Jazz keyboardist Phil Casagrande is setting the mood for romance this summer with his soulful, sun-drenched rendition of Bread’s 1970s pop classic “Make It With You.” The newly released instrumental is already climbing radio airplay charts and joining romantic jazz playlists, offering listeners a warm breeze of nostalgia mixed with modern jazz sensibility.
It all began with a walk on Orchard Beach in the Bronx. Casagrande was moved by the young couples basking in the glow of summer love—a scene that transported him back to simpler times. That emotional moment deepened as he drove home, tuned in to SiriusXM’s 70s on 7, and was greeted by the timeless melody of “Make It With You.” Moved by inspiration, he went straight to his keyboard, crafting a smooth, sensual reinterpretation of the David Gates-penned hit.
“The childhood memories the beach scene evoked for me led to the creation of a track that embodies a spirit that we can all appreciate today,” said Casagrande.
Backed by longtime collaborators Emedin Rivera on percussion and John Henderson on breezy electric guitar, Casagrande brings a slow-burning groove to the beloved ballad. His interpretation is lush and layered—lush keyboard leads, floating harmonies, and a rhythm that’s as relaxing as a hammock swing at sunset. The result is a track that respects the original while carving out a uniquely soothing jazz vibe.
No stranger to reimagining classics, Casagrande has previously put his spin on beloved tunes like Barry White’s “Love Theme,” Double’s “The Captain of Her Heart,” and Tommy James & The Shondells’ “Crystal Blue Persuasion.” His skill at bridging genres and eras is rooted in a career that began in the dance music scene, most notably with the 1984 club hit “Four Year Battle” performed by Paula Anderson.
Phil Casagrande’s solo career began in earnest with the 2012 release of Manhattan Vibe, drawing from his NYC roots. His following albums, Taken Off (2015) and Missing You (2016), landed songs in both television and film—proof of his versatile artistry.
In addition to “Make It With You,” Casagrande recently released “Dreamy Sunday,” a lo-fi jazz chill-out track that’s found a home on Spotify and YouTube playlists. It marks a fresh lane for the artist, who plans to continue releasing both lo-fi experiments and polished contemporary jazz productions in the months to come.
Whether you're strolling the beach, winding down your day, or lost in a memory of a first love, Phil Casagrande’s “Make It With You” is the soundtrack you didn’t know you needed.
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