Lotl The Zone

In the world of jazz, commodities are fleeting. Styles come and go. Artists at the top of this week’s charts could be history by the end of next month. Words like “staying power” and “longevity” are for anyone or anything that sticks around for more than a couple years. But then there are those rare few, gifted with the right stuff, who hang in for the long haul – musical collectives that continue to explore and evolve album after album, year after year, decade after decade, eschewing fashion and fad and reaching instead for something much more permanent. This is the story of Pieces of a Dream, a contemporary jazz band that opens the next chapter with their 40th anniversary and the release of their new album Just Funkin’ Around.

In a time when most of us are carrying around devices in our pockets that can pull up and play just about any song from music history, there is something exhilarating about the fuzzed-out wheel of fortune that is an FM radio dial. To take a break from the constant onslaught of information and decisions and hand the steering wheel over to someone else for a while feels both nostalgic and liberating. Remember when that’s all there was? The sweet static-filled unpredictability of the radio and a stack of carefully chosen records that you listened to over and over and over again?  As soon as the first track begins on this wide-ranging record, that familiar sound emerges like a beacon: the squeal and squalor of a radio dial, tuned by André Cymone himself, inviting us to step back in time. For the next 51 minutes, he’s got this. All we have to do is sit back, open up our minds, and listen.  And back we go, back before André Cymone became a revered studio musician and producer, before he toured the world alongside

K Sloan is a Singer- Songwriter born and raised in Metro- Detroit, Michigan. She began singing at the age of twelve with a program called Mosaic Youth Theatre of Detroit and since then music has been an integral part of her life. Always carrying the spirit of Motown and artistry in her heart she went on to study Theatre in the acting Conservatory at DePaul University in Chicago, Illinois. Throughout the program she cultivated her love of music by auditioning and being cast in manyt of the programs musicals.  In 2013, after moving to New York City Kelly decided to be brave and hone her skills as a song writer. What started out as a intimate and soulful jam sessions among friends soon developed, over two years into 15+ songs both in collaboration and as a solo artist. In the spring of 2014 she was commissioned to write the theme song and co-write on the soundtrack for the short film “Go Fish” by Jamila Brown. In fall of 2015 after performing at and being inspired by the musical talent at Monday night Open Mic

With her Latest single " Sideline Feat. Jazmine Sullivan

When Gloria is not in a studio or on the stage, she donates her time and talents as a humanitarian. In January, Gloria traveled to Kampala, Uganda for the third time with The Reaction Tour in conjunction with Kenneth Copeland Ministries. She gave makeup tutorials to the young women and taught hip hop dance classes. The tour was formed to empower children around the world through the avenues of sports, discipleship, dance and music and to display God’s love. The single and music video for her song “Right There” dropped on May 5, 2017. The single is produced by Grammy nominated producer Keyzbaby (who’s worked with artists such as Beyonce, Seyvn, Elhae, Chris Brown, Drake, and Omarion) and written by Marquis Rachad. The song refers to a girl who’s been hurt and let down countless times in her relationships. Finally, she meets a guy who brings something different than what she’s used to, but from being beat down in her love life, she feels she has nothing left to offer him. She holds out hope, however, that once

Tomi Jenkins is an original member and co-founder of the Legendary Funk/R&B group Cameo. He's co-written many of the groups biggest hits like Word Up, Candy, Single Life, Flirt, and more. Life 2 Remember is the first single from his upcoming EP A Life To Remember, which also features 6 more eclectic and diverse tracks that traverse his 40 year funk, rock, R&B career. The Ep will be available soon. Life 2 Remember tells the story of a musician who's seen it all and done it all in his long career but in the end, all of it didn't matter as much as finding the one woman who made his life one to remember

Considered by fans and critics alike as being one of the music industry’s most influential artists, Walter Beasley is the acclaimed saxophonist, vocalist, educator, and entrepreneur of our time. Moving into the year 2000, he became known for not only being the highest selling full time faculty member ever, but also the only teacher, in history, to successfully grace the Billboard charts for four decades. Born in 1961 in the town of Brawley, and transitioning to El Centro, California, Beasley’s melodious roots were established as he was introduced to not only the African American sounds of R&B, Motown and Gospel , but also to Spanish culture and the vibes of Mariachi and Boleros; to name a few. “I learned that the language was beautiful” says Walter, and by the age of 13, he was not only playing, but singing in Spanish as well. Beasley attributes much of his appetite for jazz to Mr. Jimmie Cannon, who at the time had come off the road from playing with the late Count Basie, and settled in the area; taking

New York, NY (April 11, 2017) – Alfa Anderson, former member of the iconic funk soul band Chic (Le Freak, Good Times, Everybody Dance), will release a new single, "When Luther Sings," in honor of her longtime friend Luther Vandross 66th birthday.  The rousing, heartfelt tribute is written by Anderson and co-produced by multi-talented Bert Price.  Available nationwide on April 20, When Luther Sings is the first single from Anderson’s long-awaited debut solo album, From My Heart (set for release summer 2017).  “When Luther Sings is my homage to good friend and musical mentor Luther Vandross; the song is autobiographical in many ways,” said Anderson. “As our professional relationship grew, he taught me so much about vocal technique and stage presence.  As a matter of fact, Luther is one of the co-creators of the Chic vocal sound.  I am forever grateful for the doors he opened for me and for the golden friendship we shared.For years, Anderson was an integral member of Vandross' touring band and performed at Wemb

jazz/folk/soul singer-songwriter  Brenda Nicole Moorer's new full-length, Brand New Heart! We've been working on this project for over three years, so it feels so great to have it finally done and ready for your ears! Featuring a gorgeous collaboration with special guest Chris Turner, plus nine other original songs. Produced, engineered and mixed by Jesse Fischer  at Electrik Indigo Sound, Brooklyn, with additional recording at the awesome 800 East in Atlanta, GA.

LOVECOVERS! A beautifully illustrated and expressed musical message of healing truth from preeminent and peerless jazz saxophonist Kirk Whalum arrives just in time for a world whose rhythm is more than a tad off-kilter. And at the heart of this homage to love, what else, the good news… the everlasting “Gospel” message of God’s covering and enduring love. Sync this with Kirk Whalum’s masterfully arranged and inspired saxophone reverie, a host of music’s most acclaimed instrumental talent (Paul Jackson, Jr., Chester Thompson, the late Ricky Lawson, John Stoddart, Kirk’s son Kyle, among others) and the contemporary Gospel stylings of Cedric and Victor Caldwell and you’ve got a stratospheric worship experience. And though Kirk’s matchless artistry is front and center on #LOVECOVERS, nuanced and stirring vocals abound with a stellar list of guests including Nia Allen, Ruby Camille, Donnie McClurkin, Wendy Moten, Kevin Whalum, plus Angie, BeBe, Carvin, and Debbie Winans. The album, like so many things in the journe

              " LOVE IS MY SALVATION "

"HOW DAT FEEL" is the third single lifted from Alexis Nicole's forthcoming recently released debut visual EP, "DAYBREAK".  The sassy and in-your-face mid-tempo groove was written by Alexis Nicole and produced by @Officials_mg.   "HOW DAT FEEL", is the "ultimate bounce back" record. It's for anyone that has ever felt taken for granted, and rose above. It's fun, playful, energetic and still kinda bossy," says Alexis.  "Not to mention it has an element of flash to it as if to say, "Look at me now!!!," she adds.

What does it take to be great? Have you ever thought of what goes into being recognized around the world for excelling in your work and accomplishing what most would consider impossible? What does it feel like to become immortalized by text, sound and picture? How much discipline does it take to stay relevant at your field of work for over 40 years? What does it say about a person’s character when their memory will live on long after they physically leave the earth? How do you become a LEGENDARY FIGURE? Many people will live their entire lives without even trying to fathom the answers. However, one man could write a book about seeing the world from a bird’s eye view, and that man is Freddie Jackson. After almost 4 decades in the music industry, Freddie Jackson is still upholding his buzz with fans and promoters around the world. Early on in his career, Freddie became the voice of the “Grown and Sexy” by singing some of the world’s most memorable music. Whether it was time to dance or time for romance, Freddi

Masiela is not only an actress, but she is also an author and a great cook as well. A new book titled The Living Air  that touches on the topics of talk love, marriage, family and finding your true self. It is already available on Amazon,  Masiela Lusha’s poems are missives from inner space—heartfelt, evocative lyrics of immediate presence. “A poet is a lonely collector,” Lusha writes, inviting readers to walk with her “Where the streets are thin / And the world is tight around me.” The Living Air is alive with “alphabets of experience” that celebrate the journey of our lonely (and necessary) collecting.  She is best known from her first major role as Carmen Consuela Lopez on the ABC’s globally syndicated sitcom George Lopez; a role which earned her two consecutive Young Artist Awards for Leading Young Actress in a Comedy or Drama. She immigrated to America with her mother at a young age. English is Lusha's fourth language and at the tender age of twelve, Lusha began a modeling career in Michigan. Af

"There's something sparkly about Stelle Amor...its something that emanates from inside of her, and something that comes through in her funk­inspired soulful songs. Self described "Soulful Siren" Stelle Amor is turning up the heat with her sultry new single "Spike's Groove". The Nashville­based "soul­ternative" singer debuted the track last week on Atwood Magazine. "Spike's Groove" starts out soft with a seductive, jazzy feel, which pulses and grows until it finally crescendos over in an ecstatic bluesy guitar solo. "Rocking a jaw­dropping voice and a classy, nostalgic vibe, Stelle Amor entrances with warm licks and teasing croons that promise to get even the tamest blood boiling." ­ Atwood Magazine "Spike's Groove" is the second single from Stelle Amor's upcoming debut EP, following up "Get Right" which was released last November. Her EP will be available in May of 2017. "Spike's Groove" is now available on all digital platforms, including iTunes, Spotify, and Apple Musi c . "My guitar player

Tracy Cruz has a voice that will melt even the toughest of hearts. This vocal powerhouse aims to connect communities with her universal language of love, hope, and happiness. Her unique musical and lyrical blend -- Bay Area urban soul tinged with the influence of her indigenous Filipino roots --has captured the ears of music lovers around the world. Boasting a vocal range that might be bigger than her, Cruz emanates a classic and timeless feel. Two full-length albums (Feel’osophy and Universoul Symphony) and an EP (Illuminate Love) have garnered numerous awards and nominations including two Bay Area Black Music Awards for "Best CD/Recorded Performance" and "Bay Area Rising Star" as well as Northern California Entertainers Music Award nominations for "Female Neo Soul Artist of the Year" and "Female Entertainer of the Year.” She has supported several established acts including: Kenny Lattimore, Miki Howard, Keke Wyatt and others. The songstress approaches her music unapologetically and freely, staying true to

Humanitarian, entrepreneur and recording artist, BriaMarie is the first artist signed to Ethical Music Entertainment. The Columbia, Maryland native’s music has been featured on VH1, MTV, TV One, Fox and more. The “Fresh Princess”, as she is affectionately known, has shared stages with artists like Ledisi, Tweet, Raheem Devaughn and screen time alongside actors like David Mann, Kim Fields and more. Known for her “fresh” sound, her songs are “bangers” while still giving messages of respect, self-esteem, empowerment, morality and love, having been praised as “[music] with a message that’s pretty hot" on Bossip.com.   BriaMarie’s talents began to blossom at the age of three as she fervently mimicked the sounds of artists like Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Stevie Wonder, and Prince. By age eight, she was singing in the school chorus, reading music and mastering the violin. At age fifteen, she was regularly performing with her father in his local band and teaching herself piano. She quickly developed a flair for

Trumpeter Rick Braun to Release New Album “Around The Horn” Known for his impeccable chops, melodic wizardry and keen compositional prowess, trumpeter, composer and producer Rick Braun has been thrilling audiences for decades. Having clenched over 20 #1 Smooth Jazz hits, Braun has collaborated with the best in contemporary jazz including Kirk Whalum, Norman Brown, Peter White, Dave Koz, Boney James and Brian Culbertson, to name a few. The highly versatile musician has also made a mark collaborating with pop stars like REO Speedwagon, Rod Stewart, Tom Petty, Sade and Natalie Cole. Around The Horn features a refreshing mix of originals such as Vila Vita,” showcasing guitarist Peter White, “Love Take Me,” showcasing rising star and label-mate Lindsey Webster, and the funky “Everything Is Alright.” Around The Horn highlights Braun’s ultra hip and beautiful reworking of Coldplay’s “Yellow,” a vibey re-imaging of Alicia Keys’ hit “In Common,” and a memorable version of the Charlie Puth/Selena Gomez collaborati

Recording artist and songwriter Rosey Gold recently released the visual for her new single “Soulution.” Released during Black History Month, the visual focuses on social injustices in society and holds a touching memorial for black entertainers and figures throughout the video.  “We The Soulution!” Rosey sings on the powerful hook over a funky bass-driven record produced by David Anthony. This “ode to equal rights” is the lead single from her forthcoming EP project Lady, Set, Go! scheduled to be released early summer ’17.”     As a singer/songwriter, Rosey Gold has recorded with various Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum producers including: Lee on the Beats/We The Best Music (Chris Brown, Future), PR Beats, DJ HardWerk (Akon,Prince Royce, Sean Paul), Tha Aristocrats (Tyrese, Ne-Yo), Bolo (Silento), Dre$ki and Tha Narcotics (Machine Gun Kelly, Wiz Khalifa), Sam Sneed (Dr. Dre, 50 Cent), Ron “Amen-Ra” Lawrence (Faith Evans, Aretha Franklin), Donnell Shawn (Mary J. Blige, Day26), Richard “Younglord” Frierso

GLORIA REUBEN RETURNS TO FEINSTEIN’S/54 BELOW WITH LADIES’ NIGHT: GREAT LADIES OF SONG After a sold out debut in December, Gloria Reuben returns to Feinstein’s/54 Below! Gloria is best known as an Emmy Award and Golden Globe Award nominated actress, with acclaimed roles in, among other TV series, ER, Raising the Bar, Falling Skies, and Mr. Robot. Gloria co-starred in Steven Spielberg‘s film Lincoln, where she portrayed Elizabeth Keckley, alongside Daniel Day-Lewis and Sally Field. Even though known as an actress, music has always been a big part of this Toronto-born multitalented artist’s life. She even took time off from her acting career to tour as a backup singer for Tina Turner in Ms. Turner’s tour 24/7! Now Gloria returns to the stage, her longstanding love. Her new show, “LADIES’ NIGHT: Great Ladies of Song” will please audiences with a fresh approach to songs from Ella, Shirley,and Billie to Alanis, Sheryl, and Oleta (among others), in her unique storytelling and intimate singing style. Her most rec