed with vanilla yogurt most mornings. Sometimes I am running out the door or being immediately drawn in to an assignment for the resource (my job) that allows me to be a published author so it’s later in the evening when i get these things in.

Q. What’s your best childhood memory? I have several with my dad and my sisters but I guess I would say us dancing together in our living room to some new album he’d bought. He was always able to make us laugh by showing us the latest

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Q. What are three things you can’t live without?

The Mercy and Grace of God, Opportunities to hangout at Starbucks and reading a good book or books.

Q. What made you decide to write your book?

I believed that I could write a fiction book with sprinkles of truth within it that would be relatable to many people.

Q. What do you want readers to get from your book? I want readers to understand that their ways affect everyone around them especially those living in the household with them everyday.

Especially if you have children and a spouse or significant other living with you. You are the example for them of what you say a mother or wife should be. You are the example for them of what a Christian or Woman of God is and what she or dance to go with the song and making jokes. As well as eating some late night recipe he’d come up with. I was the one that would try anything he cooked.

Q. What’s the best gut decision you’ve ever made? I would say to become a published author and a stageplay writer. Those two things are huge for me.

Q. What’s one word that brings you joy? “Momma.” When my son or my goddaughter calls me momma it melts my whole heart.

Q. What places inspire you to write? Starbucks, My backporch in the evenings and the right corner of my couch late night with jazz playing softly in the background.

he acts like. You have tremendous influence over their decision to be a believer in Christ as well as how they will interact with others in a personal relationship. You are a nurturer as a Woman and whatever you release in your household atmosphere will spring forth out of the people you released it into. We must be aware of how our ‘Ways’ affect the lives and mindsets of others.

Q. How can fans of CoffeeTalk Magazine get an autographed copy of your book? Fans of CoffeeTalk Magazine can send me an email at Authorfeliciabrookins@gmail.com with their name and address as well as cashapp me at $FeliciaBrookins to receive an autographed copy of my award-winning christian fiction book, ‘Sister Nadeen’s WAYS.’ Q. Purchase your book? The book can be purchased on many different sites, Amazon, Books A Million, Target, Walmart and other sites.

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www.nautica.com

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After 7 G

Our Story

rammy and American Music Award

which landed five Top 10 hits on the Billboard

nominees After 7 (Melvin Edmonds,

Urban AC Charts.

Kevon Edmonds and Keith Mitchell)

In May 2019, the group mourned the sud-

best known for their dynamic and distinctive

den loss of Melvin Edmonds, the father of

R&B sound, marked a 32 year musical mile-

the gifted and talented Jason Edmonds who

stone in 2021. In 1988, these three talented

stepped in to continue the legacy in both live

young men from Indianapolis, Indiana were

concerts and recordings until July 2019. It was

brought to Virgin Records by the legendary

then that vocalist, Danny ‘SkyHigh’ McClain

hit-making duo Antonio“L.A.” Reid and Ken-

joined Kevon Edmonds and Keith Mitchell to

neth ‘Babyface’ Edmonds - Kevon and Mel-

create a masterful woven tapestry of music

vin’s younger brother.

for SRG-ILS/RoseWorks. . The first and second single, “Bittersweet” and “No Place Like You”

Their self-titled debut album went Plati-

are available on all platforms now and will be

num producing two #1 Billboard R&B singles

followed by the August 20th global release of

and Certified Gold “Can’t Stop” and “Ready

the highly anticipated album titled, “UNFIN-

or Not”. Their sophomore project, “Takin’ My

ISHED BUSINESS”.

Time” was Certified Gold. In addition, After 7 released 2 singles - “Nights Like This” used in

After 7 is a NAACP Image Award recipients

the film soundtrack “The Five Heartbeats” and

and has received countless of other awards

“Not Enough Hours In The Night” from the TV

and accolades. The group will continue to

soundtrack “Beverly Hills 90210”. Their 3rd al-

reach the hearts of fans worldwide and bring

bum “Reflections” of which the lead single, “Till

their message of passion and love through

You Do Me Right” charted another Top 10 hit.

their music.

After a 20 year hiatus from the studio, the

CONNECT WITH AFTER 7

group members came together and recorded with the writing and production team of Kenneth ‘Babyface’ Edmonds and Daryl Simmons.

They released the landmark album “Timeless”

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

Website - www.After7Music.com Instagram - @After7Music Facebook - /After7 Twitter - @After7Music

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Shawn Raiford Artist Spotlight

Saxophonist, Producer & Music Director

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hawn Raiford’s ongoing love affair with the

Jazz greats like Prince, Kem, Janet Jackson, Bob-

sax, and the way his musical talent has im-

by Brown, Brian Culbertson, Toby Mac and Lionel

pacted many people during his years of live

Richie, to name a few.

performing, there was no doubt that the title for his highly anticipated, full-length album, would be

He offered, “If you ever need me to produce an

known as, Man With A Horn.

album or play bass for you, feel free to reach out to me.” Within a year, the two hooked up and

The spark that led to the creation of Man with A

launched a fruitful collaboration. At Raiford’s first

Horn and the development of each of the tracks,

meeting with Derek Allen at his studio, DOA asked

was the text message received from Derek “DOA”

him the question, “Who is Shawn Raiford?” Raiford

Allen, a renowned bassist and producer, who has

explains, “I told him, I’m just a guy with a saxo-

worked with many Pop, R&B and Contemporary

phone who wants to play for the world.

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I feel so honored when I am asked to play my horn

experience every time he and his cohorts take the

Saxophonist , Producer & Music Director for some-

stage.

one. I will play just about anywhere, from a backyard party or a roof top, to a weekend long festival.

I remember when I watched the film Ray and

That’s really my goal, to do just that playing great

someone told Ray Charles that he shouldn’t as-

music for as many people as possible, in as many

pire to sound like some other guy but be himself.

places as I possibly can.

After emulating my saxophone heroes for years, this album gives me a chance to sound like Shawn

”Raiford is a huge sports enthusiast, who has

Raiford and create a true Shawn Raiford experi-

coached youth football since the 90s. Shawn has

ence. “ON STAGE”

been blessed to have drafted some of the best players to make his “dream team” a reality. As a

Though his album is categorized as smooth urban

much beloved fixture, who has for the last decade

jazz, Raiford does not want to have his music to be

played at clubs, festivals, private events and the

categorized. Instead, he asked that his audience

historical Delta King Riverboat in the Sacramento,

accept his music the way that it is. “At the end of

California region, Shawn Raiford has long called

the day, it’s music.” MUSIC “In the Moment,” the first

his ever-evolving ensemble the Shawn Raiford Ex-

single on the Man With A Horn CD project, express-

perience. Drawing on his passions for contempo-

es Shawn Raiford’s desire to be in this very mo-

rary jazz, R&B, gospel, rock and pop, the multi-tal-

ment, right now.

ented saxophonist promises an exemplifying

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www.coldwellbanker.com

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QA &

With Shawn Raiford

Q. Who or what inspired you to start playing the saxophone? My grandmother

Rhoda Mae Raiford was the inspiration

for me. When I started playing the sax-

ophone it was for her 75th birthday and

her church wanted to celebrate her in a

big way. My aunt asked what I was going to do since my grandmother raised me.

I jokingly said, “put me down for a saxo-

phone solo”. I went a week later and saw a program with my name on it saying SAXOPHONE SOLO. I reminded my aunt that I

played the trumpet in 5th grade and that I didn’t have a saxophone. She told me

to go get a harmonica or kazoo but she

wasn’t changing the program. So I went

to a place in Vallejo called Munters Music.

The guy put the sax together for me. I took it on Sonoma Blvd and learned how to Q. What impresses you most about another musician? I enjoy watching musi-

cians’ musicianship. I admire the techni-

cal guys who play, and you can barely see

their fingers moving. I am really impressed when guys let their fingers go everywhere yet they still can play with speed. I am

impressed at musicians who can move on stage and not lose their tone.

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

play WHEN THE SAINTS GO MARCHING.

Q. If you could spend time with your favorite musician past or present over a

steaming hot cup of coffee, who would it be and why? I would spend time with

Grover Washington Jr. The song he made famous Mr. Magic it started my love af-

fair with the the saxophone. Present day OCTOBER 2021

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musician would be Gerald Albright I’ve

watched him his style and his amazing.

Q. Which period of musician history influences your style of playing? Is it the 40’s 50’s 60’s or 80’s ? I’m not sure what decade I’d pick because I love them all.

Q. Tell our CoffeTalk Jazz Readers about who or what inspires you most?

My fear of failure inspires me to do what others might think I can’t do. My first CD

was produced at the age of 55 years old.

So, I’m here to share it’s never to late to start and live your dream.

Q. You named your current CD “Man With A Horn” can you expound on the title?

The title Man With A Horn happened when I met super producer Derek DOA Allen. In my first meeting with him he asked who is Shawn Raiford? I told him I’m just a

guy with a saxophone who just wants to play. He began humming a tune and a

few weeks later he sent the track and I’ve been in love with it ever since.

Q. If anyone is interested in booking you for a corporate or virtual event what’s

the best way to make contact? I can be reached via email shawnraiford-sax@ gmail.com, or it’s easy to find me and

send your inquire through my website www.shawnraifordsax.com

Q. Would you say that music is a marker of memories? What precious memories

comes to mind? I was blessed on July 18, 2021 to open up for Jay King at Yoshi’s in 30

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Oakland that night was incredible. There have been so many music legends who

graced that stage. Having my family and friends come to the historic location to

celebrate with me was the icing on the cake.

Q. Do you have a ritual which help prepare you for your LIVE performance?

My ritual prior to a show is simple. I get

still and away from everyone taking a few moments to clear my mind of all distrac-

tion before walking on stage it’s my favorite place!

www.theknowcontemporary.com COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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Connie Jackson

A

Musician, Director & Actress singer / actress born and raised on

in 1987.

the South Side of Chicago, now a

A career highlight has been touring and

resident of Los Angeles. Her career

recording with pop music icon, Phil Collins,

highlights include touring and recording

as a backing vocalist on the Finally...the

with Phil Collins and Joe Walsh as well as

First Farewell Tour, and the “Going Back”

performances with Patti Austin, Faith Hill,

tour. Connie also toured briefly with Joe

Michael McDonald and Barbra Streisand.

Walsh in 2015.

The youngest of four, Connie knew early

Connie has provided backing vocals on

on what she wanted to do with her life. In

numerous special events for artists includ-

1986, she packed up her car and moved

ing, Patti Austin, Faith Hill, Michael McDon-

cross-country to pursue her dream. Al-

ald, kd Lang, Timothy B. Schmidt, Shelea,

though Connie’s primary focus is acting,

Seal, and many more. A bucket list mo-

her career started with singing. Within

ment was singing with Barbra Streisand at

months of settling in Los Angeles, she was

the Grammys, and MusiCares Person of the

hired by legendary choreographer, Michael

Year.

Peters, for the Tony-nominated Broadway revival of the Michael Bennett production

For over nine seasons, Connie has been

of “Dreamgirls” at the Ambassador Theatre

a recurring guest star on NCIS as Elaine.

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Other television credits include, How To

shelter animals to help them find rescue,

Get Away With Murder, and 9-1-1, You

and loving homes; and encourages you

may also recognize her from countless

to adopt, don’t shop.

television commercials. She is also the voice of Mariah Carey’s Grandma Lucy in the animated movie, All I Want For Christmas Is You. An avid animal activist, Connie volunteers her spare time photographing

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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Website - www.conniejackson.com Instagram - @theconniejackson OCTOBER 2021

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ADVERTISE WITH US “Enjoy a Bit of

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35

Q&A

With Connie Jackson Actor’s Questions Q. How did you get involved in Acting? I fell in love with acting back in high school drama class.

I was fortunate to have a great teacher, Ms. Anne Sanetra, who made me feel I could do anything. Years later, I moved to L.A. to pursue it seriously.

Q. Are you working on any current television or film projects?

I shot a pilot for a tv series that recently got picked up. Looking to do approximately 5-6 episodes starting in September. I wish I could say more, but signed an NDA. Really excited.

Q. What kind of roles have you performed throughout your career? I’ve played everything from white collar professionals like doctors, detectives, to blue collar moms, waitresses, etc.

Q. How different is it to act in a tv role versus a film or live theater

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OCTOBER 2021

play? There are no do-overs in

social media followers. A thick

live theater. It’s like being shot

skin is crucial. Be prepared. Know

out of a cannon. And you do this

your lines. Be kind. Listen. Don’t

Q. Let’s take a page from the

eight days a week.

talk too much.

movie Back to the Future. if you

In tv/film you can stop and start until you get it right. However, trying to stay at an emotional

Vocalist Questions

was always so much fun!

could go back and change any part of your life decisions, what would it be and why?

level in a scene can be tricky

Q. When did you realize you

I would have never quit piano

with stopping and starting.

had a gift to sing? When I was

lessons for sure! I don’t have

really little, say, 5 or 6 years old.

many regrets in life, but this

There was always music play-

is the ONE thing that I would

I was majorly influenced by Sid-

ing in our house. I sang all the

change. I was/am a huge Elton

ney Poitier. He broke the barrier

time as a kid. Occasionally, my

John fan, and I started piano

for being able to portray every-

two older brothers would mess

lessons just so I could learn the

man, not just a Black man.

around singing doo-wop with

intro to “Benny and the Jets”.

their friends. There was a song

After about 2 years, I was quite

Q. What is some advice that you

by the Jackson 5 called “Big Boy”,

good, but after nailing “Benny…”

would give to someone aspiring

and since my brothers couldn’t

I took a break from lessons, and

to become an actor? Focus on

hit the Michael Jackson notes,

never went back. Ugh.

your skill set over trying to grow

they’d drag me out to sing it. It

Q. Which has been your favorite character that you have performed to date?

I’ve grown quite fond of playing Elaine on NCIS. Such a welcoming, kind group of people there.

In theater, my favorite character will always be Lorrell in DREAMGIRLS. Q. What have you learned from the directors that you have worked with throughout your career? How to listen. How to process direction quickly. They love not having to direct you, which means you came prepared.

Q. Who is your favorite actor?

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37

Q. What’s the most important aspect of a song? Is

great singer? I’m drawn to singers who are great

it the melody, the groove the beat, or the lyrics for

storytellers. Vocal gymnastics don’t impress me.

you? It depends on the song. It’s never the same

Don’t get me wrong, I love a good riff here and

thing that grabs me. Sometimes it’s a killer intro, or

there, but I like to hear a simple melody some-

hook. Other times it’s the story. Every song affects

times too. I wanna go on the journey with the

me differently.

singer.

Q. With all that’s happening in the world right

Q. What has music taught you? Music has taught

now climate change, the pandemic, lost jobs and

me that it can be a bridge between ALL people.

high crime rates across the country. Do you think

When you go to a concert, nobody knows or cares

music brings hope and healing to the soul? Ab-

about anybody’s politics or beliefs. You just find

solutely! It does for me. The arts, especially music

yourself singing along in the dark with strangers.

helped get me through quarantine. Music is there for us whether we’re happy or sad. I’m a firm be-

Q. How important is it to understand the busi-

liever that music heals. I always feel that music is

ness side of music? Artists of every kind should be

magical.

educated on the business side of their craft. It’s so easy to focus on the creative aspect, but you need

Q. Is there one common thread which describe a

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OCTOBER 2021

to know what’s happening with ya money.

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OCTOBER 2021

39

WADE C. LONG Wade C. Long has been musically inclined for as long as he can remember. Raised in a family with diverse tastes in sound, he began singing at the age of 3. By age 6 Wade had written his first song, a rap, and he was leading songs in his church choir.

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OCTOBER 2021

Artist Spotlight

I

Keyboardist and Vocalist nitially choosing to forego college, Mr.

Long began to write and produce music for himself and other artists throughout

his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio. Later

making the move to the big city, Wade C.

Long found himself in Los Angeles releas-

ing his debut LP Love Is, in 2014. Two years later he collaborated with dance band,

Zona, lending lead vocals on their single

Love of My Life, and also his producing talents to several other songs on their album Peace Love Understanding.

Continuing to record, Wade finally released his first LP in 2020. The timely

release of Nostalgia gave listeners an

upbeat outlet from a year that was left

grief-stricken by a worldwide pandemic

and social unrest. Wade was rewarded by seeing his music reach several Smooth Jazz and Soul accolades, the highlight

being voted a finalist for Soultracks.com’s Reader’s Choice Award for New Artist of the Year.

As Nostalgia continues to receive international airplay, Wade C. Long is returning

with his second full-length album. Longitude will be released in three parts. Part One of the self-proclaimed “feel-good”

record will be subtitled Keys Please. It releases worldwide on April 30, 2021.

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41

QA &

With Wade C. Long Q. Who or what inspired you to make music?

Music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, so that’s tough to answer, in a way. My dad, Thom, was a wonderful singer who did very little recording but was fantastic nonetheless, and my grandmother was my first piano teacher. So I imagine in lots of ways the inspiration to make music was birthed by my family.

Also I’m what people call a `helpless romantic and my music gives me an opportunity to express my emotions.

Q. How would you describe the music that you typically create? My music best probably fits into the Smooth Jazz and Adult R&B genres, which is great, but doesn’t really tell the whole story because if you listen to my music long enough you are often to hear elements that go from gospel to hard rock, and maybe even in the same song sometimes.

Q. What is your creative process like? My creative process tends to differ, but most often I will get an idea for a song and open my DAW and try to lay down some of the basic elements first. I will create a demo of the song and then decide if I want to invite other musicians in or not, based on what’s best for the song. By that time I will write the lyrics

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OCTOBER 2021

of working with the great bassist, Christian De Mesones, for a song on Longitude Part II, my next release. That was a dream come true, and we’ve also built a great friendship which is a huge plus.

Q. If you could go open a show for any artist, who would it be? That’s another huge list that I would have to put Amel Larrieux at the top of, and also Dave Koz, Maxwell, or Candy Dulfer would be some awesome people to open for.

There’s so many others but those are some of the main ones.

Q. What is one message you would give to your fans? I would like to thank my fans for their support. I have fans on every continent of the world who listen to my music and buy it, and I realize I’m a part of a tiny percentage of the world who can say that, and I never want to take that lightly. if it’s a vocal piece or if it’s an instrumental piece I will write the melody. Then I will do another draft

Q. Where have you performed? What are your

of the music and follow that up with adding the

favorite and least favorite venues? Do you have

melody or the vocals. After adding any finish-

any upcoming shows? The funn thing about that

ing touches to the music or adding contribu-

is the first single from my first full album came

tions from other artists, mixing starts, which is it’s

out right at the beginning of the pandemic last

own process altogether!

year, so it’s literally been years since I’ve had the honor of stepping on a stage to perform. I would

Q. Who would you most like to collaborate with?

like to have the opportunity to do that soon, so

That’s a huge list of people, but I would have to

I’m asking fans who want to see me perform to

say at the top of my list is Amel Larrieux, who

continue to support me and spread my music to

is my favorite singer. I’ve always been amazed

other people who you think would like it. The best

by her vocals and I believe we would sound great

way to see me on stage is for us to create a de-

together. I would love to be able to produce

mand for that happening, and hopefully it won’t

some material for Dave Koz. When I write my mu-

be too long before we can do just that.

sic sometimes I can hear his sax playing behind it. I would also like to work with Jennifer Hudson.

Q. How do you feel the Internet has impacted the

Her talent is out of this world. Philippe Saisse is

music business? The internet has revolutionized

great, and we’ve actually gotten to communicate

music as it has everything else. I can remember

a couple of times! Recently I had the pleasure

20 or 30 years ago, basically camping outside of

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OCTOBER 2021

43

the record store on a Tuesday morning waiting for the new releases to hit the stands. Now it’s different. Everything comes out on Friday and it’s literally at your fingertips. It’s harder for us musicians because streaming doesn’t pay us what actual album purchases do. It’s not even remotely close. So it makes for a strange age where it’s not uncommon for your favorite artist to be quite possibly your grocery store clerk or bus driver or marketing rep from a company you buy products from.

Q. What is your favourite song to perform?

I love all my babies the same. But my favorite song to perform is “She” from my first album Nostalgia. It’s in a good singing range for me, and the audience tends to connect well with the emotion behind the song.

Q. Which famous musicians do you admire?

That’s anoher endless list but at the top of it I would have to say Quincy Jones, who my current single Mr. Jones was written in honor of. He’s done so much and has had so much versatility from film composing and working with Sinatra, to producing the top selling album of all time for Michael Jackson. He cares about the community and has always been active with social justice, and he’s so full of love for people but doesn’t try to come off as perfect himself. Plus he’s just plain cool. Mr. Jones is the best and I would love to meet him. I’m also a huge fan of David Foster.

He actually did some wonderful solo recordings back in the day, in addition to the versatility in his production as well. India Arie is someone else who could fit here or in the category of artists I’d like to open for or collab with. There’s such a grace and a realness to her and her artistry and her singing and playing is second to none.

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OCTOBER 2021

Q. If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?

If I could change anything about the industry it would be the same thing I would change about most things, and that’s the politics involved in it.

Sometimes things are done and opportunities given based on who you are rubbing elbows with.

I understand there’s a synergy involved in connecting with people. The problem comes when that takes precedence over everything else.

Skytown Staff U-Nam | CEO | Artist | Producer Steve Cohen | A&R | Artist Manager | Media Relations Michele-Marie Cohen | Production Assistant | Media Relations

www.skytownrecords.com

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2021

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OCTOBER 2021

The Future Of Jazz

T

he Edward B. Bass Gift of Music Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to keeping the beat of music alive in our schools.

It is our mission and passion to provide music enrichment opportunities

for youth in our neighborhood. We refer to this endeavor as “the worthy challenge with joyful rewards.” One of the greatest rewards is recognizing that a child’s life will be changed by receiving musical instruction or being exposed to a variety of music styles. We are dedicated to keeping the beat of music alive in our schools.

We are supporting young musicians and their music dreams with instruments, classes, and educational resources through your generous donations. We invite you to give and support the future of Jazz through the Edward B. Bass Gift of Music Foundation.We thank you for supporting the vision to make a positive difference in the community. Every person has a memory where music plays a

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OCTOBER 2021

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50

MUSICIAN’S CORNER

OCTOBER 2021

Guitarist

Marius Billgobenson

A

true musical citizen of the world

features 11 personal songs that are grounded

committed to bridging longstanding

in what he calls “the completeness of grati-

cultural divides, Stockholm, Sweden

tude in my heart” and explore love in differ-

based singer, songwriter, and guitarist Mar-

ent facets, with the goal of inviting and moti-

ius Billgobenson. He has created a soulful

vating more “Love Spreaders” for a change.

and empowering fusion of jazz, blues, pop,

Marius put his heartfelt vocals on two songs

R&B and the dynamic rhythms and vocal

(“Joy” and “Wait and See”) that were writ-

sounds indigenous to his homeland of the

ten and produced by guitarist and genre hit

Congo.

maker Paul Brown. Six others were helmed by another premiere urban jazz chart-top-

His invigorating blend of jazz instrumentation

per, Chris “Big Dog” Davis. Marius wrote and

and African music seeks to bring awareness of disenfranchised communities. Starting with the release of his 2017 debut album The Sum of My Pardon, the multi-talented artist – also an award-winning an-topologist with intense interests in ethno-musicology and curating cultures - has used jazz as umbrella to bring about intellectual dialogues. “Jazz creates a platform for people and leads them to the right decision,” he says. “It can also be a weapon to fight for civil rights, which will salvage the oppressed forest groups (aka “pygmies”) of the Congo by calling for political actions on the marginalized communities.

Overall, jazz always leaves humanity better than it was yester-day. Music is my tool to passionately affect change worldwide.”

Marking his first official venture into Smooth Jazz, Marius’ upcoming album The Spirit Love

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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51

produced the collection’s first two lead sin-

“The Spirit Love” is all about the way we expe-

gles, “Tears on the Ground” and “Tribes in

rience the feeling of being alive, being our-

Mind,’ which feature his hon-eyed raspy vo-

selves and offering our unique gifts to others,”

cals and trademark artful fusion of jazz, soul

says Marius. “We remember the life source of

and African rhythms and vocal textures. The

energy in The Spirit Love, because you exist

earthy, blues and funk-inflected “Tears on

just as a consequence of love.

the Ground,” a song about love and remembrance, includes the uplifting chorus: “I’m

All of the positive impact your have had in

gonna sing your love again and again/For the

loving and strengthening your loved ones

rest of my life/the fear of losing touch with all

may re-veal memories that make you feel

I love/My tears on the ground.” On the deep-

strong and happy.” For the past decade, Mar-

ly autobiographical, gospel tinged “Tribes

ius has served cultural attaché for the Con-

in Mind,” Marius shares his journey from the

golese Embassy in Sweden, responsible for

Congo to being a man of the world that will

promoting the culture of his homeland while

forever remember, be defined by and be

developing his musical career. Born in

proud of his roots. Its key lines: “Home is the place we tribe our people.

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OCTOBER 2021

&

QA

With

Marius Billgobenson Q. When did you fall in love with music?

When I was a young man, I was also impacted by

First What happens abroad in isolated communi-

the prominent 1985 single, “We Are the World,” by

ties has never mattered more for our security and

the charity-driven supergroup USA for Africa.

prosperity. The threats to human rights and the survival of communities around the world have

Q. How would you describe the music that you

long driven my passion and my work. I was born

typically create?

and raised in Ingoumina, which at the time was a

I am a true musical citizen of the world; committed

little station for Swedish missionaries in the Re-

to bridging longstanding cultural divides. I aim to

public of the Congo.

facilitate what Dr. Stephanie Pinder calls “the art of gathering” to further drive home my message

While growing up, I had a tough time searching for

of inclusivity. I create a soulful and empowering

my identity. In the process, I slowly developed my

fusion of jazz, blues, pop, R&B, and the dynam-

passion for music. I spent a lot of time exploring

ic rhythms and vocal sounds indigenous to my

what life would be like if I were a musician. I found

homeland, the Congo. My invigorating blend of

myself faced with the challenging task of convert-

jazz instrumentation and African music seeks to

ing inspiration and inner musings into songs that

raise awareness for disenfranchised communi-

would make sense to the common man.

ties and messages of civil rights advocacy to the

These life experiences during this journey became

world, starting with Forest People.

the basis of my songs. Additionally, guitar lessons from missionaries and my father, who led the gos-

Q. What is your creative process like?

pel choir in Ingoumina, also played a part in my

My creative process may take different alter-

music roots.

natives, but mostly I either find inspiration or go somewhere else to find the beat. Once I have a

Q. Who inspired you to make music?

beat, I write the hooks, and then base my verses

I often hear people discussing the power of music

off those hooks. However, when dealing with writ-

to restore peace around us. I’m inspired by musi-

er’s block, one of the most essential ingredients is

cians who put this into practice, such as the time

renegotiation with inspiration — I personally leave

Louis Armstrong and many of America’s hottest

the session when I’m not feeling inspired.

jazz stars were sent to cool Cold-War tensions.

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OCTOBER 2021

53

Q. Who would you most like to collaborate with?

these storms and learned above all how import-

I’ve had some of my favorite collaborations to

ant it is to express your gratitude and share love.

date while working on this first official venture into

Nothing is permanent in this world, not even our

Smooth Jazz for my newly released album The

problems. Remember that you’ve had issues in

Spirit Love. As you may have already been aware,

the past that you can’t even recall now.With bills

the production has been a global process, working

to pay, dreams to pursue, we must ask ourselves:

with different artists, but putting my heartfelt vo-

how do we experience shame, how do we love,

cals in two songs that were written and produced

how do we perceive, how do we fail, how do we

by guitarist and genre hit maker Paul Brown: “Wait

treat one another, how do we persevere, and how

and See” and “Joy,” which was also written by em-

do we overcome?

inent songwriter Karen Goldston Thompson, was a real fun experience I would like to repeat again.

Another amazing and essential key player with whom I would like to keep collaborating remains the Premiere urban jazz chart-topper, Chris “Big Dog” Davis, who helmed my other six songs from this album.

Q. If you could open a show for any artist, who would it be and why?

There are so many talents, and I am afraid I cannot list all of them here. To name a few, guitarists such as Paul Brown or Jonathan DuBose, drum-mers like Gorden Campbell or Billy Kilson, out-standing keyboardist Chris “Big Dog” Davis, bass players such as Ben Williams or my friend Rubem Farias, saxophonists like Mindi Abair, Marcia Miget or my friend Will Prince, and many others. However, it’s always been a dream to join the dynamic spirit at Sanborn Sessions, as well.

Question: What is one message you would give to your fans?

I just would like to stress that Life is not always about winning, but rather about not giving up! If you have a dream, fight for it! There’s discipline

For all these questions, we must share the abili-

in maintaining passion. It’s not about how many

ty to maintain hope for a brighter morning, even

times you’ve get rejected or you’ve been beaten

during our own darkest nights, for a new day will

up, it’s about how many times you stand up and

soon dawn!

stay brave and keep on going. I went through all

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OCTOBER 2021

Q. You background is so diverse you live in Stock-

ethnomusicological research. Despite our injuries,

holm Sweden but you grew-up in the Congo, a

my uncle, our other friends, and I struggled for

country in Central Africa. Share with our readers

about nine days back to my grandfather’s village.

why you left your country and how you ended up

By this time, I was suffering greatly, and I had to be

in living in Sweden?

carried for two more days to my father’s village.

This is an excellent question with a complex an-

The war reached us about two months later in my

swer. The Congo went through a civil war from

village, and I fled with my family into the jungle for

1997 through 2000, during which my uncle and I

months. During this time, I was able to live closer

decided to return to our respective villages with

to the Pygmies and continued to learn about their

many other people. On the way, a gang of va-

music and culture, including survival techniques.

However, without prophylactic medications, I contracted malaria in the third month. I survived for a few months thanks to Forest People, but herbal medicines were not curing me, and my parents forced me to return to Pointe-Noire to seek medical help. Despite the risks inherent from traveling during the war, I returned to the city to seek medical attention. I walked for about nine days and nights back to Dolisie, and then rode a cargo train to Pointe-Noire. Soldiers on the train beat me with their rifles and took the money my father had given me to travel, but I made it to Pointe-Noire alive and recovered for a few months in Pointe-Noire.

Q. How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?

The wonders of modern technology have made the world a much smaller place. For musicians like myself, this has given me access to the best musicians, engineers, and studio technicians in the world through the power of the Internet. Who would’ve thought you could collaborate with greats online to create something that sounded this perfect.

grant youths attacked our group, particularly my uncle and me, stole my clothes and recording

Q. You have a beautiful singing voice what is your

equipment, and beat us severely. They took my

favorite song to perform?

cameras, but luckily did not take all the film or my

A lot of beautiful songs come to mind. Let me

documents, and I was able to salvage some of my

stress that I mostly sang in my church and ac-

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2021

55

The music industry is tricky to navigate, and it is easy to “burn out.” My newly released album has taken me on a long journey, from planning and production to the upcoming release. I’ve thrived thanks to lessons from a brilliant actor in the music industry, Bree Noble, who teaches how to create a timeline-based plan for each respective season. This has remained one of my most successful tools to date. This gives you the information you need to confidently outsource and delegate knowing exactly who you need to hire and when to keep on top of their progress within your timeline, while still staying organized, may prevent you from burning yourself out Q. You just completed a wonderful CD titled “The Spirit Love” it’s beautifully written what’s the inspiration behind this marvelous project?

The Spirit Love refers to what I call the “completeness of gratitude in my heart,” exploring Love in different facets of life, with the goal of inviting and motivating more kindred spirits, whom I refer to as Love Spreaders, to join me in changing the world.

cordingly, “How Great Thou Art” remains my fa-vorite song. I always admire the version by Carrie Underwood. However, if I may mention more than one, I’d also suggest “We Are the World” USA for Africa by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie and

Q. What advice would you give yourself about life?

If I leave no room in my mind for outside criticism of my imperfections to take hold, then other people will not be able to influence my self-esteem.

“Let It Be” by the Beatles.

Q. Which famous musicians do you admire?

The list is always long, but Bill Withers, Marvin Gaye, Herbie Hancock, India Arie, Alicia Keys, Gregory Porter, George Benson are among some of them.

Q. What is the best music advice you’ve been given?

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OCTOBER 2021

CONNECT WITH MARIUS

Website - www.linktr.ee/billgobenson Instagram - @billgobenson Facebook - /marius.billgobenson Twitter - @billgobenson

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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57

Andy McKee World’s finest acoustic guitarist include music that isn’t originally for acoustic guitar.”

While Symbol is a collection of inspired renditions, they are important song choices; artists that deeply influence McKee and song’s that connect to his musical past. He pulls from the catalogues of greats like Michael Hedges, Preston Reed, Billy McLaughlin and Prince. There’s “Ragamuffin,” the EP’s lead single, which is a nod to one of McKee’s biggest influences, Michael Hedges.

McKee notes that “Michael was not only a revolu-

O

tionary guitarist on the technical side, his ability ne of the world’s finest acoustic guitarists and it’s evident from the accolades he’s received throughout his career. It’s

his youthful energy, attention to song structure and melodic content that elevates him above the rest. After nearly a decade without releasing new studio recordings, McKee returns with his six-track EP, Symbol, out Friday, September 17 on Mythmaker Records in conjunction with Cruzen Street Records.

“These are my interpretations of tunes that really inspired me,” says McKee. “I wanted to give listeners a chance to hear what I hear when I listen to this music. I also wanted to branch out a bit and

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OCTOBER 2021

to compose for solo guitar was also genius. Most importantly though, he was able to search inside of himself and consistently pull up very human and evocative themes that made him a true artist.

I’ll always be grateful for his music.”

One track that might catch fans by surprise on Symbol is McKee’s gorgeous rendition of Prince’s “Purple Rain.” In 2012, McKee played alongside Prince in his band on the “Welcome 2 Australia” tour with the song being one of the setlist highlights.

“I had originally come up with the ‘Purple Rain’ ar-

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OCTOBER 2021

59

rangement to open the shows with while I was on tour with Prince in Australia,” recalls McKee. “I have played it occasionally since then while touring and figured I should finally get a recording of it down.

One thing that I learned from Prince while we were on the road is that we both really admire Joni Mitchell. I used that as a reference when trying to describe what I do. Although some of what I do on the guitar is technically demanding, I don’t ever really want that to overshadow the music.”

Another standout from Symbol is Mckee’s take on “Chattanooga” by acclaimed guitarist Preston Reed. “In my opinion, ‘Chattanooga’ by Preston Reed is one of the finest fingerstyle guitar pieces ever written,” says McKee. “It’s just loaded with texture, harmony, percussion, and melody. I love the key changes and chromaticism between some of the chords. This tune really inspired me a lot.”

McKee, like many, was infatuated with the Rocky IV soundtrack, specifically the Vince DiCola compositions “War” and “Training Montage.” For Symbol, McKee and DiCola joined forces to craft “Rocky IV Medley.”

“That was about as surreal as it gets for me,” says McKee. “I became a fan of Vince’s work when I was six years old and I bought the soundtrack to the film on cassette. I used to listen to it all the time

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OCTOBER 2021

on my Sony Walkman and I really found that my

ing” became one of the first YouTube viral videos

favorite tunes were the instrumental tracks which

with almost 60 million views. He has been featured

were “War” and “Training Montage” from Vince.

as a cover story in both Acoustic Guitar Magazine

Those tunes awakened my mind to the possibili-

in the U.S. and Acoustic Magazine in the UK. He

ty of being moved by music with no words. To be

also curates his own annual guitar retreat called

able to recreate those tunes with the electric gui-

Musicarium. McKee’s tour dates have taken him

tar and play with Vince is really something I could

through Europe, Asia, Australia and North America,

never have dreamed of.”

including tours with legendary acts from Dream

Theater to Tommy Emmanuel.

Andy McKee entertains both the eye and the ear as he magically transforms the steel string guitar into a full orchestra via his use of altered tunings, tapping, partial capos, percussive hits and a signature two-handed technique.

McKee’s crossover success has helped him to achieve millions upon millions of YouTube viewers, underscoring his emergence as one of today’s most unique and influential artists. His song “Drift-

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CoffeeTalk Jazz Radio

To effectively capture the attention of the masses, you need to create a buzz that generates interest in your music. Music PR campaigns find ways to get the media and the public excited about musical artists. CoffeeTalk Jazz Communications knows how to utilize the correct channels for your intended audience to garner the attention you need to be successful. Some of our strategies include: • Radio promotions • Network TV interviews • Cable TV spots • Website design and curation • Viral marketing • E-mail blasts • Newspaper and magazine articles • Social media marketing

Submit Now: CoffeeTalkJazzRadio@msn.com 62

OCTOBER 2021

Sheryl Laukat is passionate about the saxophone and the company she formed with her husband back in 1998. Tevis and Sheryl Laukat had the idea of creating a saxophone with acoustics that could be adjusted and modified even after the instrument was created.

Their ideas and innovation led to the establishment of Cannonball Music located in Sandy, Utah. Although the saxophone was their first product, the couple has since focused on bringing unique designs to their trumpet and clarinet lines as well. Sheryl’s pride and dedication to the company is as bright as her ever-present smile.

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Musician’s Corner

Chris Godber

In the last few years Billboard charting

lodies and inspiring performances. Though

saxophonist, Chris Godber (God – brrr) has

he had several projects out prior, it was his

become a highly sought after performer in

2015 album “Starting Over” that launched

both the Smooth Jazz & Gospel Jazz realms.

him into the Smooth Jazz spotlight with the

He’s been playing some of the nation’s lar-

chart topping hits Rain and Chill.

gest jazz festivals and constantly selling out

However, Godber isn’t just another sax

his own shows at various jazz clubs throug-

player. When he performs his goal is not

hout the country thanks to his addictive me-

just to entertain, but to inspire. He does both

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well because he’s lived it. Despite being told by doctors he wouldn’t be able to play the saxophone due to of the severity of his asthma, he took to it anyway. Picking up the sax in middle school band at age 12, he was first drawn to the sound of the saxophone while living in Germany. His family was military and while being stationed overseas the majority of their entertainment came from music as they picked up only one channel on their television. As Godber recalls, “I was a product of the 80’s and Kenny G was getting pretty popular around that time. My parents were Big Kenny G fans!” No doubt it may have sparked his appreciation for the saxophone, but he definitely has a sound all his own with a healthy dose of R&B and Gospel roots showing through. For the last 24 years, Godber has been leaving others breathless with his soulful saxophone playing and inspiring testimony. ​ It’s clear that Godber loves what he does. On stage, his performance is invigorating and

and I think we need more of that. Despite doctor telling me I couldn’t do it, God gave me the ability to play even with my asthma, so all Glory goes to Him. I tell my story everywhere that I play because I want it to resonate with people just as much as my music. You never know who’s out there listening and who needs to hear something inspiring; that message of God’s grace, hope and healing. That’s why I do what I do.” ​ Chris Godber is a versatile saxophonist and his music bridges genres; appealing to a broad audience. As a result he has shared the stage and or opened up for a wide range of notable artists such as Mindi Abair, Marcus Anderson, Jackiem Joyner, Average White

inspiring. “The live shows are so much fun” Chris says. “What I like most about playing live though is the audience. Music is such a

Band, Tower of Power, Dr. John, Snarky Puppy, Sara Evans, T. Graham Brown and even the live tour of Dancing with the Stars.

powerful force that brings people together

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&

QA

Chris Godber shares his music journey.

Q. As an artist how would you describe your music? I think of it as ‘SOUL’ music. A mix of r&b, gospel, neo soul, latin influence with a little jazz and blues mixed in. I think that’s kind of what smooth jazz is, really, an eclectic mix of all those genres.

I just tend to really like those grooving R&B bass lines and neo soul chords that just feel good to the soul.

Q. If you could have steaming hot Coffee with any musician past or present who would it be and why? Ooh that’s a tough one. There are so many greats that come to mind, and I’d probably answer a different one each day you ask me, but today I’m going to say Bruno Mars. I think he seems like a cool guy, and I like what he’s doing musically, I’d like to pick his brain.

Q. What book have you read that has most influenced your music life? The Bible. It’s the one I’ve read the most and has influenced my life the most.

I never intended to be a professional musician. It wasn’t a career choice that I always dreamed of.

My plan was to go into the military like my dad.

But after three years of JROTC in high school and finding out that I couldn’t go in the military due to my asthma, I started really questioning God’s plan for my life. I played the sax in middle school band and then in the church band in high school since I couldn’t be in both band and JROTC in my high school.

It was my senior year when I dropped JROTC (since I couldn’t go into the military) and really started seeking HIS will rather than mine. God started really speaking to me through the BIBLE and verses such as “A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.”

[Proverbs 18:16] really stood out. And then one Wednesday night at church someone stood up

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and prophesized over me and confirmed that my

own voice is a constant work in progress, but one

music was going to be my future and my ministry.

of the ways I try to do that is to not listen to very

That I would play before the masses and share my

much saxophone music, but rather I listen to a lot

story of over-coming asthma. This was very out

of vocalists’.

of place as this wasn’t a Pentecostal church, but rather a Methodist church! But nevertheless, God

Q. What’s the most important aspect of a song?

works in mysterious ways.

Is it the melody, the groove, or the beat? It’s all important, but I think the thing that will always

Q. Did you choose the saxophonist or did the sax

stick out the most is the hook, the main melo-

pick you? The saxophone is a very personal instru-

dy of the chorus is what gets stuck in everyone’s

ment; it closely resembles the human voice in not

head; that’s what they remember. Everything else

only the range of the instrument, but the way it is

comes second. Don’t get me wrong, you’ve got to

played and articulated. Any non-musician can

have everything else, the bass line, the beat, the

hit a C on a piano and assuming the piano is in

chords so all of that is equally important to each

tune, it’s going to sound like a C. But you can’t just

other, but if that hook isn’t on point then you don’t

take any non-player and have them play a C on

have a catchy song.

the sax and it sound like a C unless they’ve spent a good deal of time playing the sax and building

Q. There are many incredible saxophonists work-

their embouchure and breath control.

ing in the contemporary jazz arena. How do you separate yourself making sure your saxophone

It can take years to develop a good tone and then

sound is distinct and you stand out?

even more to develop a unique one. The thing

I think it’s not just the tone or the sound, but also

is some never do. Many are so busy mimicking

the style that’s important. Thankfully the music

their music idols that they don’t even know what

plays a big part otherwise if you put us all in a

they sound like. Many years ago, someone re-

line up on sound alone, I think there may be some

minded me that there was only one me ‘and that I

blurred lines for sure. Musically though we ap-

shouldn’t try to sound like anyone, but ‘me’

proach it differently. I’ll be the first to say that I’m not a jazz musician. I tend to like soul R&B type

I’ll admit though, when you grow up listening to

stuff. Nothing against jazz, I just didn’t really grow

these talented artists their sound gets stuck in

up listening to it, so I go with what I know.

your head and it’s in-evitable that your inspira-

With each project, I just put my heart into it and

tions are going to show through from time to time.

put out the music that I like and hope that the mu-

The beauty of the saxophone though is that ev-

sic speaks for itself and that people like it.

eryone will sound different. It’s anatomically impossible for two players to sound identical, even if

Q. With an array of music producers to choose

they’re playing on the same exact set up. With that

from, how did you decide what flavor and direc-

said, I think it’s important not to strive to sound

tion your CD would take? My friend Caleb Middle-

like anyone else on purpose, but just be the best

ton and I have been working together for a while.

version of ‘you’ that one can. I think finding my

We really click well and have written a lot of tunes

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together-er going back to the Starting Over album in 2015. I knew this album was going to be more of a soul project than any of my others. I’ve come to realize that’s the kind of music I like most and wanted to embrace it with this one.

I knew that I wanted “Soul” in the title and so we really worked around that. Even as we were producing the songs, we didn’t even have titles for most of them initially we’re just calling them “CG Soul 1”, “CG Soul 2” etc. When we finished what is the title track and current single, “West Coast Soul” Caleb said that it had a very California West Coast chill kind of vibe as he used to live there.

I liked the sound of it and despite confusion for us living in Florida. I felt that it was right, so I decided to not just name the single “West Coast Soul”, but the title to the EP as well.

Q. What was your timeline for putting together a quality cd from start to finish adding in all the supporting cast, i.e. including vocals if needed, a nice strong bassline or percussion?

One of the best things about being an Independent Artist is that there’s no one telling you what to do or when and how to do it. The worst things about being Independent are that there’s no one telling you what to do or when and how to do it!

As a result, I didn’t get radio air play until my 4th album, learning through the school of hard knocks.

With this project, I started it last year in early 2020.

We were off to a good start, but we all know what happened in spring of 2020. When the world shut down for COVID 19 and all us musicians were suddenly out of work I had to go back to my other job as a Respiratory Therapist.

In college, I changed from a music major to Respiratory Therapy. Realizing that I did not need a music degree to play the music and gigs I was al-

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ready doing - I listened to the advice from my dad who told me to go to school for something that could give me job security if the whole music thing didn’t work out.

As a result, I’ve kept a foot in the door as a Registered Respiratory Therapist part time over the years. I think God has a sense of humor with that whole asthma thing! Being an RT came in handy last year when the Global Respiratory Virus shut things down. I was blessed to still be able to put food on the table for my family but had to put the music on hold.

Ironically when things slowed down in my area with COVID and I was able to resume the project, all the musicians were back to work, traveling and playing so it’s been an up and down thing with this

I’m putting a band together for a show and the budget is limited, I can make do with bass, drums, and keys, but for my music I’d be hard pressed to just do a show with bass, drums and guitar and no keyboard player Ilike sometimes just starting a song with keys and sax and making some things really churchy sounding, so I have to give it to keys on this.

Q. Do you have a life Motto? If so, what is it?

Do your best and let God handle the rest. My parents always just asked me to give my best at whatever I did and at the end of the day if I did that, then there was nothing more that could be said about it. If I’ve done all that I can do, then it’s out of my hands and above me.

Q. How important is it to pass the music baton on to the next generation?

It’s especially important to pass the music baton.

It saddens me to see and hear that arts has been taken of our schools with no funding for programs one.I decided to just make it an EP so we can put it out there.

There was no definitive timetable on this one, it just feels like now is the right time for West Coast Soul.

Question: Which instrument do you think best expresses or compliments your saxophone on stage?I think it really depends on the song. Saxophone and guitar pair well together, especially in a live situation with some good back and forth chemistry on stage, but I do most of my writing with keyboard players and really connect well in the creative realm with that as I plays keys also.

I feel like the keys carry a lot of weight as well, without keys the music will feel really lacking. If

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

such as band etc. Sports get all the glory don’t get me wrong, they have their place too, but not everyone is going to be a quarterback or play basketball. If it were not for public school band in middle school, I never would have learned the sax. Private lessons weren’t an option for me and my family so I’m very thankful that I was able to be in band in middle school to lay the foundation and instilled the love for music that would carry me on. To this day I enjoy going to schools to play and share my story and hopefully help inspire a few musicians here and there.

Q.Who is your musical mentor?

I don’t have just one. I like to surround myself with musicians that are better than me. It forces me to rise to the occasion and grow sink or swim.

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Q. What’s the key to developing strong business

and had to shop around for who is the best fit

relationships in the complicated arts and enter-

for what I’m doing, especially as an Independent

tainment space?

Artist. The budget only goes so far so I must decide

As the saying goes, “It’s not what you know, but

who and what to spend my money on.

who you know” Networking and building relationships make the world go round. I think consistency is a big part of that,in addition to trust. There can be a lot of trial and error finding who and what works for each individual. I’ve certainly done that

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International

Jazz Day

Hosted by Michael Douglas at United Nations Headquarters in New York, Concert Caps Extraordinary 10th Anniversary Celebration Spanning More than 190 Countries.

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International Jazz Day 2021 Concludes with Spectacular All-Star Global Concert Featuring Performances from Cities Across the Globe Washington, D.C. – With more than 190 countries participating, the International Jazz Day 10th Anniversary celebration concluded with a thrilling All-Star Global Concert reaching millions worldwide. Hosted by Michael Douglas and led by artistic director Herbie Hancock and musical director John Beasley, the concert brought together renowned artists from over 20 countries, and was made possible by Lead Partner Toyota, withUnited Airlines serving as Airline Partner.

Anchored by Academy Award win-

ner Michael Douglas from UN Head-

quarters in New York, the 2021 concert showcased jazz as a truly global art form. As United Nations Secretary

General Antonio Guterres noted, “Ten years ago, we launched the very first International Jazz Day in the United

Nations General Assembly Hall at the initiative of UNESCO and the Herbie

Hancock Institute of Jazz. With every

passing year, this has been a joyous celebration – not only of music, but also of freedom, diversity and hu-

man dignity. These are the values the United Nations works to protect and promote around the world.

Incase you missed the live show watch it here on youtube

www.youtube.com/watch?v=3421WDpq7eM

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A N E X PE R I E NC E D SA XOPHON IST, M USIC I A N A N D ARTIST IN THE AUSTR ALIAN MUSIC SCENE.

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Gary Honor

A

Saxophonist, Musician and Artist s a Sydney and Melbourne based

Never-Ending 80’s Tribute Show and with

worked with many of the world’s

Gary was selected to be the opening act

Saxophonist, Gary Honor has

greatest musicians and enter-

tainers in both Australia and abroad. His

talents on all saxophones, flute, wind-synth and percussion have seen him share the

his own smooth jazz-fusion band. In 2018 on the final night of the Smooth Jazz Cruise

performing alongside Brian Culbertson and Boney James.

stage with the likes of Icehouse, The Real

Most recently he has been collaborating on

Guy Sebastian, Samantha Jade, Tim-o-

Michael Broening and Skinny Hightower.

Thing, James Morrison, Israel Houghton,

matic, Vicky O’Keefe, John Williamson and

Patrizio Buanne. Internationally he has per-

formed with such notable smooth-jazz stars

projects with Trippin’ n Rhythm label-mates Stay tuned as Gary has plans for a new music release in the first half of 2020.

- Chuck Loeb, Paul Brown, Brian Simpson,

Aside from his many performance credits

Jaared, Lin Rountree, Nicholas Cole, Cindy

and animator. He has produced many pro-

Darren Rahn, Jackiem Joyner, Peter White, Bradley and UK artist Oli Silk who also produced his first major label CD – ‘Heads & Tales’.

Currently he works with the Royal Australian

Navy Band and also performs regularly as a soloist with DJs, Soul Band – Bump City, The

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

Gary is also a skilled visual artist, designer motional materials and videos for various

musical groups including the Royal Australian Navy Band and has also worked with video production teams to write musical scores for short films and advertising.

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QA &

With Gary Honor Q.What’s your deliberation process for selecting which music producer you’ll use on your CD? A. Interesting question, only because I’ve never set out to produce an album with a producer in mind.

On my first record I worked with Oli Silk as my producer. At the time Oli and I were both living in London and we’d been recording and playing together in the UK and the US. It was through this connection that I eventually ended up on the Trippin ‘n’ Rhythm label, and then it was Jeff Lunt, Trippin’s A&R guy, who thought that working with Skinny Hightower would be a good fit and he made the introduction. Skinny is a powerhouse producer but such a forward musical thinker too. He encouraged me to push the boundaries of what can be done and that resonated with me.

We recorded dozens of tracks before settling on the tracks for the album.

It was a super hard decision to work out what to leave on the shelf but I’d be surprised if a few of them didn’t eventually make an appearance on a future record. The other producer I worked with on my latest album is the formidable, Grammy-award winning Michael Broening. I had wanted to work on a track with him for years. We recorded a few songs and I enjoyed the process immensely. Mike is an expert at knowing when to edit and for me that’s important because I tend to lay down a little more than is needed. He would find a way to make the spaces have their moments of magic between the notes.

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Mike also helped edit a few of the tracks Skinny and I wrote. There’s definitely a distinct difference between Mike and Skinny but they both bring the most out of me and I’d definitely choose to work with them again in the future.

Q. With all that’s going on in the world today do you think people look to music to provide a sense of hope? A. Wow, that’s definitely true. Music is so powerful. I try to imagine life without music and I really can’t, it’s such a part of my existence and identity. It’s been able to help me through some pretty massive challenges in my own life. I think anyone who is human and has a soul can relate to that! It really has a power to bring us to a place of transcendance beyond our human condition. I like to think it’s the place where my soul speaks. It says the things I can’t put into words. In the right hands, music can inspire life, liberty, hope and love. I’d like to think that’s where my music comes from.

Q. Prior to preparing for a “LIVE” show do you have any pre-show rituals? Practice! I always need to be prepared and have the music internalized. I hate going on a gig under prepped. It would mean I get too caught up in the cerebral, that’s when it’s the hardest to get to the heart of the music. Usually, for the whole week before a show I’d play through all the music until I can do it without mistakes. Repeating any songs that I may have messed up at some point in each session. Aside from that, I’ll just make sure my reeds and horns are well maintained. Nothing worse than having a technical problem on the gig just after you spent all that time practicing.

Q. Walk us through and day in the life of being a musician? Well I’m not a typical musician! I’m a full-time military musician with the Australian

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

Navy. I’ve spent 12 years in the service and in that time I’ve had to adapt to a fairly busy routine. I like to start my day early. I’m usually up at 5am.

I usually spend a little time working in my studio before the family wakes up. I don’t have a set routine and I tend to do things in bursts. Sometimes I’m really focused on my connection with my sax and so I’d spend half the day practice changes, scales, patterns and tunes. Especially on days when I don’t have gigs. Other times I’m writing songs or recording that requires a lot focus and also I really need to be in the frame of mind for it. Sometimes it’s not always there and so rather than waste time I move onto to other things.

I also enjoy the visual arts and in the last few years I’ve really dived into motion graphics. Honestly, if I wasn’t a musician I’d probably be in film and animation. I really get a kick out of creating video and music clips which is why I decided to create the clip for Bang Bang Bang on my latest record. The last few years the Navy has basically had me working full-time as their lead content

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producer also. Every week I’m busy recording or

If you could have steaming hot Coffee with any

editing or producing video and music for the Navy

music icon or legend past or present, who would

bands in Australia. The only other thing I’d have to

you select and why? For me, I think it would have

say is I try to make sure I spend time doing exer-

to be David Sanborn. He was my first major inspi-

cise. My wife introduced me to Crossfit a few years

ration as a student saxophonist. I still remember

ago and I really enjoy it. We set up a Crossfit gym

the time and place I was the first time I heard him.

in our garage and now my 11-year old daughter

It blew my mind. I’d love to hear about his musical

is using it too. In these days of COVID lockdowns,

life, the people he worked with and what struggles

it’s been a good way to keep active, burn off some

he may have had along the way. I’ve never per-

steam and keep ourselves healthy.

sonally met him but I’ve been fortunate to hear

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him live on one occasion. Thank God for You-

with the school’s band program for a day or two

Tube and his Sanborn Sessions. They have been a

and put on concerts with the students but sad-

delight to watch in the last year or so and a real

ly this past year it’s been a bit quiet because of

insight into his musical philosophy.

the COVID restrictions. I’m sure it will pick back up again when things get back to some sort of nor-

How has your music style evolved over the years?

mal.

Oh wow, it’s definitely changed for the better! I think as you mature you not only become a more

How has the music industry changed the last

rounded musician but you also build on your

decade? The way music is delivered is the big-

personal story. The experiences you have impact

gest change. I think more music than ever is being

on the way you play and I think people pick up on

recorded with ever. As technology has picked up

that in a strong way when they hear you. So yeah,

and become cheaper, it has made music cre-

I think there’s a little more of me in my sound,

ation so much more accessible to everyone. While

rather than me copying someone I used to listen

major labels are great, it’s perfectly cool to be an

to. I’m trying to find my own sound now rather than

independent artist also. I guess there are many

chasing someone else’s. I think my early recording

roads for everyone. CDs have made way to the

have elements of me there but it I was still grow-

online world and now, more than ever, musicians

ing, as I hope I am now.. I’m curious as to where

are become multi-faceted people with the need

this will end up but I’m at a place now where I’m

for video creation, merch and social media profiles

happy with what comes out when I play. It’s un-

etc. It’s a bit bewildering but the scope of what

apologetically -me.

musicians can do and be is now almost limitless.

I guess some would argue it’s harder than ever to

Who’s on your CD player? I’m constantly listening

make a living from it, but I think the key to making

to all sorts of things. I enjoy hearing what other sax

a living from you music is the same as always -to

players are producing. Lately I’ve been enjoying

connect with your fans with the music, be it online,

Steve Cole, Jeff Ryan and Randy Scott. Recently I

on a CD, on social media or at a gig.

watched a documentary on the influence of Sweden on pop music and it opened my ears up to

What would your family say is your best quality?

some DJs and producers I’d not really paid much

They’d probably say my gentleness. I’m generally

attention to before. Every night before dinner we

pretty chill and it would take a lot to wind me up.

have music appreciation in our house where I will

I need to be that way. I have 4 kids, a wife, and a

throw on classic songs to educate my kids on the

French bulldog who is constantly costing me a

vast history of music. My 3-month old son Theo is

fortune at the vet!

really loving the 80s classics!

Are you involved in any charitable foundations that support ARTS education for children?

Well, the Navy is involved with a lot of music education in the schools. We would go in and help

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

CONNECT WITH GARY Website: www.garyhonor.com Instagram: @Garyonasax

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MINISTER AND TEACHER OF LITURGICS DANCE

B ​

ridgette Porter Stubbs has been a liturgical dancer since 1997. She began to understand her ministry in dance around 2003. This is when she acknowledged that she was in fact a Dance Minister.

After understanding that she ministers in dance, another phase of her under-

standing began to surface. Bridgette identifies that she is a prophetic dancer as

well. As she began to walk in God given assignments, she not only operates as a

Dance Minister, but also a Teacher of Liturgics (teaching the art of public worship through dance).

Now as a published author, writing “Flowing Under the Shadow of the Almighty”, her passion for dancing and teaching the art of public worship has birthed this

guide to teach and inspire dancers all over the world how to effectively dance under God’s anointing.

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&

QA With

Bridgette Porter-Stubbs

from now? There is a second book currently in the works (the youth version of Flowing Under the Shadow of the Almighty for dancers & mimers). I see other book projects; my own and being part of a book anthology.

Q. What’s the biggest surprise that you experienced after becoming a writer? For me, it was the

Q. What do you want readers to get from reading your book? I’d like for each reader of my book to receive the understanding that dancing for God can truly be a ministry, when that is the intention of the dancer(s). Secondly, my hope is that readers respect and understand that the preparation of one’s heart and spirit is very important before they dance before an audience.

Q. What made you decide to write your book?

I simply made a decision to obey what God placed in my spirit of what I needed to share with the

love of writing and editing the work.

Q. What has your experience been like as a new Indie Author? Bruises, Highlights, and lessons?

I have learned from a couple of small mistakes.

These mistakes were easily fixable. I find it hard to market myself; the book. I consider the highlight to be that of being able to express myself without anyone changing my thoughts or distorting them.

Q. What’s your favorite part of the book?

My favorite part is the chapter where God gave me

world!

chapter 4 - “5 Laws of Dance”.

Q. What do you love most about the writing pro-

Q. Who is your favorite author? I’m not sure that

cess? I believe it was the flow of my thoughts, being able to read what God’s thoughts were concerning the book, as He gave them to me.

Q. What do your friends and family think about your writing? There is one relative who is a journalist; she complimented me by telling me that I’m

I really have a favorite author, but I do like books

by Joyce Meyer and Priscilla Shirer.

Q. Does your book have a lesson? The only lesson or moral of my book is that I tried to convey to dancers, and future dancers that they should always strive to be themselves. They should not

a good writer.

shrink their own personal expression to God when

Q. Where can we find you online? I can be

like another dancer.

found on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram under BESstyle Liturgical. My website: www.besstyleliturgical.wixsite.com/dance Q. Tell us a little about your plans for the future.

Where do you see yourself as a writer five years

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they dance. And they should never try to dance

Connect with Bridgette Porter-Stubbs Website: www.besstyleliturgical.wixsite.com

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www.oscars.org

The Most Recognized Trophy In The World, The Oscar Statuette Has Stood On The Mantels Of The Greatest Filmmakers In History Since 1929.

Hortly after the formation of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 1927, the fledgling organization held a dinner in the Crystal Ballroom of the Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles to set out its goals. Among the topics discussed that night was how best to honor outstanding moviemaking achievements and thereby encourage excellence in all facets of motion picture production.

Agreeing to institute an annual award, the group turned its attention to creating a suitably majestic trophy. MGM art director Cedric Gibbons designed a statuette of a knight standing on a reel of film gripping a crusader’s sword. The Academy tapped Los Angeles sculptor George Stanley to realize the design in three dimensions – and the world-renowned statuette was born.

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A NIGHT CALLED OSCAR

Officially named the Academy Award of Merit,

1929, in the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel’s Blos-

Oscar. While the origins of the moniker aren’t

Since the initial awards banquet on May 16, som Room, more than 3,000 statuettes have been presented. Each January, additional new golden statuettes are cast by Polich Tallix fine art foundry in New York’s Hudson Valley.

Oscar stands 13½ inches tall and weighs in at a robust 8½ pounds. The film reel features five spokes, signifying the five original branches of the Academy: actors, directors, producers, technicians and writers. Although the statuette remains true to its original design, the size of the base varied until 1945, when the current standard was adopted.

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the statuette is better known by its nickname, clear, a popular story has it that upon seeing the trophy for the first time, Academy librarian (and eventual executive director) Margaret Herrick remarked that it resembled her Uncle Oscar. The Academy didn’t adopt the nickname officially until 1939, but it was widely known enough by 1934 that Hollywood columnist Sidney Skolsky used it in a piece referring to Katharine Hepburn’s first Best Actress win.

The statuettes are solid bronze and plated in 24-karat gold. Due to a metal shortage gold-plated metal ones.

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The Stuff That Dreams Are Made Of World War II, Oscars were made of painted plaster for three years. Following the war, the Academy invited recipients to redeem the plaster figures for gold-plated metal ones.

Achievements in up to 25 regular categories will be honored on February 24, 2019, at the 91th Academy Awards presentation at the Dolby Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center. However, the Academy won’t know how many statuettes it will hand out until the envelopes are opened on Oscar Night. Although the number of categories are known in advance, the possibility of ties and of multiple recipients sharing the prize in some categories makes it impossible to predict the exact number of statuettes to be awarded. As in previous years, any surplus awards will be housed in the Academy’s vault until next year’s event.

More than 80 years after that auspicious gathering in Hollywood, Oscar’s success as a symbol of filmmaking achievement would probably amaze those who attended the dinner, as it would its designer, Cedric Gibbons.

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City of Hope City of Hope’s 16thannual Songs of Hope will partner with RWQuarantunes for virtual celebration event presented by Facebook on Sept. 30 98

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Legendary producer and songwriter Jimmy Jam, along with RWQuarantunes’ Richard and Demi Weitz, will host the special event, featuring Clive Davis, Smokey Robinson and many more surprise guests.

D

UARTE, Calif.— Today, City of Hope, a world-renowned research and treatment center for cancer and diabetes, through

its Music, Film and Entertainment Industry group announced that the 16th annual Songs of Hope celebration event will take place virtually on Sept. 30, 2021, at 6:30 p.m.

PDT. City of Hope will partner with the successful RWQuarantunes for this special event. Songs of Hope is a celebration of the music industry and their support for City of Hope’s mission to eliminate cancer, diabetes, and other life-threatening diseases.

The event will highlight the work of City of Hope Equities and innovative Department of Supportive Care Medicine, which is committed to delivering the institution’s signature compassionate, specialized cancer care to patients and their families.

RWQuarantunes founders Richard and Demi Weitz will join event emcee Jimmy Jam for this unique celebration. Facebook will once again be the evening’s presenting sponsor,

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and returning award sponsors Clive Davis, Uni-

remarkable contributions to the music industry.

versal Music Publishing EA Music–Electronic Arts,

Previous recipients include some of the bright-

Sony Music Publishing and Warner Chappell Music

est stars in music, including Jack Antonoff, Burt

will pay tribute to this year’s honorees, including

Bacharach, Sarah Bareilles, Carole Bayer Sag-

Smokey Robinson, who will receive Clive Davis’

er, Swizz Beatz, Aloe Blacc, Benny Blanco, Colbie

Legend in Songwriting Award, Hildur Guðnadóttir,

Caillat, Desmond Child, Snoop Dogg, Jermaine

recipient of the EA Music Composer of the Year

Dupri, Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Hayley Kiy-

Award and Daniel Nigro, who will be honored with

oko, Max Martin, Randy Newman, James Newton

the Sony Music Publishing Creative Trailblazer

Howard, Stephen Schwartz, Dave Stewart, Di-

Award. Warner

ane Warren, Tierra Whack, Pharrell Williams, Mike

Chappell will also posthumously honor the late

Will-Made-It, Stevie Wonder, Hans Zimmer, Boi-

hip hop rapper Pop Smokewith theVoice of Hope

1da, Charlie XCX, The Chainsmokers, SZA and many

Award.Additional honorees will be announced in

more.

the coming weeks.

“It is because of our donors and volunteers that

Now celebrating its 16th year, Songs of Hope is

City of Hope has grown from its humble begin-

a unique celebration spotlighting some of the

nings more than a century ago to a world-class

world’s most beloved songwriters and composers

research institute and clinical care network that

as the evening’s award sponsors recognize their

treats more than 90,000 patients each year,” said

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ingful for me this year because I get to also work hand-in-hand with my father, Clive Davis, who will present the Clive Davis Legend in Songwriting Award to the iconic Smokey Robinson.”

“As we continue to battle through this horrible pandemic, the one thing we know is that cancer and type 1 diabetes do not stop,” said event cochair Evan Lamberg, president of North America/ Universal Music Publishing Group. “Thank you to the doctors, researchers and staff at City of Hope for continuing to focus on making people’s lives, and the lives of so many families, better. I look forward to working again with my longtime cochairs Doug Davis, Steve Schnur and David Renzer in making Songs of Hope 16 our most successful event ever.”

Kristin J. Bertell, chief philanthropy officer at City of Hope.

“The dedicated volunteers of the Music, Film and Entertainment Industry help us raise millions of dollars every year through events like Songs of Hope — all to aid in the fight against cancer and diabetes. I am humbled by their generosity and grateful to RWQuarantunes, our sponsors and all the music professionals who are supporting our ability to save lives.”

“As a cancer survivor, it is imperative to raise funds to further City of Hope’s groundbreaking medical research and supportive care programs for patients,” said event co-chair, Doug Davis. “This night has become one of my favorite nights in music, and I am thrilled to again co-chair Songs of Hope and this wonderful celebration of the song and the

About RWQuarantunes

Since April 2020 after the COVID-19 pandemic hit, WME partner Richard Weitz and his 17-year-old daughter Demi have been hosting virtual Zoom concerts fundraising for charities harshly affected by the pandemic. These events have raised over $27 million and have featured over 400 performances by high-profile artists, such as Andra Day, Art Garfunkel, Barry Manilow, Beck, Billy Porter, Boy George, Boyz II Men, Carly Simon, Charlie Puth, Coldplay, Dan + Shay, Darius Rucker, Dolly Parton, Earth

songwriter, which are often overshadowed by the recording and the artist. Songs of Hope is mean-

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Shot To The Head Photography Bobby Roebuck

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Q &A

with Bobby Roebuck

Q: When and why did you become a photographer?

A: I became a photographer in

2009. I am a visual artist, I draw and paint portraits of people; in preparation for my drawings, I developed the need to photograph my subject matter and study the close-up images of their faces and fascial expressions. Additionally, I enjoyed photographing musicians from the stage pit during various jazz festivals and musical performances.

Q: Which photographers influenced you, and how did they influence your thinking, photographing style, and career?

A: My best friend Robert Brown, for more than 30 years is a photographer, he shoots family, events and still life. I would assist while he photographed or directed film assignments. Also,

Follow Bobby Instagram: bobby.roebuck.54

JAZZ BEHIND THE LENS 108 OCTOBER 2021

Mr. Brown even processed his own photo film in his dark room.

Robert Brown, influenced me by demonstrating his commitment to his craft and professionalism

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For nearly 30 years, the BBMAs has celebrated music’s greatest achievements, honoring the

U

nique among music awards shows, honorees are determined by performance on the Billboard Charts, the ultimate authority and measure of success in music. The annual live broadcast showcases spectacular performances, unexpected collaborations, buzz-

worthy pop culture moments that keeps fans talking all year, and the prestigious ICON Award, which honors record-breaking artists and their impact on music.

Billboard Music Awards nominees and winners are based on key fan interactions with music, including album and digital song sales, streaming, radio airplay, touring and social engagement, tracked by Billboard and its data partners, including MRC Data. Since 1940, the Billboard charts have been the go-to guide for ranking the popularity of artists, songs and albums, and are the ultimate measure of success in music. The “2021 Billboard Music Awards” is produced by dick clark productions.

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NICK SMITH Jazz Pianist 114 OCTOBER 2021

Knick Smith™ (Nick Smith) A Jazz Pianist, is an alumnus of Berklee College of Music. Some of Knick’s career highlights include working in the Tonight Show Band and extensive service as musical director and keyboardist for Grammy-winning artist Stanley Clarke.

A partial list of artists that Knick has performed with includes Stevie Wonder, Queen Latifah, Kenny Garrett, Kirk Whalum, and Marcus Miller. Knick’s performances are largely original compositions with Standards interspersed featuring Straight Ahead, Fusion and Contemporary/Smooth Jazz.

K

nick’s philosophy: when performing music, give your ALL— provide precise, free-flowing, and rhythmically diverse music to your audience; devote yourself to delivering performances that adhere to the correct form of the composition with persistently lyrical, stratospheric comping—epitomize the definition of Jazz by featuring complex chord structure, improvised solos, and dynamic, syncopated rhythm.

CONNECT WITH NICK

Website:

www.KnickSmith.com www.NickSmithMusic.com

Instagram: @KnickSmithMusic Facebook: @Knick-Smith Twitter:

@KnickSmith

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&

QA

Nick Smith shares his music journey.

Q. What do you enjoy most about being a musician? I enjoy the Blessing of creating music that touches people and brings joy into their lives. I also enjoy the pleasure of playing with some of my favorite artists.

When the gig pays well, traveling, seeing the world, meeting people, and performing are joyful experience. I think you are Blessed when you can make a living/earn good money doing what you love.

Q. What period of music history speaks to you? The music from the Big Band Era and the later music of the smaller quartets BeBop, then the music of the 60’s to the 70’s. I feel the music from those time periods were highly creative and innovative; it was definitely inspiring. The universal law of music back then was you had to be different you had to have your own sound. No matter what you were listening to, be it Rock, Pop, R Q. If you could have piping hot coffee with any musician dead or alive, who would it be and why? I’m not a coffee but I if I could have tea while they’d have coffee, that would

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work! It would be difficult to pick one specific musician because my inspiration comes from a variety of musicians.

Narrowing it down to two musicians, I would choose Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock. I met both of them, but we have never had a opportunity to sit down and have a long conversation.

I have been fortunate and blessed to have met many of the musicians that have has a major influence on me. I have also learned that “everything that glitters is not gold.” Artists are one way on stage off stage you don’t know what you may get from an individual.

Q .What are your interest outside of music?

Outside of music I like to see a good movie.

When I am not busy, I’ll take time to reach out to my friends and family. I enjoy going to the gym and I like to bike ride. I enjoy the amusement park and racing. Most of all I love spending quality time with my beautiful wife, Annette.

Q.What role and how did music play a part in

your life in your childhood or teenage years?

later I studied at the Cleveland Academy

In my parents’ household music was played

School of Music. After graduating from high

every day. As far back as I can remember, I

school, I went to Berklee College of Music.

played piano. My mother told me she discov-

Q. How would you describe your music?

ered that I could play piano when I was two

My latest cd project, Romance, is most closely

years old. As I was growing up, I saw different

labeled as Contemporary Jazz. My prior proj-

musicians come to play and rehearse at my

ects, It’s Like That, and Influenced, are Straight

parents’ house. When I heard all the distinctive

Ahead Jazz. My catalog of original composi-

styles of music, I was inspired to play.

tions includes Jazz (Contemporary, Straight Ahead, Be-Bop, Blues, Latin, and Fusion), R&B/

Q. Are you from a musical or artistic family?

Soul, Pop, Rock, Country, and House.

Yes, I am. My mother played piano a little bit and my father played trumpet and bass. I think

Q. Describe your creative process?

the musical talent comes from my father. He

When I am writing music, I don’t like to rush.

and his brothers played instruments. In my

I am extremely hard on myself and because

immediate family, everyone tried to play, but

I want the music to sound and feel a certain

my brothers and I played local clubs in Cleve-

way, I refuse to just play anything. The actu-

land. There are three of us my oldest brother

al process varies. When I begin to compose a

played drums, my other brother played the

new song, sometimes I hear or feel the melody

saxophone, and I play the piano. My brothers

first, other times the chord structure comes

stopped playing when they were in their twen-

first, then there are times when I hear a partic-

ties. My music journey continue playing and

ular instrument part first. It depends on what

trying to improve.

triggers the inspiration. If I am in my studio, I record what I hear or feel. If I am away from

Q. How did you learn to read and write music?

my studio, I’ll hum or play into an app on my

I took private lessons when I was a child, then

phone. If my phone is not available,I write out the song.

Q How has your music style evolved involved over time? When I was young, my brothers and I played R&B/ Soul and Pop. As I grew up, I started playing Jazz— both Contemporary and Straight Ahead. When I went to Berklee, I REALLY started playing Straight Ahead Jazz. Listening and practicing music that is challenging vs playing what I can already play helped me change my style. My goal is to try to avoid sounding the same and being predictable.

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