Pieces Of A Dream - "Heading Out" - Shanachie
The great Grover Washington, Jr. discovered, nurtured and produced Pieces of a Dream while James Lloyd and Curtis Harmon were teenage phenoms still in high school. Since then, they have toured the world, sold over three million albums, and scored both smooth jazz and R&B radio hits while garnering legions of dedicated fans! We Got This is a funky, joyful musical celebration, filled with melodic grooves that have made Pieces of a Dream fan favorites. The 10 brilliant originals run the gamut from ‘in the pocket’ R&B to sensuous smooth jazz jams and are proof that Pieces of a Dream are at the top of their game!! The album kicks off with the infectious, jubilant Pieces original “Heading Out,” followed by the super-funky “We Got This,” the sublimely beautiful “Pieces of You,” the vocal tinged, sure-fire hit “Be There For You,” and more exciting Pieces of a Dream originals!
Maysa - "Street Life" - Blue Velvet Records
In her own words: “I am honored to release “Street Life” – a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Joe Sample, The Crusaders, and the incomparable Randy Crawford. This song has long held a sacred place in my musical journey. Its sophistication, soul, and storytelling shaped the sound of contemporary jazz and influenced generations of artists, including me. Reimagining Street Life is both a celebration and a responsibility. I approached this recording with deep reverence for the original while allowing my own voice and lived experience to bring a fresh perspective to its timeless message. Featuring the incredible JJ Sansaverino and arranged & produced by Chris “BIG DOG” Davis, this rendition bridges eras — honoring the foundation while embracing the now. Street Life is the first single from my forthcoming 15th solo studio album, MILESTONES — a project that reflects legacy, growth, gratitude, and the beautiful road that music continues to take me on.”
Ronnie Laws - "Ribbon In The Sky" ft. Stevie Wonder, Howard Hewett, Larry Dunn & Debra Laws - Harmony Records
Legendary saxophonist, composer, and producer Ronnie Laws joins forces with an all-star cast—including Stevie Wonder, Howard Hewett (Shalamar), Larry Dunn (Earth, Wind & Fire), and Debra Laws—for a breathtaking reimagining of Stevie’s 1982 classic, “Ribbon In The Sky.” A deeply personal tribute to Ronnie’s late wife, the single has already ignited a wave of organic momentum, amassing over 267K video views and 15K engagements across social media. The release features two distinct mixes: a radio-ready main version (3:29) and an immersive extended version (6:09) showcasing additional solos.
Belton Mouras Jr - "Dynamo" ft. G. Albright & T. Saunders - BME
The joyous, high octane “Dynamo” is pianist/composer Belton Mouras Jr.’s most immersive and soulful, authentically urban jazz venture yet, with legendary bassist Tony Saunders adding his intense deep bottom to the pianist’s lively melody and thumping grooves and legendary, multi Grammy nominated saxophonist Gerald Albright bringing his trademark robust energy and emotional intensity to create a playful, passionate dance with Mouras’ piano. Personnel: Belton Mouras, Jr. Piano, all keyboards and drum beat programming, Featuring Saxophonist Gerald Albright, courtesy of Bright Music Records and Bassist Tony Saunders, courtesy of Baja/TSR Records.
Carmen Jackson - "Bag's Groove" – Independent
A vibrant new chapter in modern jazz arrives with “Bag’s Groove”, a fresh release honoring the legacy of legendary vibraphonist Milt Jackson. Written as a personal tribute by his niece, the composition reimagines the iconic 1952 piece first recorded with Miles Davis, carrying its unmistakable blues‑infused swing into a new era. This release celebrates Jackson’s unmistakable touch—his lyrical phrasing, soulful harmonic sense, and the cool, unhurried feel that helped define the Modern Jazz Quartet and shape post‑bop history. While rooted in the spirit of the original, the new Bag’s Groove introduces contemporary colors and a personal voice, bridging generations through sound. The project reflects a deep family connection and a lifelong musical influence, offering listeners both nostalgia and discovery. It stands as a testament to Jackson’s enduring impact and the timelessness of his melodic approach.
Jimmy B. - "Keep It Movin'" - WKM Records
Jimmy Baber — better known as Jimmy B, the smooth jazz/funk guitarist who’s been lighting up stages across the country — performed on the 2025 Tom Joyner Fantastic Voyage Cruise! From Billboard-charting hits like “It’s Personal” and “In the Wind,” and new music like “My Old Street”, Jimmy B has become a favorite for fans who crave that soulful, feel-good sound that melts stress away and moves your spirit. Jimmy B and Friends filled the sails and brought their signature sound to the high seas! Those who heard the vibes of Jimmy B and Friends experienced smooth jazz bliss on the Tom Joyner Cruise 2025 — where every wave carried a melody, and every note told a story. On October 4, 2025, Jimmy B and Friends were on the same ticket as famous pianist, David Benoit, and they brought that same energy to Dallas, Texas performing for a packed crowd at the Bishop Arts Theater inside the Dallas Zoo and the audience simply did not want the music to end! The rhythm, the connection, the joy — it was pure musical magic.
Norman Brown - "Chillax" - Shanachie Entertainment
Norman Brown’s new album, titled Authentically Norman, produced by Paul Brown and Wirlie Morris, is set for release on March 20, 2026 on Shanachie and starts off with the first single, the joyful “Chillax”. According to Brown, “The concept behind “Authentically Norman” lies at the heart of this album, representing a deeply personal journey through my life experiences, emotions, and innermost reflections. Each composition is part of an intimate conversation between myself and my listeners, revealing universal themes of joy, struggle, and revelation that have shaped my path as both an artist and a human being. In the process of creating “Authentically Norman” I have tried to remove the layers of my public image and engage in a raw, unfiltered dialogue. These songs express both my triumphs and vulnerabilities, the moments of profound self-discovery, the challenges that have tested my resilience, and the insights that have fueled my personal growth. By opening my heart in this way, my aim is to build a deeper connection with my cherished Normantics.”
Scott Yahney - "Steppin' Back" - SY Productions
Keyboardist Scott Yahney’s new single “Steppin’ Back” puts a “breath of fresh air” in the contemporary jazz genre, characterized by sophisticated songwriting that balances high-energy performance with a funky groove, and a super catchy hook that weaves its way throughout the song keeping your listeners wanting more…
Phylicia Rae - "Take Your Time" - Next Paradigm
Coming off three consecutive #1 radio singles — “Right On Time,” “On My Way,” and “No Regrets” — Phylicia Rae continues to prove that anything is possible. Now releasing her newest single, “Take Your Time,” Phylicia showcases her mastery of the bass while inviting listeners into a reflective, feel-good journey rooted in growth, patience, and purpose. A native of Rochester, New York, Phylicia Rae’s ascent in contemporary jazz has been nothing short of remarkable. Alongside her successful recording career, she also serves as President of the Aloha Jazz Festival, an annual destination event held each August in Honolulu, Hawaii. Recognized as one of the premier bassists in the contemporary jazz space, Phylicia delivers a bold new chapter with “Take Your Time.” The track blends lush timbres with a captivating mid-tempo groove and modern flair, marking a refreshing contrast from her previous releases while highlighting her continued artistic evolution. Its reflective theme encourages listeners to embrace life’s journey – moving with intention and never rushing the process.
Kim Waters - "Sax You Up" - Shanachie
Smooth Urban Jazz superstar Kim Waters has sold over three million albums in his more than 20 years of touring and recording. Loved by R&B and Jazz fans alike, his crossover appeal, scores of Smooth Jazz #1 radio hits and dynamic performances have placed him among the elite in his field. His latest album Time 2 Groove is overflowing with heartfelt melodies and infectious grooves. His latest single, “Sax You Up” is a driving collaboration with Chris “Big Dog” Davis, and together they are putting the FUN in funky!