鬼・マーカス marcus millerコミュのThe Smooth Jazz Cruse 2011

When it comes to jazz, funk, R&B and bass guitar, Marcus Miller is truly a pioneer. By the age of 15 he was already composing music and was proficient on the clarinet, piano and bass guitar. In subsequent years he became one of the hottest musicians in the New York studio scene, working with such artists as Roberta Flack, Aretha Franklin, Grover Washington Jr. and David Sanborn to name a few. His reputation as one of the finest bass players made him the first call bassist for artists as diverse as Joe Sample, McCoy Tyner, Mariah Carey, Bill Withers, Elton John, Bryan Ferry, Frank Sinatra, and LL Cool J.

In 1981, he joined his boyhood idol Miles Davis and spent two years on the road with the fabled jazzman and later produced 3 albums for Miles Davis, one of which included the landmark tune “Tutu”. Throughout the years, he has written, composed, produced and performed with some of the biggest names in music, including a 20-year long relationship with Luther Vandross, which also earned both Vandross and Miller Grammy® awards in 1991 for “The Power of Love”

Marcus was also the host of two our Jazz Cruises LLC’s most unique ventures – the North Sea Jazz Cruise (a combination of jazz cruise mixed with the world-renown festival in Holland) and the Playboy Jazz Cruise (which was in many ways the Playboy Jazz Festival at sea). He is the ultimate host, from welcoming each and every guest during dinner, to humbly interviewing his peers and educating the guests to putting on one hell of a show. When Marcus Miller’s onboard a Jazz Cruises LLC cruise, there’s one thing we can guarantee, you will learn more about jazz than ever before, party until the wee hours and simply hear the best music ever produced.

www.marcusmiller.com

Making his saxophone sing like a human voice--that's BONEY JAMES.

Soulful and gifted, the three million-selling saxophonist and songwriter is one of today's most respected and best-selling instrumental artists and performers.

With his latest album SEND ONE YOUR LOVE (Concord) -- featuring "Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight," nominated for a Grammy for "Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance" -- BONEY furthers his
longstanding reputation as a major force in both the worlds of Contemporary Jazz and R&B.

The East Coast-raised and Los Angeles-based artist has not only sold over three million albums -- he's earned a string of 12 hit records (including 8 Billboard Contemporary Jazz #1's) and garnered an array of
honors: a Soul Train Award for Best Jazz Album, three Grammy nominations -- two for Best Pop
Instrumental Album and one for Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance -- and an NAACP Image Award nomination.

2009 was truly a watermark year for BONEY. Billboard ranked him the #1 "Hot Smooth Jazz Artist" as well as the #2 "Top Contemporary Jazz Artist." Send One Your Love has been on the "Top Contemporary
Jazz Album" chart for 44 weeks since its February 3, 2009 release and was ranked #2 for that chart overall for 2009. He was also the #3 Contemporary Jazz Artist of the Decade (behind Norah Jones and Kenny G.) and the #8 Best-Selling Jazz Artist of the Decade.

Boney James was born in Lowell, Massachusetts and grew up in New Rochelle, New York, where he was influenced by Motown music, as well as the work of contemporary jazz saxophonist Grover Washington Jr. Later James honed his R&B chops while touring and doing session work with such stars as Morris Day, the Isley Brothers, Randy Crawford, Ray Parker, Jr. and Bobby Caldwell. James made his debut as a solo artist with Trust in 1992, virtually creating the genre of "urban jazz. " He now lives in Los Angeles with his wife Actress/Director Lily Mariye (ER's Nurse Jarvik for 15 Seasons.)

For his new CD Send One Your Love, Boney says that his concept was "to take the sexy quality of the sax and combine it with classic soul love songs plus some of my new compositions to make the ultimate 'makeout CD'. I wanted this to be an album, not just a collection of songs, to tell a romantic story from the beginning to the end."

No doubt his legions of fans will agree he's succeeded and James will be out on the road supporting the CD throughout 2010. According to Boney, "The communal experience of playing live--that's why I became a musician in the first place. It's exciting and liberating. It never gets old for me." Of his live show, The Philadelphia Tribune said, "To put it mildly, Boney James...was THE BOMB. An unbelievable technician who knows how to work a crowd...A tough act to follow."

www.boneyjames.com

Brian McKnight grew up in a family where music came naturally. He was a member of the church choir along with his immediate family; his grandfather was the director. With a gospel upbringing, McKnight explored other genres of music. Still in his early teens, he exercised his writing ambitions by penning instrumentals (soft jazz, easy listening).

In addition to being a singer, McKnight is a songwriter, multi-talented musician, arranger, and producer. The success he has achieved as producer and songwriter on his own projects has facilitated his popularity as a producer and songwriter for other artists and has collaborated with performers across every genre including Justin Timberlake, Mariah Carey, Christina Aguilera, Vanessa Williams, Kenny G, Willie Nelson, Rascal Flatts.

With seemingly endless talent and enver one to sit back on his accomplishments, McKnight has crossed the boundaries of every medium. He has hosted the Red Carpet for Extra!, played Billy Flynn in Chicago on Broadway, was recently a contestant on “Celebrity Apprentice”, scored “Daddy’s Little Girl” for Tyler Perry to name a few. He is currently hosting “Soul Session Countdown with Brian McKnight” on BET J and for the past two years has hosted one of the Top 5 rated breakfast radio shows, “The Brian McKnight Morning Show” on KTWV The Wave.

Brian McKnight has earned himself a spot in contemporary music. He has released 11 albums to date, 7 of which have gone platinum with several going 2 and 3 x platinum and has sold over 20 million albums worldwide. Along with several Grammy® Nominations, McKnight has been the recipient of American Music Awards, Soul Train Awards, NAACP Image and Blockbuster Awards and Billboard Song Writer of the Year.

Gerald Albright transcends the world of both jazz music and other genres. His self-produced music features him on bass guitar, keyboards, flutes, drum programming and background vocals crossing from contemporary jazz to gospel to straight-ahead jazz to R & B to smooth jazz. Simply stated, Gerald Albright can flat play…anything…anytime…anywhere.

A native Californian, Los Angeles is where he made a name for himself originally as a sideman of great insight and musicianship, playing on albums by a wide variety of artists like Patrice Rushen, Anita Baker, Atlantic Starr, The Winans, Olivia Newton-John, The Temptations, and more. He also toured & performed with Les McCann, Rachelle Ferrell, Chaka Khan, Teena Marie, Marlene Shaw, Will Downing, Quincy Jones, Whitney Houston, Phil Collins, and many others.

He has been a solo artist since 1987 and his shows reflect the amazingly broad spectrum of his talents, his tastes and his time with other stars. The one constant is the honesty, love and sincerity that he has for his music, the audience and his fellow performers. We are often asked if Gerald is as nice in person as he seems to be on stage. The answer is a resounding “no”!! He is actually even nicer, if that is possible - and a four-time Grammy® Nominee by the way…

2006 was the first time that Gerald joined a Jazz Cruises’ program and he has been on every “smooth jazz” themed cruise that we do. As we have developed over the years, not only has Gerald continued to present one of the very top and most loved shows during the week, but he has been a great event host as well ! He has a wonderful skill of being able to host several of our Q&A Sessions and bring the audience in on the backbone of music. Together with the love of his life, his high-school sweetheart and wife, Glynis, they have become the First Couple of our cruises hosting cooking exhibitions, exercise classes and so much more.

As if there were not enough talented Albrights on the cruise, daughter Selina has been performing vocals for several of our acts and will soon have her own time in the lounges. Jazz Cruises owes so much to Gerald and the famously talented Albright family.

www.geraldalbright.com

Jonathan Butler's jazz-infused approach to R&B/pop has earned this outstanding singer/guitarist/songwriter/producer a distinguished place in the urban contemporary, adult contemporary, smooth jazz arenas, mixing R&B vocals with smooth instrumental soloing. Born in Athlone (Cape Town), South Africa, Jonathan became a proficient vocalist and guitarist by the time he was six. He emigrated to London in 1985 at the invitation of fellow South Africans Clive Caulder and Ralph Simon, founders of Jive Records and was signed to the label. His self-titled debut album introduced him internationally and scored a Grammy nomination for the pop hit "Lies." An instrumental, "Going Home," earned a Grammy nomination and the mid-tempo ballad, "Sarah, Sarah," confirmed Butler's place in popular music. Jonathan has had many successes over his twenty-five year recording career in pop, R&B, smooth jazz, gospel and adult formats, crossing genres and solidifying his place across a wide range of musical landscapes.

www.jonathanbutler.com

Rick has worked as a sideman, touring with such rock and pop stars as Rickie Lee Jones, Sade, Rod Stewart, Tina Turner, Glenn Frey, Natalie Cole, Tom Petty, Crowded House, Phoebe Snow and of course, War. In addition to recording and touring as a solo artist, Rick has virtually become an in-house producer for record label Mesa/Bluemoon. In the past few years, he's held the creative reins on several critically acclaimed projects, and as a producer, he has delivered No. 1 hits for keyboardist David Benoit, guitarist Marc Antoine, Avenue Blue and saxophonist Bryan Savage, and was honored in 2000, as "Best Producer" and "Best Brass Player" at the Oasis Smooth Jazz Awards.

www.rickbraun.com

Since the release of his critically acclaimed 2002 album, Just Chillin' - which won a Grammy® in the prestigious Best Pop Instrumental Category - this innovative and original guitarist has been front and center in the fast evolving fusion of pop, R&B and jazz that has captured the imagination of true music aficionados across the country and around the world. Over the course of five landmark releases and a virtually constant itinerary of international touring, this gifted and gloriously versatile guitarist and vocalist has established himself as one of a handful of preeminent instrumentalists and composers in contemporary musical realms, setting a standard for virtuosity that has placed the Shreveport, La. native in a category of one.

www.normanbrown.com

With a jazz style that is both urban and contemporary, Nick Colionne has blazed a trail to the top of the ranks of today's stars. Combining all of the various influences of his music career from jazz to R&B to blues to rock, he has created an unmistakable sound and vibe that is instantly recognizable. With lightening fast speed and a distinctively silky sound, Nick takes the guitar to unexpected places every time he performs. His rich baritone vocals delight audiences unaccustomed to hearing such a skilled instrumentalist singing as well, and his showmanship....well, you have to see a Nick Colionne show and experience it for yourself. With energy to spare, unparalleled musicianship and a natural comedic flair, he is one of a kind.

www.nickcolionne.com

Jazz keyboardist and Grammy award-winning producer, George Duke is a living legend. The San Francisco/Bay Area native began his solo career in 1976, which included success with a series of fusion-oriented LP's, such as his debut CBS LP, From Me To You. In 1978, the funk-flavored sound of Reach for It, turned gold and reached the top of the charts.

In the late 1970's, George turned to producing albums. His breakthrough came when "Sukiyaki," a single covered by A Taste of Honey, jumped to Number 1 on the pop, adult contemporary, and R&B charts, selling over 2 million copies. Tutu, by Miles Davis with selections produced by George, won a Grammy in 1986. Since then, he's worked with many accomplished artists, including Najee, George Howard, the Winans, Anita Bryant, Rachelle Ferrell, Marilyn Scott, & Natalie Cole, among many others. 2005 looks to be another busy year, with George promoting his new CD, scoring another movie for director Ernest Dickerson and a much anticipated reunion with Stanley Clarke. For the latest on George Duke, please visit www.georgeduke.com

Performing since age seven, bandleader of Funky Stuff since age fourteen, internationally recording artist since age nineteen, touring the world since age twenty…

Raised in a family heavily involved in the Dutch jazz scene, Dulfer is the daughter of Hans Dulfer, a respected jazz tenor saxophonist. Thanks to him, she listened to and studied the recordings of Sonny Rollins, Coleman Hawkins, and Dexter Gordon. He also introduced her to the stage early in life. When she was 12, she began playing in a band with Rosa King, an American expatriate who lived in Holland. Her career began by playing with brass bands but soon she was fronting her own band, Funky Stuff, who were invited to backup Madonna for part of her European tour. She began leading the band at age 15. Her appearances with Prince led to session work with Eurythmics guitarist/producer Dave Stewart, who gave Dulfer a credit on "Lily Was Here," which reached number six in the U.K. and number one on the Dutch radio charts in 1990. Recording sessions for her debut album were followed by more guest star dates with Van Morrison, Aretha Franklin, and Pink Floyd.

Her debut, Saxuality, released later in 1990 for RCA Records, was very successful in Europe and the U.S. While it was by no means a straight-ahead jazz album, her funky alto sax styling’s caught on with fans of contemporary jazz at smooth jazz radio stations around the U.S. Saxuality was nominated for a Grammy and certified gold for sales in excess of a half-million units worldwide. Since then she has recorded and/or performed with a slew of international stars such as Prince, Marcus Miller, Chaka Khan, Sheila E., David Sanborn, Tower of Power, Angie Stone, Blondie, Beyoncé, Jonathan Butler and many, many more.

www.candydulfer.nl

Like a booming metropolis, saxman Richard Elliot is a rhythmic force of funk and fire, diverse and distinctive, passionate and powerful, soulful and seductive. A consistent chart-topper, Elliot released the Metro Blue album in June 2005. It’s his fourteenth solo collection, yet his debut for the newly launched ARTizen Music Group record label, of which he is a partner. Elliot’s emotive sax and Rick Braun’s muted trumpet and flugelhorn help set the tone on the first track being serviced to smooth jazz radio, a cover of The Stylistics’ moody classic, “People Make The World Go Round.” While his highly successful solo recording career has made him an icon in the contemporary jazz radio world, Elliot has always devoted a tremendous amount of time and energy to his live performance schedule, one that helped him connect with fans across the country, forging an enduring relationship.

www.richardelliot.com

Jeff Golub's blend of blues, soul, rock, and jazz has made him one of contemporary jazz/blues' hottest artists. The Berklee School of Music-trained guitarist got his professional start when he joined Billy Squier's band in 1980. This initial success paved the way for his session work with artists such as John Waite, Tina Turner, Vanessa Williams, Ashford & Simpson, and Rod Stewart, with whom Jeff worked for eight years. In 1988, Jeff cut his debut solo album, "Unspoken Words," which was hailed by Guitar World as "smooth, versatile... full of taste and soul."

In 1994, Jeff formed his own contemporary jazz group, Avenue Blue, and their first self-titled album was met with immediate success, reaching the #2 spot on both R&R and The Gavin Report's contemporary jazz charts. Jeff penned ten original tracks on the 1996 sophomore Avenue Blue album, "Naked City," which also features Bob James, vocalist Phoebe Snow, and a number of New York's finest musicians. The third Avenue Blue album, "Nightlife," was released in 1997 and hit #1 on R&R NAC/Smooth Jazz Albums chart, with the title track topping the R&R NAC/Smooth Jazz tracks chart. 1999's "Out of the Blue" is full of Jeff's stinging, swinging guitarwork boldly leading funky Latin-tinged rhythms, soulful melodies and dramatic arrangements. Jeff's 2000 release, "Dangerous Curves," spent 12 weeks on Billboard's Contemporary Jazz Chart Top 20. Jeff continued his hit streak with his 2002 "Do It Again," which topped at #8 on Billboard's Contemporary Jazz Chart, with his "Cut the Cake" cover spending six weeks at #1 on NAC radio.

www.jeffgolub.com

For over two decades, songwriter, arranger, producer, and keyboardist extraordinaire Philippe Saisse has maintained a thriving solo career while simultaneously collaborating on a prolific output of music. He has worked in various creative capacities with a who’s who of current pop, r&b, and jazz musicians, including David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, Al DiMeola, and Chaka Kahn, to name a few. With the debut of the Philippe Saisse Trio release, The Body and Soul Sessions, Saisse is poised to become the breakout jazz artist of the year. The album is extremely accessible while also completely innovative – a truly laudable accomplishment.

www.philippesaisse.com

If you listen to contemporary jazz, chances are, you’ve heard Brian Simpson. With his current album It’s All Good, you’re about to hear a lot more. A longtime studio musician, musical director, and touring keyboardist to stars as diverse as Janet Jackson and Dave Koz, he's stepping into the spotlight and putting the jazz scene on notice. With his debut on Rendezvous Entertainment, Brian has created a jazz album in every sense of the term, compelling from beginning to end, varied in its smooth melodies and bebop swing, and rewarding in its tribute to both contemporary and traditional jazz improvisation.

www.bsimpsonmusic.com

You can look far and wide, but you will be hard pressed to ever find as dynamic and exciting a vocalist as Larry Braggs. A true showman with incredible range and control, Larry exudes confidence along with a sense of joy in every song he sings. As lead vocalist for Tower of Power, Larry has truly made the songs his own as he thrills audiences worldwide. He also was the lead vocalist for the Vesper Choir and performed at the Inauguration Performance at the United Nations Building in Vienna, Austria. Larry has shared the bill and the stage with notable artists such as Stevie Ray Vaughan, Lenny Kravitz, Kenny Loggins, Millie Jackson, Morris Day, Ready for the World, Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince, Tony Terry, Evelyn "Champagne" King, Guy, War, The Neville Brothers, the Average White Band, The Winans, and more. Larry has toured Europe where he has performed for kings and queens singing classical music. Returning to his roots of soul and R&B in 1987, Larry began touring with a funk band out of Austin, Texas known as "The Bizness." Larry took the reins as lead vocalist for the legendary soul and funk band from Oakland, California - Tower of Power - in October 2000. When not touring with Tower of Power, you might find Larry occasionally singing the National Anthem at a Golden State Warriors home game.

Artists
Simone - Vocalist

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------







Born Lisa Celeste Stroud in Westchester, NY, singer, actress, and performer Simone is the daughter of musical legend and freedom fighter Nina Simone. She was raised across three different continents (North America, Africa, and Europe) and in turn has experienced a life full of music, foreign language, culture and constant movement in a variety of of countries she now calls 'home'.

Simone has been building a carer as a vocalist and performer in touring musical productions (Jesus Christ Superstar), jazz bands (Liquid Soul), with international touring artists (Raphael), as well as Broadway performances (Rent, The Lion King, Aida). Towards the end of her last role as the lead in Disney's Aida, her mother passed away and Simone took over the most challenging role of her career thus far — executor of her mother's estate. Since taking over Nina's estate several years ago, Simone is now going forward with her musical career.

Prior to her passing, Nina left Simone a large collection of charts for compositions she had used for recording and preforming over the years. Some of these included the songs made famous by Nina Simone, others were unique arrangements of Nina's hits, and still others were never performed or recorded. These charts became the basis for Simone's newest record that was recorded in May 2007 with the help of legendary jazz producer and musician Bob Belden.

Born and raised in the city of Philadelphia, Gail Denise Jhonson began piano lessons in elementary school at age 10. Proving to be a gifted student she advanced quickly and at age 14, played her 1st gigs on the organ with numerous local Funk and R&B bands. By the time she was 18, her musical pursuit led her to enroll into Berklee College of Music where she received a B.A. in Composition. Returning home, as a jazz pianist, Gail performed with several jazz bands, and other popular Philadelphia artists. She left Germantown in 1985, with her keyboard strapped on and landed an audition with Morris Day (of The TIME). She eventually moved to Los Angeles to make her dream career come true!

By 2004, Keep The Music Playing, Gail Jhonson's highly acclaimed debut contemporary jazz CD on her own (Philly The Kid Records), brought her into the international recording spotlight. Led by the hit singles "Heaven" and "Just For Kicks" the CD received strong support from the music industry.

Gail stays quite busy as the music director, keyboardist and vocalist for smooth jazz super star guitarist and vocalist Norman Brown. In 2005, the nations highly successful and much anticipated Norman Brown's Summer Storm Tour was launched with special guest Peabo Bryson, Everett Harp & Brenda Russell. Major success followed with the 2006 Summer Storm 2 Tour with special guest Patti Austin, Alex Bugnon and Paul Taylor!! In addition to putting the finishing touches on her follow-up CD, Gail is currently working on the music for 2010 Summer Storm Tour.

In past years, she has performed with Morris Day, Bobby Womack, Pink, Norman Brown, Vanessa Williams, Bobby Lyle/featuring Mindi Abair, Dave Koz, Jermaine Jackson and Sheila E. With early influences of Duke Ellington and Herbie Hancock and later Stevie Wonder and Joe Sample, Gail has shared the stage with Ray Parker Jr. Vesta, Howard Hewitt, Brian Culbertson, OC Smith, Paul Jackson Jr. Pamela Williams, Phil Perry and yes, Milli Vanilli. Her various television performances include: BET on Jazz, MTV, Lou Rawls/Parade of Stars, Soul Train, The Tonight Show and numerous video performances. Gail also has a love for theatre, particularly Gospel Musicals.

Her first professional experience was offered as a piano substitute for the stage play EUBIE, at the Ivar Theatre, in Hollywood. She soon began playing for a Langston Hughes play, TAMBORINES TO GLORY, directed by the late Lincoln Kilpatrick, at The Bradley Theatre also in Los Angeles. Thereafter, she was scoring and was the music director for gospel performances SAVING GRACE and REASON FOR THE SEASON, written by Dennis Rowe. In 2003, Gail produced the SAVING GRACE CD, with performances by a multi-talented cast including her son Vein a rap artist and co-writer daughter Tamina, a wonderful soprano and budding musician. Presently, Gail finds time to for songwriting, producing, and piano instruction.

www.gailjhonson.com

This L.A. based band has been entertaining for over a decade.

Eric, William & Damon are the 3 harmonious voices that bring this high energy R&B jazz and Latin Soul band to life. DW3 is comprised of outstanding musicians which consist of Keyboards, Percussion, Drums, Bass and Guitar.

Recent venues consist of City of lights jazz fest, Gaslamp jazz fest,Newport Jazz Festival, Jazz Fest West, Long Beach jazz fest, Thorton Winery, Ponte Winery, Spaghettinis Jazz Club, The House of Blues, BB Kings and The Vault 350.

For the last four years DW3 has had the pleasure of performing on the Warren Hill, Wayman Tisdale and Dave Koz Jazz Cruises.

Every year, to show their support and appreciation, DW3 performs for our US troops in Afghanistan, Iraq, Asia and throughout Europe.

Eric, William and Damon have also had the pleasure of singing backgrounds with Marcus Miller, Evelyn “Champagne” King George Duke, Brenda Russell, Patti Austin, Jonathon Butler, Bobby Caldwell, Brian McKnight, David Pack(Ambrosia), The Avila Bros and many more.

With 2 successful Cd’s, one which was produced by Spaghettinis Jazz Club and the other produced by DW3, they are looking forward to their third, which will be produced by the two time Grammy award winning Paul Brown and Marcus Miller.

Alonzo was born in New York and lives in L.A. Fortunately he's not a rapper because he'd have to shoot himself. Alonzo has appeared on TV's Last Comic Standing, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, Make Me Laugh, Friday Night Videos, Thirty-Something, Power Rangers, The Craig Kilborn Show, The Apollo. He was the first comedian invited to appear on The Keenan Ivory Wayans Show and has appeared on many other comedy shows. He’s also got an acting career with roles in Bringin’ Down The House, The Girl Next Door, Angel, Grounded For Life and Profiler among others. Alonzo describes his humor as "Cynically Good-natured" which explains his broad appeal. Alonzo enjoys the "Def-Jam" comedians, but for his comedy to ring true he has to draw on his own experiences, being raised in the "middle-class hood". Alonzo strives to find humor in the commonality of our life experiences and transcend the race and gender boundaries that separate us -- he'd also like to land a really fat endorsement deal with Nike or Reebok or somebody, anybody... he just likes free stuff. Alonzo Bodden has the ability to make people laugh about, racism, sports, travel, shopping, dating, and he can fix your Lear Jet

www.alonzobodden.com

Andre, moved to LA from Cleveland OH, in 1985 and immediately enrolled in the Los Angeles City College Music program that fall. He stayed there 4 years taking all the available music classes, and playing in all the jazz bands under the direction of Doc Simpson & Woody James, until he landed his first real road gig with the "Busboys" of Eddie Murphy's "48hours" fame in 1989. From there he went on to join A&M records recording act "Total Eclipse". His first Smooth Jazz tour was with Rick Braun in 1995 and from there he has continued on to tour/record/perform with the following: Dave Koz, Mindi Abair, TLC, David Benoit, Wayman Tisdale, Jeffrey Osborne, Jody Watley, Sophie B Hawkins and Tiny Tim… just to name a few.

Saxophonist Tom Braxton is a versatile instrumentalist, a charismatic performer, and a gifted composer whose distinct, melodic sound thrills audiences of all ages and leaves them wanting more. His crisp, lyrical melodies and tantalizing grooves blend elements of jazz, Latin, funk, and R&B to create a sound that is innovative and appealing. After one of his electrifying concerts, you’ll still be humming the melodies and snapping your fingers all the way home.

Tom has shared the stage with many well-known artists including Dave Koz, Rick Braun, George Duke, Kirk Whalum, Jonathan Butler, Jeff Golub, Marcus Miller, Luther Vandross, and Phillip Bailey. Tom has opened concerts for numerous jazz greats including Norman Brown, Boney James, Najee, Dave Brubeck, Cab Calloway, Spyro Gyra, The Rippingtons, David Benoit, Pieces of a Dream, Michael Franks, and The Crusaders.

Seasoned with experience and gifted with a fresh sound that has widespread appeal, Tom Braxton is destined to be a key player in the music industry in the 21st century.

Visit the official Tom Braxton website at www.tombraxton.com.

Rayford was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, to a minister father, Reverend Thomas J. Griffin, and his mother, Geneva Brown, who was a Howard-University music major, so his music appreciation started early.

It was the drum solos of Art Blakey and Max Roach on albums by his late, lamented uncle, trumpeter Clifford Brown, that lured him to the drums. Rayford got his first drum (a field snare) at the age of 10 and played in his grade school marching band and orchestra. He got his first full set of drums (all the way from Japan) at 13.

Rayford was raised on a steady diet of uncle Clifford’s classics, the symphonic soul of Isaac Hayes, the earth blues basics of Jimi Hendrix and Buddy Miles, and the revolutionary jazz-rock fusion of Billy Cobham and Lenny White (in the Mahavishnu Orchestra and Return to Forever, respectively).

In years later, Rayford embarked on the most high profile gig of his then career playing with Ponty for six years and five albums (1981-1987). “One year we played the Santa Monica Civic and everybody I listened to growing up was backstage: Stanley Clarke, George Duke, Lee Ritenour,” exclaims Rayford. Ray wound up playing with most of them. Subsequent gigs included accompanying Anita Baker, Cameo, George Howard, Dave Koz, Jeff Lorber, Boyz II Men and Anastasia and being a member of the Stanley Clarke Band, to name just a few.

Born in San Francisco and raised in the Motor City Detroit, Jacobs career began at the age of 13. His first professional gigs were with some of Motown's leading writers, producers and artists. Including songwriter Sylvia Moy (ìMi Cherie Amourî), singer/songwriter Barrett Strong (Money), and producer Don Davis (Johnny Taylor, The Dramatics, Robin Trower). It was while working with former Miles Davis bassist Michael Henderson fresh out of high school, that Jacobs showed he had a gift for songwriting when he co-authored the Top-Five R&B hit, "Wide Receiver." After a number of years working in the Motown scene Jacobs became one of the core members of Was (Not Was), an eclectic pop band that developed a strong following in the U.S. and abroad during the 1980s. While with the band, Jacobs co-authored the Top-Ten hit "Walk the Dinosaur."

After they disbanded in 1992 he became a member of Soul Mission (a gospel R&B project featuring Tata Vega, Mavis Staples, Booker T Jones and Steve Cropper), with one release for Sony/Epic Records. In 1994 he formed his own outfit The Boneshakers with Was (Not Was) band mate singer Sweet Pea Atkinson finally projecting his vision of funk, blues, R&B, rock and soul into the universe. Releasing two CDs, “Book of Spells” and “Shake the Planet” for Pointblank/Virgin Records. Three more followed “Pouring Gasoline” and “Put Some Booty on It Live, Vol. 1” with former Storyville singer Malford Milligan and then “Vol 2” featuring the original band’s first ever show at the Great American Music Hall in San Francisco 1997 all released on Jacobs own Bad Monkey Recordings.

Randy continued his relationship with Pointblank Records President John Wooler after leaving the label co-producing the critically acclaimed I-10 Chronicles series and Bill and Bonnie Hearn for Backporch/Virgin Records. In 2005, Randy released “From Me To You” his first jazz influenced solo instrumental CD on his Bad Monkey Recordings label. With appearances from Mindy Abair, Andre Berry, Rick Braun, Euge Groove, Wendy Moten, Bob Sheppard and Wayman Tisdale, it is a stellar outing.

Jacobs' hard-driving, always-in-the-pocket talent has been sought out by such diverse artists as Australian singer/songwriter Paul Kelly, Coolio, Warren G and Dr. Dre, Elton John, Willie Nelson, Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, B.B. King, Bonnie Raitt, Ringo Starr, Kris Kristofferson, Michael McDonald, Paula Abdul, Jewel, Seal, Earl Klugh, Dave Koz, Nick Lachey, Hillary Duff and many more. 2008 saw a brand new studio CD for the Boneshakers on Novatunes.com and a follow up to his solo CD.

A new name. A new face. A new sound. Right through each note, jazz pianist, Composer, and music professor Arlington Jones exudes energy from the top of his head to the bottom of his feet! Over the years, you have probably seen him as the keyboardist for Wayman Tisdale, Tom Braxton, and many more. He played with the Guitars and Saxes Tour 2007 featuring Kirk Whalum, Gerald Albright, Jeff Golub, and Tim Bowman. Arlington has three albums, a long list of credits, and published works with Kjos Publishing Company. With high-spirited and unpredictable sets, his music takes listeners on an unforgettable journey by way of storytelling originals and innovative arrangements. The mission is to create “music that speaks life” to the hearts of people around the world! Experience it for yourself!

www.arlingtonjones.com

At a time when funk had a firm foothold around the Great Lakes, where bands like Parliament, the Ohio Players, Slave, and Earth, Wind & Fire cranked out industrial-strength soul, Portland, Oregon’s Pleasure was happy to blaze its own jazzy dance trail in the Northwest. “We were sort of isolated up there,” says bassist Nate Phillips, “so we just did our own thing.” The group’s fusion-influenced dance music reached its peak with “Glide,” the Top Ten R&B single from the album Future Now. The tune sports some of the finest bass work of the era, as Nate drives the track with his formidable slap-and-pop technique. It’s the kind of dense, booty-shaking line every would-be funkateer wishes they had written.

Phillips grew up outside Portland and was truly influenced by jazz and early fusion, like Herbie Hancock’s Fat Albert Rotunda, Miles Davis’s Bitches Brew, and stuff on producer Creed Taylor’s CTI label”. Nate spawned the lick that became “Glide” on a visit to his mother’s house in Portland. “I had my Fender Jazz Bass with me—I always took it wherever I went. I was messing around playing 10ths, because I had noticed guys like Chuck Rainey doing that a lot. After about 20 minutes of working it out, I taped it and left it alone until our next rehearsal. When I played the line, everybody just fell in perfectly—I didn’t have to say anything. I have to give it up to them and their energy and enthusiasm. I’m deeply flattered and humbled by the comments young bass players make about the song—it blows me away. But I didn’t do it alone.”

Though Pleasure disbanded back in 1981, Nate has continued to play actively, producing and/or playing with Dazz Band The Crusaders, Jeff Lorber, Roy Ayers, Herb Alpert, Richard Elliot, Rick Braun, Peter White, Gerald Albright, Bobby Caldwell, Kirk Whalum, Jeff Golub, Jonathan Butler, George Duke and others.

Tampa Bay area keyboardist Ron Reinhardt has been a long time member of Smooth Jazz icon Richard Elliot's band since 1992. In addition to working with Richard, Ron has had the good fortune of touring with many outstanding artists such as Rick Braun, Peter White, Mindi Abair, Gerald Albright, Jonathan Butler, Eric Darius, Oleta Adams, Kirk Whalum, Jeff Golub, Marc Antoine, Euge Groove, Warren Hill, Jeff Kashiwa, Steve Oliver, Craig Chaquico, Steve Cole and other top Smooth Jazz performers. His track "Sly" (off Richard Elliot's 2004 "Ricochet" CD) went on to become the 2nd most played Smooth Jazz song in the country (R&R Chart) for several weeks and stayed in the charts for months. In the 80's and 90's he toured and recorded with legendary fusion bassist Jeff Berlin. In a departure from the Jazz genre, Reinhardt toured with Donny Osmond and was his Music Director from 1990 - 1992 during Osmond's brief Top 40 comeback period.

Fusion/Jazz guitarist Dwight Sills got his start in Houston in the 1980s, playing with a jazz group called Axis. After signing with Columbia Records, he released his debut album, Dwight Sills, in 1990, which did well on the R&B charts.

In 1992, Second Wind was released. Throughout the next several years, Dwight toured with Wayne Henderson & the Next Crusade, Kirk Whalum, Anita Baker, Boney James, Rick Braun, Richard Elliot, Brenda Russell, and Bette Midler.

Dwight recorded his third album, Easy, in 1999 while signed with Citylights Music. His version of “Dock of the Bay” received attention from radio nationwide.

He has been involved in several television, movie, and studio projects, which include The Michael Jackson Tribute, Jay Leno, “Ali”, and TLC’s “Crazy, Sexy, Cool.”

As a writer, Dwight has co-written songs for Jessica Simpson (“Sweet Kisses” album), Rebekkah, Will Downing, and several new artists.

Dwight Sills continues to tour with Richard Elliott, Guitars & Saxes, Jazz Attack, Jeff Lorber, and Rick Braun. Dwight currently resides in Houston, Texas with his wife and two golden retrievers.

www.dwightsills.com

New Orleans native Michael “Patches” Stewart plays his trumpet the way he makes a gumbo — blending myriad influences and making it his own. A perennial member of the Marcus Miller Band, Patches’ career also includes performances and studio recording sessions with Al Jarreau, Quincy Jones, The Brothers Johnson, George Duke, Lenny White, Babyface, Ken Hicks, Anita Baker, Earth Wind & Fire, Diana Ross, Johnnie Taylor, Whitney Houston, Rickie Lee Jones, The O’Jays, Soul II Soul, LaBelle, and more.

As a solo artist, Patches has released three albums to date. The most recent, BLOW was produced by Marcus Miller. His 1997 debut, Blue Patches, was followed by Penetration in 1998. Patches is currently developing music for his next solo project. “My joy in music, especially jazz, is that it’s a constant challenge — you never know what’s going to happen.”

www.patchesstewart.com

Jay Williams is no stranger to the Gospel, Jazz & R&B community. With a little over 3 decades of experience, Jay combines fine technique, professionalism, structure and discipline to the God-given art of drumming he has been blessed with.

Jay started playing drums at the tender age of 3, along side his dad the late Judge Williams, Sr. who was a phenomenal organist in the Washington D.C. area. Playing in Church helped cultivate his sense of music and love for the drums. It wasn't long after Jay took interest in exploring other styles of music, his interest grew to appreciate styles like Jazz,Rock,R&B,Latin,and Country.

By the age of 18yrs., Jay found himself professionally working in the Washington, DC vibrant music scene. Jay's passion, hard work & dedication along with his experience eventually led up to him professionally working with numerous main stream artist around the world, such as; Yolanda Adams, Ben Tankard, Richard Smallwood, Jonathan Butler, Bobby Lyle, Gerald Albright, Will Downing, Kirk Whalum, Jagged Edge, Shai, Stephanie Mills,Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, Myrna Summers, Norman Brown, Najee, Vesta,David Sanborn , Marcus Johnson, Mike Phillips, Ann Nesby, Alyson Williams, Ali(London Artist), Regina Belle, Angela Bofill,Lee Ritenour, Maysa, Phil Perry, Angie Stone, Freddie Jackson,Nancy Wilson, Albertina Walker,Dorothy Norwood, Karen Clark-Sheard, Twinkie Clark, Ron Winans,Ledisi,Kim Waters, Dave Koz, Kim Burrell and the list goes on.

Jay's versatile yet flexible gift has gained him local, national and international media coverage, as well as the opportunity to illustrate his art of drumming during National conventions such as; GMWA(Gospel Music Workshop of America), NAMM, Black Caucus Convention, Bobby Jones Gospel Retreat & GHF(Gospel Heritage Foundation). Jay has been viewed by many on various televised shows featured on BET, MTV, The Word Network, Mega Hertz, WHUR Christmas DVD Special and other local televised stations.

Jay has performed in countless venues throughout the country and abroad. To name a few; Washington, DC's Constitution Hall, The Historic Lincoln Theatre, Warner Theatre, NJPAC, Kodak Theatre, Radio City Music Hall, St Lucia Jazz Festival, Bermuda Jazz Festival, Bahamas Jazz Festival,Blue Note Tokyo, Capitol Jazz Festival, Barbados Jazz Festival, West & South Africa, Hong Kong's Cultural Centre Concert Hall, Dubai Jazz Festival and many venues in London.

Jay also received recognition as Co-Producer for the 2009 3 time Stellar-Award nominated CD "The John Tillery Project".

If you would ask Jay "What does he love most about his music career?" He would tell you, "I love playing music, I believe music is healing to all... "I love to see how music make people feel,the smile on there face is priceless."

Ramon Yslas is no stranger to working with multi-platinum artists, having recently finished the "Back to Basics" world tour with Christina Aguilera in support of her Grammy-winning record. In addition to working with Christina, Yslas has also demonstrated his percussion skills, arranging and production with Stevie Wonder, Willie Nelson, Juan Gabriel, the Rippingtons, Patti Labelle, Alejandro Fernandez and Chris Isaak, to name a few. Ramon has performed on a plethora of Grammy-winning recordings, which landed him a nomination for percussionist of the year. He is currently teaching music business and percussion at Pasadena City College and also producing zocaloZüe from Mexico

Kurt Lykes, a native Californian, is one of the most sought after vocalists in the music industry. His soulful and inviting sound is truly a gift from God.

Kurt has traveled and performed nationally and internationally with many well known artists, which has prepared him for his own endeavors in the music industry. 5 years- with the Dove Award winning artist Helen Baylor, and 7 years- with South African world-renowned guitarist, Jonathan Butler. Kurt also co-wrote the hit single ‘Brand New Day' on Butler's latest gospel project.

Kurt has experienced international solo success with his chart-topping single, 'Yes Lord', which played for 12 weeks at No. 2 on London radio.

He has worked with David Foster, performed around the world, and has worked with industry giants such as: Stevie Wonder, Yolanda Adams, Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, BeBe Winans, Andrea Bocelli, Madonna, Josh Groban, Mary J. Blige, Michael Bolton, Boyz to Men, Gerald Albright, Wayman Tisdale, Al Jareau, and many others.

Additionally, Kurt is featured with Strate Vocalz on the Grammy Award nominatedMotown Comes Home album. He penned (and performed) ‘Lord You Are Welcome’ on the Stellar Award nominated Shout Hallelujah CD.

Kurt has appeared on several television programs including the 2005 Grammy Awards with Kanye West and John Legend, American Idol (Seasons 2 and 3) with Clay Aiken & Fantasia Barrino, Good Morning America, The Jamie Foxx Show, and many more.

Kurt presently leads worship at Faithful Central Bible Church in Inglewood, California. He is also the worship leader for The Takeover, FCBC's youth ministry pastored by Kirk Franklin.

Kurt expresses his love and passion for music by saying, "What comes from the heart reaches the heart, and I believe God uses my gift to capture that listener's heart, so they too can experience His love.”

Selina Albright is a jazz-inspired vocalist with versatility that comes from years of listening to many genres and languages of music. Her soulfulness and angelic tone add character and emotion to any ballad, yet her powerful wailing commands attention.

Selina began singing at age two, but her professional music career began at age 14 when she performed on an educational project released in Japan by Sony. She was also the featured background vocalist on three songs from Gerald Albright’s Live To Love CD in 1997, and on two songs from his Sax For Stax CD in 2008. In 2007, Selina performed the National Anthem at the Pepsi Center for a Denver Nuggets Pro Basketball Game.

Never formally trained, Selina Albright has learned her charismatic stage presence and vocal technique from being exposed to legendary artists, such as Whitney Houston, Take Six, Anita Baker, Ella Fitzgerald, Dinah Washington, Lalah Hathaway, Bebe and Cece Winans, and Earth Wind and Fire. She has even shared the stage with many other legends, such as Chaka Khan, Will Downing, Gerald Albright, Hugh Masakela, and The Temptations.

Jodie Butler, youngest child of South African jazz artist Jonathan Butler, has been singing since the moment she opened her mouth. Touring with her father for over 5 years, she has been featured on albums such as Surrender; Live in South Africa, Michael Bolton’s latest Christmas project, and her latest feature, a duet with her father on gospel album, Brand New Day.

Her love for music has ignited her ambition to follow in her father’s footsteps. She is attending Musicians Institute in Hollywood, CA determined to get her Bachelors in Music Theory, and Vocal Performance. Her love of music has fueled her desire to be the best and work with world renowned vocal trainer, Gerald Wright.

She is currently working on her father’s latest Gospel and Urban R&B record. She looks forward to recording her own album as she says, “it is something new and fresh to the current urban music industry.” She hopes “to bring her love of jazz and world music to R&B and Pop.” My father is my mentor, his music abilities to integrate, African sounds to R&B and gospel, is what I aspire to do.

The best experiences and memories I have are with my father on stage. Some people have paid to have the tutelage and training, I’ve been blessed to have being under the wings of my dad."

Randy Butler, daughter of South African guitarist and jazz artist Jonathan Butler, is in her own right a musical talent. Currently, a student of music and psychology enjoys expressing her love of life through music and song.

Randy has been a surrounded by music since birth, and finds that music not only run through her veins, but it a vehicle for her to help others find joy and calm.

Currently, singing with her father Jonathan Butler, on his previous albums and soon to be released albums, she finds that working with the family has been a blessing for her and the fans.

As a mother of one, Avia, she sees that the same path is written for her daughter, and believes that music is the key to the soul and medicine for the body.

Randy continues to sing and believes that “any human anywhere will blossom in a hundred unexpected talents and capacities simply by being given the opportunity to do so.”

Thank you for the opportunity.

Pat Prescott is a native of Hampton, Va. and a graduate of Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill. After teaching junior high school for five years, she started her radio career at WYLD-FM in New Orleans.

Pat is a veteran broadcaster who has spent most of her career in New York, beginning with a stint as music director and midday announcer at legendary jazz station WRVR. She held a number of positions at WBLS and WLIB, including morning show host, news announcer, talk show host and public affairs director. For thirteen years Pat was the morning show host at New York’s smooth jazz station CD 101.9.

In addition to her on-air work, Pat appeared for 8 years in the New York company of the Off Broadway hit play “Mama I Want to Sing”. She is also a popular voiceover artist who for 10 years was the voice of the USA Network’s award winning late night program “Night Flight”.

After six years of co-hosting the morning show with popular jazz artist and radio host Dave Koz, Pat can now be heard on The Brian McKnight Morning Show on 94.7 The Wave in Los Angeles.

Pat is very active in the community and has received numerous awards and citiations for her contributions. She is also the recipient of Radio and Records’ Smooth Jazz Personality of the Year Award for 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006.

MC, Host and Producer Dane Butcher, has been in the entertainment industry since age 15. He began working in Australian on Television Shows “Heartbreak High”, Police Rescue” and “Water Rats” among others and was featured in numerous commercials as well. He made the transition to Cruise Ships in the late ‘90’s and cemented himself as one of the lead Entertainment Directors which took him to the Great Barrier Reef as the Entertainment Manager at Brampton Island Resort. After returning to ships for some years he then decided to become land-based and joined forces with Jazz Cruises LLC as the Director of Cruise Operations and Programming. Along with Co-writing and Producing five Elvis Presley Shows with Music Director Joe Guercio for the first-ever Elvis Cruise in 2007, he also Produced, Directed and Emceed the #1 Jazz Music Charters in the world, including the Dave Koz & Friends At Sea Cruise, The Smooth Jazz Cruise Hosted by Wayman Tisdale and the Playboy Jazz Cruise Hosted by Marcus Miller.