Smooth Jazz Chart
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Monday, September 30, 2024
Sunday, September 29, 2024
Louis Stringer: Shaping Jazz’s Future With Global Rhythms #jazz #music
In the world of jazz, where innovation and tradition often dance together in harmonious syncopation, Louis Stringer stands out as a visionary.
In the world of jazz, where innovation and tradition often dance together in harmonious syncopation, Louis Stringer stands out as a visionary. At just 27, this British jazz/world music prodigy has become a pioneering force, known for his exceptional fusion of West African and South American rhythms with free-flowing jazz. His story, as told by London-based journalist Mishti Ali, is not just one of talent but of bold exploration and profound influence.
Louis's journey began as many legendary tales do—with a spark of innate genius. Completely self-taught, he mastered the bass from watching YouTube videos and, without any formal lessons, was accepted into the Royal Birmingham Conservatory with the highest scholarship of the year. His entry into this prestigious institution marked the beginning of a career filled with accolades and standout performances.
Not long after starting at the Conservatory, Louis began making waves on the national and international jazz scene. At 22, he took the stage at the esteemed Cheltenham Jazz Festival, which draws global talent and massive audiences. Switching from his usual upright bass to electric, Louis used complex polyrhythms and broken time, reconstructing grooves with precision. This performance was a testament to his adaptability and deep understanding of diverse musical traditions.
Soon, his talent caught the eye of award-winning UK saxophonist Soweto Kinch. Impressed by Louis, Kinch, who is 30 years his senior, joined Louis’ trio for an exclusive gig at Cherry Reds, a hotspot hailed for offering some of the best live jazz in the UK. This partnership elevated Louis’s profile, leading to his pivotal role as lead bassist and rhythm section leader for the National Youth Jazz Orchestra (NYJO)—a prestigious position achieved by few. NYJO, with its storied history and alumni like the late Amy Winehouse, provided Louis with a platform to shine even brighter.
His influential role with NYJO included a two-day residency at the iconic Cafe OTO during the EFG London Jazz Festival, the largest jazz festival in the UK. This festival is a mammoth event, celebrated by Forbes as “unmissable.” Louis’s leading performance here was nothing short of legendary; his precise timing and serene presence provided a foundation for the orchestra to soar.
In 2021, he became the in-house lead bassist, rhythm section leader and arranger for the award-winning The Spin in Oxford, winner of the “best in the UK” award, further cementing his status in the UK jazz scene. The following year, the BBC featured Louis, heralding him as a “jazz star.”
In 2023, Louis headlined at the renowned Panama Jazz Festival, performing for a crowd of 26,000. “Playing at Panama was surreal,” Louis says. “It’s moments like these that make all the hard work worth it.” Here, he also conducted masterclasses, sharing his invaluable insights with the next generation of musicians.
Currently, Louis imparts his vast knowledge at the Watertown School District in MA, uniquely qualified to teach all major string instruments—bass, violin, viola, and cello. This rare proficiency makes him a one-man orchestra, a phenomenon in the truest sense. And his commitment to nurturing the next generation of jazz musicians extends to conducting masterclasses at prestigious institutions such as Oxford University. It is remarkable to consider Louis, younger than many of his students, commanding a masterclass at one of the world's foremost academic institutions. His ability to inspire respect and admiration stems from a breadth of knowledge and skill that transcends his years.
What truly distinguishes Louis is his extraordinary grasp of the Great American Songbook. He has memorized over 300 tunes and can perform any one of them from memory, in any key, at a moment's notice. This feat goes beyond mere memorization; it reflects a profound, embedded understanding of a vast repertoire. His capability to deliver each piece with a unique interpretation underscores a level of artistry and genius that is exceptional.
Looking ahead, Louis’ schedule is packed with some seriously high-profile engagements that highlight his influence in the jazz world. On October 10, 2024, he’ll step into the spotlight as Guest Bassist and Music Director at the South Jersey Jazz Festival. Following that, he’ll grace the South Beach Jazz Festival on November 1, 2025. What’s especially exciting about these gigs is his collaboration with the renowned Austrian bassist Ciara Moser, who is legally blind. Louis isn't just playing; he’s orchestrating, arranging, and curating her compositions too. Together, they’re pushing boundaries, bringing the bass front and center in ways jazz hasn’t seen before. These performances are set to redefine the role of bass instruments and underscore Louis’s star power in the American jazz scene.
From 2025 to 2027, Louis will take on the role of Artist-in-Residence, Music Director, and Lead Bassist at Wally’s Café Jazz Club , a venue deeply woven into the fabric of U.S. jazz history. Founded in 1947, Wally's is one of the oldest jazz clubs in the country and was among the first African-American-owned clubs in the nation. Being chosen for this residency is not just an honor; it’s a recognition of Louis’s ability to blend innovation with tradition. At Wally’s, Louis will have the opportunity to collaborate with other top-tier jazz musicians, curate groundbreaking performances, and influence the next wave of jazz talent. It’s a role that underscores his standing in the jazz community and his potential to shape its future.
His future engagements also include an exciting residency at the award-winning Lilypad music venue. Known for its cutting-edge performances and vibrant artistic community, Lilypad has become a beacon for creative expression and musical innovation. Louis’s residency here will allow him to explore and expand his unique fusion of jazz styles in an intimate, experimental setting. This residency is a unique opportunity for Louis to interact with a diverse audience and push the boundaries of conventional jazz performances.
On top of those, he’s also lined up major concerts at Dizzy’s Club at Lincoln Center and Nublu in New York. Performing at Dizzy's Club is a significant honor; it’s part of the prestigious Lincoln Center, where only the top-tier artists take the stage. Legends like Wynton Marsalis and Diana Krall have graced this venue, making it a symbol of excellence in the jazz world. This venue is synonymous with excellence and artistry, and being featured here signals Louis's arrival at the pinnacle of the jazz world. Nublu, on the other hand, is a hotspot known for its cutting-edge acts and has hosted giants like Norah Jones and the Brazilian Girls. Playing at these venues will further consolidate Louis’s position among the jazz elite, allowing him to showcase his unparalleled skills to a discerning and appreciative audience.
Louis Stringer's journey is a fascinating portrait of a young maestro who’s reshaping jazz with his unique blend of global rhythms. “Jazz is a living, breathing art form,” he says. “It evolves with every performance, and I’m just excited to be part of that evolution.”
With a career already filled with groundbreaking performances and accolades, Louis Stringer is undoubtedly one of the brightest stars in the jazz constellation. Stay tuned—his next moves promise to be just as thrilling as his journey so far.
Louis's journey began as many legendary tales do—with a spark of innate genius. Completely self-taught, he mastered the bass from watching YouTube videos and, without any formal lessons, was accepted into the Royal Birmingham Conservatory with the highest scholarship of the year. His entry into this prestigious institution marked the beginning of a career filled with accolades and standout performances.
Not long after starting at the Conservatory, Louis began making waves on the national and international jazz scene. At 22, he took the stage at the esteemed Cheltenham Jazz Festival, which draws global talent and massive audiences. Switching from his usual upright bass to electric, Louis used complex polyrhythms and broken time, reconstructing grooves with precision. This performance was a testament to his adaptability and deep understanding of diverse musical traditions.
Soon, his talent caught the eye of award-winning UK saxophonist Soweto Kinch. Impressed by Louis, Kinch, who is 30 years his senior, joined Louis’ trio for an exclusive gig at Cherry Reds, a hotspot hailed for offering some of the best live jazz in the UK. This partnership elevated Louis’s profile, leading to his pivotal role as lead bassist and rhythm section leader for the National Youth Jazz Orchestra (NYJO)—a prestigious position achieved by few. NYJO, with its storied history and alumni like the late Amy Winehouse, provided Louis with a platform to shine even brighter.
His influential role with NYJO included a two-day residency at the iconic Cafe OTO during the EFG London Jazz Festival, the largest jazz festival in the UK. This festival is a mammoth event, celebrated by Forbes as “unmissable.” Louis’s leading performance here was nothing short of legendary; his precise timing and serene presence provided a foundation for the orchestra to soar.
In 2021, he became the in-house lead bassist, rhythm section leader and arranger for the award-winning The Spin in Oxford, winner of the “best in the UK” award, further cementing his status in the UK jazz scene. The following year, the BBC featured Louis, heralding him as a “jazz star.”
In 2023, Louis headlined at the renowned Panama Jazz Festival, performing for a crowd of 26,000. “Playing at Panama was surreal,” Louis says. “It’s moments like these that make all the hard work worth it.” Here, he also conducted masterclasses, sharing his invaluable insights with the next generation of musicians.
Currently, Louis imparts his vast knowledge at the Watertown School District in MA, uniquely qualified to teach all major string instruments—bass, violin, viola, and cello. This rare proficiency makes him a one-man orchestra, a phenomenon in the truest sense. And his commitment to nurturing the next generation of jazz musicians extends to conducting masterclasses at prestigious institutions such as Oxford University. It is remarkable to consider Louis, younger than many of his students, commanding a masterclass at one of the world's foremost academic institutions. His ability to inspire respect and admiration stems from a breadth of knowledge and skill that transcends his years.
What truly distinguishes Louis is his extraordinary grasp of the Great American Songbook. He has memorized over 300 tunes and can perform any one of them from memory, in any key, at a moment's notice. This feat goes beyond mere memorization; it reflects a profound, embedded understanding of a vast repertoire. His capability to deliver each piece with a unique interpretation underscores a level of artistry and genius that is exceptional.
Looking ahead, Louis’ schedule is packed with some seriously high-profile engagements that highlight his influence in the jazz world. On October 10, 2024, he’ll step into the spotlight as Guest Bassist and Music Director at the South Jersey Jazz Festival. Following that, he’ll grace the South Beach Jazz Festival on November 1, 2025. What’s especially exciting about these gigs is his collaboration with the renowned Austrian bassist Ciara Moser, who is legally blind. Louis isn't just playing; he’s orchestrating, arranging, and curating her compositions too. Together, they’re pushing boundaries, bringing the bass front and center in ways jazz hasn’t seen before. These performances are set to redefine the role of bass instruments and underscore Louis’s star power in the American jazz scene.
From 2025 to 2027, Louis will take on the role of Artist-in-Residence, Music Director, and Lead Bassist at Wally’s Café Jazz Club , a venue deeply woven into the fabric of U.S. jazz history. Founded in 1947, Wally's is one of the oldest jazz clubs in the country and was among the first African-American-owned clubs in the nation. Being chosen for this residency is not just an honor; it’s a recognition of Louis’s ability to blend innovation with tradition. At Wally’s, Louis will have the opportunity to collaborate with other top-tier jazz musicians, curate groundbreaking performances, and influence the next wave of jazz talent. It’s a role that underscores his standing in the jazz community and his potential to shape its future.
His future engagements also include an exciting residency at the award-winning Lilypad music venue. Known for its cutting-edge performances and vibrant artistic community, Lilypad has become a beacon for creative expression and musical innovation. Louis’s residency here will allow him to explore and expand his unique fusion of jazz styles in an intimate, experimental setting. This residency is a unique opportunity for Louis to interact with a diverse audience and push the boundaries of conventional jazz performances.
On top of those, he’s also lined up major concerts at Dizzy’s Club at Lincoln Center and Nublu in New York. Performing at Dizzy's Club is a significant honor; it’s part of the prestigious Lincoln Center, where only the top-tier artists take the stage. Legends like Wynton Marsalis and Diana Krall have graced this venue, making it a symbol of excellence in the jazz world. This venue is synonymous with excellence and artistry, and being featured here signals Louis's arrival at the pinnacle of the jazz world. Nublu, on the other hand, is a hotspot known for its cutting-edge acts and has hosted giants like Norah Jones and the Brazilian Girls. Playing at these venues will further consolidate Louis’s position among the jazz elite, allowing him to showcase his unparalleled skills to a discerning and appreciative audience.
Louis Stringer's journey is a fascinating portrait of a young maestro who’s reshaping jazz with his unique blend of global rhythms. “Jazz is a living, breathing art form,” he says. “It evolves with every performance, and I’m just excited to be part of that evolution.”
With a career already filled with groundbreaking performances and accolades, Louis Stringer is undoubtedly one of the brightest stars in the jazz constellation. Stay tuned—his next moves promise to be just as thrilling as his journey so far.
For more information contact All About Jazz.
Source: All About Jazz
Best selling smooth jazz at amazon.com
Jazz from Amazon.com
Saturday, September 28, 2024
Jazz Flutist Kim Scott to Release New Track “Freedom” on October 4th, 2024 #jazz #music
Jazz Flutist Kim Scott to Release New Track “Freedom”
“Freedom,” the new single by jazz flutist Kim Scott, is an enchanting blend of amapiano rhythms, beautiful melodies, and expressive percussion. Written by Greg Manning and Kim Scott, and produced by Greg Manning, this track celebrates the essence of musical expression, weaving together Scott’s soulful flute with vibrant, dance-inducing beats. Set for release on October 4, 2024, “Freedom” captures Scott’s joy and liberation in her musical creation, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the liberating sounds and feel the joy of uninhibited musical creativity.
Preview and Pre-Save Kim’s NEW single
“FREEDOM”
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Innervision Records
Best selling smooth jazz at amazon.com
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Friday, September 27, 2024
Kurt Elling Announces Impromptu Album 'Wildflowers, Vol 2' #music #jazz
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Photo Credit: Kurt Sneddon Kurt Elling Announces |
Today, multi-GRAMMY award-winning vocalist Kurt Elling announced Wildflowers, Vol. 2, the second release in his impromptu Wildflowers series. Recorded on September 20, 2024 with pianist Joey Calderazzo and trumpeter/composer Ingrid Jensen, the project is an inspired fusion of creativity and spontaneity. The album is now exclusively available on Bandcamp ahead of its November 8 release on digital services. |
“It was a thrill to record with Joey for the first time as a duo,” says Elling. I knew from our work together on the road with Branford Marsalis that Joey was a melodic master. To collaborate with him and with Ingrid Jensen for an afternoon was an adventure in focus and dedication.” "For me, it was a chance to stretch a bit and respond to what Kurt was bringing,” explains Calderazzo. “He’s got a unique way of shaping a song, and that pushed me to play in some different spaces. It was a good change of pace and hopefully this recording will surprise people.” Last month, Elling released Wildflowers, Vol. 1, which was conceived, recorded, mixed, mastered and released between August 23 and August 30, 2024. Recorded with pianist Sullivan Fortner, Volume 1 also featured Cécile McLorin Salvant on the song “A Wish (Valentine).” Wildflowers, Vol. 2 is a five-track album featuring the extraordinary collaboration with long-time friend and pianist Joey Calderazzo, alongside the acclaimed trumpeter and composer Ingrid Jensen. In this second collection of impromptu recordings, Elling reveals a remarkable fluidity in his artistic expression, surprising even himself with the rapid flow of creativity—all while seeking authenticity in a world filled with noise. Described as a "Sinatra with superpowers" by The New York Times, Elling’s rich baritone effortlessly marries jazz tradition with modern innovation. His fearless improvisational style allows him to tap into the emotional core of each song, showcasing his extraordinary range and virtuosity. The recording session was nothing short of exhilarating, Elling describes the day: "What a day!! Recorded Volume 2 of Wildflowers—this time with Joey Calderazzo and Ingrid Jensen—C train to Dizzy’s Club to hit with Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at the Lincoln Center Orchestra—then a 1 train to Smoke Jazz Club to reconnect with Branford Marsalis and the blazingest band in the world—and even caught the last notes of Artemis’ genius Birdland Jazz Club." Following the unexpected release of Wildflowers, Vol. 1 in late August—an unfiltered snapshot of musical creativity—Vol. 2 continues this exciting journey. Partnering with Calderazzo, known for his work with legends such as Michael Brecker, Dave Holland, and Branford Marsalis, Elling cultivates a dynamic synergy that embraces a raw, stripped-down sound, both vibrant and deeply resonant. This latest release marks a shift from his GRAMMY-nominated, funk-infused SuperBlue project co-led by Charlie Hunter, as Elling seeks to explore a more intimate musical landscape. Wildflowers, Vol. 2 offers listeners a window into Elling’s evolving artistry, highlighting how modern technology can amplify creativity without sacrificing artistic control. The result is a collection that feels both familiar and distinctly Kurt Elling—always pushing boundaries and inviting listeners into exhilarating sonic experiences. This spontaneous, multifaceted day perfectly captures the essence of Wildflowers, Vol. 2, reflecting Elling's ability to weave moments of connection and creativity into a stunning musical tapestry. Tracklisting: |
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Best selling smooth jazz at amazon.com
Jazz from Amazon.com
New Single from Boney James "Slide" on Concord Records / Concord #jazz #music
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JAZZ AND R&B ICON BONEY JAMES BRINGS THE FUNK ON NEW SINGLE “SLIDE”
Today, legendary saxophonist and composer Boney James released his latest funk inspired single “Slide,” off his upcoming 19th studio album Slow Burn, out October 18th through Concord Records. The infectious groove-laced track features James on tenor saxophone and keyboards backed by all the members of his infamous crack touring band.
“This song has a little Minneapolis feel,” noted James in a recent interview. “I got my start as a professional musician touring with Morris Day, but this is the first time I’ve copped this groove.”
WATCH MUSIC VIDEO HERE
The upcoming album Slow Burn includes an impressive list of guest collaborators, starting with the legendary bass player Marcus Miller, who plays on “Butterfly,” in addition to the album’s opening track “Arcadia.” Multi-instrumentalist Jairus Mozee (Anderson.Paak, Anthony Hamilton, Nikki Minaj, etc.) also co-wrote and co-produced four tracks on the album with Boney, including title track “Slow Burn.” As for the seductive first single “All I Want Is You” featuring rising R&B vocalist October London, James proclaims the track to be “one of the most exciting vocal collaborations I’ve ever recorded.” |
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Slow Burn out October 18
Upcoming Dates Fri, SEP 27-Newport Beach, CA-Back Bay Amphitheater Sat, SEP 28-Temecula, CA-Thornton Winery Wed, OCT 16-Ft Lauderdale, FL-Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker Thu, OCT 17-Clearwater, FL-Clearwater Jazz Holiday Sat, OCT 19-Rehoboth Beach, DE-Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival Sun, OCT 20-Alexandria, VA-Birchmere Mon, OCT 21-Annapolis, MD-Rams Head Early Show Mon, OCT 21-Annapolis, MD-Rams Head Late Show Wed, OCT 23-Charleston, SC-Charleston Music Hall Thu, OCT 24-Orlando, FL-The Plaza Live Fri, OCT 25-Jacksonville, FL-Florida Theatre Sat, OCT 26-Stockbridge, GA-Stockbridge Amphitheater Sun, OCT 27-Charlotte, NC-Knight Theater Wed, OCT 30-Memphis, TN-Minglewood Hall Thu, OCT 31-Lexington, KY-Lexington Opera House Fri, NOV 1-Pittsburgh, PA-Byham Theater Sat, NOV 2-Carmel, IN-The Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts Sun, NOV 3-Cincinnati, OH-The Ludlow Garage Wed, NOV 6-Rochester, NY-Kodak Center Thu, NOV 7-Boston, MA-City Winery Boston Thu, NOV 7-Boston, MA-City Winery Boston Fri, NOV 8-Tarrytown, NY-Tarrytown Music Hall Sat, NOV 9-Philadelphia, PA-Miller Theater Sun, NOV 10-Patchogue, NY-Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts Mon, NOV 11-New York, NY-Sony Hall Wed, NOV 13-Detroit, MI-Sound Board Theater Fri, NOV 29-Kansas City, MO-Uptown Theater Sun, DEC 1-Chesterfield, MO-The Factory Wed, DEC 4-Salem, OR-Elsinore Theatre Fri, DEC 6-Seattle, WA-Jazz Alley Sat, DEC 7-Seattle, WA-Jazz Alley Sun, DEC 8-Seattle, WA-Jazz Alley Tue, DEC 17-Chicago, IL-Thalia Hall Sun, DEC 29-Oakland, CA-Yoshi's Oakland Mon, DEC 30-Oakland, CA-Yoshi's Oakland Tue, DEC 31-Oakland, CA-Yoshi's Oakland Fri, JAN 24, 2025-Chandler, AZ-Chandler Center for the Arts Sat, JAN 25, 2025-Las Vegas, NV-The Smith Center Tue, FEB 11, 2025-Fort Lauderdale, FL-SJ Cruise 1 Tue, FEB 18, 2025-Fort Lauderdale, FL-SJ Cruise 2 Fri, JUN 6, 2025-Napa, CA-Napa Valley Jazz Getaway
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Best selling smooth jazz at amazon.com
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Thursday, September 26, 2024
Pianist Jon Gold releases of "Guanabara Eyes," An Endearing, Genre-Melding Emotional Journey.. #jazz #music
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Best selling smooth jazz at amazon.com
Jazz from Amazon.com