GAVIN DEGRAW: SINGER/SONGWRITER

Gavin DeGraw, released his 4th studio album SWEETER, the pop rock singer/songwriter from New York, is on a roll. Two of the songs on the album were produced by Ryan Teddar. ‘Sweeter’, and ‘Not Over You’,  are two of the songs included in the list of records that earned Teddar the Grammy Nomination for Producer of the Year for 2011, along with various others.


In August, DeGraw was assaulted in New York City, by a group of men who attacked him in the early morning hours near The National Underground. Minutes after the attack he was struck by a taxi. He was hospitalized with a broken nose, a concussion, two black eyes and cuts to the face. But no worries, he was back at it after a very short recovery period.

Gavin along with his brother, Joey, opened the The National Underground in December 2007, a New York City music venue that is a roots rock Americana music bar located in Manhattan's Lower East Side.  They developed the venue so they would have a place to hang out, and where other musicians could come and listen and enjoy good music.

DeGraw has had success with top charting songs like ‘I Don’t Want To Be’, 'In Love With A Girl’, ‘Chariot’ and his latest single ‘Not Over You’. He has appeared on Leno, Letterman, Ellen, Regis & Kelly, and toured with Sister Hazel, The Barenaked Ladies, Maroon 5, Train, Jason Mraz, The Allman Brothers Band, and more,  and most recently with David Cook. In February he is off on a European Tour. His music is associated with various movies and TV (One Tree Hill) shows, and on 12/23/11 he appeared on the CBS “Home For the Holidays” special.

SWEETER, is a little more low-key than the previous albums, but a definite album for the Gavin DeGraw fans, and interested persons. The pop/rock musician will get you rocking and singing along to the well written songs and production of this studio album. He is a guy to watch, as he gets better with each album.

http://www.gavindegraw.com/news

‘Not Over You’

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDWhfsQHq1o


“I Don’t Want To Be’

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gFCW3PHBws


‘Chariot’

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkUnBPdR9RU

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

ETTA JAMES

ETTA JAMES:  An American R&B Soul singer released her last album; THE DREAMER, her 28th studio album (1961-2011) out November 8, 2011.


Sadly, the 73-year-old singer – is suffering the end stages of terminal leukemia, and dementia, and was recently hospitalized with sepsis, from a urinary tract infection, and placed on a breathing machine.


While this is her last album, we can’t forget her contribution as an original Rhythm and Blues, Doo Wop singer who bridged the gap between Rhythm and Blues and Rock and Roll. In the 1960’s she broke into the traditional pop style singer, who influenced the Rolling Stones, Amy Winehouse, Adele, Beyoncé, Janis Joplin and dozens of others of yesterday and today with her powerful bluesy voice, and unique style.


Plagued by drug and alcoholism addiction she was arrested for her drug addiction, accused of cashing bad checks, forgery and possession of heroin. In and out of treatment center s for several decades with her final stint in rehab in 2010 for prescription drug addiction.  All of this was going on when she was recording such greats as ‘Dance With Me Henry’, ‘Something’s Got A Hold On Me’, ‘At Last’, ‘Fools Rush In’, and many more memorable singles (58).


THE DREAMER, while not the album of the past decades, as her voice has deepened, and coarsened, her style has changed into a soul/jazz genre of music; it is her last album and worth adding to the Etta James Collection to commemorate the Grammy, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and Grammy Lifetime Achievement recipient, and many more accolades, as one of the top singers in our lifetime. Our hats are off to Etta James.


Etta 1962:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzibSiJv8hc
Etta:  1992
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCL2cSk8QcE&feature=related
Etta; 2007
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edGDt5izxIg&feature=related

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

AMY WINEHOUSE: SINGER/SONGWRITER

Amy Winehouse: The sultry contralto vocalist, died 7/23/2011 of alcohol poisoning. She left to us a very short catalog of music that should have spanned many decades, and she would have been an artist for all the ages, and could have been a living legend late into her life, instead of ending at the age of 27. She had it all, but should of, would have, could have didn’t stop the demons within her from taking her away from us much too early.

Her family posthumously released her 3rd album, a compilation of unreleased songs and demo’s, which also includes her recent duet with Tony Bennett “Body and Soul”. From his DUETS II Album, released as a single in September 2011. The album, titled
 LIONESS: HIDDEN TREASURES, released on iTunes, December 2011. Rumor has it she was working on an album, due out in 2011, but the same story was announced in 2010, and 2009, and nothing materialized, in fact she had not released any recording since 2007.

Tony Bennett said “she was a true jazz singer”, her bluesy, R&B soul, pop jazz styling came to the attention of most of us when BACK TO BLACK, her second studio album came out in 2006. She earned six  Grammy nominations and took home five with that album. She said her next album was going to be like BACK TO BLACK, but that’s it, no more studio albums. Rumor has it there are other recordings out there that will come out later, but nothing is for sure.

Her voice and lyrical style are incredible; there is no one out there to compare her to. This album while not a studio album, is a wonderful addition to any collection and the sale of this album will benefit The Amy Winehouse Foundation. The foundation is set-up to help vulnerable young adults with addiction problems.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_OFMkCeP6ok

The link below is from the earlier years playing the guitar, you can see she has no ink, and looks healthy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FIOSbJsrZY&feature=related



Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

GARLAND JEFFERYS: SINGER/SONGWRITER

Garland Jeffreys, the critically acclaimed singer/songwriter released his 13th studio album September 2011.
THE KING OF IN BETWEEN. .
The neo-classic, rock/blues rock, R&B, and light Reggae singer sounds as hip as ever and brings a breath of fresh air from the old school rocker. The 67 year old has a skip in is step with this entertaining and upbeat album. His last album release was 1997.

Jeffrey’s is kind of like Dylan, Springsteen, Mayfield, and Lenny Kravitz, THE KING OF IN BETWEEN, and denotes his life in music. He is better known in European countries than the USA, but those who know him have a very high regard for his talent.

His music reflects his life at home in New York City, his daughter, racial injustice, and whatever is at the forefront of his life at the time. Hal Horawitz’s of allmusic.com reviewed this album and writes “Regardless of the serious topics, Jeffreys' music is almost giddy in its approach, a perfect contrast to words that are generally far less joyful. It's a melancholy but never depressing 50 minutes that proves what an under-the-radar talent Jeffreys remains, and indicates that his best work might even be ahead of him. But not if he waits another 13 years to release it”.

Ken Tucker of nprmusic.org writes “Jeffreys' music has always been rich with his diverse interest in all sorts of popular music, as well as his heritage as a man born to a black father and a Puerto Rican mother. He's written incisive songs about mixed race and mixed feelings: "Too black to be white, too white to be black," he's sung ruefully. And he's never forgotten where he was born: 22 stops on the subway from Manhattan, where he started playing professionally with jazz and rock musicians”.

Tom Shea, of masslive.com writes: Garland Jeffreys, Dave Alvin tie for "album of the year"

Check out a couple of youtube clips from the past - enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gSSqcuuDZoU


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YsXg2zYbzsM&feature=relatedgoog_1479532737

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

ROBIN THICKE: SINGER/SONGWRITER/PRODUCER

Robin Thicke, just released his new album LOVE AFTER WAR, out now in stores, and out on iTunes December 6th. Currently on sale at Target for $9.99 . The R&B Soul Singer/Songwriter, and Producer finally is getting to where he should be, on this his 5th album singing R&B Soul and leaving the Hip Hop to the other guys. Hip Hop has done him well, but he can sing and he has the talent, and this album has a few tunes that really showcase his vocals.


“Love After War”, sounds a bit like DeBarge, but he does a really fine job. “Mission” is slow and Prince like, but again a good one. “I Don’t Know How It Feels To Be You” showcases his vocal range, and a nice one at that. “What Would Be”, notably good. This is a 17 track album and the last part of the album is more appealing than the first part. The deluxe version includes 3 additional songs 1. “Stupid Things”, 2. “Compass or Map” 3. “We a Family”

He has been around since 1994, and is a 3 time Grammy winner. He is song writer and/or producer for Jennifer Hudson, Usher, Mary J Blige , The Carter III album, Brandy, Guy Sebastian, and many more. He is currently on tour with Jennifer Hudson.

We will probably see Robin Thicke around for a long time, he is talented as a singer, a songwriter and a producer. We can expect the ‘Best’ is yet to come from him as time goes by.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JwFtfnUGJfg

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

MELODY GARDOT: SINGER /SONGWRITER

Gardot’s 3rd album was released in April of 2008 MY ONE AND ONLY THRILL, the 26 year old singer of acoustic jazz blues has a magical sultry quality in her voice. The reason for this review after the fact; out September 2011 by Tribute Masters a Tribute to ‘Melody Gardot’, which is other people singing her songs, not a recommendation when you can download any of the original music by Ms. Gardot, and get the real deal.
Most recently she released “Your Heart is a Black as Night” (2011) as a single, not available on iTunes, or Amazon, but it is featured in a commercial for a European automobile . It is on MY ONE AND ONLY THRILL album.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F7Vtx7SSbzI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dJ0ISaTLCc

In 2003 Melody was struck by a Jeep while riding her bike in Philadelphia. She spent a year in the hospital recovering from severe injuries to her spine, pelvis and brain. The neural injuries have left her with a permanent sensitivity to light and sound. She suffered short and long term memory loss, and had difficulty speaking because she could not recall the words to express her feelings.

Her Doctors thought she may never recover, because the neural pathways between the brain cortexes which control perception and a higher mental function were damaged and they suggested she use music therapy to help rebuild the neural pathways, and from that her career has emerged. She was going to school at the time of the accident studying fashion. She had studied the piano for many years and performed in local clubs, but not as a recording artist at the time of the injury.

She has devoted herself to using music therapy for healing and promotes it with every opportunity and works with hope to use her experience to help others.

The sound of her voice and the music quality she delivers is pleasing to the ear, and she writes with heart and feeling of someone that is far beyond her years and experiences. One can only anticipate her next album. Enjoy!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Eb651s_o1Q


Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

CHRIS CORNELL: SINGER/SONGWRITER

Chris Cornell gives us “SONGBOOK” his live album, coming out in EP installments. The first out November 1, with 4 tracks  the second on November 15, another 4 tracks,  and rumor has it the album will be out November 21st. The live acoustic songbook is honest, raw, and true Cornell. While fans may be disappointed in the slow release, and/or a live album, it is exactly what he should be doing. It is real, and probably his best work ever.

Cornell calls himself the chief architect of the 90’s grunge movement. The former front man of SoundGarden, AudioSlave, and Temple of the Dog, now the soulful rocker selling out venues as a solo artist wherever he books a show. He has been in the business since 1984, but as lead singer in groups, has had moderate success. The former sous-chef at a restaurant named Ray's Boathouse has found his niche.

In 2009 his second solo album SCREAM, has been his most successful so far. SONGBOOK is his 4th solo album, is sure to surpass anything he has out there. Out on his own he is proving his talent, again and again, and fans can't get enough of this guy. The alternative metal, grunge, alternative rock, heavy metal, hard rock, funk metal and pop styles of groups he fronted are not overpowering his voice and talent anymore. He is known for his wide vocal range, spanning B1-G5 in full-voice, and up to E6 in falsetto, and this guy can belt out a tune with feeling and heart you can’t help but take notice.

The SONGBOOK is a collection of tracks recorded at various venues on his live acoustic tour in early Spring 2011. The multi-talented musician plays 9 different instruments, and the singer/songwriter records his own music plus covers of many artists, including the Beatles whom he spent a couples years of his young life listening solely to their music.

If you don’t know who Chris Cornell is and you’re a rocker at heart, this guy is worth taking the time to get to know. Check out his youtube performance, and listen to the previews on iTunes, but be careful you may end up a fan.

Acoustic rendition of the cover “Billie Jean” made famous by Michael Jackson

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2MgwAJrfXo

Chris Cornell wrote and performed the theme song ‘You Know My Name’ for the James Bond Movie CASINO ROYALE, with Daniel Craig as Bond.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vN_DpIAnfC4&feature=related

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

HOWLIN' WOLF: SINGER/SONGWRITER/MUSICIAN

Out October 24,2011, SMOKESTACK LIGHTING -THE COMPLETE CHESS MASTERS 1951-1960. The 97 track package is a tribute to the great bluesman from Mississippi. Just in time for Christmas, for the blues music collector.
Chester Arthur Burnett, aka Howlin’ Wolf has been gone for 35 years now (January 10, 1976),  but his legacy is larger than the Mississippi farm boy could have ever imagined. The 6’6” 300 pound man had a portentous presence when he entered the room, and with his booming voice he made the crowd a bit anxious, but when the electric bluesman began to do his thing, people forgot about his size. Wolf could rock the house down, and the crowd was at his mercy. When he was on stage playing his guitar, he would turn it over backwards and forwards, and throw it around over his shoulders, between his legs, and get the crowd to roaring. He was a performer at every opportunity with his memorable voice, and hard-drivin’ harp, entertaining seemed effortless for the gentle giant and if you throw in a few guitar tricks you got‘em howlin’ with you.

Burnett, got his nick name from trying to yodel. He wanted to emulate Jimmie Rodgers, whom he admired in the thirty's, but his yodelin’ was more like howlin’ so he just started howlin’, and it did him well. A frugal man, he didn’t spend his money on drugs, alcohol or women. He drove his own car to gigs,(station wagon) nothing fancy, although he could have afforded one at the time. He was one of the few entertainers who could afford to pay his band and provide benefits like insurance for them. Making him a desirable employer and enabling him to have his pick of musicians. Hubert Sumlin his guitarist was with him until the end, and is credited for the Howlin’ Wolf sound.

Howlin’ Wolf has garnered many accolades before and after his death. The Blues Foundation, awarded him The best album Vintage or Reissue Blues Album—US or Foreign in 1992 for THE CHESS BOX, out now the Complete Chess Masters. Howlin Wolf is a Grammy Hall of Fame, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Blues Foundation, and Mississippi Musicians Hall of Fame inductee. He has 16 albums, plus various collaborations. The man of integrity, is a legend whose music is still played today by the worlds best musicians. While he was not as polished as some of the greats he is an institution in the Blues Rock world forever.


Smokestack Lighting 1964

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1FK620bS7A


Killing Floor 1970

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xvw7VGBWU8w&feature=related



Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

JAMES MORRISON: SINGER/SONGWRITER

James Morrison Catchpole, is a BRIT Award winning recording artist from Rugby Warwickshire, England. He released his 3^rd album out September 2011 THE AWAKENING . The soul, adult contemporary pop album has substance and many facets layered within.

You may be familiar with his track with Nelly Furtado “Broken Strings’ which had success in the US.  He also has made guest appearances on the Jay Leno and Jimmy Kimmels shows.  Primarily his recognition has been Europe, Australia, Japan and

New Zealand.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26PAgklYYvo

Morrison states his first 2 albums were practice. THE AWAKING is the realization that he is not just the former 'van’ washer, his music is viable and pertinent. He has grown as a person and a musician. He recently lost his dad, and became a father, and  has grown-up with his music, and it shows in this album. The self taught musician gained his experience busking, and open mic-nite in local pubs. His life experiences have formed a humble, thoughtful musician, who has given us a meaningful album.

A few notable tracks: "Up” (feat. Jessie J.) is uplifting and sure to be a pop hit, with powerful vocals. “Slave To the Music” another pop song, sure to make the charts. “Person I Should Have Been” soulful, powerful phrasing, reggae rhythm, “Right By Your Side” meaningful, showcase Morrison vocal range. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rRxccy-zcJ8

http://www.jamesmorrisonmusic.com/about 

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

KEITH B.BROWN: SINGER/SONGWRITER

Keith B. Brown, recently released his 3^rd album DOWN ON THE LINE, October 10, 2011. Brown a singer, songwriter, composer and Delta Blues singer from Memphis brings us the sounds of soul/country rock/pop/blues and gospel.

His refreshing sound invigorates the blues-root music. This young man is the modern day blues artist that takes us on a spiritual journey with his raw acoustic sound of  honest to goodness music that is heartfelt with an easy going vibe.

KBB, is not only a singer/songwriter he is an actor, and you may have seen him in the movie “Stop Breakin’ Down” where he played the role of Son House (1902-1988). He was also selected by Martin Scorsese & Wim Wenders in the movie “The Soul Of A Man”  to portray the role of Skip James (1902-1969). 

His role is just beginning in music and acting, and we are sure to see and hear a lot more from the talented Delta Blues Singer/Musician.

Previous Albums:  Jan 2010 THE SOUL OF KEITH B.

Jan 2010 THE FOLK/POP ACOUSTIC SESSIONS

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-OHCrQy6Pwc

http://www.kbrownblue.net/index.php?page=home

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

CHRIS PIERCE: SINGER SONGWRITER

I CAN HEAR YOU, the 4^th studio album out 10/11/2011 for Pierce. The California native brings to us his exceptional soulful voice and heartfelt songwriting in his latest album. He expresses pain, sorrow, hope, joy and freedom, all in a single album with musical variety. 

Pierce has toured with BB King, Seal, Colbi Caillat, Al Green, Toots & The Maytals, and Robert Cray to name a few.  His music has been featured on various TV shows, movies and has had commercial value with Bananna Republic and Project Runway ad campaigns.

At the age of 15 Chris lost his hearing in one ear due to Otosclerosis, a rare hearing disorder.  Not sure the Title has anything to do with the hearing loss. The song “I Can Hear You” is more on the order of a lost love.

His song “Meet Me In The Vineyard” may have something to do with the fact that he is co-owner of the wine label “Ledbetter Dry Creek Valley Syrah”. His song “Thunder of The Rain” references to sometimes I cannot hear the thunder of the rain, but can feel it. All of the tracks on the album seem to reference parts of his life in subtle heartfelt ways. His musicality is not only a joy to listen to, but has depth and feeling in each and every song. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ql2OfQKA35g&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3rN57cbYMU&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Deo4cbV0rbg&feature=related

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

ALOE BLACC: AMERICAN SOLE SINGER

Born Egbert Nathaniel Dawkins III, aka, Aloe Blacc began his career in 1995 as part of the Hip Hop duo Emamon. Together they released 6 albums. In 2003 he went out on his own and released his first album in 2006, and subsequent EP’s. His second studio album GOOD THINGS was released October 4, 2011.  Blacc produces music for other artists.


As a Hip Hop artist he had moderate success in Europe and Japan. He has appeared as the musical artist of the day on Conan and Jimmy Fallon. His song “I need A Dollar” was the intro to the HBO:  “HOW TO MAKE IT AMERICA”

While he is faring better in the European markets with his latest album, his popularity in the US has not materialized todate. Now classified as an R&B Soul Singer, he has lots of competition. While he has some good qualities, he at times falls short in his lyrical delivery. Occasionally he is flat and seems to lack the vocal strength to hold a note long enough for the melody to flow smoothly. He often steps up to his falsetto, and while it works his transitions may fall short.

All and All the guy has enormous potential and you will find a few downloads on the album, including the single from the Album “I Need A Dollar” and “You Make Me Smile”, “Loving You Is Killing Me” and probably the best number “IF I”.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDyUhI1ArPo&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6WNYeyZXNwc&feature=related



Check out this live rendition of Billy Jean on youtube:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xihryj8KRyw&feature=related


Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

ALLEN STONE: SINGER/SONGWRITER

ALLEN STONE:  Here is a guy that by looking at him, you would not think R&B Soul Singer.

Stone just released his 3rd album 10/4/2011, self titled ALLEN STONE.

As the youngest son of a preacher from Chewelah, WA. he said he was expected to grow up, find a wife and have a family, and maybe become a preacher like his dad, or a youth minister like his brother. But, after he graduated from High School he decided he was going to be a famous soul singer. Six years later, his dreams are coming true. He recently sang the National Anthem at a Laker game, and will appear on the Conan show Oct 26th.

The 24 year old has been compared to Freddie Mercury (Queen), only his voice/phrasing. With his long blond hair, and big glasses, he is kind of nerdy looking, and the opposite of any R&B/soul singer you can think of. He thinks it should be his singing that brings you to him not his appearance. We’ll see how long that lasts…..

The guy has potential; he has the voice, charisma, and the drive to make his dream come true, definitely a guy to watch. See his youtube video (link below) of "Unaware" recorded in his Mother's lvingroom.

The album is not bad, in fact a couple must have downloads, “Sleep”, “Unaware”, “Celebrate Tonight”,
"Contact High" and maybe a few more. ..
http://www.allenstone.net/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z4Hy6kp5kIs

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

JAZZ GREATS:SPYRO GYRA, ACOUSTIC ALCHEMY, RAMSEY LEWIS, GEORGE BENSON

Jazz Greats: This is a little different take because we have two notable jazz groups and two super famous jazz greats, who have recently released their latest albums. All of them are worth the download, if not the entire album, at least a few tracks from each  If you are a smooth jazz, jazz fusion fan here are few good ones out right now.

Spyro Gyra released their 28th studio album A FOREIGN AFFAIR (9/13/2011). An American jazz fusion group formed in the early 70’s, the smooth jazz sound of “Shaker Song” and “Morning Dove” can still be heard some 30 years later by this memorable group. Just last year they received a Grammy for the Best Pop Instrumental album DOWN THE WIRE.

http://www.spyrogyra.com/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EC0sHGYW8M

Acoustic Alchemy, released their 18th studio album (9/27/2011) ROSELAND. The English contemporary smooth jazz band formed in 1981, and later released their debut album in the USA in 1987 RED DUST AND SPANISH LACE. Here they are 24 yrs. later releasing another album and going strong.

http://www.acoustic-alchemy.net/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZUXuG8Q_I-I&feature=related

Ramsey Lewis, and American jazz composer, pianist and radio personality, began his musical career in 1958, and has over 80 albums to his name, with the release of his current album TAKING ANOTHER LOOK (9/20/2011). By 1966 he was the most nationally recognizable jazz pianists topping the charts with “The In Crowd” and “Hang on Sloopy”.

http://www.ramseylewis.com/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Slv0j5USBa4

George Benson, just released his 35^th studio album GUITAR MAN (10/4/2011) The smooth jazz, jazz fusion album is a collection of songs George put together that he likes to play. He left off the “Funk” but a pleasing album for easy listening. (See February 2011 review)         

  http://georgebenson.com/guitar-man/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7YAYQxmLh0&feature=related

Tony Bennett: Singer/Artist/Author

Mr. Bennett released his 60th studio album DUETS ll, out September 16, 2011.The iconic traditional pop/jazz singer brings in 17 special guests from every genre to perform classical pop songs with him:

Lady Gaga, John Mayer, Amy Winehouse, Michael Bublé, k.d.Lang, Aretha Franklin, Sheryl Crow, Willie Nelson, Queen Latifah, Norah Jones, Josh Groban, Natilie Cole, Andrea Bocelli, Faith Hill, Alejando Sanz, Carrie Underwood, and Mariah Carey.

The album was released celebrating his 85th birthday, August 3, 2011. His original DUETS: AN AMERICAN CLASSIC Album celebrating his 80th birthday was released in August 2006. No doubt he is planning his 90th gig as he has no plan to retire.

He was recently on the 'Jay Leno Show', and the guy is ageless, his voice is as sharp and crisp as it ever was. He even had a little swagger going which made the audience roar with approval of his excellent performance.

It is hard to believe in 1979 Bennett suffered a near fatal cocaine overdose. He was down and out of luck,  without a major recording contract from 1972-1986, divorced and the IRS was hovering. His son Danny a musician, was instrumental in bringing him back to the forefront, and creating the Tony as we know today.

In 1993 Bennett won his second Grammy, the first in 1962, and today he is a 15 time Grammy winner, with many accolades to his credit. He is an author, with 3 books, and a world renowned artist. His paintings are sold in galleries all over the world and his painting titled ‘Central Park’ sits in the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, DC.
Highlights of the album: Lady Gaga, “The Lady Is A Tramp”, Amy Winehouse, "Body & Soul", Sheryl Crow, “The Girl I Love”, Norah Jones, “Speak Low”, Andrea Bocelli, “Strangers in Paradise”, and Carrie Underwood “It Had To Be You”. Their performances bring a new respect for their talent at this level. DUETS ll, is an album you will want in your collection even if you are not a fan. It is timeless.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRm08pVt-xc&feature=relmfu
We could go on and on, but the talent of this man is ageless, and no matter what his age, he has survived 6 decades and continues to teach us that the "Classics' are as relevant today as they were 60 years ago. Maybe his legacy in life is to teach us music appreciation and remind us we need to keep the American Classics alive for generations to come.
http://tonybennett.com/nogo.php


Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

MAYER HAWTHORNE: SINGER/SONGWRITER

Mayer Hawthorne, the blue eyed ‘Soul Man’ released his 2nd single “The Walk”, August 2011, from the much anticipated album, ‘HOW DO YOU DO’ scheduled for release October 2011. His debut album with a major label. His first single for the album was released in May 2011 “Alongtime”.

You can listen to “The Walk” on his web-site:  http://mayerhawthorne.com/

Hawthorne, an American, singer, songwriter, producer, arranger, audio engineer and multi-instrumentalist comes to us from Ann Arbor Michigan and has entwined his music with a retro Motown sound. The mixes, textures and arrangement of “The Walk” will definitely remind you of the Motown sound. He has uniquely captured the past and moved it into this decade with “The Walk”. A song about an ex-love, which he sings “Baby what you doing now, you’re pissing me off” and later “But you’re shitty f**king attitude has got me changing my mind,………… so you can “Walk” those high heels right out of my life” and it all just seems to flow into the perfect soulful melody. It is sure to put a smile on your face as you strut your stuff to this tune.

“Alongtime” will remind you of Smokey Robinson/Supremes as Hawthorne steps up to his falsetto, and again a soulful melody. Not a favorite as he cannot carry the falsetto without dropping his delivery and go flat. After listening to his other stuff, “The Walk” is the best number he has out to date. He tends to use his falsetto voice often and has difficulty holding the note and goes flat. With that said if he continues to produce and arrange and sing like he does on “The Walk” only good things will come. It will be interesting to listen to his the entire album  ‘HOW DO YOU DO’  when it comes out for good, strong vocals, and the retro R&B soul sound that we know he can deliver.

He also produces and releases instrumental version’s of his songs/albums.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpfcydeSGeo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JYHYAwvdHzY&feature=relmfu



Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

LENN HAMMOND: REGGAE SINGER/SONGWRITER

Lenn Hammond released his 2nd studio album RAW SOUL, August 13, 2011.

Constantine (Lenn) Hammond was born in Port Maria, St. Mary, Jamaica, and later emigrated to Canada in 1989 as a young man. In 2001 he released his debut album LENN HAMMOND.

The album won Hammond Canada's biggest reggae trophy, the 2001 Juno award for Best Reggae Recording. (Comparable to the US Grammy). He was also named Male Vocalist of the Year by the Canadian Reggae Music Association. The album brought Hammond recognition in Jamacia, the United Kingdom and the United States. Hammond has created his own persona apart from other artists in his development of smooth, idealistic reggae sound known as lovers' rock, not the rap and dancehall sound of U.S. Reggae chart makers like Shaggy, the Jamaican-American reggae singer/ rapper and Beenie Man the Grammy award winning Jamaican reggae artist, who proclaims to be the "King of the Dancehall".

The album is a blended sound of reggae, rap, R&B, with a little Rastafarian spirit incorporated. The cover song “How Can You Mend” (A Broken Heart) written by the BeeGee’s is included in the album and probably the best track of the 18 songs. Hammond’s rendition is soulful and showcases his vocal ability. Also “I Love You” is a beautiful memorable tribute to his son, with the reggae beat. Other notable songs include, “Now that You are Gone” and “Take Me Girl”.


His style of writing is real, he says what it is, and does not sugar coat words or phrases just to sound good. Each word/phrase has a meaning and place in his life.

Take a look at his video’s (link) and maybe you will find something you like in the repertoire of an up and coming Reggae artist.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uoj7fJ6ScF4&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KkGJ0n6rewU&feature=related


Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

HUGH LAURIE: SINGER/MUSICIAN

Hugh Laurie, you know the guy from the TV show ‘HOUSE’ released his debut album  LET THEM TALK, out 9/6/2011. The blues album brings the well rehearsed piano man to the front line of the music scene. The talented actor also plays the guitar, drums, harmonica and saxophone.

The album is quaint, quirky, and has a quality about it that is unexpected. Laurie’s New Orleans style may remind you of Dr. John, or Alan Toussaint as he covers some old/new songs on the album like “Swanee River”, “Battle of Jericho” or “St James Infirmary” a traditional N’awlins sound. Favorites are “You Don’t Know My Mind’, “Winin Boy Blues”, and “Let Them Talk”.

While it is not the best blues album on the market, it has an element about it that is catchy, and keeps you listening for his English accent to come out, or some kind of recognition of the actor within the music. Maybe it just plain curoisty that brings you to look at him as a musician, but once you hear this album you will realize he is a talented actor and a pretty good musician that can hold his own on a blues album.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQsfwqIJuj8&feature=fvwrel

http://www.hughlaurieblues.com/

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

ERROL LINTON: HARP PLAYER/BLUES SINGER

Out August 2011, “MAMA SAID”  is the US debut album of Errol Linton from London England. He has 2 other albums released previously in the UK.
The blues harp player is sometimes dubbed as a Reggae/Blues artist. He does infuse Caribbean rhythms, with a definite bluesy vibe and with his velvet voice, which is subtle yet commanding, the result is a great combination of rhythms and vocals. 

Linton was discovered by a BBC producer while he was busking in the London Underground. He is typically accompanied by Jean Pierce Lampe on bass (upright), and Sam Kelly percussionist. This trio is a well oiled machine, and a fine example on the Album is “Sunrise”.  Lampe pounds his base while Kelly’s percussion, sometimes as simple as a bottle, truly showcase the musicality of the ‘Blues Vibe Band’

You are guaranteed to tap your toes, or get up and get moving or sing along as the music vibrates straight to your heart. The contagious melodies makes at least one body part move to the beat with every track. This album is refreshing, entertaining, and truly a gift, and you will be a fan almost instantly, and wonder where has he been? Hopefully he will get enough recognition to produce another album in the not so far future. His last album was in 2002, and it has taken him this long to earn the money to record “Mama Said”.  The youtube recordings highlight his previously recorded tracks.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMCj4OXHvfM&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IsIqiLyKRjU&feature=related

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

ANA POPOVIC: BLUES GUITARIST/SINGER

Ana Popovic, the lady blues guitarist, and singer songwriter, released her 4th solo studio album August 16, 2011, UNCONDITIONAL, which includes 8 original songs, plus favorite cover songs.The blues rock album has slamming guitar riffs, and sultry vocals. The enticing album cover has stirred up a little controversy, but comes with the territory. Popovic is not just a pretty face/body, she is a serious musician.  A blues guitarist of Popovic’s caliber is typically male, and she is as talented as some of the best   male blues guitarist around today.

Unconditional, Ana explains, "Describes what I feel on stage. That place is simply unconditional. It is magical. It’s just me and my guitar, notes, sounds and drum grooves. I let the band lift me up, and I feed off of their energy. I hate to think when playing. I only feel. Unconditional is how I stand towards my music -it’s mine, it’s sacred, and it’s with no boundaries. Absolute, definite. I tend to put everything I have into it and don’t let anything or anyone get in between, except the people that truly inspire me."

Ana Popovic grew up in Belgrade, Yugoslavia (Serbia) where she became enamored with her father’s blues record collection, and the beginning interest in music. By the time she was 8 years old she was an opening act for likes of Jr. Wells, and other great blues performers. By the time she was 18 she had her own band HUSH, and they released their first album in 1998. Shortly after that she moved to the Netherlands to study Jazz Guitar, where she became well known on the Dutch blues scene, and later in Germany. She is currently touring in the USA.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7WfKtdFiO2k&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nkz7-iAw-3E&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j23puGHD40M&feature=related


http://www.anapopovic.com/_index.php



Tunedin4U.blogospot.com

JOHNNIE BASSETT: BLUES SINGER/GUITARIST

The electric Bluesman, Johnnie Bassett released his last album, his 6th in 2009

THE GENTLEMAN IS BACK. The seasoned bluesman has worked for 5 decades perfecting his craft. The 75 year old Bassett, presents a fun blues filled album. His best release to date, with new material, some cover songs by music greats, and songs written with band members Chis Codish (keyboards) & Keith Kaminski (sax). Skeeto Valdez is the drummer for the group.
Bassett was primarily a session musician until 1990 when he went out on his own. He had previously backed notable artist like; Tina Turner, The Miracles, John Lee Hooker, Smokey Robinson & Jimi Hendrix, and many more in his career span as a session musician.

While he was a Rock n’ Roll musician, he grew up with the blues, and has done a bang-up job incorporating the Delta, and Jump blues into a R & B groove, with a sometimes jazzy feel in an album that comes together in a way the fits just right.

The easy going style of Basset may remind you of Albert King, or B.B. King. He feels the music he sings and plays, and says he is having fun, and will keep it up as long as he is having fun. Johnnie Basset is one of our National Treasures in the blues music sound of today and yesterday.
Bassett is not well known nationally, but he is a well known popular artist in the Detroit area. If ever in town, drop down to the 3rd Street Bar, for a weekly jam session with band members; Codish, Kaminski, and Valdez.

Blues enthusiast will enjoy this album. It’s the perfect album for sitting around a fire sipping a glass of wine, and tapping your toe for enjoyable listening. View the youtube video of Johnnie singing "A Women Got Ways",  from the album. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rCpgl1Vz4Pk

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

GOTYE: SINGER/SONGWRITER

Gotye (pronounced 'gore-ti-yeah') released their 3rd studio album in the US. August 19, 2011.


MAKING MIRRORS, The Alternative, Indie/Experimental Rock band comes to us from Australia.

Front man, Wally De Back, aka. Wouter (Walter) De Backer, was born in Belgium but moved to Australia at a young age. The multi-instrumentalist brings with him a fresh sound, blending his soothing vocals, spelling binding base, and haunting drums to create a sound appealing to a wide range audience. He is the modern day ‘Sting’, and sometimes a little 'George Michael'. See for yourself the innovative Gotye as you check out a couple of his videos that show his creativity and musical ability. His music is not the electronic dance craze, it is music electronically enhanced.

On YouTube from the album DRAWING BLOOD (2006) “Hearts A Mess”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GnXFJOXvL_A&feature=related

From the current album MAKING MIRRORS “Somebody I used to Know”, featuring Kimbra.(Tasteful partial nudity)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UVNT4wvIGY

In 2007 DeBacker won the ARIA award for best Male artist, and in 2006 he won the  AIR ‘Most Outstanding New Independent Artist’

DeBack is a talented young artist on a roll, who could easily become an international pop star, performing all over the world as his music has mass appeal. No doubt we will be hearing more of Gotye.

Be sure to go to his website to see how he recorded the current album in his barn on his parent’s property in Melbourne Australia.

http://gotye.com/

Tunedin4u.blogspot.com

CHRISTIAN FENNESZ: SONGWRITER/GUITARIST/COMPOSER

Fennesz, the Austrian born guitarist released his 6th EP SEVEN STARS out July 22, 2011. Fennesz has 6 studio albums to his credit and SEVEN STARS is the latest recorded effort, since he began recording as a solo artist in 1997.

The multi-layered compositions of guitar textures, notebook computer enhancements, include underlayments of pop melodies. Its new age spinning a bold new musical language. Some of his music could easily be referred to as 'Trance Music'. Fennesz, a laptop composer, singer/songwriter, and guitarist was originally with a free form rock group ‘Maische’ performing in the Viennese underground during the 80’s. They incorporated sound techniques not generally accepted in the rock world at that time.

Fennesz records his own music sound, but also collaborates with various other artists in many genres, and releases solo albums every 2-4 years. He is an acquired taste but has a following for his electronic zonal sounds, both soothing, and  invigorating.
The following excerpt below describes him in shimmering detail:

San Francisco Bay Guardian Music Blog (USA): Using his patented Mac patches to splay, splice, and caress a Stratocaster, Fennesz produces layer upon layer of compressed guitar feedback and processed glitches that spread out like a beach blanket on the windy sands of the Mediterranean. When a few chords suddenly appear from the whirring microtonal din, the noise musician-turned sculptor conveys with a Proustian flourish something truly magical: the distant memories of aquamarine sunsets and tawny sand dunes seem to emanate from the speakers.

Fennesz’s greatest strength has always been in his keen ability to formulate soundscapes that capture equally the coldest blasts of alien feedback and the most summery mosaic of acoustic guitar strums, chimes, and keyboard drones. Or rather, his compositions are at their most transfixing when they seem to play in music’s littoral zones, where the shallow grounds of textural play might suddenly give way to vast oceanic harmonics. [Erik Morse]

http://www.fennesz.com/

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

BRANDON ONEAL BAILEY: HARPBOXER

Brandon Bailey is a young man with an extraordinary talent.

The Tennessee harp player has developed his skill as a “Harpboxer” which is an international phenomenon of sorts. His first CD “MEMPHIS GROOVES, out July 2011 is a 13 song album featuring his loop based harp playing infused with beat-boxing. His has that  harmonica singing with the combinination of the looping pedal and beat-box, and he sings too! 

Although he is not the inventor of the Harpbox sound, he has infused refined blues riffs with beat box and perfected it to call it his own. Check him out on YouTube to see what it is all about. You will find it unique if not mesmerizing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2u9lkpHVe6c

The pre-med student at the University of Memphis dedicates himself to school as much as he does to the harmonica. He is pursuing a musical career for now, but his ultimate goal is to become a Pediatric Neurologist.
In the mean-time "Brandon can do it all. On Memphis Grooves, he literally does it all... .Every single sound on this album is something Brandon produced with his mouth, harmonica, shaker, and thumping foot."

-from liner notes by Adam Gussow

"...astonishing skills…... . modern blues harp layered with groundbreaking ideas…... . an evolution of the blues by a teen musical master”."
-Yukari Shinagawa "Black Grooves


http://www.brandonobailey.com/

Tunedin4U@blogspot.com

JEFF GOLUB BAND

Jeff Golub (Goal-Ub, like club), Contemporary Jazz Guitarist, released his 14th studio album, THE THREE KINGS. The album is a jazzy blues album featuring piano man Henry Butler on keyboard and vocals, with special guest vocalist, Robben Ford and Sonny Landreth, and band member Josh Dion, drummer and vocalist.

Golub is probably best known for his association with Rod Stewart, whom he played with from 1988-1995, on 4 albums and 5 world tours, and that fabulous head of hair, now somewhat gray. He was also with Billy Squier, for several years and Dave Koz and the Kozman’s.

The Ohio native started out his career by imitating the best rock guitar men in the world like Clapton, Beck, and Jimi Hendrix, but later developed an interest in the blues, and was inspired by the work of Muddy Waters, Buddy Guy and Freddie King, BB King, and Albert King;  consequently his tribute to THE THREE KINGS.

Henry Butler, “The Pride of New Orleans”, adds the blues sound with energetic vocals, and accomplished key boards. Blind since birth from glaucoma, Butler is the consummate blues musician and a great addition to the Golub Band Album.

The 56 year old  Golub recently lost his vision. When he started making this album he began having issues with his right eye, and tried to ignore it, but persisted and it was eventually determined he had a collapse of the optic nerve, that has permanently impaired his vision in the right eye and most recently he began having the same problems in the left eye and has since been declared legally blind.

He has a great attitude about his misfortune, because he can still play the guitar, and his good friend Henry Butler, is helping him cope with the world as a blind man.

If you like jazzed up blues greats this is an easy listening album in more ways than one.

http://www.jeffgolub.com/

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

IMELDA MAY, SINGER/MUSICIAN

Imelda May, vocalist from Dublin Ireland, released her 3rd Studio Album in the US, MAYHEM, out July 19, 2011. The rockabilly, jazzy, blues singer, brings a variety of tunes to us on this album. She is virtually all over the place when it comes to style. One moment she is rocking out, and shifts to jazzed-up tunes and show stopper performances, to almost cabaret. She is definitely entertaining and refreshingly different from the standard pop singer.


You may recall her performance at the 2010 Grammies along with Jeff beck as they paid tribute to Les Paul. Most recently she appeared on the Jay Leno Show on 7/18/2011.

She is quirky, fun, and not the usual jazz/blues, rockabilly singer, she is unique. Her artistry is a show in its own with pleasing and enjoyable vocals. She has kind of a 50’s flavor, and she can hoot and holler singing rockabilly as her “Proud & Humble” on the album. She can turn it around with her sultry “All For You”, or the jazzy “Bury My Troubles”, or the bluesy “Too Sad To Cry”.  Her version of the cover song "Tainted Love" is sure to get you off  your feet and dance!

No doubt, her show is fun and keeps you moving to the music. You will feel totally entertained when Imelda May hits the stage, she has something for everyone.

http://www.imeldamay.co.uk/

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

GREG NAGY: SINGER/SONGWRITER/MUSICIAN

Greg Nagy, formerly of the Root Doctors, a Midwest Regional band has come out with his 2nd solo studio album FELL TOWARD NONE, June 21, 2011. His soulful rock, blues/soul style was nominated by the Blues Music Awards as the Best New Artist, Debut class of 2010, with his debut album WALK THAT FINE THIN LINE in 2009.

The 45 yr. old Nagy gave up a PhD Program in Sociology to play music full time. With his soulful guitar work and sultry voice, the modern day blues man made the right choice.

Nagy has dabbled in a variety of careers, like college instructor, and military police officer, but music is his passion, and it is what makes the guy tick. The diversely talented guitar man has a wide vocal range, and can belt out heartfelt lyrics as well as Clapton & Al Green.

His CD has some good stuff on it."Fell Toward None" the title track is a tribute to his hometown Flint MI, and by far the best on the album, and sure to make you want to hear more. The album has an overall swampy blues feel of original songs and offers a variety of music styles that make it fun, interesting and good listening. Watch for him in your area on tour.Check out his web- site to hear and feel what he is all about.
http://www.gregnagy.com/

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

MANZAREK AND ROGERS BAND

Translucent Blues: out June 21, 2011 debuted #6 on the Billboard Blues Music charts from the Manzarek & Rogers Band, a collaboration of two great musicians. Roy Rogers, (Not the one with the horse Trigger) the legendary slide guitarist, and Ray Manzarek, co-founder of The Doors, and notable keyboardist, particularly on the Vox Continental, a transistor – based combo organ designed for touring musicians in the 60’s that replaced the heavy Hammond B3.


Together they have put together a pretty good album with many facets. Its a little bit rock, a little Delta blues, slightly jazzy infused with a little poetry. An interesting combo that’s easy to listen to. You will have a hard time keeping your toes from tapping while you become engrossed in the different songs and styles integrated into this album. Truly enjoyable if you are a blues fan.

These guys have been touring musicians for the past 3 decades. Rogers was previously associated with the John Lee Hooker band before he went out on his own in 2003 with the Delta Rhythm Kings. He has also been associated with the Coast to Coast Band, Roy Rogers & Norton Buffalo, before he hooked up with Manzarek. Manzarek, was/is The Doors (65-73) and a Rock & Roll Hall of Famer who is also associated with Nite City, Manzarek-Krieger & Rick & The Ravens. You will recognize his voice immediately if you remember the sound of The Doors.

Rogers, is a Delta Blues country rock man, & Manzarek is the acid rock, psychedelic, hard rock, jazz fusion, bluesy funk guy and together they have created an interesting combination of music that is a pleasure to listen to. They are both notable musicians, songwriters, and producers, and Manzarek is also a filmmaker. This is not the standard blues album, it is unmistakably a Translucent Blues album, created by experienced musicians from different backgrounds who came together to make great music.

http://manzarek-rogersband.com/

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

REDLIGHT KING: ROCK GROUP

Just out June 28th the debut album of Canadian rock music group “Redlight King” titled: SOMETHING FOR THE PAIN. Their single “Old Man”, originally written and performed by Neil Young was released earlier, and appears on YouTube and available on iTunes. Redlight Kings version is a refreshing updated hip/rap, which makes the 1972 song, from Neil’s album HARVEST relevant to a new generation.

The creative ability of singer, songwriter Kaz the front man for the group is evident in the album. Not only the remake of “Old Man”, but the title song “Something For The Pain” is a notable number and will be a hit with followers. He writes his songs from life’s experiences and like his song “Drivin to Kalifornia” he gave up everything to pursue his dream and went to California to be a rock star.

Some of the songs sound like something we have heard before, but an overall good rock album, and the “Old Man” song, is fantabulous! They should be rewarded for the great job on the remake of an old and memorable hit. They have the talent to be more than just a one hit wonder.

http://redlightkingmusic.com/

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com

ZIGGY MARELY: REGGAE SINGER/SONGWRITER

Ziggy Marley just released his 5th studio album WILD AND FREE to good reviews. The Jamaican born David Nesta “Ziggy”Marley is the oldest son of legendary Bob Marley and Rita Marley. Originally part of the Melody Makers with siblings, Cedella, Stephan, and Sharon, he has branched out on his own, as a recording artist and voice actor.


The title “Wild & Free” song was written to support the pro-marijuana bid known as Proposition 19 to legalize recreational marijuana in California. Woody Harrelson sings a duet with Ziggy, but gets no credit on the album for his part. The chorus: “I see hemp as forever growing wild and free, I see marijuana trees blowing in the breeze”, and so on. The rest of the album is good mixture of upbeat, mellow tunes of life experiences. His song “Road Less Travelled”, comments on his father’s many women and the jealousy within the family.



You may not know that Ziggy does voice for animation. He was Ernie in the 2004 film “Shark Tales” and is associated with many children’s songs. He is a father of six kids and this may have some influence on his choices. The Melody Makers contributed the song to “Give A Little Love” to the Disney album FOR OUR CHILDREN, with proceeds going to the Pediatric AIDS Foundation. Ziggy has been associated with children’s music and animation for more than a decade.


His philanthropic involvement includes Unlimited Resources Giving Enlightenment (URGE), which works to help children, his charity. He sits on the board of directors as an honorary member and is an official supporter of Little Kids Rock, a nonprofit organization that provides free musical instruments and free lessons to children in public schools throughout the United States.


There is a bit of a juxtaposition with the man and the music, between his involvement with children, and the promotion of marijuana. He does claim that he is trying to get people to realize the many uses of Hemp, not just happy juice.


Over all a pretty good contemporary Reggae album by Ziggy


http://www.ziggymarley.com/

Tunedin4U.blogspot.com