Interviews

Legendary saxophonist and songwriter Kirk Whalum gained his love of music from a strong musical family and began his musical career singing in the church choir in his hometown of Memphis, Tennessee. As with many soul artists, gospel music was a cornerstone in the foundation of an award winning career …

Of those that studied under Thelonious Monk – a list that includes Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Bud Powell amongst many others – T.S. Monk may be his most successful pupil. Now before you cry foul, understand this: Education is not simply the accruement of knowledge, but its application. If …

Rachelle Ferrell lives her life just as inspired as her music and voice evokes in her listeners. Sometimes she has the spirit-rising old church sound; at other times she has a jazzy melodic flow that makes you want to sit back relax, dig deep within and feel every emotion her …

The list of next generation jazz greats cannot be complete without the name Kendrick Scott. At just 32 years old, composer, bandleader and drummer his resume is already the stuff of legends. After graduating from the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Houston where Scott won numerous …

People go through periods of change or better yet evolution. A time and space for growth, renewal, and rebirth. Singer and songwriter Angie Stone has come out and over the trials, tribulations, the hurts and pains of the past and has evolved in to a stronger woman who is standing …

Sean Jones has No Need for Words. You will understand why he decided to name his latest project by that exact sentiment when you listen to each track. No voice is needed. It would only distract you from the beautiful notes being played underneath. Listening to the music gives you …

We will never fully understand the genius of Thelonious Sphere Monk, Sr. He embodied a particular brand of intellect that extended far beyond the scope of music. His was a way of life. Intelligently designed, it dictated the vivacious artistry we know him for, but also his most significant undertaking …

To be better, to live better, to love better, is Chrisette Michele’s new mantra. With the June 2013, release of her fourth album Better, Michele is in a new and better place; musically, physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Born in Central Islip, New York and raised in Patchogue, New York, …

To impress the likes of Quincy Jones it takes real talent, dedication and commitment to the art of music and jazz trumpeter Dominick Farinacci has just that – real talent, the dedication to hone is craft and commitment to be the best musician. A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Farinacci grew …

Godfather, king, master, pioneer, and living legend are all titles given that have been bestowed upon Roy Ayers by other music greats, like Erykah Badu and Questlove  of the Roots. The 72-year old music icon has been creating, performing, producing and recording timeless classics for over 50 years. He created …

The embodiment of soul can be found in Julie Dexter’s music, her style, her life. She was born and raised in Birmingham, England. A classically trained artist, Dexter has made her way throughout the jazz circle. She was first heard in 1994 on The Jamaican Beat Vol. 1 and later …

You know the spirit of a person not only by the words they speak, or by their actions, but also in the energy that emits from them; the feeling you receive from being around them – this is the experience when in the presence of singer, song-writer, composer and pianist …