Kim Waters – "The Pacemaker" – 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. Highlights include the fun & funky track “The Pacemaker,” along with a driving collaboration with Chris “Big Dog” Davis, “Sax You Up,” his loving tribute to his twin daughters Kimberly and Kayla, “Their Smile,” and an inspired re-imagining of The Isley Brothers classic, “I Once Had Your Love,” and more!
Gabriel Mark Hasselbach - "Force of Habit' - Windtunnel
Gabriel’s deft touch and recognizable horn and alto flute sounds surface again with his second single “Force Of Habit” from his 2024 album Count Your Lucky Stars, which follows on the heels of SunSeeker, which penetrated Watercolors and stayed on the Billboard Top 100 for over six months. “Force Of Habit” is a punchy and driving power track, alluding to the best Hasselbach-Lorber hits that have impacted Billboard/radio over the last dozen years. Featured is pianist Miles Black, a renowned solo artist and session giant, and Andrew Freeman, an underappreciated hot guitar slinger, both of whom lend an added depth and conviction to Gabe’s propulsive horn delivery.
Shaun LaBelle - "Mon Cher Amour" ft. Maysa & Bobby Lyle - Naggy/Sony Music
Shaun LaBelle is back with another sensational release, featuring #1 smooth jazz vocalist/recording artist Maysa and the legendary Bobby Lyle on piano. Known for his selective and hit collaborations, Bobby Lyle was thrilled to join Shaun on this project after hearing the captivating new track. The single, mixed by David Rideau, tracked by Dik Shopteau, and mastered by Steve Hall, promises to be a hit.
Saxl Rose - "Sunset" ft. Kayla Waters - Next Paradigm
Saxl Rose, the Maryland-based saxophonist celebrated for his mesmerizing performances on major stages, has just dropped his highly anticipated new single, “Sunset,” featuring Kayla Waters. The track is a smooth, intimate fusion of sultry saxophone melodies and silky piano, creating a vibe that’s perfect for winding down or setting a romantic mood. “Sunset” seamlessly blends the warmth of jazz with modern sensibilities, offering listeners a refreshing yet timeless sound that’s bound to make waves in the smooth jazz community. Following the success of his last release, which garnered praise for its smooth, sophisticated sound, Saxl continues to showcase his ability to push boundaries within the genre. With “Sunset,” he takes listeners on a journey that feels both personal and expansive, reflecting his growth as an artist and his commitment to crafting music that resonates deeply with his audience. Kayla Waters adds the perfect touch with her emotive piano voice, bringing an added layer of depth to the already rich instrumental landscape. Saxl’s latest offering is sure to leave an impression, further cementing his place as a leading figure in contemporary smooth jazz.
Bob James & Dave Koz - "New Hope" - Just Koz
A beautifully melodic, passionately performed reflection of the multi-decade friendship that captures the unique collaborative spirit Bob James and Dave Koz bring to their new piano and saxophone only album Just Us, the ballad “New Hope” is an elegant, soulfully soaring and deeply emotional reminder that we can be optimistic and even dare to dream amidst a dark, uncertain time. While in Saudi Arabia for a show in Jeddah, Koz and his friend and co-writer Todd Schroeder were overcome and inspired by wonderful people they met from this distant (and often misunderstood) culture and the endless possibilities that lay before them. Experiencing this as a microcosm of all the hope that still surrounds us in our world, despite the chaos so visible seemingly everywhere, they wanted to write a song that captured the feeling of anticipation for the many good things yet to come – including the vibrant reality that sometimes in life, we all have to improvise. The same wonderful feeling applies to fans of both James and Koz as they look forward to the release of “Just Us”!
Phylicia Rae w/ Norman Brown - "No Regrets" - Next Paradigm
Coming off back-to-back #1 radio singles “Right on Time” and “On My Way” Phylicia Rae has proven that the sky is the limit! She is now raising the bar with her new composition “No Regrets” featuring the iconic Norman Brown. Phylicia has emerged as one of the premiere bassists in the C-Jazz space as she is excited to share this new single full of adventure and love. “No Regrets” by Phylicia Rae feat. Norman Brown is a perfect blend of lush timbres captivating a mid-tempo groove with a modern flair. The song marks a bold contrast from Phylicia Rae’s previous work, showcasing her growth as an artist. With its reflective theme and fresh sound, it invites listeners to embrace life’s journey without looking back.
Kirk Whalum - "Pillow Talk" - Mack Ave
“Intimacy is as intimacy does. As a dear friend once said, the lover tries to find as many ways as possible, at least 100(!) to please the loved. And in pursuit of that moment, self-giving love is fulfilled and even rewarded far more than could ever be by only receiving. Pillow Talk provides the perfect sonic space for this beautiful exchange. Over and over again.” – Kirk Whalum
Deepak Thettu - "Timeless Love" - Sodara Music
Deepak Thettu embarks on a heartfelt journey of romance and friendship with his seventh single, “Timeless Love.” This track presents a lush tapestry of sound, enriched with poignant melodies, a captivating groove, and beautiful harmonies, all highlighted by Thettu’s exceptional guitar work. “Timeless Love” also celebrates a decade-long songwriting collaboration with the talented producer and saxophonist, Judah Sealy. The inspiration behind “Timeless Love” stems from the profound emotions evoked by an old photograph or song that stirs a lifetime of cherished memories, securely held in one’s heart…for all time.”
Tanya Nolan – "Like Water (Soulpersona Raregroove Reprise)" – ArtsessionZ
With summer on the way, we can use a smooth slow jam for those upcoming warm and hot days as well as sultry nights. Galveston, Texas native Tanya Nolan brings us her new single that could contribute to the summertime soundtrack, “Like Water”. As on her previous R&B hit, “Pace Yourself,” Tanya teams up with soul vet Raheem DeVaughn in the songwriting department for “Like Water.” The tune starts with the chorus with Ms. Nolan telling her lover, “Don’t let mama wait too long…” while giving the legendary Sade a shout out. The musical flow is soft, smooth and slow with a lush string arrangement as well as well-placed rain sounds – a Quiet Storm groove meets ASMR. Tanya’s voice is sweet and supple, nice and light, without “over-souling.” The backing vocals support Ms. Nolan’s lead nicely. “Like Water” flows like a calm river or ocean waves on a warm day or cool evening.