Reggie Codrington Celebrates Resilience and Jazz Legacy with “Don’t Look Back”

 

As his latest single “Don’t Look Back” climbs toward the Billboard Top 40 Smooth Jazz Songs chart, saxophonist Reggie Codrington is marking International Jazz Day with gratitude—for the music that shaped his life, the family who supported him, and the determination that carried him through extraordinary challenges.

Born with Ataxic Cerebral Palsy, Codrington faced significant physical obstacles from an early age, undergoing nine surgeries before the age of 13. His father, Ray Codrington—once ranked among the world’s top trumpeters by DownBeat—helped spark his journey by finding a specially sized saxophone he could play despite limited dexterity. That moment laid the foundation for a career many believed was out of reach.

Growing up in Fayetteville, Codrington was immersed in jazz from the start. Through his father, he connected with legends like Dizzy Gillespie, Sonny Rollins, Dexter Gordon, Harold Vick, and Freddie Cole—early influences that helped shape his sound and passion.

“Don’t Look Back,” inspired by his mother’s encouragement to focus on the future, blends a smooth R&B groove with Codrington’s warm tone and expressive phrasing. The track also marks his first collaboration with producer Nelson Braxton of the Braxton Brothers, with whom he’s already developing new music.

Reflecting on his journey, Codrington recalls a standout moment opening for three-time GRAMMY® winner Ramsey Lewis, who later told him, “You are a hard act to follow”—a compliment that continues to inspire him.

Now working on his 12th album, The Ray Codrington Signature Series, Codrington honors his father’s legacy while continuing to push forward with unwavering faith and purpose. His story is a testament to perseverance, proving that with passion and belief, even the steepest obstacles can be overcome.

Emmet Cohen Explores Legacy and Spirit on Universal Truth

 

Acclaimed pianist, composer, and bandleader Emmet Cohen unveils “I. Eternal Glimpse,” the second single from his forthcoming album Universal Truth, arriving May 29 via Mack Avenue Records. The track serves as the opening movement of the ambitious three-part “Universal Truth Suite,” a deeply personal and expansive work that reflects some of Cohen’s most introspective and expressive writing to date.

Created in honor of the 2026 centennial celebrations of Miles Davis and John Coltrane, Universal Truth channels the spirit of innovation and spiritual exploration that defined both legends. Cohen doesn’t simply pay tribute—he extends their legacy through his own modern voice, blending tradition with a forward-looking sensibility rooted in connection and discovery.

Widely recognized as one of the leading pianists of his generation, Cohen has built a reputation for bridging jazz history with a contemporary, community-driven approach. From his Masters Legacy Series—featuring icons like Jimmy Cobb, Benny Golson, Albert Heath, and Houston Person—to his livestream series Live From Emmet’s Place, Cohen has consistently emphasized intergenerational collaboration and accessibility.

The album brings together a thoughtful mix of originals and reimagined classics tied to Davis and Coltrane. A standout moment arrives with “My Funny Valentine,” featuring bassist Ron Carter and tenor saxophonist George Coleman, reuniting decades after their historic performance with Davis. Cohen’s core trio—bassist Yasushi Nakamura and drummer Joe Farnsworth—anchors the session, bringing both precision and spontaneity to the project.

Elsewhere, Cohen delivers a dynamic take on “Budo,” originally associated with Davis and Bud Powell, while Jeremy Pelt adds fire to “Well You Needn’t.” Pelt and Carter also appear on “Gingerbread Boy,” a composition by Jimmy Heath, whose centennial is also recognized. The album closes with a spirited rendition of “Blue Trane,” featuring Coleman alongside saxophonist Tivon Pennicott.

At the heart of the album lies Cohen’s interpretation of “universal truth,” a concept inspired by Coltrane’s lifelong pursuit of spiritual connection through music. For Cohen, it represents a search for meaning, purpose, and a deeper connection that transcends boundaries—an idea that resonates throughout the record.

With Universal Truth, Emmet Cohen not only honors the past but actively engages with it, crafting a work that feels timeless yet immediate. The album stands as both a tribute and a personal statement—an exploration of legacy, spirituality, and the enduring power of jazz to connect us all.

Steve Oliver Ignites a New Chapter with Inner Fire

 

Fueled by resilience and an unwavering positive mindset, Steve Oliver returns with renewed energy and purpose on his upcoming album Inner Fire, arriving June 12. After a personally challenging year, the multi-time Billboard chart-topping guitarist, singer, and songwriter channels transformation into a vibrant, deeply expressive musical journey.

The album’s lead single, “Dancing in the Sand,” offers an irresistible first taste. Blending a Latin-tinged groove with Oliver’s signature melodic guitar lines and soaring vocalese, the track features a standout duet with acclaimed guitarist Peter White. The song quickly gained traction, landing on SiriusXM Watercolors and becoming one of the most-added tracks on smooth jazz radio, climbing the Billboard charts with momentum.

Known for his ability to fuse jazz, R&B, and pop into a seamless sonic palette, Oliver describes Inner Fire as a reflection of growth through adversity. Each track explores themes of resilience, change, and rediscovery, guided by his intricate guitar work and lush, groove-driven arrangements.

The album opens strong with “Hook Shot,” featuring GRAMMY-nominated saxophonist Gerald Albright and GRAMMY-winning keyboardist Michael Broening. Another highlight is Oliver’s fresh interpretation of George Benson’s classic “Give Me The Night,” a nod to both Benson and legendary songwriter Rod Temperton.

Elsewhere, Oliver leans into emotional depth on “Missing You,” a tender, introspective piece inspired by long-distance love, while “Desert Euphoria” captures the vivid energy of his Southern California surroundings. Tracks like “Bounce Back” and “Looking Up” emphasize optimism and perseverance, with “Bounce Back” also featuring saxophonist Will Donato.

“Phoenix Rising” pays tribute to the late percussionist Steve Reid, whose mentorship played a pivotal role in Oliver’s career. Meanwhile, “You Got It” delivers an empowering message backed by a tight rhythm section including Sergio Gonzalez and Larry Antonino.

Closing the album, “Summer Tides” offers a serene, reflective moment inspired by time spent along the Fraser River, leaving listeners with a sense of calm and inner strength.

With a career that includes multiple No. 1 Billboard hits and collaborations with artists like Brian Simpson and Vincent Ingala, Oliver continues to evolve while staying true to his signature sound. Inner Fire stands as both a personal statement and an invitation for listeners to reconnect with their own resilience and hope.

Joey Alexander Announces Celestial Keeper, Shares First Single “Stella By Starlight”

 

GRAMMY-nominated pianist and composer Joey Alexander has announced his new album Celestial Keeper, arriving July 17 via Mack Avenue Records. Drawing inspiration from his lifelong admiration for Miles Davis and Bill Evans, Alexander introduces the project with “Stella By Starlight,” out this Friday—a striking reinterpretation of the standard that highlights his rare ability to reimagine timeless material. He celebrates the announcement with a five-night run at Birdland in New York City.

At just 22, Alexander has already built a remarkable career spanning more than a decade. He first gained international attention in 2013 when Wynton Marsalis invited him to perform at the Jazz at Lincoln Center Gala. Since then, he has shared the stage with icons like Wayne Shorter and Esperanza Spalding at the Obama White House, and has been profiled by major outlets including 60 Minutes and The New York Times.

Celestial Keeper, Alexander’s third release for Mack Avenue Records, finds the pianist exploring themes of creativity, faith, gratitude, and personal transformation. Inspired by what he calls his “Celestial Keeper”—a spiritual presence akin to a muse or guardian—Alexander reflects on overcoming doubt and artistic block. As he describes it, this force serves as a reminder of music as a divine gift, urging him to keep creating and stay connected to his purpose.

The album arrives during a significant transition in Alexander’s life, following his family’s return to his native Bali after years in New York and Baltimore. Immersed once again in Indonesia’s natural beauty and rhythms, he channels that environment into the album’s sense of wonder and introspection.

Celestial Keeper also introduces Alexander’s latest trio, featuring bassist Kris Funn and drummer Jonathan Barber, alongside guest appearances from Philadelphia-born saxophonist Jaleel Shaw. Expanding his artistic range, Alexander adds vocals for the first time, collaborating with rising singer Alita Moses on the original “Whispers of Love” and joining forces with Grammy-winning vocalist Lisa Fischer for a powerful take on “My Funny Valentine.” The album is produced by Jason Olaine, bringing Alexander full circle after Olaine helmed his debut, My Favorite Things.

The record’s tracklist includes “Bemused (solo improv I),” “Aversion,” “Whispers of Love,” “Stella by Starlight,” “Deep Calls to Deep,” “My Funny Valentine,” “Bemused Again (solo improv II),” “Aliceanna (Bmore),” “As Far as the Eye Can See,” and “How Great Thou Art.”

Alexander will support the release with a global tour, including stops in New York, Portsmouth, Oakland, Seattle, Phoenix, Indonesia, Los Angeles, Detroit, and Monterey.