jazz festivals

Gordon Goodwin

admin
January 11, 2024
Reviews

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

A Tribute To Ella Fitzgerald

Congratulations are in order to Gordon Goodwin and Patti Austin for their tribute album to the late great Ella Fitzgerald titled For Ella 2. The album is up for three Grammy nominations at this year’s 66th Grammy presentation. Gordon Goodwin is a multi-Grammy and Emmy winning Composer/Arranger, Jazz veteran. He is best known for his legendary compositions, diversity and stage presence. At the age of thirteen, Gordon Goodwin was introduced to the Count Basie Jazz Band by his teacher, the late Robin Synder. Jazz music became his core listening pleasure. He combines practice, and education to create his sound. His influences are a combination of Mozart to Earth Wind & Fire. Gordon has the ability to remain authentic in his craft, always willing to expand and explore how far he can paint his colors in sound. Teaming up with a pioneer Grammy Award-winning voice of R&B, pop and Jazz, Patti Austin, makes For Ella 2 a stellar project. The album is a combination of a musical mind and a powerful voice with range. Join us as Gordon Goodwin shares his excitement working with his friend Patti Austin and the Big Phat Band.

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Roderick Harper

admin
May 25, 2023
Reviews

Urbanbuzzmag.com

By Nigeria Anderson

Music, Life & Sound

Roderick Harper, a jazz and R&B recording artist. He has recorded live with a cast of friends and mentors, including appearances from late piano legend Ellis Marsalis, sax icon Donald Harrison, and vocalist/drummer Jamison Ross. His previous project, Evolving, is both a homecoming and a blank slate for Harper, a return to Jazz and a start from scratch. The songs span the full breadth of his remarkable journey and extraordinary talents. This made a clear path for his current project 2702. 2702 is a no-holds-barred project. Each song is a press forward with a newfound resolve of sound and spirit. Harper’s vocal delivery is vibrant and his sound is a distinctive course through a collection of maturity and growth. 2702 is a personal project. Roderick Harper shows off his talents for sure. You will hear his expressions, through his songwriting, and voice. Although the music culture has changed, Harper’s dedication has brought him to this point of success in his career. Producing this project is a perfect example of Roderick Harper’s innovative mind. It’s his breaking free and making music his way. 2702 is Harper’s sixth release after a hiatus and he has made up for lost time. He reaches deep inside to find his signature sound and I promise you, you are going to enjoy it.

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