The Real Talk

28/12/2023

For The Real Talk with Amethyst Magazine's musical spotlight. Read my review of the album"Christmas with Brandy" by . In addition to my review of the album "Get Involved"by .



©Copyright 2009-2023 The Real Talk With Amethyst. All Rights Reserved

28/12/2023

The latest issue of The Real Talk With Amethyst is out now.

©Copyright 2009-2023 The Real Talk With Amethyst. All Rights Reserved

29/09/2023

Today, Orlando, Florida rapper Caskey shares a heartfelt new track titled “Dixie,” in which he apologizes to his mother for the hardships she endured during his troubled youth, battles with addiction, and their family losses. The newly sober rapper and self-proclaimed black sheep debuts the track alongside a music video which shows Caskey performing in an arena with his mother in the audience, hearing the song for the first time - Watch Here: https://youtu.be/XglkLwFahsM?si=r4MvxAmquHXZ7tW7

”Dixie” is the focus track and fourth single to be released from Caskey’s upcoming full-length album Cadillac Music, which will be available on all DSPs on October 13.

"Much of my music career has been inspired by the loss of my father to su***de, and the drug addiction I grew up around,” describes Caskey. “I haven’t yet touched on much of my Mom’s side of the story, or how her resilience through all of her suffering was instrumental in me deciding to get sober. I struggled with drugs since I was a teen, and the loss of my dad really escalated that abuse. My Mom grew up in an abusive household, married a man who eventually would get hooked on opioids, and had to raise two kids who struggled with drug use, all the while being sober her entire life. Wanting to be better for her really pushed me to finally get clean, and be the kind of man she always needed in her life.”

“I chose to interpret Eminem's “cleaning out my closet” for the chorus of this song because the initial line “I’m sorry momma, I never meant to hurt you” really rang true for me. Though this time I wouldn’t be saying it ironically or to criticize her, I truly am sorry for the ways I hurt her throughout the years, and this song is me doing my best to set the record straight and make it right."

Cadillac Music marks the first time Caskey teamed up with his longtime producer Anonymous for an entire project. The two first collaborated on fan-favorite track “Cadillac,” from Caskey’s breakthrough 2015 Black Sheep 2. The album’s previously released singles “I’m A Virgin,” “Firestarter,” and “Law Of Attraction” have been accompanied by official music videos that have garnered millions of views online. The album will follow 2022 full-lengths While You Wait for J.A.W.S. and This Isn’t Even My Final Form, both of which reached the #1 spot of the iTunes Hip-Hop Album Chart.

“‘Cadillac Music’ has been Anonymous and my focus the last 8 months,” explains Caskey. “We’ve been back home, making what’s authentic, tuning out the noise, and doing what WE do best, that BLACK SHEEP sound. Shot the cover [of the album] in front of a crib I used to live in, West Orlando, was broke, thinking about quitting rap. What a f*ck up that would have been, to abandon my purpose. So glad I didn't.”

Caskey is currently on a US tour with Yelawolf. The two artists have a history of touring together, following the success of their joint LP Yelawolf Blacksheep, in 2021, which reached #61 on Billboard’s Top Album Chart. To prepare fans for the new album, Caskey has released a live performance series on his YouTube channel, featuring freestyles to some of hip-hop’s most popular beats, including Eminem’s “Cleaning Out My Closet,” Drake’s “Pound Cake” and Kendrick Lamar’s “FEEL.”

Don't forget to subscribe for more music!Follow:▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Caskey407▶ Instagram: www.instagram.com/caskeyFollow ONErpm:▶ On Socials...

29/09/2023

Acclaimed singer, songwriter, and producer Ivory Scott, a Grammy-nominated maestro known for crafting chart-topping hits, is captivating audiences once again with the release of his new single and accompanying video, "My Mind," featuring the soulful songstress Queen Naija, via MNRK Music Group. “My Mind” is the follow-up to his debut single “Just Like Me” featuring Eric Bellinger and precedes his highly anticipated EP, Before Ebony, scheduled to hit DSPs on October 27, with a full-length album expected at the start of the next year.

Ivory Scott's illustrious career has seen him pen hit songs for some of the industry's most iconic names, including Beyoncé, Madonna, Fire Boy MDL and Ed Sheeran, Tink, and more, earning him a revered spot among the industry's elite. His recent accolade at BMI's 2023 R&B/Hip Hop Awards, where he received the prestigious Songwriters Award for his contribution to Yung Bleu's "Baddest," featuring Chris Brown and 2 Chainz, further solidifies his status as a music industry luminary.

https://youtu.be/dTI2frlmGOY?si=nV2tf0WiHgHGYXQ0

Ivory Scott

Ivory Scott “My Mind” feat. Queen NaijaStream on all platforms: ivoryscott.lnk.to/MyMindFollow Ivory Scott:instagram.com/iamivoryscotttwitter.com/IvoryScottI...

29/09/2023

Today, fans can get an exclusive glimpse behind-the-scenes of the official music video for “Rosa Parks,” the Grammy nominated and critically acclaimed track from Outkast’s third album, Aquemini, in the latest episode of Vevo Footnotes. The episode is part of Vevo’s original content and specialized programming to celebrate the historic 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop.

In the episode, Big Boi describes the music on Aquemini as a blend of Outkast’s “complex music” on their debut album "Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik" with the “ferocious lyrics” found on their sophomore album ATLiens. The episode highlights that the parade scene in the music video was filmed in front of the iconic Atlanta nightclub, The Royal Peacock. And points out that the marching band in the video is from the historic Morris Brown College, and that the college's gospel choir is featured on their track “Bombs Over Baghdad.” Additionally, the episode mentions that the standout harmonica solo is performed by Andre 3000’s stepfather, Reverend Robert Hodo.

https://youtu.be/PVBofTYDKi8?si=vuzUo_E7ROvSNeKO

Outkast Big Boi

04/04/2023

The SRG/ILS Group welcomes R&B crooner Ruben Studdard! Ruben joins the other music icons on the SRG/ILS roster including Chaka Khan, Brian McKnight, Angie Stone, Erica Campbell, and many others. Ruben is currently wrapping up production on his new album with producer and song writer Balewa Muhammad (Jaheim, Angie Stone, Dave Hollister, Ciara) at the helm. The new album will arrive this summer!

“I am truly excited to join a label that is always looking out for their artists and making sure that whatever they release, its great music that is impactful to the culture. After partnering with veteran songwriter and producer, Balewa Muhammad and Executive Producer, Walter W. Millsap, I just knew that finding the right home for me was key and I am happy to be here, and I am ready to rock and roll with Claude Villani and the entire SRG/ILS team!” – Ruben Studdard

“Working with Ruben, I just knew that we needed the right partnership, and with all the buzz that the SRG/ILS Group has been getting on making sure that legacy artists in the R&B space still had a voice, it was only right for us to meet with them and speak about Ruben joining the family.” – Balewa Muhammad, Producer.

“Ruben is a perfect fit for SRG/ILS. He is incredibly talented and always working. We are excited about the partnership and ready to help him continue his amazing career.” – Claude Villani, CEO, The SRG/ILS Group

CONNECT WITH RUBEN STUDDARD
Facebook: Facebook.com/RubenStuddardMusic
Instagram:
Twitter:

ABOUT RUBEN STUDDARD:
Ruben Christopher Studdard rose to fame 20 years ago as the winner of the second season of American Idol. Later that same year Ruben received his first Grammy nomination for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for "Superstar". Ruben has released six studio albums, including his platinum-selling debut, Soulful, and the top-selling gospel follow-up, I Need an Angel. Although he is more well-known for his recording career, he has also had a notable acting career on both stage and screen. Most notably, he toured with Robin Givens in the comedy-drama I Need a Hug and in 2008 starred as Fats Waller in the national tour revival of Ain't Misbehavin'. Currently Ruben is celebrating the 20th anniversary of his American Idol victory with fellow season two alum Clay Aiken with a nationwide co-headlining tour.

ABOUT THE SRG-ILS GROUP
The SRG/ILS group is distributed worldwide by Virgin Music (UMG). We embrace new technologies and are at the forefront of business models that support artists and labels who want to fully participate in their careers, recordings, and publishing. Through a range of services, SRG/ILS is redefining the relationship between music creators and the marketplace.

New album "Unconditional Love" in stores now!
iTunes http://smarturl.it/RSUnconditional
Amazon: ht

21/03/2023

R&B SONGBIRD K. MICHELLE RELEASES NEW SINGLE "YOU"

PREMIERES NEW VIDEO ON BET SOUL

GEARS UP TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM "I'M THE PROBLEM"

CONTINUES ON THE "I'M THE PROBLEM TOUR"

K. Michelle, the critically acclaimed R&B artist known for her powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, has released her latest single, "YOU," via MNRK Music Group. Produced by Hero, "YOU" showcases her signature soulful sound, coupled with her ability to craft honest and introspective lyrics that speak to her fans' true emotions. This emotionally charged track delves into the complexities of relationships and the ups and downs that come with them. K. Michelle's captivating voice sings over a smooth and melodic instrumental, making for a genuinely mesmerizing listening experience. The accompanying video, directed by Sam Green, premiered on BET Soul.

"YOU" is also the follow-up to K. Michelle's number one hit song "Scooch," featured on I'm The Problem, marking K. Michelle's final R&B album. She promises it will be her most personal and revealing project to date.

"I'm excited to share 'YOU' with my fans," K. Michelle said. "It's a very personal song that speaks to the heart of what I do as an artist - creating music that connects with people on a deep level. I can't wait for everyone to hear it and the rest of the album."

With her powerful vocals and undeniable talent, K. Michelle has established herself as one of R&B's most prominent voices. Her music has earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase, and "YOU" is sure to solidify her position as one of the genre's most influential artists.

K. Michelle is currently on the "I'm The Problem Tour," which has already made stops in DC, Baltimore, Charlotte, New York, and Boston, culminating in Atlanta on April 8. See below for the remaining dates.

I’M THE PROBLEM TOUR DATES
Mar 17 Nashville, TN Marathon Music Works
Mar 18 Memphis Minglewood Music Hall
Mar 19 Oklahoma City, OK Tower Theatre
Mar 23 New Orleans, LA House of Blues
Mar 24 Dallas, TX Majestic Theatre
Mar 25 San Antonio, TX The Aztec
Mar 26 Houston, TX House of Blues
Apr 8 Atlanta, GA Centerstage

https://youtu.be/_5gGNyU065s

"K. Michelle does not disappoint. Her vocally ability and tone is top tier. Her country song with Justin Champagne is a nice collaboration. I am looking forward to see what K. Michelle does next in her music career." - The Real Talk

"YOU" OUT NOW!!!https://lnk.to/KMichelleYOU“I’M THE PROBLEM” ALBUM COMING SOON! Let Me Know What Y’all Think & Your Favorite Part With A 💋 or ❤️ In The Comm...

21/03/2023

Rising Harlem rapper Nym Lo released his latest single and video, "A Kid from the Town," featuring Curren$y via Surface Noise/MNRK Urban. "A Kid from the Town" features a classic, head-bobbing beat that perfectly complements his smooth flow and clever lyrics. The track features guest vocals from Curren$y, adding an extra layer of flavor to the song. The song is a follow-up to “Exuma Island” and “I Love the Game” featuring Dave East, which will be featured off Nym Lo's upcoming album From The Horses Mouth produced by the legendary Statik Selektah, which is set to drop later this year. The accompanying video is directed by New Vegas Films (NVF).

"This single is all about representing where I come from and paying homage to my journey," says Nym Lo. "Working with Curren$y was an honor, and I'm excited for everyone to hear what we created together."

Nym Lo's upcoming album From The Horses Mouth promises to be a standout project, showcasing his unique sound and lyrical skills over Statik Selektah's masterful production. The album features collaborations with some of the biggest names in the industry, as well as up-and-coming talent.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2JgRGPLT2U

Stream/Download “A Kid From The Town””https://AKidFromTheTown.lnk.to/Q9S9FjFollow Nym Lo:https://www.instagram.com/nymlo/ https://twitter.com/NYMLo https://w...

21/03/2023

KASH DOLL, TAY B & BABYFACE RAY ARE “ALL HYPE”

KASH DOLL RELEASES NEW VIDEO OFF HER NEW PROJECT
“BACK ON DEXTER: A GANGSTA GRILLZ MIXTAPE”

Back like she never left, Kash Doll is on a roll with the release of her forth video for “All Hype” featuring Tay B and Babyface Ray off her new project, Back On Dexter: A Gangsta Grillz Mixtape. Directed by Diego, “All Hype” pays homage to actress Nichelle Nichols’ role in “Truck Driver.”

The mixtape, which was executive produced by Kash Doll and Joseph McFashion, takes Kash back to her roots, where it all began on Dexter Ave. Showing fans that she hasn’t lost a step, this video is the follow-up to the lead track “Oh Boy,” featuring Sada Baby, “On The Flo,” featuring Skilla Baby, Baby Money, Cash Kidd, and Risktaker D-Boy, and “RNQ” featuring Icewear Vezzo.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4xuUr_UWxc

Kash Doll, DJ Drama "ALL HYPE" Feat. Tay B & Babyface Ray BACK ON DEXTER: A GANGSTA GRILLZ MIXTAPE OUT NOW!!!https://lnk.to/BackOnDexterGangstaGrillz FOLLOW...

07/03/2023

Raising awareness for autism, Steve Earle and City Winery excitedly present the 8th annual John Henry’s Friends Benefit Concert on May 15th at The Town Hall in New York City. This year’s eclectic lineup will feature a guitar pull with notable performances and storytelling from Steve Earle, David Byrne, Terry Allen, and Kurt Vile.

VIP packages will be available at City Winery ($300-$8,500) and will include Town

Hall’s orchestra seating, as well as admission to the After Party at City Winery immediately following the show and various experiences with Steve including a private dinner. There is a limited number of these packages being sold. Additionally, and keeping with the annual tradition, on May 15, the City Winery's Loft will be hosting the live rehearsal show which will feature Steve Earle solo. All net proceeds will be going to the school as well.

Packages are limited and on sale now at citywinery.com. General admission tickets will be on sale to the public Friday, March 3, at 12 PM local time. You can go here to purchase tickets.

Most importantly, all proceeds will support the show’s longtime partner The Keswell School, an educational program for children and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Founded on the belief that children diagnosed with ASD can live full and productive lives as integrated members of their communities, The Keswell School provides educational, therapeutic, and supportive services for children diagnosed with ASD and their families.

Forever close to his heart, Steve’s son, John Henry, is a student at the school.

Last year’s installment drew widespread critical applause. Forbes raved, “the show returned in the biggest way possible,” going on to affirm, “It’s stunning to see what happens when love, talent, and hunger combine in a small space.” Brooklyn Vegan proclaimed, “this year was extra big,” as Rolling Stone and Relix also highlighted the event.

The John Henry’s Friends Benefit Concert has previously hosted Bruce Springsteen, Rosanne Cash, Willie Nile, Graham Nash, Shawn Colvin, Lucinda Williams, Emmylou Harris, Jason Isbell, Josh Ritter, and Amanda Shires, among others.

The show shines a light on Autism through music and uplifts a worthy program empowering individuals with ASD to live the lives they deserve.

About City Winery:

City Winery, founded in 2008 by Michael Dorf, strives to deliver the highest-end combined culinary and cultural experience to urban wine enthusiasts. City Winery boasts 10 locations including Chicago, Nashville, Atlanta, Boston, Washington DC, Philadelphia, and the new NYC location at Pier 57 on 15th street, launched in January 2021. There are also four offsets run by the company: City Vineyard at Pier 26, City Winery Chicago at the Riverwalk, City Winery Greenway in Boston, and City Winery Hudson Valley. Michael Dorf explains his success and outlines his career in his recent first book, Indulge Your Senses: Scaling Intimacy in a Digital World. See www.citywinery.com for details.

About Steve Earle:

Steve Earle is one of the most acclaimed singer-songwriters of his generation. A protege of legendary songwriters Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark, he quickly became a master storyteller in his own right, with his songs being recorded by Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Joan Baez, Emmylou Harris, The Pretenders, and countless others. 1986 saw the release of his record, Guitar Town, which shot to number one on the country charts and is now regarded as a classic of the Americana genre. Subsequent releases like The Revolution Starts...Now (2004), Washington Square Serenade (2007), and TOWNES (2009) received consecutive GRAMMY® Awards. Restlessly creative across artistic disciplines, Earle has published both a novel and collection of short stories; produced albums for other artists such as Joan Baez and Lucinda Williams, and acted in films, television (including David Simon’s acclaimed The Wire), and on the stage. In 2009, Earle appeared in the off-Broadway play Samara, for which he also wrote a score that The New York Times described as “exquisitely subliminal.” Earle wrote music for and appeared in Coal Country, a riveting public theater play that dives into the most-deadly mining disaster in U.S. history, for which he was nominated for a Drama Desk Award. Mr. Earle was recently inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.

07/03/2023

GIBSON RECORDS:
ANNOUNCES SIGNING OF ROCK AND BLUES GROUP, GHOST HOUNDS

FIRST SINGLE "DIRTY ANGEL" OUT MARCH 9, NEW ALBUM TO BE RELEASED JUNE 2023

For the past 130 years, Gibson--the iconic American instrument brand--has shaped sound across generations and genres of music, becoming one of the most relevant, played, and loved brands around the world. Iconic music that has inspired generations has been recorded on Gibson guitars since the inception of recorded music.

Gibson Records--which delivers guitar-driven music to the forefront of culture--is proud to announce its second album release will launch with the signing of the rock ‘n’ blues group, Ghost Hounds. Gibson Records will release the new album from Ghost Hounds globally in June 2023, in partnership with Firebird Label Services for distribution. Fans can pre-save the first single off the forthcoming album titled "Dirty Angel" set for release on Thursday, March 9.

The new Ghost Hounds album follows the first official release from Gibson Records, Slash Ft. Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators’ acclaimed fourth full-length album titled 4, which was released last year in partnership with BMG.

Headquartered in Music City, Nashville, TN, Gibson Records works with Gibson artists to produce, record, and promote their music to fans around the world under an artist-friendly partnership. Gibson Records continues the evolution of the Gibson Brands multi-media platform, which supports collaborative artist partnerships and brings experiences to music lovers worldwide, generating forever fans across the globe. Over the past three years, Gibson has launched successful music initiatives built around their iconic brands, premium guitars, and amazing artists. Not to mention initiatives that have re-energized the Gibson fanbase on the worldwide stage and the music community at large, including Gibson Artist Collections, the award-winning online network Gibson TV which creates cinematic original series, books and multimedia content from Gibson Publishing, A.I.-enabled interactive, guitar-learning on the Gibson App, the mentorship program for young players Gibson Generation Group (G3), the philanthropic arm Gibson Gives, and the global flagship store the Gibson Garage--the ultimate guitar experience and music destination in Nashville.

“As the guitar of choice for artists that have defined genres, we have been shaping the sound of music since the very beginning of recorded music. We established Gibson Records to leverage our iconic music history and lean into the future of music, working with our artist community to bring more music, written, produced, and recorded with artistic freedom, to audiences around the world. The Ghost Hounds bring us down to earth, with blues inspired, soulful rock ‘n’ roll through their lens, in their own authentic way. There is a reason The Rolling Stones have taken the Ghost Hounds around the world with them as the opening act on their stadium tour. Catch the Ghost Hounds on tour this summer supporting their new album!” --Cesar Gueikian, Gibson Brand President

“It’s a great honor to collaborate with Gibson Records on our upcoming album release. We’re very proud of this single 'Dirty Angel,' Gibson has an incredible legacy and impact in most musician’s lives that we can’t think of a better partner to get this out to the world. Our music is driven by classic electric guitar sounds that Gibson has cultivated since their inception, and we’re excited for people to hear this single and our new record when it comes out this summer.” –Ghost Hounds

Ghost Hounds (L-R): Joe Munroe (keys) ,Thomas Tull (guitars), Tré Nation (lead vocals), Bennett Miller (bass), Johnny Baab (guitars), and Blaise Lanzetta (drums).
(Photo Credit: Jay Arcansalin)

Ghost Hounds:

GHOSTHOUNDS.COM | TW | IG | FB | SPOTIFY | YOUTUBE

Gibson:

GIBSON.COM | TW | IG | FB | GIBSON APP | GIBSON GARAGE | GIBSON TV

Firebird:

FIREBIRD-MUSIC.COM

About Ghost Hounds:
Ghost Hounds are a rock ‘n’ blues band hailing from Pittsburgh, PA. The band's classic rock ‘n’ roll guitar tunes are the result of both Thomas Tull and Brooklyn native guitarist Johnny Baab, while the driving forces on bass and drums are Bennett Miller and Blaise Lanzetta, respectively. Fronted by lead singer Tré Nation, whose voice was simply made for rock, Ghost Hounds are a modern-day rock band that plays blues-inspired rock in such a way that proves that the genre is not only alive but thriving for the next generation of rock fans.

Ghost Hounds have released three studio albums to date. Their debut album, Roses Are Black released in 2019 and generated millions of streams and received acclaim from Billboard, American Songwriter, and many more. In 2021, the band released their sophomore album, A Little Calamity, showcasing the band’s classic rock chops, that included the infectious track and hit single, “Good Old Days.” Soon after A Little Calamity came the band’s 2022 album, You Broke Me, a perfect testimony to Ghost Hounds’s ability to blend classic blues rock with modern influences. The band has had plenty of time to refine their sound on the road, having supported legendary acts, including The Rolling Stones, ZZ Top, Garth Brooks, and Bob Seger on tour.

Currently, the band is gearing up to release their fourth album, which will be released in June 2023 with Gibson Records. With the band’s chemistry more alive than ever, we can expect plenty of blues-rock brilliance from Ghost Hounds to come!

Ghost Hounds

07/03/2023

DE LA SOUL MUSIC VIDEO “ME, MYSELF AND I”

EXCLUSIVELY FOR VEVO FOOTNOTES

New York rap trio De La Soul take fans behind the scenes of the official music video for “Me, Myself and I,” in the latest installment of Vevo Footnotes, premiering today. The exclusive content is part of Vevo’s celebration to honor the historic 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop.

During the episode, Posdnuos of De La Soul discusses the creation of their iconic song, and how it allowed the group to address negative media labels. He highlights how the ‘Twilight Zone’ influenced the video’s opening segment with producer Prince Paul and their comedic approach to the video, playing off their hip-hop style. He explains the video aimed to underscore individuality and confidence, and Posdnuos suggests that if they remade the video today, they might focus on inner growth instead of external independence. He also shares a standout memory from the video’s scene with teacher Def Beat, and reveals that Ali Shaheed Muhammad from A Tribe Called Quest wrote “De La Sucks” on the bathroom wall.

Below is a complete outline of “Me, Myself & I” I Vevo Footnotes:
https://youtu.be/YtqG7n2pJv4

00:19 - I’m a big ‘Twilight Zone’ fan, so when it was time to figure out how to include [producer] Prince Paul in the video, we went with him being a hip-hop Rod Serling to set up the story. - Posdnuos

00:43 - The words were written pretty quick. The cadence was taken from a song called “Black Is Black” by Jungle Brothers, featuring Q-Tip. “(Not Just) Knee Deep” by Funkadelic was a song Maseo always wanted to sample. He and Prince Paul put the bulk of it together. - Posdnuos

01:08 - The press was referring to us as the hippies of hip-hop. This song became a way to express that this wasn’t a gimmick, and that we were being ourselves. This is why in my first verse I say, “You say Plug 1 & 2 are hippies, no we’re not, that’s pure Plug bull.” - Posdnuos

01:28 - We did it in a comedic way playing off what was considered the conventional look for a hip-hop kid vs. a non conventional way of looking. - Posdnuos

01:54 - [A standout memory was] shooting the scene where the teacher Def Beat throws the record into one of the student’s heads. All the students were all fans of our music and were happy to have the opportunity to be in the video. - Posdnuos

02:13 - Ali Shaheed [from A Tribe Called Quest] was the guy who wrote De La Sucks on the bathroom wall. - Posdnuos

02:43 - This video underscored individuality - confidence in owning who you are and want to be, regardless of what others think. It was our first video with a budget. - Posdnuos

03:13 - [If it were remade today] maybe you could flip the video on its head, where everyone is dressing so different and cool and loud and someone wants to dress down and plain because they are more focused on their inner growth than their out independence. - Posdnuos

Executive Producer: Chris Pereira Producer: Jim Macnie + Devon Sheridan Editor: Andrew RosDesign: Sydney Emery Format developed by: Sydney Emery, Justin Brow...

07/02/2023

“AFRICA RISING” is the fifth release from noted smooth jazz sax leader ANDRE WARD on the Gallery Entertainment/Orpheus Enterprises label. The Chicago native brings together originals and remakes, each with their own distinct flavor. From the hip-hop flavored single, “Casualty Of Love” (with vocalist K’Jon), to the upbeat, brassy remake of Stevie Wonder’s “Do I Do.” Andre covers many musical palates.

Born and raised in the Windy City, Andre cites his hometown’s longtime jazz and R&B legacy as an inspiration for his music and career. “My favorite band will always be Earth Wind & Fire, which was founded by Maurice White – who came out of Chicago with his brother, Verdine” says Ward. “When they had the Phenix Horns and the departed Don Myrick on saxophone, that really motivated me to play the sax. I actually started out as a drummer then the trumpet until finally the alto sax – all thanks to an after school program that encouraged kids to learn to play musical instruments.”

Andre went on to Tennessee State University in Nashville, where he formed the quartet Act IV - which won a national contest sponsored by Budweiser to record a single “The Pulse”. From there he attended the prestigious Berklee School of Music in Boston – a city where he remains to this day. “My goal was to earn my degree from Berklee, then move on to NYC for gigs and session work, “Andre explains. “However, what wound up happening is I was getting a lot of live music work, just in the Boston area alone! Plus, in 1990, fellow Berklee alum Lalah Hathaway invited me to be part of her touring band when she released her debut album on Virgin Records. This led to backing hit makers such as Will Downing, then Freddie Jackson for nine years – four of which as his touring band’s musical director.”

The time with Freddie Jackson resulted in Andre drawing attention from Hush Productions, with whom Jackson had his deal with Capitol Records. Ward - “Hush started a partnership with Morgan Creek Records, where I recorded my first solo single, ‘Everything I Do (I Do For You) – a remake of Bryan Adams’ #1 pop hit. My version was a smash on the smooth jazz charts but then Morgan Creek was shut down soon after. So for the next few years I became a music educator in the Boston public school system. Fast-forward, I was offered a deal from the Huggins brothers (Charles and Beau).”

Ward’s releases “Feelin’ You”, “Steppin’ Up” and “Crystal City” were all Top 10 Contemporary Jazz Albums with “Caution” going to #1 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz charts. “AFRICA RISING” will soon be joining the ranks. Andre pays tribute to the sound of Earth Wind & Fire with the tune “Secret Place” (with Chantel Hampton on vocals) and tips his hat to fellow Chicagoans the Emotions with his take on their classic “Don’t Ask My Neighbors”. With the single, “Casualty Of Love” with singer/songwriter K’Jon – “We’ve been trying to work together for some time but he had commitments to fulfill for the label. Finally, K’Jon sent over the instrumental track for ‘Casualty Of Love’ and I immediately liked it. What makes this song special is lyrically the story is about the belief of love on a positive note – which is missing in many new tunes out there now. ‘Casualty Of Love’ is about the benefits of love and how it makes life better...puts a positive spin on being a prisoner of love.

Andre now has a new single from the “AFRICA RISING” release, a remake of Sade’s “Kiss of Life” As to why taking on that 90’s classic – “Who doesn’t love Sade! Her catalog is full of wonderful gems and I wanted to give the song my own spin.”

It is Andre Ward’s hope that listeners will not only enjoy “AFRICA RISING” but will also find some hope and inspiration. “Africa is a force in the world which inspire those to have a vision and belief in positive things to come, to have hope for the future generations. Not only economically but as far as how driven folks from the motherland are in business and life,” exclaims Andre. “As we as a people are still emerging from the pandemic, through my music we can look to Africa as a driving force to keep us moving forward in life.”