Mark McMillen & Friends - "In Our Hearts & Souls: A Bobby Caldwell Tribute Song" - Independent
Mark McMillen, keyboardist and Music Director with Bobby Caldwell, spent nearly thirty years touring, recording, and co-writing with the legendary vocalist. Upon Bobbys’ passing two years ago, Mark began composing this tribute in hopes of getting contributions from many of the incredibly talented musicians in his band through the years. The response from players and singers who shared the stage with Bobby resulted in these stellar and heartfelt performances. The sentiment is truly reflected in the songs’ title, “In Our Hearts And Souls”…an homage to one of the all-time greats. Dave Koz, Boney James, Michael Lington, Andrew Neu, Roberto Vally, Stan Sargeant, Land Richards, Allen Hinds, Carlyle Bariteau, Tommy V, Jean McLain, Ken Stacey, Tollak Ollestad, Marilyn Scott, Machan Taylor, Jeff Kievit and everyone on this all-star roster was encouraged to express what the experience of knowing and playing with Bobby meant to them.
Jazz Funk Soul - "Over Easy" - Shanachie Entertainment
The leaders of Supergroup Jazz Funk Soul are three of the most important Contemporary Jazz hit makers on the scene today: Jeff Lorber, Everett Harp and Paul Jackson, Jr. – artists and producers responsible for selling millions of albums and scoring more than 50 #1 Smooth Jazz radio hits! As a touring ensemble, they are wowing audiences from coast to coast. Their latest single, “Over Easy” from the upcoming release Simpatico is overflowing with soaring saxophone solos, brilliant guitar riffs, super funky piano solos and incredibly compelling melodies. Other album highlights include the uber-funky “Get Up With JFS ,” the romantic, heartfelt “Janyce,” the spirited, joyful “Dreaming My Life Away,” and much more!
Tony Saunders - "Swagalicious" - Baja/TSR
Tony Saunders new single “Swagalicious”! This is the track that gets a rousing reaction in Tony’s live performances and is one of the most downloaded and streamed song’s on his “The Romance Continues” album. The single was recorded in L.A and San Francisco and features Michael Mani as co-writer and producer, with Bill Hampton on guitar, Mike Parlett on sax, Michael Mani on keys & synth and Tony Saunders on bass.
Walter Beasley - "Lazy Afternoon" - Affable
“During a conversation with one of my students, I discovered that he had Grover Washington Jr.’s saxophone in his possession. He mentioned he was planning to sell it, and in his opinion, I was the person who should have it – so I bought it. The first time I played it; I only played for a minute before placing it back in its case. Then I just sat there, staring at it in awe for thirty minutes. The next time I picked it up; I went into the studio and recorded a single take of the song Lazy Afternoon—and I instantly knew… that was it.”
ThreeStyle - "All Over Again" - WeLoveMusic
Proof that Smooth Jazz fans agree with the cheerful title of ThreeStyle’s latest album WE HAVE THAT MAGIC, the Euro urban jazz ensemble – Robert Fertl (guitars, production) and Czech twin sisters Magdalena (saxes, keys) and Gabriela Chovancova – has released 14 albums enjoyed numerous #1 Billboard hits and has 20M+ streams on Spotify. The group has kept the warm-hearted, intricately produced Quiet Storm-esque modern R&B flowing freely behind the passionate, sultry vocals of Damon Dae. New single “All Over Again” is cosmopolitan romantic soul at its finest!
Norman Brown - "Casual Cool" - Shanachie
Produced by Paul Brown and Wirlie Morris. Grammy Award-winning Contemporary Jazz/R&B superstar Norman Brown has sold over 3 million albums in his extraordinary career and virtually lives at the top of the Billboard Contemporary Jazz sales and radio charts. “It Hits Different” has Norman Brown’s hit-making talents on full display. Highlights include the laidback “Casual Cool,” the romantic “Too Forever,” the joyful “Strollin'” and much more. “It Hits Different” illustrates the right timing in assuredly finding the right soulmate. And the healthy urban mix never forsakes Brown’s jazz adlibs and intricate guitar strums, while Morris’ silky voice and pleasing backing harmonies accentuate a welcome world of a sincerely feel-good, forever romance. In other words, “It Hits Different” reflects the right elements that have elevated Brown’s delight in connecting with jazz followers worldwide and beyond for over 3 decades.
Jacob Webb - "The Spirit of Aloha" - Next Paradigm
Jacob Webb’s new single, The Spirit of Aloha, was born during a peaceful moment while exploring Waikiki beach in Honolulu Hawaii. In a reflective and joyful state, Jacob channeled his gratitude for the warmth and hospitality he experienced into this uplifting tribute. The song captures the essence of aloha—kindness, connection, and harmony—celebrating the heartfelt spirit of the Hawaiian people through smooth melodies and soulful vibes.
Hubert Eaves III - "Jah Made Her For Me" - Droppings LLC
Hubert Eaves III, legendary multi-talented keyboardist, producer, writer and arranger releases his new single JAH (Made Her For Me) from his new EP JAH (The Remixes). If you love Smooth Jazz that’s musically raw, funky, and goes straight to your heart and soul, then you’ll love the new single by Hubert Eaves III – JAH (Smooth Jazz Remix). Performances by Hubert III (Dad) Hubert IV-Bass (Son) Mark “Lace” Gibbs-Guitars (Father), and Aaron “Double A” Gibbs-Drums (son), uniquely, 2 Fathers and 2 Sons. And the addition of the soulful Mel Holder on saxophones. Together, they created this masterful song for your listening pleasure.
Sam Sims - "Pulse" ft. Boney James - Sam Sims Music
Looking to create a musical groove that inspires love, soul and of course …. the PULSE! Thrilled to have joining me on this journey is my long time friend and incredible artist in his own rite, Boney James!! Sam Sims has been a staple in Rhythm and Blues, Pop, Rock and Jazz for over 30 years. Throughout his career he has worked with musical giants including Michael Jackson, The Chicks, Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey, Justin Timberlake, Michael McDonald, Utada Hikaru, k.d. lang, Rob Halford, Backstreet Boys, Bette Midler, Whitney Houston, George Duke, Dave Koz, Patrice Rushin, Boney James, Jody Watley, Maxwell and more. Sam Sims is known for being one of the most versatile bassists in the industry!
Pieces of a Dream - "We Got This" - 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, scored both smooth jazz and R&B radio hits while garnering legions of dedicated fans! Their latest single, “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! “Powerhouse contemporary jazz combo… the sublime essence of smooth jazz.” –AlMusic.com. “Melodic and soul-warming.” –Jazz Journal