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Carl Brown welcomes the transcendent saxophonist Kirk Whalum, who shares his harmonious journey from the challenges faced during the pandemic to the creation of his latest studio album, "Epic Cool." Dive into the melodic stories behind the song "MF," written by Whalum's drummer Marcus Finney, and explore the album's genre-defying tracks scheduled for release this spring.
Kirk opens up about his relationship with Whitney Houston, the influence she had on his music, and the powerful vision that led him to write a book about her funeral. As he reflects on turning 60, Kirk recounts his international aspirations and the experiences that shaped his unique sound—an intertwining of Memphis roots, gospel, and global influences.
Soak up the wisdom of Kirk's marriage insights and enjoy tales of his global adventures in France and South America.
This episode is not just a conversation; it's a heartfelt symphony of life experiences, encouraging us to find our voice and contribute our verse to the world's melody.
Feel the rhythm of Kirk's life story and the sincerity weaving through each note played. Press play and be a part of this melodious conversation that resonates with grace, gratitude, and the undeniable groove of jazz.
Episode Highlights:
10:35 - It's all about the the the legacy of virtuosity that we wanna be on that page. So, we wanna always be chasing after that thing so that the day we check out of here, we will something as it were.
21:13 - Do what you do, put your stuff out there and don't worry about whether or not they're gonna like it because they're either or they're not, but not gonna ever know if you don't put it out.
39:26 - You wanna always be humble about this because, you know, it can be taken away in a minute.
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Kirk Whalum
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Dive into a melodious blend of family, tours, and tunes in this inspiring episode of Fresh Coast Jazz Backstage. Host Carl Brown is joined by contemporary jazz sensation Kim Scott, chatting about the sweet harmony of hard work and recognition in the music world. From family celebrations to the realities of touring life, Kim gives a candid look at her world.
The episode kicks into high gear with a snippet of Kim and her family's cruising escapades, while also touching on the careful orchestration of her tour dates around family commitments and audience engagements.
Kim discusses her process for crafting new music, with her album set for 2025 and singles queuing up for a 2024 release, and we get a first taste of her new single "Like Butter". As they delve into the industry, Kim offers nuggets of wisdom on the importance of business savvy for musicians.
Looking ahead, she eagerly anticipates her performance at the Fresh Coast Jazz Festival and her love for her stand-out track "Magic City Streets". Kim's rooted in her artistic and personal life, ensuring that each performance is an authentic experience for her audience.
Episode Highlights:
02:30 - The Complexity of Music Production: "I mean, from beginning to end, you know, the easy part is playing our instrument. And even that part is because we spend hours and hours practicing and refining and writing and writing, you know. But to actually, you know, finish the the song and then choose a producer. And then, you know, if it's not your band to record with, choose the musicians that are gonna be on that recording. And then thinking about who's gonna mix it, who's gonna master it, what does the image look like for branding, and who's gonna push the record. I mean, there's so many parts, you know, and, you know, really when you're writing with someone, you know, you're putting your baby in their hands."
17:51 - Understanding Celebrities Beyond the Spotlight: "You know, he you you meet him and you think he's kinda Mhmm. That person is kinda off, you know, not off, so he doesn't want to interact. But one of them, he is so kind and so down to earth, he and his wife."
21:31- Humility in the Spotlight: "As far as me personally, and I like to try to stay humble. I try to be as grounded as possible, you know, to the point that sometimes when I wake up in the morning, my husband goes, are you excited? You know, because we would have just gotten a great call or a great ask. And I'm like, he was like, well, why are you not like and I said, well, I had that moment on the inside, and I'm very grateful. I prayed about it, and I thank god for it, but I want to stay grounded. So I got work to do, and I'm just gonna keep going."
46:09 - Balancing Career and Family: "I look into all of those things because I have a full time job, I have to be selective about that as well and because I still have a child at home. My son will graduate this year, so it'll be different next year. But there's a lot to manage because that family is important to us and I wanna make sure, you know, we have that time as well."
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Kim Scott
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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Join us on a soulful ride with the chart-topping saxophonist Boney James, as he sits down with Carl to share the melodies and milestones of his illustrious career. From his humorous origins in Scandinavia to hitting the top 3 contemporary jazz artists of the decade, Boney gives us an intimate backstage look at his life in notes.
Dive deep into the rhythm of Boney's creative process, the dedication behind each album, and how staying true to his core has kept his sound fresh through the years. With a history degree in his pocket and almost taking a legal path, Boney instead chose to follow his true passion, and he's got some sage advice for his 13-year-old self (and us all).
Savor his thoughts on the inspirations for his music, his dream barbecue dinner party guests, and his admiration for collaboration in music production. Our latest Fresh Coast Jazz Backstage episode offers an up-close encounter with the man whose saxophone has enchanted millions. Plus, you might just find out why he'd pick a sedan over a sports car any day.
Episode Highlights:
05:24 - The Touring Musician's Process: "I would say when I'm on the road touring, I never write songs. I mean, that's that's a fact. Just because it's you know, being on the road is its own thing. You know?"
09:10 - Artistic Autonomy and Self-Production: "But, you know, since since I've been producing the records myself and I've got my studio at the house, and and I can just work on it as long as I want to until I feel like it's ready. And and I've developed more confidence in my own opinion about things. I know that when I put a record out that I love it and that, you know, in terms of what other people are gonna think, that's something you can never say. And I tried very hard not to try and get into the head of the quote, unquote audience, you know, when I'm making music. I'm just trying to please myself."
36:18 - Touring Strategy of Musicians: "It depends. I mean, you know, we just go where the gigs are, and and and we try and make smart decisions about gigs. And and and if we get a gig that's a good gig, we will try and find other shows around it to surround it... But for the most part, it's just, you know, very dependent on the offers and, and how the calendar works out."
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Boney James
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Join us for an intimate backstage pass with contemporary jazz giants Nathan Mitchell and Ryan LaVellett. Host Carl Brown delves deep into their illustrious careers, heartfelt tributes, and the flavorful stories behind their success. Not only do we pay homage to the late Nick Colione through the powerful "Bossman," but we also travel through the intricate process of crafting set lists and performances that resonate with jazz enthusiasts. Get a sense of Milwaukee’s jazz fervor and prepare for thrilling upcoming performances from our guests, who have forged their unique paths in the music industry.
From a rising star category selection by Sea Breeze for Ryan to the rigors of balancing personal life with superstardom for Nathan, this episode unlocks the passion and dedication behind the melodies. Witness the intersection of inspiration and practicality as these artists share their love for cars, health routines on the road, and setting boundaries outside their music careers. Plus, Nathan and Ryan provide prudent advice to their younger selves, reflect on their journeys, and hint at exciting new projects soon to unfold.
Immerse yourself in the harmonious and challenging world of jazz as we explore beyond the music. Whether it’s Nathan’s continued learning from the masters or Ryan’s gratitude for serendipitous moments in his career, each story offers insights into the genuine drive and hustle needed to shine in the international jazz scene.
Episode Highlights:
07:20 - The Influence of Culture on Music: "Everything about my music and the way that I sound has been very, it may sound cliche, but American sounding, my music."
26:59 - Live Music Performance Strategy: "if people wanna, you know, listen to the record, they'll go home and and put it on. You know, when they're coming out to a show, you play the hits of course, but he said, you know, you got to weave things in there too to to get them excited. You know, you want some energy out there."
32:36 - Establishing Personal Boundaries in the Digital Age: "I think it's important as an artist that you establish your boundaries and your and I made a post about this a little while ago about trying to have that balance. If there's something else that you really enjoy aside from music, whether it is, you know, having that Virgo like Nathan said and chilling by yourself, or you have another hobby where you can kind of re occupy your brain. Because too much of any good thing, even if you love it, is not good for you. Too much of it is not good."
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Nathan Mitchell
Ryan LaVellett
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Welcome back to Fresh Coast Jazz Backstage, where we dive deep into the hearts and minds of the artists who are shaping the contemporary jazz scene.
In today's episode, we're thrilled to have the phenomenal Andrea Lisa joining our host Carl Brown for an invigorating chat. Andrea, a remarkable artist teeming with talent, not only serenades us with her soulful jazz but also captivates us with her diverse interests ranging from acting to motorcycling.
With two albums and countless experiences under her belt, Andrea opens up about her songwriting journey, her aspirations for more music, and the chances of seeing her on screen again.
Get ready for a rich symphony of stories, revelations, and a peek into Andrea's creative fire. Don't miss out on her uplifting perspective on life's challenges, the importance of enjoying the journey, and the value of a steadfast grind. Tune in and get ready to be swept up in the rhythm of Andrea's inspiring story.
Episode Highlights
02:20 - Emerging Music Artist's Upcoming Album: "Well, I definitely feel a sense of urgency to get this app out. So I've been working diligently, preparing these songs, getting together with different producers."
04:42 - Songwriting Journey: "Like the moment we actually recorded Get Your Wings Up for Humanity, I remember feeling, very relieved and confirmed because in the past, I remember showing my songs to, to different songwriters and different people and in my mind, I would be like, it's like me calling you up and saying, Hey, Carl, you know, at 11 at night, I got this new song. I just want, want to hear what you think about it and I'm hype about, I'm not always hype about all of my songs, you know. It depends. And that's how songwriting goes."
19:28 - Embracing Change: "I was actually just coming to the states to LA for a month vacation. And, the funny thing about that was I was just coming to the states to LA for a month's vacation. And I had some work with Kool and the Gang lined up to do some session work. And other than that, I didn't really have anything else. So, but at the end of that month, I just, I was like, man, I really don't want to go home. And I just, I didn't take my flight back home. I just stayed."
39:28 - The Impact of Music on Daily Life: "Is to to be able to have a moment with people that are all over the world where myself and my music and that person can affect that and be, comforted through listening."
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Andrea Lisa
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In this energizing episode of Fresh Coast Jazz Backstage, we dive into the power of community and commitment with Carl Brown and Podcast Producer, Suzanne Singh. Hear about the tireless work and commitment that makes the Fresh Coast Jazz Festival a reality.
We discuss some exciting behind-the-scenes details and announce the artists who will bring the music and the magic to the 2024 Fresh Coast Jazz Festival. This episode is more than just music—it's a tribute to family, commitment, and the power of giving back. Listen now to experience the passion, heart, and soul of Fresh Coast Jazz.
Save the date and don't miss out! Grab your tickets for the 2024 Fresh Coast Jazz Festival happening on August 22nd to 24th! See you there!
Episode Highlights:
00:54 - The festival truly is a party with a purpose because not only do we bring the world class jazz talent to town, our festival proceeds go towards doing philanthropic work in Milwaukee. It's really important for us that we are about helping the community and being a part of the fabric of the community.
23:02 - They have all been on the podcast and interestingly, that's one of the things, one of the values of the podcast that, that for me is that I didn't get into the podcast for this to be the case. But what it has done is it's introduced me to some of these artists and their work ethic and how they go about their business.
41:13 - My wife leans over and whispers in my ear and she says to me, this is what we should do, we should start a jazz festival in Milwaukee and have the proceeds go to charity, that's how we honor your parents. And that's how the festival idea was born, and that's why the music piece of it is important, but the philanthropic piece of it is so important as well.
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Carl Brown
Email
Suzanne Singh
LinkedIn
Website
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In this energizing episode of Fresh Coast Jazz Backstage, we dive into the power of community and commitment with Carl Brown and Podcast Producer, Suzanne Singh. Hear about the tireless work and commitment that makes the Fresh Coast Jazz Festival a reality.
We discuss some exciting behind-the-scenes details and announce the artists who will bring the music and the magic to the 2024 Fresh Coast Jazz Festival. This episode is more than just music—it's a tribute to family, commitment, and the power of giving back. Listen now to experience the passion, heart, and soul of Fresh Coast Jazz.
Save the date and don't miss out! Grab your tickets for the 2024 Fresh Coast Jazz Festival happening on August 22nd to 24th! See you there!
Episode Highlights:
00:54 - The festival truly is a party with a purpose because not only do we bring the world class jazz talent to town, our festival proceeds go towards doing philanthropic work in Milwaukee. It's really important for us that we are about helping the community and being a part of the fabric of the community.
23:02 - They have all been on the podcast and interestingly, that's one of the things, one of the values of the podcast that, that for me is that I didn't get into the podcast for this to be the case. But what it has done is it's introduced me to some of these artists and their work ethic and how they go about their business.
41:13 - My wife leans over and whispers in my ear and she says to me, this is what we should do, we should start a jazz festival in Milwaukee and have the proceeds go to charity, that's how we honor your parents. And that's how the festival idea was born, and that's why the music piece of it is important, but the philanthropic piece of it is so important as well.
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Carl Brown
Email
Suzanne Singh
LinkedIn
Website
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Jazz Tales and Inspirations with Steve Carrington
In this soul-stirring episode, host Carl Brown delves deep into the life and experiences of the extraordinary saxophonist, Steve Carrington. As a beacon of inspiration for jazz enthusiasts, Carrington shares poignant anecdotes, his musical influences, and the intricate connection between his music and faith.
Tune in for a riveting discussion that weaves together jazz, spirituality, and the boundless passion for music. Join us in celebrating Steve Carrington's musical odyssey and be inspired by the symphony of his experiences.
Episode Highlights:
07:12 - Carrington reminisces about his musical roots: "It's like writing the story of life"
20:03 - The profound impact of mentorship and the timeless wisdom shared by Kenny Garrett
38:20 - Embracing life’s rhythm and the vibrant colors Carrington perceives while playing
52:46 - Unveiling the fusion of music and spiritual commitment in Carrington's journey as a rabbi
01:05:17 - Carrington's message of humility and the true path to enlightenment
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Steve Carrington
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Catch the vibrant beats of the phenomenal multi-talented contemporary jazz artist Rebecca Jade as shares her nostalgic favorites with Carl and igniting our musical souls with timeless records. She also discusses her multi-faceted interests such as acting, modeling, playing basketball, and being a car and motorcycle enthusiast.
Rebecca has two albums under her belt and she shares her experiences with songwriting and her aspirations for releasing more music and potentially doing more acting in the future. Experience her vibrant journey and the perpetual rhythm that keeps her creativity aflame.
For the full revelation of her dream dinner guests, her upcoming itinerary, and more heartfelt anecdotes, tune in and join the groove. Check out the episode now to ride the waves of Rebecca Jade’s incredible adventures!
Episode Highlights:
27:42 - You just never know, like certain things, like where certain doors close, it's because you're meant to go down this path. So, I'm just so grateful and that really feels rewarding to me that I'm on the path. And again, I'm sure I'll sound like a broken record, but I just don't take it for granted.
31:37 - People will see your grind. I think that's what people saw in me, like I'm always about just a hustle. I want to do the best and grind. People are more willing to help you if they see that you're going to help yourself, and I feel like that was kind of a big aha moment for me.
56:34 - Life is a challenge, but to just stay the course and to enjoy the process and to not stress as much because the journey is going to happen anyway. So, might as well try to enjoy it and like the ups are going to be ups, the downs are going to be downs, but it's a continuous wave. So, be part of the journey instead of stressing when the journey happens.
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Rebecca Jade
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Get ready for an electrifying conversation with the dynamic duo, Lemek and Quintin Gerard W! In this riveting episode, they delve into their unique approaches to music, the significance of audience connection, and the exhilarating journey of collaboration.
Discover how Quintin's resurgence in music synchronizes with Lemek's blossoming career in what Quentin calls a "double whammy of goodness". They also share their habits after intensive music creation sessions and the thought process behind constructing an album.
Plus, don't miss the exclusive preview of Quintin Gerard's upcoming CD! Carl also reveals his anticipation for the duo's performance at the Fresh Coast Jazz Festival. Tune in, feel the beat, and immerse yourself in the musical world of Lemek and Quintin Gerard W!
Episode Highlights:
18:05 - Those people, when they graduate, they have no idea how to make it in this industry. They end up being the session players. So, they'll have a great career as session musicians or live musicians, and stuff like that. But I didn't have those aspirations. I wanted to be somebody who has a unique stamp and somebody who has a unique identity.
26:25 - As a musician, you always going to keep performing, keep writing, keep playing. And those creative juices just don't stop. You want to do stuff.
27:54 - You go through your ups and your downs and sometimes you reach those pitfalls and sometimes you reach those brick walls, and you say to yourself, "Why am I even doing this?" But there's that little voice in your head that says, "Keep going. Don't stop." Because the only time you lose is when you quit.
30:32 - In our world, our family comes first. So, I would never compromise anything, in terms of ethics and morals, that I teach my son over fame and fortune. They just don't work like that in my house. You've got to have ethics. You've got to have morality. You have to be a good person first.
50:49 - Beyond the music, I want to leave people with the idea and the concept that anything is possible in this world. We can't buy the rhetoric that life is too hard, life is this, life is that. Don't accept the word. There are two words that are not in my vocabulary. And I tell Lamek don't put them in his vocabulary. The first word is can't and the second word is try. We don't try to do anything. We just do it. And the second thing is, I don't believe in can't. There's nothing I can't do.
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Lemek
Quintin Gerard W.
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In this energizing episode of Fresh Coast Jazz Backstage, we dive into the power of community and commitment with Carl Brown and Podcast Producer, Suzanne Singh. Hear about the tireless work and commitment that makes the Fresh Coast Jazz Festival a reality.
We discuss some exciting behind-the-scenes details and announce the artists who will bring the music and the magic to the 2024 Fresh Coast Jazz Festival. This episode is more than just music—it's a tribute to family, commitment, and the power of giving back. Listen now to experience the passion, heart, and soul of Fresh Coast Jazz.
Save the date and don't miss out! Grab your tickets for the 2024 Fresh Coast Jazz Festival happening on August 22nd to 24th! See you there!
Episode Highlights:
00:54 - The festival truly is a party with a purpose because not only do we bring the world class jazz talent to town, our festival proceeds go towards doing philanthropic work in Milwaukee. It's really important for us that we are about helping the community and being a part of the fabric of the community.
23:02 - They have all been on the podcast and interestingly, that's one of the things, one of the values of the podcast that, that for me is that I didn't get into the podcast for this to be the case. But what it has done is it's introduced me to some of these artists and their work ethic and how they go about their business.
41:13 - My wife leans over and whispers in my ear and she says to me, this is what we should do, we should start a jazz festival in Milwaukee and have the proceeds go to charity, that's how we honor your parents. And that's how the festival idea was born, and that's why the music piece of it is important, but the philanthropic piece of it is so important as well.
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Carl Brown
Email
Suzanne Singh
LinkedIn
Website
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In this episode, Carl talks to Lemek, an emerging guitarist and New Orleans-based musician, whose father is veteran saxophonist Quintin Gerard W. Beyond simply using a different instrument, what makes this generational hand off unique is the way Lemek builds upon the soul and jazz foundation of his father yet takes his own music into new directions. They talk extensively about Lemek's musical journey and he is determined to make his stamp on the music industry and move it forward.
After a long dabble in the studio, Lemek is ready to put on his showstopping performance again. The pandemic has meant that he hasn't been able to get back on stage yet, so it's time for him to take center stage. He wants to make sure all those hard hours in the recording studio are worthwhile - by crafting unique music and showing off everything he can do with an audience of fans once more.
Listen to Carl and Lemek discuss the most challenging thing about being a musician and his deep connection to his music. Lemek also shares advice to aspiring young musicians. Tune in to discover how Lemek's music is designed to cause positive change and bring people out of darkness and into creativity.
Episode Highlights
18:32 - There's a bunch of people in the city that are fantastic musicians, even better than me. You know what I mean? So, those dudes are going to take your spot, if you can't hang with them so it kind of humbles you in that regard.
35:41 - One of the things that he was always telling me about, he was like, "Whatever field you go into, just make sure that you're the best at it. The best that you could be exactly. Don't go halfway or anything. Just follow that path and get to the end, and make sure that you learn every lesson that's along the way."
52:34 - It's a very intellectual genre, but the format of jazz in all the sub genres, I think it's making somewhat of a resurgence. Especially as of recently because my generation, I guess – this is from what I've seen among people that are around my age – is that they have a little bit of appreciation for things that are moving the boundaries per se.
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Lemek
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In this episode Carl is joined by Kim Scott, one the hottest contemporary jazz artists on the scene right now. Her billboard #1 charting album, Shine, has been a mainstay on smooth jazz radio for the last few months. She has 5 albums to her credit, she has collaborated with some of the top names in the business and she is also a member of the all-female super group Jazz in Pink. She is a smooth jazz flautist, a classical flautist, a flute professor and a radio show host.
Kim shares how she is balancing time, her work as a classical flautist, her musical influences and much more. In the ‘Bout it or Doubt it segment Kim shares her thoughts about the category Food and Beverage. Tune in to this episode and learn more about Kim Scott.
Highlights:
09:50 - If you`re not affecting the listener you're not doing your job. If you`re not feeling what you're playing and being emotionally vulnerable to the music then you can`t convey an emotion to the listener.
14:24 - I like audiences that are open to possibility, I don't want people to try to sound like each other, I love people when they're authentic to themselves.
23:23 - You love to be able to send people away from your show uplifted in a better state of mind and move, that is just the best thing in the world.
39:18 - Be fearless, be unapologetic of who you are because you're unique and you`re here to serve a better purpose once you figure that out.
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Kim Scott
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In this episode, Carl speaks with guitarist Andrea Lisa, a new artist to the American smooth jazz scene. She sings with passion, conviction, and purpose. She shares the story of how she got started in music at 15, starting a band in 2011, moving from New Zealand to Australia, and what it was like to leave everything to chase her passion.
Andrea talks about the musicians who influenced her music and how, instead of just recording a guitar solo, she ended up recording an original song with Kirk Whalum. She tells the story of how "Get Your Wings Off" came to be and while taking vocal lessons, realized that her voice needed to be treated with the same care as her guitar playing. Listen to Andrea and Carl as they talk about the lifestyle of a musician, which involves a lot of travel and little sleep.
Episode Highlights
23:14 - Whenever those feelings are a little stronger than normal, whatever it might be, and my mind starts thinking. When I'm in the mood, I'll just pick up my phone or pick up a pen and paper, or the guitar. That's where it starts. It's never really me wanting to write music, intentionally going to write music. Just me expressing whatever I'm going through.
32:34 - For a long time, the guitar was basically everything to me, especially while I was studying guitar. I took vocals as a second study. I did have vocal training, all of that.
49:21 - I think that even though I'm pretty ambitious and quite a go-getter, I often have these ideas years before I even do them or months before. When we have these ideas, we should do them immediately. We should do them like as soon as we can.
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Andrea Lisa
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In today's episode, Carl talks to Quintin Gerard W., who has made quite a splash in the music scene, as an amazing saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist from Louisiana. His single "Broken Promises" reached the top five on all major smooth jazz charts, and that's not even mentioning how both he and his son, Lemek, have been at number one simultaneously.
They discuss the importance of recording and having the right energy in a song. They talk about Quintin's music career and how he combined jazz and funk to create his own style, as well as about how supportive the New Orleans jazz scene is to musicians. As a saxophone player, Quintin knows that a song must have three parts to it: rhythm, melody, and harmony.
Tune in to hear about how much work goes into being a successful musician, including financial investment, and listen to Quintin share how going to concerts has changed for him now as he is always analyzing and learning while watching a performance.
Episode Highlights
20:35 - This music business game is not cheap. So, when you're talking about production fees, studio time, mixing, mastering, promotion, marketing, it's a business just like anything else.
34:36 - Like we talked about earlier, energy. It always has to have something about it. It can't just be a song. There's got to be something unique within that song and if that song does that, then typically that feeling that I get, I'll consider, "Hmm, what was that feeling about that song and what did it make me feel?" If it made me feel that way, it should make other people feel that way as well.
42:20 - That's the message I want to send to everybody. Be a good person, be moral, be ethical, have values, and don't ever give up and teach your children to do the same and you'd be surprised at what can happen when you teach them those basic principles because they're in you.
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Quintin Gerard W.
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It takes a lot of faith to go out and be the artist that you wanted to be. But, when opportunity comes along your way, be sure to grab it like Nathan Mitchell did. Nathan shares how having the right blend of being a great performer and an amazing musician is necessary in the industry.
Listen as he shares his other passions when he is not doing music and find out how being a good performer and musician is about more than just playing instruments well. It’s about being someone that promoters and producers can trust.
Highlights
02:35 The door has just opened up and it’s been a journey since then.
11:14 Being a performer and a musician, you have to have the right blend and that’s one of the things that I’ve been taking myself through school on.
25:47 My goal is to try to limit the amount of mistakes, limit the amount of challenges in my presentation and my music, whether it’s on vinyl or streaming or whether it’s on stage, so that the promoters trust me to be on their stage.
29:26 It wasn’t a matter of me deciding, (moving into Smooth Jazz genre), I feel like it found me in shows.
41:29 I like going outside and just experiencing nature.
Let’s Connect!
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Nathan Mitchell
https://www.nathanmitchellmusic.com/
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Carl speaks with Ryan La Valette, a multi-instrumentalist and rising star in the smooth jazz scene from New Zealand, whose debut album on Trippin' N Rhythm Records produced two Billboard number one hits: "Let It Flow" and "Highway 10." Ryan shares the story of how his interest in music began at an early age, and how he was naturally drawn to musical instruments, with a particular obsession with guitars. He also talks about some of his diverse musical influences, including George Benson, Grover Washington Jr., and Motown.
Ryan talks about his experience as an emerging artist, the struggles he faced before establishing his career, and his dream of becoming a successful performer and producer, stressing the importance of being single-mindedly focused to achieve greatness.
Listen to hear Ryan gives listeners a glimpse into the life and journey of a talented rising star in the smooth jazz world, and offers insights and advice on creative processes, producing, and pursuing one's dreams. Listen to this episode and enjoy some of his music.
Episode Highlights
07:04 I think it was on Richard Edwards’s radio podcast, and that was about or that was long before I got signed. That was 2018, when he played my single I had out at the time called Dreaming of You, featuring Donald Hayes. And just hearing your name getting mentioned on the waves and hearing it being talked about and seeing all the comments below, all the love from fans, it was really quite a surreal feeling, which is for sure.
24:13 A lot of people don't really realize a lot of the struggles that we have to go through as artists. Many of us, we have to go through the stages before we have established careers. We do have to work a regular job to survive and pay bills. As long as other emerging artists keep this in mind and they realize that they're not the only ones who have had to do this, they'll be okay. It's all part of the process.
49:43 That’s the beauty of, I think, just jazz in general. You can hybridize this music with anything, make it sound great.
59:14 I think a lot of my current success is still very much underground. I think there's still kind of a lot of curiosity about who I am and everything because I'm not quite on the scene yet, but I'm totally cool with that. It's all part of the process, and I just continue to hustle and grind and work on my craft, and when the time comes where my name finally surfaces, I'll be ready to go. That's the way I look to it.
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Ryan La Valette
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Delve into the captivating world of saxophonist Jason Jackson, as he shares his musical voyage since retiring from the U.S. Navy band in 2021. From childhood inspiration drawn from the iconic "Blues Brothers" saxophone solo to learning invaluable lessons from collaborators, Jason's passion for music is palpable.
Jason emphasizes over-delivering and striving for excellence in every project. His process for creating original music centers on the belief that "groove supersedes all." He reflects on his experiences as a touring musician and imparts wisdom on balancing artistry with business acumen.
Join us to discover the transformative power of music and hear about Jason's unforgettable moments, from his early days with James Brown's band to the elation of hearing his song on the radio for the first time. Get ready to be immersed in the harmonious world of Jason Jackson—a maestro whose music transcends boundaries.
Episode Highlights:
14:37 - Something I learned when I was kind of touring around the world in the Navy was we were playing for all these different people and a lot of them didn't speak any English. So, there was really no way for us to communicate with them, but for the music we were playing with them. And I kind of found out that once we started playing a song that had a little groove to it, it was like we were talking to these people.
27:38 - Especially when you're an independent artist and doing everything yourself, like there's so much to think about from getting this contract signed to, "Oh, I got to do social media. I got to do graphic design to put something up on my page. I got to edit some video to promote this and that." It's just so many things. You kind of have to be a jack of all trades and there's definitely a learning curve to it.
35:20 - Say yes. A lot of times an opportunity will come up, and we'll be nervous about it or just in our own head a little bit, and we'll turn it down. I know I felt that way when I got offered my first show to play my original music. I really was scared about it.
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Jason Jackson
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In this captivating episode, immerse yourself in the world of contemporary jazz with none other than Grammy-award winner saxophonist, Andy Snitzer. With an impressive portfolio of eight Billboard Top 20 hits and eight albums to his name, Andy's musical journey is nothing short of remarkable. He shares anecdotes of touring with music icons like the Rolling Stones, Lady Gaga, Jay Z, George Michael, Paul Simon, Sting, and Chris Botti. But that's just the tip of the iceberg.
Discover the heart and soul behind Andy's latest project, "A Beautiful Dream," inspired by his very own daughter. From the power of collaboration to the art of production, Andy imparts invaluable insights into the music industry. Join us as he reflects on the profound impact of his encounters with legends, and the enduring youthful spirit that fuels his passion.
Tune in to hear Andy's candid revelations about his musical odyssey, unforgettable moments on stage, and the enduring wisdom he'd share with his younger self. Don't miss this chance to delve into the melodies and experiences that have defined a storied career.
Episode Highlights:
20:34 - There's a history of mastery before you, and you're trying to serve that. Make your own case, follow your own pathway, but always with reverence for what came before you. So, that's how I look at it. I will never be as great as those people, as Dave Sanborn, Mike Brecker, and John Coltrane. My contribution is minute compared to theirs. That's how I see it.
39:50 - We're all compelled to do it. We're compelled to go towards the sea and make music, and write our songs. But to some extent and not exclusively, but in majority, all I do when I hear music that I've made is pick apart the little things that I think are wrong, the little things that I miss. So, in a way, the answer is never, but obviously, it has to be released. It has to come out. So, all you can kind of do is go with your gut.
54:01 - Some people are going to be more natural at kind of the overt entertainment. Some people are going to be more comfortable as players. But in the context of them playing, they are entertaining. You feel their commitment. And it's a really important idea to know who you are and to be the best version of that, but not try to be what you're not.
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Andy Snitzer
LinkedIn
Website
Spotify
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Step into the world of contemporary jazz with the incredible Ragan Whiteside. Renowned for eight Billboard Top 10 songs and six albums, Ragan's musical prowess is unmatched. Influenced by genres ranging from Johnny Mathis to classical, her innovative approach to songwriting takes shape in surprising places - even the shower!
Join Ragan as she shares her creative process, from melody sketches to studio magic with producers Bob Baldwin and her husband Dennis Johnson. Her music, a fusion of love, emotion, and pure joy, promises an uplifting experience for listeners.
Tune in to explore the dynamic contrast between studio precision and live improvisation, as Ragan reveals her pre-show rituals and the vital energy required for a life on tour. With a passion for travel and a mission to redefine jazz flute, Ragan Whiteside is a force to be reckoned with. Listen now to catch a glimpse of Ragan's vibrant personality and her journey in the world of jazz.
Episode Highlights:
04:50- Once I have whatever popped into my head, whether it was a melody or a groove, or even just like part of a bridge, I'll sit down at my computer in front of my piano and do a sketch of it first. And then I'll do a reference flute melody on it or a vocal melody, and just keep adding to it, keep tweaking, keep messing around with it. And then once it's like a full song, like a solid song, I'll bring it to my husband, Dennis Johnson, and he will produce the song.
10:59 - I don't know anybody who's like stellar at it. They say that there's no such thing as multitasking. It's just working on a whole lot of things in a mediocre fashion. But I just try to schedule myself, pace myself, try very hard not to burn out, and then give myself some grace when things aren't going according to plan.
34:30 - I am grateful and I take none of it for granted because it's hard out here. It's hard. Even once you get on the charts, the work does not end. That is like one small aspect of the career and the marketing, and everything else that goes along with it. I just appreciate every little bit of success that I can get in my hands.
Contact
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Ragan Whiteside
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