One of the worst kept secrets in history is that music has a way of affecting how we feel about people. Music also makes us feel a certain way about the artists that create the music. Whatever emotions the message and the melody conjure up for us, we subconsciously associate the artist with those virtues and flaws. Brian McKnight has sold millions of records by writing songs about love and loss and singing them with alarming range and ability.

From Nancy Wilson (Vino Jazz Festival), to Barbara Morrison (Pips), to Oleta Adams and Poncho Sanchez (Barclay Theater) Jay Jackson has performed in shows with some of the biggest names in jazz. But no matter who he’s singing with, his soulful, rich jazz voice is unique and special. Jay trained at the prestigious LoDuca Brothers Music Academy in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Performing in venues such as The Vino Jazz Festival, NOLA’s, Red, White and Bluezz, and the Hollywood Studio Bar and Grille, Jay’s voice is becoming a familiar treat for LA jazz fans.

I met Chase Masterson at an event held at Agenda Loft for a red carpet event last year. We became fast friends and I discovered that Chase is not only a multitalented actor and singer, but she has a heart for those in need.

Grammy Nominee Gregory Porter wooed fans during a recent performance at Mayne Stage in Chicago. An amazing musical treat, especially during Jazz Appreciation Month, Porter performed several selections from both his Water and Be Good albums, including favorites like “Illusion,” “1960 What?” “Lonely One,” “On My Way to Harlem,” “Be Good (The Lion’s Song),” and “Real Good Hands.” There aren’t as many male jazz vocalists around today as fans would like, but Gregory Porter is one to make up for what the jazz world has […]

Denise White wasn’t thinking of the words strength, light, and bright when she decided to adopt the name Avery Sunshine. According to Sunshine, she now personifies all of those qualities.

When examining the arc of one’s artistry, what must be considered above that individual’s personal aptitude of his respective skill is the fact that you are a product of your environment. Terence Blanchard is an arc type for this principle, extracting the rich spirit of his New Orleans upbringing from his trumpet onto everything he’s touched: from his teenage stint with Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers to his stature as one of the most respected film composers of the last two decades.

With all of her accolades and accomplishments, she simply views life right now as purposeful. She acknowledges walking in your purpose and allowing others to do the same as one of the biggest lessons life has taught her. “You know, my current manager had no experience, but I gave him a chance,” said Angie Stone

In his very modest way, Campbell, an extraordinary vocalist, explains that he was surprised that he had captured the coaches’ attention. “I couldn’t believe that everyone wanted ME,” he exclaimed.

René Marie was awarded a coronet ranking by the “Penguin Guide to Jazz” for her album Vertigo, a distinction only given to 84 other jazz recordings. So, who is this woman whose soulful interpretations and mesmerizing performances make people shake and shiver like they’ve been placed under a spell?

Independent filmmakers have so much to juggle. First they have to coordinate the shoot, and this is after a script is selected, cast, and the crew is in place.