International Jazz Day 10th Annual

602 MAGAZINE VOLUME 1 ISSUE 6

CITYBUZZ

INTERNATIONAL JAZZ DAY SPECIAL EDITION

W W W. 6 0 2 A Z M A G . C O M

$10.00 USA

10th Annual International Jazz Day Also Featuring: Alfredo Molina Mark Whitman Neamen Lyles Nayo Jones Poncho Sanchez Andrea Gomez Tempe Mayor Corey Woods Scottsdale Mayor David D. Ortega

Elite Jeweler and Jazz Musicians Join forces

James Nassikas SCOTTSDALE ARIZONA Pays Tribute to one of the Greatest Hoteliers of all times

602 AZMAG.COM

CONTENTS 5

THE NEW ARIZONA MAG

“This magazine is dedicated toward building the New Az Jazz Festival” - Doc Jones -

ALFREDO MOLINA

Poncho Sanchez

602AZ

magazine

Interview with the Diamond King Alfredo Molina

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Latin Jazz is alive and well in AZ

5

THANKS TO CUBA 602 AZMAG CHAT’S WITH PONCHO SANCHEZ

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JAMES NASSIKAS # 1 HOTELIER

Tempe Mayor Corey Woods Supports the need for Afforable Housing

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For customer service, change of address, and subscription inquiries, please visit www.504mag.com

Tempe Mayor Corey Woods

10

Scottsdale Mayor Dave Ortega

AD SPACE FOR SALE

22 SON HONORS FATHER

34

22

14

Nayo Jones International known

Nayo Jones

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AD SPACE FOR SALE

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NEAMEN LYLES BILLBOARD ARTIST HIS ROOTS ARE FIRMLY PLANTED IN THE SOUTHWEST

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MARK WHITFIELD AN AMERICAN JAZZ GUITARIST BORN IN NEW YORK

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ALL CONTENT AND PHOTOGRAPH’ MATERIAL ARE COPYRIGHTED TO THEIR RESPECTED OWNERS. TO CONTACT OUR EDITORIAL TEAM PLEASE EMAIL US AT JAZZDAYAZ@GMAIL.COM

THE CHOICE OF JAZZ MUSICIANS 602 AZ MAGAZINE 4

Elite Jeweler and Jazz Musician Join forces To Make Arizona the Setting for one of Southwest’s Largest Jazz Festival Jazz can bring people together from all walks of life, and the spread of Jazz throughout the United States has taught countless individuals lessons of peace, freedom, and solidarity through music. This is exactly what Doc Jones and Alfredo Molina have also aimed to achieve, with their collaborative efforts to unite the state of Arizona through the International Jazz Day festival.

Doc and Alfredo (better known as Al) have crossed path a few times, as both are well known in Arizona, and would often run into each other at special events. However, their busy schedules made it near impossible to stay in touch, as both were busy with their endeavors. Doc never gave up, and after a short period of time, he happened to pass by Molina Fine Jewelers in Phoenix when he noticed Al’s 1959 Bentley vintage Empress parked outside. Mr. Molina owns one of the most respected jewelers in the country, coming from a long line of jewelers that can be traced back to the 1600s. The Molina family settled in Cuba generations ago, but with the rise of Fidel Castro in the early 1900s they knew they would not be able to maintain their successful and prosperous business under the communist regime, so left for the United States when Alfredo was just a boy.

602 AZ Mag Alfredo Molina

The family arrived in Chicago in 1967 with nothing but the clothes on their backs, but Alfredo was determined to continue his family’s legacy, ultimately opening Molina Fine Jewelers in 1987, just nine days before the 1987 stock market crash and with just $1500 in the bank. Despite this, Molina Fine Jewelers flourished, generating unprecedented success and becoming one of the nations most prestigious jewelers.

Over the years, the Molina family has continued to grow their business, and with their profits, they have supported nearly 300 different charitable organizations across the United States. As one of the most exclusive jewelers in the country, the building is only accessible by an appointment.

This did not stop Doc Jones, and he decided to try his luck and request an audience with Mr. Molina anyway.

To his surprise, the security guards let Doc right through, and that’s when Doc and Mr. Molina managed to finally share their stories and business ventures.

602 AZ MAGAZINE 5

Doc Jones & Al Molina

Like the Molina family, Doc Jones moved to Arizona in the late 1980s also from Chicago to pursue his passion. Doc has been able to make a living from his devotion to Jazz music, and entrepreneurship since he first moved to Arizona, and nowadays he is working tirelessly to unite the state of Arizona around UNESCO and Herbie Hancock’s International Jazz Day, as the Director of International Jazz Day AZ Foundation. Doc and Al bonded over their shared commitment to giving back to the community.

Molina Fine Jeweler has donated more than $30 million over the past 24 years while Doc Jones has dedicated his life to music and education. Doc has taught more than 10,000 youth at risk at no charge in the last two decades. After that fateful conversation, Doc and Mr. Molina decided to combine their resources and passion to give back to the community by bringing attention to the importance of arts in education and affordable housing for creative artists. This dynamic duo is coming together to produce a signature Jazz Festival for Scottsdale, Arizona. The festival will catapult Arizona into the global limelight, and celebrate the genre of Jazz music, and learn to share its musical roots.

International Jazz Day has been an annual event celebrated on April 30th around the world, ever since it was declared by UNESCO in 2011 as being America’s heritage gift to the world. For the past decade International Jazz Day has been dedicated to celebrating and uniting people through music. The event has successfully commemorated the sweeping impact Jazz has had upon the world. Jazz is an art form that bonds individuals, regardless of race, gender, or creed. Last year over 196 countries hosted some type of Jazz Day event.

Doc and Al have been working tirelessly to bring this celebration to Scottsdale, Arizona and foresee the festival becoming a major tourist destination event within five years. Together they have appealed to other key business leaders in Arizona and New Orleans who believe in the value of hosting a significant Jazz festival in Scottsdale. Through their partnership, Doc Jones and Alfredo Molina are determined to make the International Jazz Day Festival one of the largest Jazz festivals in the Southwest while leaning on other jazz enthusiasts around the country for their support. There has been a lot of upset and unrest throughout America this past year and although the festival had to be postponed in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19, the partners will be producing a series of smaller concerts this year and will return to Scottsdale Center for the Arts on April 30, 2022 ready to welcome a large audience.

Internationally recognized jeweler and top gemological expert known worldwide, Alfredo J. Molina is Chairman and CEO of Molina Fine Jewelers and Black, Starr & Frost, America’s First Jeweler Since 1810.

Alfredo’s lineage of master jewelers dates back to 1634 in Milan, Italy. As an 11th generation jeweler, he has built an unparalleled reputation, offering the rarest of gems and exclusive collections of fine jewelry. His ability to secure the world’s most rare gems, such as the priceless, historic Archduke Joseph Diamond, the world’s 12th largest perfect Golconda type 2A white diamond, has earned him the reputation as one of the nation’s most prestigious jewelers.

His successes have earned him guest appearances on numerous television programs, including CBS Early Show and the Today Show, and has been featured in the New York Times, The Financial Times, The London Times and countless luxury magazines including Robb Report, Departures, Vanity Fair, Harper’s Bazaar, Town & Country and Elite Traveler.

Alfredo is very involved in the community and has donated time and resources to more than 300 charities. Alfredo’s vision is “Changing the world one jewel at a time.” He believes that every individual is a precious jewel and it is our commitment and social responsibility to ensure that they become brilliant.

Poncho Sanchez THE GODFATHER AND LEGEND OF LATIN JAZZ Publisher’s note:

an interview with Terrence Blanchard. Hence, the start of our “two-for” photo opt and interview. Wow, two great performing artists 602 AZ Mag is honored to bring to its readers on the same stage at the same time. A writer’s the one and only Poncho Sanchez. Sanchez dream, Terence Blanchard and Poncho Sanis a world renowned percussionist and band chez . . . so this issue was born. Without leader. Before we get in depth with the article, Poncho’s help, we would not have gotten to let me tell you how 602 AZ Mag came to the Terence as soon as we did. And without Keconclusion we needed the phenomenal Pon- rry, we probably would not have gotten to cho Sanchez to grace the special latest edi- meet with Poncho. The rest is history! tion. In April of this year, I was in Scottsdale, Arizona on assignment with a member of my research team covering

William “Doc” Jones

It was then I determined Terence Blanchard should be the face of 504Mag’s fourth issue.

Little did I know that getting to speak with Terence would not be an easy task. After countless e-mails, phone calls and text messages to the Blanchard “camp,” I learned that due to his tight schedule, a moratorium had been placed on all interviews. By the time I was informed of the restrictions on interviewing Terence, I had already instructed my Marketing and IT Departments to layout the cover of the Terence Blanchard issue. What I thought would be Terence Blanchard’s U of A concert, we later learned (me and my contributing writer/photographer), would be “a two-for!” Finding out that Terence Blanchard was not the headliner, but the “featured artist,” we moved forward with our interview plans.

Kerry Campbell (RIP), a buddy of mine, as well as freelance writer/photographer for 504Mag did what he does to get the ball rolling. Upon learning Poncho Sanchez was the headliner and Terence was the “featured artist,” Kerry informed me he had performed at the same venue as Sanchez early in his own music career. A saxophone great in and of himself, Kerry knew Sanchez would remember him. We got word backstage to Poncho that Kerry and I were out front at Centennial Hall representing 504Mag and seeking

Owen Brennan

Mayor Corey Woods announces vision for firstin-Arizona program to create more housing opportunities Healthy cities need a balance of affordable, workforce and market-rate housing options Re Post from 12/01/2020 Tempe Mayor Corey Woods today announced his pursuit of a dedicated funding stream to accelerate the growth of affordable and workforce housing options in the city. The Mayor’s initiative, called Hometown for All, reflects his desire to ensure that Tempe has a variety of housing types for anyone who wants to live in the city. Private property owners are regularly developing market-rate infill housing in Tempe and that will continue. At the same time, Woods wants to amplify the city’s efforts to buy and build its own affordable and workforce housing projects. “Vibrant, healthy communities include a diverse collection of residents, from retail and restaurant industry workers, to teachers and public safety officers, to entrepreneurs and CEOs,” Woods said. “That mix is a strength and an advantage for all aspects of community life.

As a longtime affordable housing advocate, I

am determined to achieve a guaranteed pace of growth for our affordable and workforce housing stock. We need to take action to prioritize a sustainable revenue source that we, the city, can control.”

For every development project built in Tempe, an amount equivalent to 50% of certain permitting fees paid to the city will be directed from the city’s General Fund to the Tempe Coalition for Affordable Housing, a nonprofit corporation affiliated with the City of Tempe Public Housing Authority.

This coalition is informally called The Affiliate.

From there, the funds could be used to buy and rehabilitate properties, or to buy land and request competitive offers from developers or nonprofit partners to build affordable or workforce units.

Affordable and workforce housing programs have defined income levels as calculated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

For example, a single-person household making $43,600 or less and a family of four making $62,250 or less would qualify for housing programs. At these income levels, this group of people could include seniors, people with disabilities, retail and service workers, teachers, public safety employees and young professionals.

Market-rate housing is everything else that sells or rents at a range of prices determined by the market.

According to an expert analysis in 2017, which is being updated for 2020, Tempe’s ratios of affordable, workforce and market-rate housing are appropriate for a city of our size. Tempe tracks its performance on these ratios on its data tracking portal. The current mix of housing units within city limits is 49% affordable, 34% workforce and 16% market rate.

The city’s Affordable Housing Strategy, adopted in 2019, is designed to bolster efforts to expand and preserve affordable and workforce housing to maintain the current ratios. Among 20 specific strategies, consultants recommend identifying recurring funding to maintain housing affordability.

The Affiliate has made major progress since it began buying and remodeling Tempe properties, completing purchases of 50 properties since 2018, mainly using federal funds. By the end of 2020, that number will grow to 60. But the city is aware today that, based on community growth projections, Tempe will have to accelerate the addition of affordable and workforce housing in order to keep up those appropriate ratios over time. Woods said he is determined to build or purchase even more affordable housing and to do it faster. “I want to see Tempe go above and beyond the successes we have already seen,” he said. “This is about helping people in need find housing here that they can afford.”

Woods and the Council would continue to welcome voluntary contributions from developers, as well as other entities and individuals, to fund affordable housing in Tempe. The city will offer suggested donation amounts based on the expected amount of certain developer-paid permitting fees to be paid to Tempe – 20% for residential and 10% for commercial/office. All donations would go to The Affiliate.

International Jazz Day AZ Foundation / dba Jazztown USA Is Joining the Movement To Create Low-Cost Housing for Creative Artists (Emphasis on Jazz Musicians)

Supporting the 10th Annual International Jazz Day Festival

Publisher / CEO Dr. William “Doc” Jones Senior Writer Shirley A. Jones Senior Writer/ Editor in Chief Linder Stanley Editor/ Writer Karen Cahn Chief Design Layout Wm. D. Jones Associate Editor Wayne Gaskins Chief Photo Editor Bob Rink Assistant Photo Editor Jerry Maroney Doc Jones Photo & Design Editor ©504 Multi MEDIA LLC. All Rights Reserved

WE ONLY DRINK THE BEST BEER

Meet The Publisher

Welcome to 602 AZ Mag. As Publisher & CEO, I’m proud to introduce our new chief editor/writer Ms. Linder Stanley. We would also like to introduce my assistant photo / design editor, Bob Rink, also special thanks to our senior writers, (RIP Cynthia Gill Mitchell) and Mrs. Shirley Jones . We hope you enjoy reading about the God Father of Latin Jazz.

“Congratulations to Poncho Sanchez for being nominated for a Grammy 2021.

industry around the world. 602 AZ Mag comes to bring attention to the importance of arts in education and the need for affordable housing for Jazz musicians.

Doc Jones has been a music educator, professional musician and restaurant owner over the pass 40 years.

you meet him, you’ll remember him. Dr. William

Everywhere Doc has lived from Chicago to Arizona

Doc Jones (lovingly referred to as Doc) is Founder, CEO

and now New Orleans, he has left a trail of happy and

and Chief Editor of the pulse of Arizona’s 602 AZ Magazi-

fond memories. Though there will always be a special

ne. Doc Jones brings a high level of energy, excitement and

place in his heart for Chicago, Doc Jones is quoted to

hands-on involvement to anything he believes in. Doc’s

have said Arizona is, “His Kind of Town.”

Once

motto for a love of people and their talents is ongoing - “if you believe in it, you should be a contributing factor to it.”

Doc is excited about the restoration of Arizona Jazz scene and is spearheading an all-out effort to bring an influx of new, ready-to-run contributors to the area armed with current information by way of 602 AZ Mag.com. He recently stated, “It’s not the declining jazz scene, but the devastation of the COVID-19 virus has had on the tourism

Photo By Bob Rink Pg16

Mayor David D. Ortega began his term of office in January 2021. Mayor Ortega is focused on safeguarding public health and safety; maintaining Scottsdale’s family-friendly neighborhoods; protecting the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and strengthening Scottsdale’s world-renowned reputation.

As mayor, he is committed to equal rights for all, responsive city government and adoption of citizen-driven General Plan 2035 to support economic vitality.Mayor Ortega is a registered Arizona architect and designed many landmark buildings in Old Town. He is a graduate of the University of Arizona and was an apprentice architect to Bennie Gonzales FAIA, the award-winning designer of Scottsdale City Hall, Civic Center Library and Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.Mayor Ortega has served on numerous city, county and state commissions, and on civic, non-profit organizations including:

Drink responsibly. Corona Premier

® Beer. Imported by Crown Imports, Chicago, IL Per 12 fl. oz. serving average analysis: Cals 90, Carbs 2.6 g, Protein 0.7 g, Fat 0.0 g.

15783-CP fullPageAd.indd 1

3/11/21 6:49 PM

The best Jazz and Blues Festivals are the ones with good beer The International Jazz Day Foundation and Molina Fine Jewelers are excited to present the best beer in the land at its groundbreaking 10th-anniversary celebration of International Jazz Day: Corona Premier The greatly anticipated Jazz Appreciation Month and International jazz Day is upon us, which means two things: great Jazz & Blues festivals, and great beer. Beer and festivals have always gone hand-in-hand, as nothing can beat the feeling of drinking a cold beer on a hot day, while being surrounded by friends and listening to amazing music. If you’re going to a Jazz festival, you might as well be enjoying a quality brew. Drinking it up in a bar or restaurant has never been easier, with a large number of beers available at venues across America. However, at festivals, this can be a completely different story, as many big events either have a poor selection of beer at hand or have a tendency to quickly run out of stock. However, this won’t be true for the Scottsdale Jazz Festival!

We are proud to announce that Scottsdale Jazz Festival 2021 will be sponsored by Corona Premier, one of the best beer brands in the world. Corona Premier brings people together. There is no better occasion to do that than a good old Jazz & Blues Festival.

“The Scottsdale Jazz Festival soon will be a destination for everyone in the southwest whether they like Blues, R&B or Jazz,” said Doc Jones, Executive Director of International Jazz Day AZ Foundation. Corona is one of the best-known beers in the world; people from all corners of the globe love its refreshing taste. First brewed in Mexico in 1925, Corona has become a staple in millions of American households, and now you will be able to enjoy it at the soon-to-be biggest music festival in Arizona.

Scottsdale Jazz Festival will also be partnering with Republic National Distributing Company , which is the largest wines and spirits import company in the US.

If you are looking for a good jeweler, look no further Molina Fine Jewelers is the one.

Molina Fine Jewelers is not only a one-of-a-kind jewelry salon but a truly unforgettable experience. The House of Molina will help you to choose a luxury diamond ring, timepiece, bracelet, or design a custom masterpiece that will be cherished in your family for generations to come.

Doc Jones Scottsdale Fest Producer

Karen Cahn

-

Festival Manager

alfredo Molina Festival Chairman

PHOTO BY BOB RINK

Son Honors Legacy for Father’s Love for Jazz In Scottsdale, Arizona With Jazz Appreciation Month and the 10th International Jazz Day just months away, 504Mag, a New Orleans based magazine, and 602 AZ magazine are reflecting back at some of the legends in jazz History. Individuals such as James ‘Jimmy’ Nassikas Sr, the world-class hotelier, and jazz enthusiast, have made massive contributions to jazz and blues music for over 60 years until passing away at 91years old in 2019.

Jimmy’s legacy is living on through the work of his son, William ‘Bill’ Nassikas, as well as Executive Director of International Jazz Day Arizona, William Doc Jones, as they plan to broaden the impact of jazz in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Jimmy often said, “the ever-present menace of mediocrity requires eternal vigilance,” and this wisdom can be found in the tireless efforts in the communities, schools, artists, historians, academics, and jazz enthusiasts who have contributed to this celebration every year.

Each year on April 30, thanks to the United Nations, keyboard master Herbie Hancock, and Arizona Jazz Ambassador Doc Jones this international art form is recognized for promoting peace, dialogue among cultures, diversity, and respect for human rights and human dignity; eradicating discrimination; promoting freedom of expression; fostering gender equality; and reinforcing the role of youth in enacting social change. If ever we can use some peace in the country it’s now.

Mr. Nassikas traveled around the United States, working at various hotels. In 1960, he was the Food and Beverage Manager at the Royal Orleans Hotel in New Orleans. In moving to New Orleans, Jimmy stated that he “went down there reluctantly and left even more reluctantly.”

“He felt right at home in New Orleans,” said Jimmy’s son, Bill. “People embraced him.”

Mr. Nassikas became Vice President and General Manager of the Royal Orleans Hotel, which soon became the venue that hosted many of his celebrated jazz events that were as attended by famous artists like Louis Armstrong.

Additionally, through the Royal Orleans Hotel concerts, Jimmy met Edgar Stern Jr., who he helped open the Royal Sonesta hotels in 1970.

Mr. Nassikas, better known as Jimmy, had a constant dedication to jazz and aided the genre’s success in New Orleans. An avid music-lover and jazz piano player, Jimmy was president of the New Orleans Jazz Club and used his position as Vice President of the Royal Orleans Hotel to hold small concerts for jazz musicians.

Jimmy advanced his contributions to the jazz scene in New Orleans by helping found the Krewe of Bacchus, a parade celebrating Mardi Gras in New Orleans. The parade was founded in 1968 by a handful of New Orleans business leaders, including Jimmy, and is now revered as one of the most spectacular crews in Carnival history.

“My dad, Owen ‘Pip’ Brennan, was a great asset to Bacchus,” said the Krewe’s current captain and son of Pip Brennan, Owen Brannan III. “Jimmy was another hospitality manager who shared Pip’s vision to make Mardi Gras a better show for New Orleans visitors and locals alike.”

Scottsdale, Arizona is blessed to have William Bill Nassikas working to continue his father’s legacy in Arizona. Bill who is President and Chief Operating Office o Westroc Hospitality, an Arizona-based resort, and hotel development and management company, has become a major supporter of Doc Jones’s mission to bring the Flavor of New Orleans to Scottsdale, Arizona.

While the Covid-19 pandemic has sadly forced the postponement of in-person large festivities this year, International Jazz Day AZ is planning on hosting a variety of events on a smaller scale and streaming platform to maintain the spirit of jazz in Arizona. Doc plans to kick off the Jazz Day weekend on April 29th at the Sanctuary Resort on continue on to Hotel Valley Ho on Jazz Day April 30th, then do a major International Jazz Day Encore Concert at the Mountain Shadows Resort.

In 2020, UNESCO and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz carried on the tradition, despite Covid-19, presenting a fully virtual celebration of International Jazz Day, with free online education programs and a star-studded Virtual Global Concert.

The concert, which was dedicated to the countless medical workers and first responders on the front line, brought together jazz lovers from around the world as they recorded hundreds of performances, greetings, and other special Jazz Day tributes in a collective expression of solidarity. April 30 was officially declared as International Jazz Day

by UNESCO in 2011, and ever since it has been a day dedicated to celebrating and uniting people through music. International Jazz Day has promoted communities all over the world to celebrate jazz and learn about its roots.

James Nassikas Introduces Louis Armstrong

Doc Jones and Bill Nassikas have been working tirelessly along with their Steering Committee to create Scottsdale’s own signature jazz festival, and plan to keep promoting International Jazz Day to continue bringing together people of different cultures and communities.

It is notable that Jazz is an art form that bonds individuals, regardless of race, gender, or creed. There were various Jazz Day events hosted around the world in 196 countries.

Together Bill and Doc are planning on bringing the flavor of New Orleans to Scottsdale for the first time in 2021 with the International Jazz Day concert series. Working with multiple business partners, including Molina Fine Jewelers, Crescent Crown Distributing, Young’s Market Company, Constellation Brands, city officials, and leaders of the arts community, the festivities are aiming to continue the work of the great genre that James ‘Jimmy’ Nassikas started decades earlier in New Orleans.

International Jazz Day is a living example of Mr. Nassikas’ memory, as his contributions shaped the jazz music scene significantly. May he rest in peace and know his work lives on through the efforts of his son, William Nassikas.

William “Bill” Nassikas

TAKE A CULINARY

ADVENTURE

In the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, you’ll find a neighborhood favorite and culinary destination all wrapped into one. Indulge in inventive approaches to classic flavors with friends—old and new. We invite you to pull up a chair, raise a glass, and enjoy whatever the next moment brings.

“We find new inspiration daily for our menu concepts and I personally invite you to come eat at the ‘Zu.” —Chef Russell LaCasce

Z U Z U | V H S PA | O H P O O L B A R + C A B A N A S | O H A S I S P O O L 6850 E. Main St. Scottsdale, AZ 85251 | hotelvalleyho.com | 844.890.4401

“WITH MUSIC ON THEIR MIND

THERE’S NO TIME FOR CRIME” Doc Jones / 602 AZ mag

Photos By: Doc Jones

This is the namesake of the Sazerac cocktail, among the oldest American cocktails and one that still turns heads (especially in New Orleans).

Once considered among the best bangs for your buck in the rye world, it’s suffered from its own cult success, and the price tag has risen over the years. It’s complex, both spicy and a little sweet, and tastes very similar to Old Overholt and Rittenhouse. In fact, a general rule would be to buy Old Overholt to save money, Sazerac for an easy drinker and Rittenhouse for cocktails.

Scottsdale Pawnshop / 480-945-1617 7222 E. 2nd St. Scottsdale,AZ 85251

Article with photo

ANDREA GOMEZ Publisher’s Note: In this issue, as in the past, 504mag goes out of its way to introduce upand-coming artists. Throughout my travels, and especially in New Orleans, I somehow always manage to happen upon a potential musical icon. This time, while walking down Frenchman Street, I could not help but overhear the sounds emanating from the low end of the band. This sound was obviously the “bass”. It was a driving beat that made me pause and wonder, “who is this guy holding down this groove?” Well, to my surprise, it was a tall, attractive young lady instead.

Reveling in this surprise, I of course stopped and soon discovered that she had the band on back, and carried them all night. Now, I have heard some of the best bass players in the world; including Rufus Reed, Charley Mingus, and Esperanza Spaulding. Now we introduce and add Andrea Gomez to the line-up of fine musicians “on the rise.”

In a world where classical music seems to be exclusive to the bourgeoisie, Cellist Andrea Gomez keeps us grounded with her approach to the eclectic art of the “string & bow”.

Cello, and close cousin to the violin, viola, and double-bass, happens to be Andrea’s instrument of choice. Upon examining her performances up close, one can’t help but to become enthralled by her grace and superb skill. It soon becomes obvious the passion and work ethic she has for playing

Like a sylph, she becomes the cello and the bow- a mere extension of her limbs. Her left hand vigorously caresses the four strings in a manner that would invoke envy from any self-respecting masseuse. The sum of all the physical motion equals a sound synonymous with pure relaxation. Her rendition of “Four Seasons of Buenos Aires” by Astor Piazzolla is exquisite. http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=ph4S9J-tbmY Andrea has performed at such prestigious venues as the Kennedy Center in Washington DC, and the Sala Santa Cecilia in Rome. She has played in the chambers with the National Symphony Orchestra of Costa Rica, and the Pg 32

Loyola Symphony Orchestra in Puerto Rico. She’s no “one trick pony” as she has also played the electric bass with Rumba Buena, Javier Olondo & Asheson, and master percussionist Bill Summers. In the New Orleans area, her presence in major festivals has become expected like a Po Boy hoagie to a hungry sailor

Ms. Gomez has been the delightful host and content producer for the weekly TV show “Que Pasa New Orleans” airing on Telemundo T42 and WDSU channel 6.

She holds a Master degree in Business Administration from the University of New Orleans and she majored in Music Industry Studies at Loyola University, New Orleans LA. Coupled with her unique musical style and on-air related skills, Andrea easily coordinates public relations and press releases. Some of her content highlights include the coverage of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, the French Quarter Festival, Latin Billboard Awards, the Crescent City Classic, Doug Casey Research Summit, Interview with singer Alejandro Sanz, Rumba Fitness, Health and Wellness segments, Simba and Friends “Paws for a Cause” Benefit, among others Delving into the realm of this gifted young lady’s treasure trove of education and business prowess, 504magazine discovered that Andrea obtained a Masters in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from the University of New Orleans, not to mention a degree in Music Industry Studies from Loyola University New Orleans. Probably complex to most of us common-folk, not to mention the average musician, Andrea is certified in Six Sigma, a quality control methodology that utilizes data to define, monitor, analyze, control, and improve operational performance by eliminating and preventing defects in products and associated processes, including management, service delivery, design, production and customer satisfaction. But wait, Andrea also specializes in providing business owners with advice on improving business results through improved utilization of advanced marketing and management tools. Her background in performing arts and her understanding of Hispanic culture gives her a competitive edge in the creation of marketing strategies for the Hispanic entertainment market.

Photo by: Chef Overall

By Doc Jones

Article with photo

Photo By Jan Jenson

NAYO JONES By: Shirley Jones NEW ORLEANS — Although she considers herself “a baby in the music business,” Nayo Jones commanded the Congo Square stage at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival Friday with the grace and fire of a seasoned veteran.

“This is such a huge festival and I’m just honored to be on the bill with such seasoned artists,” she said in an interview with The Associated Press. “I think what has worked in my favor has been that I’ve never tried to emulate anyone else though I’m inspired and influenced by many. I’m just me and I think that those in the audience can sense my genuine love for what I do and that’s catching on like wildfire. I’m just blown away by it.”

In her festival debut, the Phoenix, Ariz., native drew fans in with sultry, velvety tones on jazz standards like “Route 66” and “My Funny Valentine,” as well as tunes from her own release, “My Name is Nayo Jones.” “That felt great,” Jones said after the show. “I have this rush of relief and it’s always great to see the crowd respond to the stuff I wrote.”

George Salario, of Long Beach, N.Y., said he was attracted to Jones’ voice and stayed in front of the stage as the sun’s rays beamed down because of it. “She’s got a great voice, so up and down and real smooth,” he said. “She makes it seem so easy, like she’s just breathing.” George Hochschwender, of Andover, N.J., said Jones’ singing was “first-rate.” “I heard her from a distance and said, ‘Listen to that,’” he said. “You know it’s good when you get shivers in this weather.” Salario said one of the reasons he returns year after year to the festival is because of opportunities to hear new acts like Joes. Sayonara Davis, of New Orleans, said she’d heard Jones perform in other

venues in the city and was glad the festival booked her for this year’s event.

“Giving new artists a chance to get heard is one of the festival’s greatest services,” she said. “And, we get treated when surprise artists pop up like today.”

Festival-goers out early to hear Jones’ set were rewarded when trumpeter Kermit Ruffins appeared and sang “On The Sunny Side of the Street.” Ruffins said he recruited Jones to work with him after hearing her sing about four months ago.

“She’s got a strong voice and she’s such a little bitty thing,” he said. “When you can sing like that, people love her. I’m so blessed to have her talent backing me up.”

Jones said Ruffins told her he was going to “put her to work,” and he’s been a man of his word. “I’ve been all over with him, New York twice, Florida, Mississippi,” she said. Jones, who holds a degree in economics from Spelman College, is a classically-trained flutist and never really saw herself as a singer. Her father, jazz pianist William “Doc” Jones, had other ideas. “I can’t say that I wanted to do this,” Jones said. “I remember when I was 14 or 15, saying to him ‘I don’t know why you’re pushing me so hard. It’s not like I’m going to do this professionally.’

And I really believed that.” She had a 9-to-5 job until her dad had a fundraiser for one of his nonprofits and he asked her to sing. She said she suffered stage fright when she sang, but not when she played flute. “But the audience loved it

and my dad was a working musician so I would come out and do one or two songs during his shows and that snowballed into venues asking, ‘Are you bringing your daughter?’ And now here I am. So I guess it’s always been in my destiny.”

Jones said she was nervous before the show but “up for the challenge.” “If I go out there and have a good time and do what I do and share my gift, I think it will be all right. I just want to deliver for the fans.”

Melissa Lomax, celebrating her 58th birthday, said Jones more than delivered.

“I think she has a beautiful voice and a hell of a band backing her up,” said Lomax, of Raleigh, N.C. “What a way to celebrate my birthday! It’s been a most incredible experience.”

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Photo By: Elsa Hahne

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NEAMEN LYLES Every now and then, we’re given another opportunity to get to know a musical artist at a deeper level – to get a clearer glimpse of the creative force within, and the ways in which it’s manifested in the aural world. Such is the case today with Neamen Lyles, the young saxophonist whose second album now makes its way into the marketplace of musical idea.As you come to know this rising smooth jazz artist, and hear his latest recorded output, you genuinely, deeply appreciate where he came from and where he’s headed.

And, if you’re looking for validation of that appreciation, a glance at his record of accomplishments and associations over the past half dozen years provides it in ample measure.Accomplishments and associations: Recordings and performances with the likes of Jeff Lorber, Rick Braun, Mel Brown, Mindi Abair. Shared concert billings with Dave Koz, Jay Soto, Greg Karrukas and others. No slackers in those lists. Accomplishments and associations: Multiple rave reviews for his 2011 debut CD, So Free. Continued national TV and radio airplay since that release.

Singles reaching Top-40 status nationwide. An XM-Radio artist of the week.

Recording the theme for PBS’s hit show “Dr. Who”. So now, you do know a bit about this man, this rising smooth jazz star, Neamen Lyles. At least you know a bit about his track record – his accomplishments and associations.But, there’s more to know, more than meets the eye or the ear.

Neamen is more than a sax performer, more than a musical artist of considerable achievement, more than a dynamic, at times inspiring, performer on stage.

Neamen Lyles’ roots are firmly planted in the Southwest. An Arizona native, he honed his musical chops through high school in Phoenix, then burnished them in Tucson for four more years, earning a Jazz Studies degree at the highly-regarded University of Arizona Fred Fox School of Music. Along the way regional, national and international touring with U of A en-

sembles, and opportunities to share the stage with a Who’s Who of American jazz greats, added more polish. Those years in academia came about organically, an entirely natural path for a guy who has long known what he wanted and a strong sense of how to get there. “My interest in the saxophone began when I first heard a David Sanborn tune on the radio – at about age 12, no less – and I knew right then and there that making music on this instrument was for me.” Some young aspiring musical artists slog through their practice drills, the solitary times they must spend developing and refining their craft. Not so for the young Neamen, who notes: “I began practicing two hours a day from the very beginning” – a discipline that no doubt served him well in the years since, given the three- our four-hour-per-day practice regimen typical for college instrumental performance majors.

Then there’s his pedagogical side. A key faculty member at the Tucson Jazz Institute, he’s had the chance to mentor and nurture a growing studio of talented young students at the Institute, where he teaches improvisation and also coaches combos. The Institute has become one of the leading centers for youth jazz instruction in the nation.

And there’s a spiritual side that keeps him focused…centered…disciplined almost beyond measure. The joy he exudes in music-making – the gift from God that he shares so generously — is palpable, not only in his playing, but also in his genuine, down-to-earth way of living, loving and relating to the world. It’s a contagious joy, and it flows from a deep, deep well. Growing up in the 80’s and 90’s, strengthened by his faith, and intrigued by the burgeoning “smooth jazz” genre and movement, Neamen developed a style both unique and universal, an approach to his sound that both honors those who’ve preceded him and marks a fresh, clearly delineated path forward.

It’s a path that reveals some new twists and turns on Neamen’s latest CD, Moment of Truth. Hear it, and you’ll know a bit more about this talented, ambitious, forward-thinking sax master. You’ll know a bit more about his musical roots, his spiritual journey, and why those remarkable accomplishments and associations keep showing up in such abundance, such plentitude. Neamen Lyles: author of an ascending career, creator of a dynamic new CD, as well- conceived and produced as anything in the genre in a long while. This young man’s musical journey, along with the accomplishments and asHarry Conick Jr sociations that comprise it, is just getting rolling. It’s worth a watch and a listen

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Mark Whitfield graduated from Boston’s prestigious Berklee College of Music, the

College of Music and graduated in 2011 with honors. He went on to study for his

world’s foremost institution for the study of Jazz and modern American music in

Masters Degree at the Manhattan School of Music while simultaneously embarking

the spring of 1987. Shortly thereafter, he returned to his to his native New York to

on a career as a drummer extraordinaire. He has quickly earned a reputation as one

embark on a career as a Jazz Guitarist that afforded him the opportunity to collabo-

of the best young drummers in Jazz and was nominated for a Grammy in 2014 as

rate with legendary artists including Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey, Quincy Jones, Ray

part of the ensemble featured on Kenny Garrett’s 2013 release “Pushing the World

Charles, Herbie Hancock, Carmen McRae, Gladys Knight, Burt Bacharach, Jimmy

Away”. Not to be outdone by his older brother, Davis Whitfield, a prodigious pianist,

Smith, Clark Terry, Shirley Horn, Wynton Marsalis, Branford Marsalis, Joe Williams,

earned a Presidential Scholarship and graduated from the Berklee College of Music

Stanley Turrentine and his greatest teacher and mentor George Benson.

with honors in 2014. Together, the “Whitfield Family Band” has created a brand new

In 1990 the New York Times dubbed Whitfield “The Best Young Guitarist in the

recording project. “Grace” was be released on January 24th, 2017. It features Mark

Business”. Later that year, Warner Bros. released his debut album “The Marksman”.

Whitfield on guitar, Mark Whitfield Jr. on drums, Davis Whitfield on piano, Yasushi

The success of his debut release led to a recording career that has produced a total

Nakamura on bass and the incredible Sy Smith singing the title song, Grace.

of 14 solo recordings and a myriad of collaborative efforts with some of the most

Yehosheba “Bass Girl” Yisrael is a 16 year old bassist and visual artist currently residing in New Orleans, LA. Born in Orlando, FL, she also called Rochester, NY and Atlanta, GA her home where she important artists inwith recent her years; mother.

Sting, Steven Tyler, D’Angelo, Blige,of John resided In 2008 at Mary the J.age 12, she moved to Birmingham, AL with her father Dr. Lud Yisrael. It was at this point where she tapped into her musical bloodline. Her dad was the musical Mayer,director Chaka Khan,the Jill Scott, Diana Krall,acclaimed Christian McBride, Chris ensemble Botti, Roy regionally youth The Neo Collective and the bass player for his family trio with included her two brothers. She then fell into tradition of her brothers by adopting and mastering one of the​Amany instruments theirBand” father Hargrove and Nicholas Payton. long the way the “Whitfield Family was played. Needless to say, she then replaced her father as the bass player. Some of her musical influences include Jaco Pastorius & Esperanza Spalding. Genres that influenced her styleQuartet of playing include jazz, funk and reggae.o born, literally.

In 1994 The Mark Whitfield appeared on the Thanksgiving Being member of The Neo Collective and The Yisrael Trio has enabled her to perform major festivals such City Stages, Taste of Fourth Avenue Jazz Festival, The Preserve Jazz Festival, BAAMFest and featured in the 2011 Jazz In the Park series Birmingham. They opened and performed with great national guest drummer, 4 year old Mark Whitfield Jr. It was obvious even then that he was acts such as Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, SF Jazz Collective, Herbie Hancock and Gerald Albright.

Day broadcast of Good Morning America. This performance featured a very special

destined for greatness. Following in his father’s footsteps he attended the Berklee

MARK WHITFIELD JAZZ GUITARIST

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JAZZ MUSICIANS NEED AFFORDABLE HOUSING TOO!

Internation Jazz Day AZ Foundation / Dba Jazztown USA Is Joining the

“We will hand them a real lottery ticket, like the kind that you would

Movement To Create Low-Cost Housing for Creative Artists (Empha-

get from the AZ State lottery or something similar,” says Doc Jones.

sis on Jazz Musicians) After careful consideration and watching the

Our partners are committed to collaborating on developing affordable

aftermath of musicians being out of work for the last few months due

housing for creative artists. Many of these arts industry workers, have

to the Covid-19 virus, a lot of our musicians will be losing their homes

no fixed income. We will have to develop a process based of something

and apartments. International Jazz Day AZ Foundation is in the process

other than the norm.

of developing affordable housing for creative artists with emphasis on Jazz musicians. The Foundation will be working to create an affordable housing lottery. It will allow low-income creative artist (Jazz Musicians) to rent or buy homes through our foundation. The Foundation selects winners at random from a pool of Pre-qualified applicants. Though the system is mostly online these days, some of the methods will still be decidedly old school.

JAZZ TOWN USA BUILDING A GRASS ROOTS CAMPAIGN FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING!

grassroots organizing will bring an important voice to Affordable housing for Jazz & Blues musicians. In addition, grassroots organizing builds the power needed for this project to achieve its goal. Without the power of a significant number of informed and organized creative Artist supporters, even the best pro-affordable housing policy agenda

Whether the aim is to pass or prevent passage of legislation on a parwill often fail. The tool includes information about both building our ticular affordable housing issue, defend against cuts to critical public internal grassroots organizing capacity and building that capacity by programs, or educate a particular constituency about the impact of a developing strong partnership with other organizations. law or regulation, Jazztown USA will be seeking to advance a affordNo matter which path Jazztown USA chooses, we hope collaborations able housing agenda for creative artists, and it must have five advocacy from our friends and associates who have experience with developing capacities to succeed. and financing affordable housing projects will help us to build a strong These five advocacy capacities build the foundation for a greater grassroots base, thereby enhancing our ability to attack investors to system of advocacy, moving ideas from opportunities to policy change invest in the campaign. with supporting capacities of leadership and evaluation. Grassroots organizing is one of the essential capacities we have to carry out for a successful Jazz Town USA campaign. Tapping into the power of

JAZZ TOWN USA Coming 2024

Concept drawing of Jazz Town USA

Jazz Day AZ Crossing the Border program in Alamos Mexico Sonora

SUPPORT OUR NEXTSTUDENT ACADEMY PROGRAM! MAKE YOUR DONATION TODAY jazzdayaz.com

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MUSICIANS NEEDS AFFORDABLE HOUSING NOW!

jazztownusa.com

MAKE YOUR DONATION TODAY jazzdayaz.com