KOAI 107.5 FM THE OASIS SWITCHES FORMATS

Smooth jazz radio station KOAI 107.5 FM ‘The Oasis’ in Fort Worth, TX abruptly switched formats on Monday. The new format – called Movin’ 107.5 – is dedicated to upbeat R&B hits from the ’80’s to the present. The station, which signed on at 106.1 FM in 1987 and moved to 107.5 in the early ‘90’s flipped without warning. This new Movin’ format is one of the popular ones that seems to be popping up in one city after another lately, and speculation is that CBS Radio, which owns KOAI would put Movin’ on another of its Dallas stations. Nikki Nite, program director of KVIL 103.7 FM will move over to KOAI, and Charley Connolly, program director of the Oasis, will become program director of KVIL. The new format will be aimed at women ages 25 to 40.

COLUMBIA RECORDS RELEASING NEW EDITION OF CHRIS BOTTI’S BEST-SELLING SEASONAL ALBUM, ‘DECEMBER’

Columbia Records is releasing a new edition - featuring four newly-recorded tracks and two brand-new songs - of Chris Botti's best-selling seasonal album, December, on Tuesday, October 10. Produced by Bobby Colomby, the yuletide 2006 edition of December premieres two new songs: a breathtaking interpretation of Franz Schubert's Ave Maria (featuring the Choir of St. John's, Smith's Square) and I Don't Really Want Much For Christmas (featuring Eric Benet). The newly expanded edition of December also debuts new versions of Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas and Silent Night.

Chris Botti "December" (2006 edition) Tracklisting
1. The Christmas Song
2. Ave Maria
3. Winter Wonderland
4. The First Noel
5. Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!
6. Hallelujah
7. I Really Don't Want Much For Christmas (featuring Eric Benet)
8. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
9. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
10. Silent Night
11. Little Drummer Boy
12. O Little Town Of Bethlehem
13. I'll Be Home For Christmas

A full concert version of the critically-acclaimed Chris Botti Live with Orchestra & Special Guests, a viewer-grabbing highlight of this year's PBS Pledge Week, is available now in a CD/DVD package or as a CD-only. Chris Botti Live with Orchestra & Special Guests, shot December 1 and 2, 2005, over a Thursday - Friday run at LA's fabled Wilshire Theatre, inspired the Los Angeles Times music critic Don Heckman to write, "It was apparent, from the first notes Chris Botti played at the Wilshire Theatre on Friday, that the sold-out house was in for a special evening ... Botti's latest album, To Love Again - as well as the previously released When I Fall In Love - features extraordinary lineups of vocal guest artists. Six showed up for the concert - Sting, Jill Scott, Paula Cole, Renee Olstead, Paul Buchanan and Gladys Knight - along with Burt Bacharach ... despite the inevitable audience excitement generated by the appearance of such vocal headliners and despite the artists' diversity of interpretations, it was Botti's virtuosic trumpet work, his inventive melody-making, his engaging onstage presence and his powerful band ... that ruled the evening... "

Chris Botti has been steadily developing a reputation as one of the nation's most compelling jazz artists. In a review of Botti's performance at the JVC Jazz Festival show at Carnegie Hall, The New York Times wrote," the blond, dapper Mr. Botti, from Portland, Ore., belongs to a long line of trumpeters who are also popular entertainers. His recent album, To Love Again (Columbia), features ... trumpet-and-voice collaborations with Sting, Michael Buble, Jill Scott and (in the most unlikely team-up) Steven Tyler. Mr. Botti ... and his band, whose main man, the pianist Billy Childs, alternated between synthesizer and acoustic piano, performed sprawling, echo-heavy arrangements of songs ranging from Leonard Cohen's Thousand Kisses to Flamenco Sketches from Miles Davis's Kind of Blue, the classic record that started it all."

VINCENT MONTANA JR.’S ‘YOU ARE MY EVERYTHING’ FEATURING DOUBLE EXPOSURE

Vincent Montana, Jr.’s new release, You Are My Everthing, is a sure to be a classic, as once again Montana stays true to form and continues to spread his message with this classic and slick arrangement. Louis Benedetti is on the remixes plus the incredible vocals of Double Exposure. Four mixes are available: the Vincent Montana Jr. Original Mix; Louis Benedetti Vox, Louis Benedetti Dub; and Louis Benedetti Reprise Dub. It will be released soon on the Philly Sound Works label.

NEW CD RELEASES FROM LIONEL RICHIE, DIANA KRALL, BONEY JAMES, MICHAEL LINGTON, AARON NEVILLE, MADELEINE PEYROUX & OTHERS…

Aaron Neville – Bring It On Home…The Soul Classics
Amp Fiddler – Afro Strut
Art Of Noise – What Have You Don’t With My Body God? – The ZTT Session 1983-1985 (4-CD set)
Aurra – Anthology (2-CD set)
Boney James – Shine
Chico Buarque – Carioca (CD/DVD)
DJ Kawasaki – Beautiful
DWH (Deeper Wider Higher) – Follow Me
Dave Pike – Carnavals – Bossa Nova Carnival / Limbo Carnival
David S. Ware - Balladware
Deborah Bond – Afterday
Deodato - Artistry
Diana Krall – From This Moment On
Dinah Shore – Dinah Sings Previn
Edison X – Ginga A Alma Do Futebol Brasileiro
Free Soul – The Classic Of Salsoul (Various Artists)
Gal Costa – Gal Costa Live At The Blue Note
Giulio Camarca & Trinidad – Samba Do Amigo
Grant Green – Live At Club Mozambique
Gruppo Jazz Marca – Mitteleuropa
Hal Galper – Ivory Forest
Impressions – This Is My Country / Young Mod’s Forgotten Story
Incognito – Bees And Things And Flowers
John Beltran – Human Engine
Johnny Teupen – Play Harp
June Christy – Intimate Miss Christy
Kazu Matsui - Pioneer
Kohala – Deeper Blue
Kofy Brown – Live In San Francisco Vol. 1 – The Mecca Session
Lee Morgan – City Lights
Leon – My Soul Speaks
Lino – Miami Jam
Lionel Richie – Coming Home
Lucas Santittana & Selecao Natural – 3 Sessions In A Greenhouse
MFSB – Muthafunkin’ Sonofabitch – The Truth Behind The Philly Legend
Madeleine Peyroux – Half The Perfect World
Marc Mac – It’s Right To Be Civil
Marion Brown - Vista
Martin Denny – Afro-Desia
Master Of Masterpiece – The Very Best Of Patrick Adams (Various Artists)
Michael Lington – A Song For You
Michael Manson – Just Feelin’ It
Nathan Haines – The Chillifunk Years
Orchestra Boabab – Night At Club Boabab – Senegelese Dance Music Of The ‘70’s
Otis Jackson With Madlib & Oh No – Art Of Love
Pat Metheny & Brad Mehldau – Metheny/Mehldau
Patrick Yandall – Samoa Soul
Paul Wainwright & Sax Safari – Plank Spankin’
Peter Frampton – Fingerprints
Pharoah Sanders – Love In Us As
Radio Citizen – Berlin Serengeti
Ramsey Lewis – Maiden Voyage
Ramsey Lewis – Don’t It Feel Good
Ray Barretto - Together
Rhonda Smith – RS2
Rita Reys – Today – Recorded In London
Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66 – Herb Alpert Presents Sergio Mendes & Brasil ‘66
Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66 – Ye-Me-Le
Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66 – Live At Expo ‘70
Sergio Mendes & Brazil ’77 – Primal Roots
Sonny Stitt – Sonny Stitt Plays Arrangement From The Pen Of Quincy Jones
Stephanie McKay – Stephanie McKay
Sue Raney – All By Myself
Vikter Duplaix – Bold And Beautiful
William Woods – The Hear And Now
Yusef Lateef – Before Dawn

NEW JAMES TAYLOR CD FEATURES NATALIE COLE, TOOTS THIELEMANS & CHRIS BOTTI

Combine the most beloved, classic songs of the holiday season with the warm baritone of one of the most recognized voices in popular music, and this fall will give fans reason to celebrate with James Taylor At Christmas. The 12-song collection of traditional and contemporary seasonal songs is set for release on Tuesday, October 10th, on Columbia Records.

James Taylor At Christmas, includes Taylor's heart-warming version of Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, from the 1944 film "Meet Me In St. Louis," Santa Claus Is Coming To Town, as well as the premiere of a new recording of Joni Mitchell's composition, River. Special guest performances on the CD feature jazz trumpeter Chris Botti on Winter Wonderland, legendary harmonica player Toots Thielemans on The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire) and with Natalie Cole on Baby It's Cold Outside. Ten of the album's 12 tracks are produced by the legendary jazz pianist/composer/arranger Dave Grusin. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, was produced by Russ Titelman, who first worked with Taylor on his classic 1975 release, Gorilla.

Taylor, who will hit the road this fall for his critically hailed "One Man Band" Tour, has earned 40 gold, platinum and multi-platinum awards and 5 Grammy Awards for a catalog running from 1970's Sweet Baby James to his Grammy Award-winning effort October Road (2002). He has won the RIAA's Diamond Award and is a Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Famer, a member of the Songwriter's Hall of Fame and in 1998 was honored with Billboard's Century Award. Just this past February, The National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences selected James its MUSICARES Person of the Year.

James Taylor At Christmas Tracklisting
1. Winter Wonderland (featuring Chris Botti, trumpet)
2. Go Tell It On The Mountain
3. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
4. Jingle Bells
5. Baby, It's Cold Outside (featuring Natalie Cole)
6. River
7. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
8. The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire) (featuring Toots Thielemans, harmonica)
9. Some Children See Him
10. Who Comes This Night
11. In The Bleak Midwinter
12. Auld Lang Syne

BRIAN CULBERTON’S A SOULFUL CHRISTMAS ALBUM AND TOUR

Brian Culbertson’s new holiday CD, A Soulful Christmas, will be in stores on October 31. The new holiday album features modern arrangements of classic Christmas carols and a new holiday tune, All Through The Christmas Night, sung by Michael McDonald. Culbertson will promote the new CD with A Soulful Christmas Tour, which will feature him alongside Bobby Caldwell, Warren Hill, Ray Parker, Jr., and Eric Darius. Click to www.soulfulxmas.com for a complete tour schedule and details. Here are some concert tour dates:
Dec. 12 – Alexandria, VA @ The Birchmere
Dec. 13 – Alexandria, VA @ The Birchmere
Dec. 16 – Long Beach, CA @ Long Beach Terrace Theater

'BRING IT ON HOME…THE SOUL CLASSICS’ AARON NEVILLE’S BIGGEST SELLING DEBUT FEATURES DAVID SANBORN, CHAKA KAHN & MAVIS STAPLES

In 1966, multiple Grammy award winning artist Aaron Neville celebrated a career first when Tell It Like It Is charted, peaking at #1 in 1967 on the R&B charts. Now, almost forty years later, after selling over 10 million records in the US alone, Aaron Neville makes history as Burgundy Records Bring It On Home…The Soul Classics becomes his highest selling debut ever. The CD debuted at #37 on the Billboard Top 200 Chart and sold 22,212 in its first week. "The early success of this CD is testament to the longevity and staying power of classic artists such as Aaron Neville. We couldn’t be happier," says Joe DiMuro, Executive Vice President and General Manager of SONY BMG’s Strategic Marketing Group and Burgundy Records.

Bring It On Home...The Soul Classics is a collection of Neville's favorite soul songs including Otis Redding's (Sittin' On) The Dock Of The Bay, Sam Cooke's A Change Is Gonna Come, Ben E. King's Stand By Me, Bill Withers' Ain't No Sunshine and the album's first single, Curtis Mayfield's It's All Right. The set also features collaborations with Chris Botti, Chaka Khan, David Sanborn, Mavis Staples and Art Neville. Aaron Neville kicks off his "Bring It On Home...The Soul Classics Tour" on October 1st.

The Sony BMG Strategic Marketing Group (SMG) recently launched its new record label, Burgundy Records. The Sony BMG SMG imprint plans to sign legendary multi-platinum artists and release new titles in conjunction with an innovative marketing campaign that will promote the artists through traditional and non-traditional channels.

Final Aaron Neville track listing and sequence
1. Rainy Night In Georgia (featuring Chris Botti)
2. Ain't No Sunshine
3. (Sittin' On) The Dock Of The Bay
4. Stand By Me
5. You Send Me
6. Respect Yourself (featuring Mavis Staples)
7. When A Man Loves A Woman
8. Let's Stay Together (featuring Chaka Khan)
9. It's All Right
10. People Get Ready (featuring Art Neville and David Sanborn)
11. My Girl
12. Ain't That Peculiar
13. A Change Is Gonna Come

Neville is currently touring in support of the new album and is confirmed for the following concerts:
Sept. 29 – Las Vegas, NV @ Sam Boyd Stadium
Sept. 30 – Houston, TX @ Hyatt Regency Hotel
Oct. 1 – St. Petersburg, FL @ Mahaffey Theater
Oct. 3 – Stuart, Fl @ Lyric Theatre
Oct. 4 – Tallahassee, FL @ Florida St. University
Oct. 6 – Atlantic City, NJ @ House Of Blues
Oct. 7 – West Long Branch, NJ @ Monmouth State University – Pollak Theatre
Oct. 8 – Boston, MA @ Berklee Music Hall
Oct. 9 – Annaopolis, MD @ Ramshead
Oct. 13 – New York, NY @ Nokia Theatre – CD101 Show
Oct. 14 – Westhampton Beach, NY @ Westhampton Performing Arts Center
Oct. 16 – Uncasville, CT @ Mohegan Sun Cabaret
Oct. 17 – Uncasville, CT @ Mohegan Sun Cabaret
Oct. 18 – Alexandria, VA @ Birchmere
Oct. 20 – Chicago, IL @ Live From Studio A (NBC Tower)
Oct. 21 – Chicago, IL @ Live From Studio A (NBC Tower)
Dec. 1 – Elgin, IL @ Hemmens Cultural Center
Dec. 2 – Bloomington, IN @ Bloomington Center For Performing Arts
Dec. 3 – Omaha, NE @ Holland Performing Arts Center
Dec. 6 – St Louis, MO @ Sheldon Concert Hall
Dec. 8 – Rochester, MN @ May Civic Center Auditorium
Dec. 9 – St. Michael, ND @ Spirit Lake Casino
Dec. 10 – St. Michael, ND @ Spirit Lake Casino

MOCEAN WORKER REMIXES ELVIS’ BURNING LOVE

Mocean Worker has worked as an assistant to bassist/producer Marcus Miller (Miles Davis, Luther Vandross, EU) and he has compiled and produced dozens of jazz and R&B reissues, including work for the Verve Remixed albums. His credits as musician include collaborations with Bill Frissell, Hal Willner, Brian Eno and legendary producer Joel Dorn (Roberta Flack, John Coltrane, Leon Redbone). Under the Mocean Worker moniker, he has released three albums of genre-defying electronic music: Home Movies from the Brain Forest (1998); Mixed Emotional Features (1999); and Aural & Hearty (2000), plus Enter The MoWo! (the debut title on his MoWo! Inc. imprint), where elements of jazz, funk and electronic music co-exist in a lively, refreshing fashion. Now he has taken on the project of Elvis Presley’s Burning Love song remix. The project initially started out as a 30-second remix for use in a Honda CR-V commercial for broadcast in Japan, however, it now being shown in the United States. According to Mocean Worker’s official website, it seems that he has completed a full length version for potential commercial release. The remix highlights Elvis’ vocals as well as the original bass and piano elements, embedded with a new feel good groove that fits in perfect with Elvis’ style. Let’s hope that SONY/BMG decides to commercially release this, and yet - - could this be part of a larger plan to release a full remix album? We’ll keep you posted on this.

BEAT KAESTLI TO TOUR GERMANY & SWITZERLAND

Jazz quartet Beat Kastli is putting in an appearance at the Tower Records at Lincoln Center before heading off to Germany and Switzerland for a tour beginning on Oct. 13. They’ll be playing at the renowned clubs Die Unterfahrt in Munich and Moods in Zuerich. The Swiss jazz magazine Jazz ‘n’ More is promoting the tour with a full blitz on radio (BR4, Toxic FM, Lora, etc), and in the press (Klenkes, St. Galler Tagblatt, NZZ, etc.). The quartet consists of Beat Kaestli (vocals); Tino Derado (piano); Sven Faller (bass); and Martin Kolb (drums).

Here are their upcoming concert tour dates:
Oct. 4 – New York, NY @ Tower Records Lincoln Center
Oct. 13 – Hellbronn @ Ebene 3
Oct. 14 – Bolligen @ Baeberhus
Oct. 17 – St. Gallen @ Kugl
Oct. 19 – Zuerich @ Moods
Oct. 20 – Olten @ Esskapad
Oct. 21 – BE @ Schloss Kiesen
Oct. 25 – Aachen @ Jacobshof
Oct. 26 – Viersen @ Conny’s
Oct. 27 – Munich @ Unterfaht

UPCOMING PHILADELPHA JAZZ AREA CONCERTS FEATURE AL DIMEOLA, CHARLIE HUNTER, & MORE…

Here’s a sampling of upcoming concerts of interest in the Philadelphia, PA area…
Fourplay @ Keswick Theatre on Sept. 30
Al DiMeola @ Sellersville Theater on Oct. 4
Charlie Hunter @ Downstairs At The World Café on Oct. 4
Etta James @ Keswick Theatre on Oct. 4
Maria Muldaur @ Sellersville Theater on Oct. 5

NATALIE COLE’S NEW ALBUM, ‘LEAVIN’ & TOUR DATES

Eight-time Grammy Award winner Natalie Cole has just released her 20th studio album, Leavin’. This new album also marks her first album of new material in nearly four years. Cole’s on the road in support of this new release with tour dates are as follows:

Sept. 26 – New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden
Sept. 29 – Philadelphia, PA @ Liacouras Center
Oct. 12 – Ontario, Canada @ Casino Rama Orillia
Oct. 14 – Atlantic City, NJ @ Caesar’s Palace
Oct. 16 – Philadelphia, PA @ World Café Live
Oct. 18 – Atlanta, GA @ Variety Playhouse
Oct. 21 – Danville, KY @Norton Center For The Arts
Oct. 24 – Red Banks, NJ @ Count Basie Theater
Oct. 25 – Rockville, MD @ Music Center At Strathmore

CIBELLE AT CAFÉ DU NORD, SAN FRANCISCO

London-based and Sao Paulo raised Brazilian singer Cibelle will perform with her band at the Café du Nord in San Francisco on Friday, Sept. 29. Cibelle is touring in support of her recent album, The Shrine Of Dried Electric Leaves. American audiences were first introduced to Cibelle on her vocal work on Suba’s groundbreaking electro-Brazilian album Sao Paulo Confessions. Launching her solo career in 2003 with the release of her critically acclaimed self-titled debut, Cibelle’s intimate voice has established her as one of the most inventive and distinctive musicians to emerge in recent years. On her second album, The Shrine Of Electric Leaves, Cibelle collaborates with Devendra Banhart, Brazilian singer Seu Jorge and French MC/beatboxer Spleen.

CHUCK LOEB TO REPLACE FOURPLAY AT THE BLUE NOTE

Chuck Loeb is replacing Fourplay at the Blue Note this evening in New York City. Fourplay has had to cancel due to illness, and so Chuck Loeb will appear there on Sept. 28 and 29. The show times for both nights are 8:00 pm and 10:30 pm, with a music charge of $20 at the bar and $30 at the tables. For more information click to www.bluenote.net.

JOHN MAYER'S NEW ALBUM, "CONTINUUM', SELLS 300,000 COPIES IN FIRST WEEK

Two years in the making, Grammy winning singer/songwriter John Mayer's third studio album, Continuum (Aware/Columbia Records), has sold 300,000 copies since its release on September 12. The album's first single, Waiting On The World To Change, has propelled Mayer's solid return to the top of the charts and is currently #1 at Triple A radio, #3 at Hot AC, and is now at Top Forty Radio, while the video enjoys heavy rotation at VH1. On August 25, Mayer performed a history-making Today Show Concert. As the first artist to participate in the Today Show's new iTunes partnership, John's performance and behind-the-scenes footage were made available for exclusive download from iTunes -- helping to drive presale orders to 16,000 and release week sales to 46,000 for a staggering grand total of 62,000 units via the music
service.

Currently on a co-headlining tour with Sheryl Crow, Mayer kept up the furious pace of life on the road during his album's release week. From Chicago to New York to L.A. to Austin, TX, Mayer performed club shows for fans at Chicago's House of Blues, New York's Webster Hall and headlined the Austin City Limits Festival in Austin, TX. He also visited the Today Show,
performed a two-night stint on Late Night with Conan O'Brien, stopped by MTV's TRL, and appeared on the Ellen DeGeneres Show.

Critics have applauded Mayer's accomplishments on Continuum:

-- ROLLING STONE MAGAZINE -- "a smart, breezy album that deftly fuses his love for old-school blues and R&B with his natural gift for sharp melodies and well-constructed songs." -- 4 of 5 stars

-- USA TODAY -- "Mayer's smartly crafted third album combines singer/songwriter pop and sinewy guitar blues as he broaches a range of mature themes."

-- NEW YORK TIMES -- "Mr. Mayer has been writing songs again, good ones, with all the leanness and directness that distinguish his strongest work."

-- BLENDER -- "Where his earlier music was a parade of bright primary colors, these plaintive melodies come in delicious shades of gray." -- 3 of 4 stars

-- ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY -- "many musicians with his all-star-level guitar skills will go reeling off into jam-band indulgence at the least opportunity, but Mayer always plays understated, lacing his catchy songs with crystalline blues licks and subtle jazz-style filigree."

-- STEREOGUM.com -- "We're convinced we're witnessing the emergence of a true artist."

-- ASSOCIATED PRESS -- "... the album is driven by serious themes, fat guitar sounds and Mayer's stirring voice. Continuum reveals his maturity as an artist, both in content and style -- a development he attributes to his collaboration with drummer Steve Jordan and bassist Pino Palladino, who collectively form the John Mayer Trio, which released a live blues album last year."

Having recorded and performed with some of the most interesting and iconic artists on the scene, Mayer returns with an album that showcases his diverse influences, rich lyrics, the groove of the guitar-slinging bluesman and the vocals of the soulful crooner. Continuum was co-produced by John Mayer and Steve Jordan and features sultry tracks such as I Don't Trust Myself With Loving You, Slow Dancing In A Burning Room, and the Sam Cooke-flavored I'm Gonna Find Another You. Followers of the John Mayer Trio will recognize Vultures and Gravity reworked for the studio by John, Steve, and Pino, as well as a blazing display of fretwork on Jimi Hendrix's Bold As Love. Longtime fans will appreciate songs like Heart of Life and Stop This Train as keeping in-step with trademark Mayer material.

Billboard magazine wrote that the melodic, up-tempo Waiting On The World To Change is "already off to a blockbuster start," whose ascent to "No. 1 is all but a given" and People magazine noted that, "John Mayer channels Curtis Mayfield" in a song that reflects the challenges and frustrations of his generation.

A musician and collaborator who exceeds genre boundaries, John Mayer famously toured and recorded with power players Pino Palladino and Steve Jordan as the John Mayer Trio, whose live album Try! was released in November '05. Mayer's other collaborators -- from Rock to Blues, Hip-Hop to Jazz to Country -- have included Eric Clapton, BB King, Buddy Guy, T-Bone Burnett, Herbie Hancock, Dixie Chicks, Kanye West, Alicia Keys, and Ahmir ?uestlove.

From his acclaimed debut Room For Squares in 2001 through 2003's Heavier Things to his most recent work with the John Mayer Trio, the guitarist, vocalist and songwriter has sold more than eight million albums and earned three Grammy Awards.

JOHN MAYER / SHERYL CROW CO-HEADLINING TOUR (* indicates independent
dates)
DATE CITY VENUE
9/23 Seattle, WA White River Amphitheatre
9/24 Portland, OR The Amphitheater at Clark County
9/26 San Diego, CA Bayside Amphitheater
9/27 Irvine, CA Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
9/28 Concord, CA Chronicle Pavilion
9/30 Sacramento, CA Sleep Train Amphitheatre
10/01 Mountain View, CA Shoreline Amphitheatre
10/04 Phoenix, AZ Glendale Arena (w/Tom Petty)*
10/06 Houston, TX Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
10/08 Nashville, TN Starwood Amphitheater
10/09 Birmingham, AL Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
10/11 West Palm Beach, FL Sound Advice Amphitheatre
10/12 Tampa, FL Ford Amphitheatre
10/13 Atlanta, GA Chastain Park*
10/14 Atlanta, GA Chastain Park*
http://www.johnmayer.com
http://www.columbiarecords.com

GUITAR LEGENDS J.J. CALE AND ERIC CLAPTON UNITE FOR SOULFUL CD RELEASE ‘THE ROAD TO ESCONDIDO’

After years of admiring each other's musical masterworks and Clapton covers of Cale songs such as After Midnight and Cocaine, guitar greats J.J. Cale and Eric Clapton have teamed up for the first time to create an original album together, The Road To Escondido, set for release on November 6. The 14-track CD was produced and recorded by the duo in August 2005 in California. The resulting music defies being labeled into any one category, but instead finds influence across the spectrum of blues, rock, country and folk. A hybrid sound that is unique musically, while still bearing the signature styles of Cale and Clapton recognized by fans around the world. The songs are warm and rich, with deep flowing rhythms, yet use an economy of words to express much.

In a true collaboration, Cale and Clapton jointly produced and recorded the album, each playing and singing on the tracks. Cale wrote 11 of the songs, Clapton wrote Three Little Girls, John Mayer wrote Hard To Thrill and the duo cover the blues classic Sporting Life Blues. J.J. Cale's touring band accompanies them on the album as well as guest musicians including, Taj Mahal, John Mayer, Derek Trucks, Doyle Bramhall II, Albert Lee, Nathan East, Willie Weeks and Steve Jordan. Particularly special is the involvement of Billy Preston, who donated his classic keyboard talents throughout the album. The album is dedicated to Preston and Clapton's late friend Brian Roylance.

"Eric and I have known each other for a long time and it was a great experience to finally make a record together - he's a great musician and it was a pleasure to work so closely on this project with him," said J.J. Cale. "This was the realization of what may have been my last ambition, to work with the man whose music has inspired me for as long as I can remember, there are not enough words for me to describe what he represents to me, musically and personally, and anyway I wouldn't want to embarrass him by going overboard, for he is a truly humble man... I think it's enough to say that we had fun, made a great record, and I for one already want to make another," said Eric Clapton.

Clapton has often said that he has tried to achieve the J.J. Cale sound and has credited Cale with singular influence over his style as a solo artist. Mojo Magazine asked Clapton in 2000 which other musician he would most like to be, his response was quick: "I don't model myself on him but I like J.J. Cale, his philosophy, writing skills, musicianship. He's a fine, superior musician, one of the masters of the last three decades of music."

J.J. Cale is known for being reclusive. He lets his music speak for itself and by his own choice has not become famous in the conventional terms of the word. Instead, preferring to shun the spotlight for a more simple existence based on his musical creations. Ironically, doing just that, and focusing on his music, has turned him into a guitar legend over the past four decades. The depth of his influence can be felt in artists such as Clapton and Mark Knopfler, but the sheer breadth of his appeal is made clear by the diverse group of artists who have covered his songs from Johnny Cash, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and The Allman Brothers to Bryan Ferry, Deep Purple, Santana and more recently jam bands like Widespread Panic.

Cale grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma and cites Chet Atkins, Les Paul and Chuck Berry as some of his earliest influences. He is often quoted as saying, "In trying to imitate them, I missed it. And I came up with my own kinda thing." And so, Cale began playing the local Tulsa club scene in the early 1950s surrounded by other natives such as David Gates (Bread) and Leon Russell. After moving to Los Angeles in the mid-60s, he recorded the song After Midnight.
Already an accomplished guitarist with bands such as the Yardbirds, Cream and Blind Faith, Clapton ventured to a solo career with the release of his 1970 self-titled Eric Clapton album. Mutual friend Delaney Bramlett had given Clapton a copy of Cale's song After Midnight. Clapton decided to cover the song and it was the first single from the album. The song became a chart-topping success. Clapton was quick to offer praise for Cale's work while promoting the album. Cale had been told of the cover but has said that he didn't pay much attention until the song came on the radio in Tulsa.

Years later, in April 1976, Cale was performing at London's Hammersmith Odeon in support of his Troubadour album release. Clapton sat in on the performance and later during that trip surprised Cale in the studio with a version of Cocaine that would appear on his 1977 Slowhand release. Again becoming a chart-topping success.

In the years to follow, the two would occasionally cross paths, but would largely carry on with their respective musical careers. Until 2004 when Clapton was organizing a Dallas-based guitar festival called Crossroads. The 3-day festival featured the world's most elite guitarists. Clapton invited Cale to perform at the festival and Cale agreed to attend. In turn, Cale invited Clapton on-stage for the set and Clapton gladly joined, unannounced, for the entire set as a member of Cale's band. The set was a highlight of the performances from the festival.

Crossroads gave Clapton an opportunity to ask Cale to consider producing an upcoming album for him. If Clapton had been seeking to replicate the trademark Cale sound, having him as producer on an album would surely achieve that unique musical quality. As the two worked on the project, creative ideas took flight and they decided to take the project further formulating a true co-produced album. The Road To Escondido marks the first full-length album the two have created together.

Cale's entire 40-plus year career has produced only 13 albums. But most critics agree that each effort is well worth the wait. Lauded by his peers and completely unfazed by musical fads, J.J. Cale is an American icon, a craftsman like no other. Clapton's career, also spanning more than 40 years, has resulted in 18 Grammy Awards and the distinct honor of being the only triple inductee into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

LEGENDARY DRUMMER CHICO HAMILTON A SMASH ON MySPACE; NEW ALBUM ‘HERITAGE’ RELEASED

Legendary drummer and NEA Jazzmaster, Foreststorn "Chico" Hamilton, and label, Joyous Shout, have announced today a remix contest on Chico's MySpace page at www.myspace.com/chicohamilton. The drummer's fans can download unique beats picked by Chico, remix them and post them back on MySpace where Chico will pick his favorite tracks that will be posted on his MySpace website. The MySpace event and some surprise celebrity remixes will coincide with Chico's 85th birthday and a special birthday performance at Joe's Pub in New York City on September 21 at 9:30 pm.

With 85 years under his belt and 7+ decades making great music, Chico is a unique presence on MySpace where the demographic generally skews much younger. To date, Chico has amassed over 5,000 "friends" on his MySpace page and his label is using the site in innovative ways to increase that number. As the meeting place and music discovery venue of choice for the under-30 set, MySpace is also providing an arena for older artists like Chico to reach younger fans on whose radar they might not ordinarily be "As a musician, Chico has always been ahead of his time," notes Hamilton's long-time personal manager, Jeffrey Andrew Caddick. "His music is classic and definitely appeals to a broad range of fans. With MySpace, we're just using the latest and greatest technology to get the word out to even more folks and the response has been great."

Considering that Chico was born in 1921, it's fascinating to think that he's seen the advent of every new technology dedicated to entertaining the masses. From radio to television and film, 78s to 33 LPs, 8-tracks to cassettes, and now, the digital format of CDs and the Internet, Chico's music has been released in that format. Not too many artists can make that claim today, but Chico embraces it.

"You know, music is God's will," Chico explains. "Music has to find its way out there and any way I can do that, I'm gonna do that. Really music hasn't changed at all, it's the same 12 bars it's been for thousands of years. The only thing that's changed is how it gets to the people." In addition to turning 85 in 2006, Chico Hamilton has released three albums (Juniflip, Believe, 6th Avenue Romp) with a fourth, Heritage, scheduled for release on September 19, 2006.

MICHEL CAMILLLO AND TOMATITO ARE BACK TOGETHER AGAIN WITH ‘SPAIN AGAIN’ RELEASE

Pianist/composer Michel Camilo and guitarist Tomatito come together again after six years to create the follow-up to their Latin Grammy(R)-winning album Spain. In the aptly titled Spain Again. Camilo and Tomatito expand on the idea of combining jazz and flamenco harmonies by incorporating inflections of classical piano sounds and acoustic guitar with sensual gypsy and Latin rhythms. The release of Spain Again on Emarcy (Universal Music) will be followed by a string of performances at New York City's Blue Note on September 25th, 26th and 27th. These special engagements are part of the Blue Note's 25th Anniversary Celebration. The duo will also perform in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.

Recording the new album proved to be exciting for Camilo: "It gave me so much joy to see that the magic is still there after all these years." Camilo and Tomatito have known each other since the early 1990s when they met in Spain at an album session for the nuevo flamenco group Ketama. They quickly became friends but didn't start touring together until 1997 and in
August 1999 they recorded Spain. The best-selling album quickly amassed much praise from the media, as noted in Jazz Times: "Spain is awe-inspiring" - and Mojo described the album as a "hugely dynamic record nothing short of overwhelming." Of their Carnegie Hall concert The New York Times stated, "... together the duo found an elusive grace."

Despite coming from exceptionally different musical worlds, the duo created a unique hybrid that transcends all genres. Their individual differences complement each other greatly as shown when joined together musically on Spain Again. Grammy(R) winner Michel Camilo is best known for combining rich jazz harmonies with the Caribbean flavors and rhythms while Tomatito is the renowned flamenco guitarist of his generation. Camilo noted that he was thrilled to see how much they both have evolved as artists: "The musical horizons we travel together on this recording are all close to our hearts. It was so amazing to see how after we shared our personal feelings for each song, we simply enjoyed the self-discovery process by letting the music tell us where it wanted to flow." The eleven-track album includes original compositions, a tribute to Astor Piazzolla, jazz standards and a collaboration with renowned singer/songwriter Juan Luis Guerra on Amor de Conuco.

UPCOMING NEW YORK CITY AREA CONCERTS TO FEATURE AL DI MEOLA, GATO BARBIERI, PATRICE RUSHEN, WILL DOWNING, FOURPLAY, ISAAC HAYES, AL GREEN, DAVID SANB

Upcoming concert calendar for the New York City area…

Sept 23 – Al Di Meola @ Starland Ballroom
Sept 24 – Chico Farrell’s Jazz Orchestra @ Birdland
Sept 25 – Patrice Rushen Trio @ Dizzy’s Club Coke @ JALC
Sept 26 – Clark Terry Quintet @ Village Vanguard
Sept 28 – Mike Stern Band w/ Rich Bona @ Iridium Jazz Club
Sept 28 – Fourplay @ Blue Note
Sept 29 – Jamie Cullum @ Aaron Davis Hall
Sept 29 – Shell Zimet @ Iridium Jazz Club
Sept 29 – Mike Stern Band w/ Rich Bona @ Iridium Jazz Club
Sept 30 - Mike Stern Band w/ Rich Bona @ Iridium Jazz Club
Sept 30 – Will Downing @ Nokia Theatre
Oct 1 - Mike Stern Band w/ Rich Bona @ Iridium Jazz Club
Oct 1 – Chico Farrell’s Jazz Orchestra @ Birdland
Oct 2 – Bjorn Thoroddsen & Cold Front @ Dizzy’s Club Coke @ JALC
Oct 3 – Ben Riley & The Monk Legacy Band @ Jazz At Lincoln Center
Oct 3 – Kenny Garrett Quartet @ Birdland
Oct 3 – Kurt Rosenwinkle Group @ Village Vanguard
Oct 4 – Kurt Rosenwinke Group @ Village Vanguard
Oct 4 – Freddy Cole feat. Houston Person @ Dizzy’s Club Coke @ JALC
Oct 4 – Eugene Fleming tribute to Sam Cooke @ Iridium Jazz Club
Oct 5 – Gato Barbieri @ Iridium Jazz Club
Oct 7 – Paulinho Garcia & Geraldo de Oliveria @ Iridium Jazz Club
Oct 8 – Chico Farrell’s Jazz Orchestra @ Birdland
Oct 10 – Frank Fontanta @ Iridium Jazz Club
Oct 10 – Brad Mehldau Trio @ Village Vanguard
Oct 11 – Travis Sullivan Quartet @ Iridium Jazz Club
Oct 11 – Etta James & The Roots Band @ B.B. King’s Bar & Grill
Oct 11 – Brad Mehldau Trio @ Village Vanguard
Oct 12 – Jerry Gonzalez & Fort Apache @ Iridium Jazz Club
Oct 13 – Boney James & Aaron Neville @ Nokia Theatre
Oct 13 – Jerry Gonzalez & Fort Apache & Iridium Jazz Club
Oct 13 – Earl Scruggs @ B.B. King’s Bar & Grill
Oct 14 – Mark Murphy @ Iridium Jazz Club
Oct 14 – Acoustic Alchemy @ IMAC Theatre
Oct 14 – Mark Murphy @ Iridium Jazz Club
Oct 16 – Acoustic Alchemy @ Blue Note
Oct 17 – Dizzy Gillespie Alumni All-Stars @ Blue Note
Oct 17 – Jim Hall Trio @ Village Vanguard
Oct 18 – Nguyen Le – Tiger Tail Quartet @ Iridium Jazz Club
Oct 18 – Regina Carter @ Birdland
Oct 18 – Jim Hall Trio @ Village Vanguard
Oct 19 – Latin Jazz Concert USA 2006 @ Town Hall
Oct 19 – Jim Hall Trio @ Village Vanguard
Oct 19 – Eddie Daniel w/ Paquito De Rivera @ Iridium Jazz Club
Oct 20 – Stephanie Jordan & Wess Anderson Quartet @ Jazz At Lincoln Center
Oct 20 – Jim Hall Trio @ Village Vanguard
Oct 20 – Eddie Daniel w/ Paquito De Rivera @ Iridium Jazz Club
Oct 21 – Jim Hall Trio @ Village Vanguard
Oct 21 – Eddie Daniel w/ Paquito De Rivera @ Iridium Jazz Club
Oct 22 – Alice Coltrane Quartet w/ Ravi Coltrane, Charlie Haden & Jack DeJohnette @ NJPAC
Oct 22 – Jim Hall Trio @ Village Vanguard
Oct 22 – Eddie Daniel w/ Paquito De Rivera @ Iridium Jazz Club
Oct 24 – Michael Weiss Quintet @ Village Vanguard
Oct 25 – Madeleine Peyroux @ Town Hall
Oct 25 – Michael Weiss Quintet @ Village Vanguard
Oct 26 – Jazz For Peace feat. Rick Dellaratta @ Birdland
Oct 26 – Michael Weiss Quintet @ Village Vanguard
Oct 27 – Michael Weiss Quintet @ Village Vanguard
Oct 28 – Susan Tedeschi @ Nokia Theatre
Oct 28 – Michael Weiss Quintet @ Village Vanguard
Oct 29 – Michael Weiss Quintet @ Village Vanguard
Oct 31 – Lou Donaldson Quartet @ Village Vanguard
Nov 3 – Al Green @ B.B. King’s Bar & Grill
Nov 14 – The Yellowjackets @ Birdland
Nov 17 – Jose Feliciano @ Iridium Jazz Club
Nov 18 – Jose Feliciano @ Iridium Jazz Club
Nov 18 – Edwin McCain Trio @ B.B. King’s Bar & Grill
Nov 19 – Jose Feliciano @ Iridium Jazz Club
Nov 21 – David Sanborn @ Blue Note
Nov 22 – Melba Moore @ Iridium Jazz Club
Nov 22 – David Sanborn @ Blue Note
Nov 22 – Melba Moore @ Iridium Jazz Club
Nov 23 – David Sanborn @ Blue Note
Nov 23 – Melba Moore @ Iridium Jazz Club
Nov 24 – David Sanborn @ Blue Note
Nov 24 – Melba Moore @ Iridium Jazz Club
Nov 25 – David Sanborn @ Blue Note
Nov 25 – Melba Moore @ Iridium Jazz Club
Nov 26 – David Sanborn @ Blue Note
Nov 26 – Melba Moore @ Iridium Jazz Club
Nov 29 – Vince Giordano & The Nighthawks @ Iridium Jazz Club
Nov 29 – Rockapella Holiday Show @ B.B. King’s Bar & Grill
Nov 30 - Mose Allison @ Iridium Jazz Club
Dec 1 - Mose Allison @ Iridium Jazz Club
Dec 2 - Mose Allison @ Iridium Jazz Club
Dec 3 - Mose Allison @ Iridium Jazz Club
Dec 6 – Freda Payne @ Iridium Jazz Club
Dec 7 – Freda Payne @ Iridium Jazz Club
Dec 8 – Freda Payne @ Iridium Jazz Club
Dec 13 – Joey DeFrancesco All-Stars feat. Bobby Hutcherson & George Coleman @ Iridium Jazz Club
Dec 19 – Chris Botti @ Blue Note
Dec 20 – Vince Giordano & The Nighthawks @ Iridium Jazz Club
Dec 20 – Chris Botti @ Blue Note
Dec 21 – Hank Jones Trio @ Iridium Jazz Club
Dec 22 – Hank Jones Trio @ Iridium Jazz Club
Dec 23 – Hank Jones Trio @ Iridium Jazz Club
Dec 24 – Hank Jones Trio @ Iridium Jazz Club
Dec 29 – Dianne Schuur feat. Dave Samuels @ Iridium Jazz Club
Dec 30 – Dianne Schuur feat. Dave Samuels @ Iridium Jazz Club
Dec 31 – Dianne Schuur feat. Dave Samuels @ Iridium Jazz Club
Jan 27 – Isaac Hayes @ B.B. King’s Bar & Grill

BRAZILIAN GIRLS RELEASE NEW CD & UPCOMING CONCERT SCHEDULE

On the heels of their second album, Talk To La Bomb, released this week, the Brazilian Girls are embarking on a tour for support. Upcoming dates are as follows:

Sept. 14 – New York, NY @ Spiegel Tent
Sept. 16 – Austin, TX @ Zilker Park
Sept. 23 – Baltimore, MD @ Pimlico Racecourse
Sept. 23 – Charlottesville, VA @ Starr Hill
Sept. 27 – Athens, GA @ Georgia Theater
Sept. 29 – St. Petersburg, FL @ Tamiami Club at Jannus Landing
Sept. 30 – Miami, FL @ Studio A
Oct. 1 – Orlando, FL @ The Social
Oct. 5 – New York, NY @ Webster Hall
Oct. 7 – Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
Oct. 8 – South Burlington, VT @ Higher Ground

AMOS LEE RELEASES SOPHMORE ALBUM & FALL TOUR DATES ANNOUNCED

Amos Lee’s new sophomore release, Supply And Demand is set for release on October 3, 2006 on the Blue Note label.. The first single, Shout Out Loud is already available online and fall tour dates have just been announced. Lee’s tour schedule is as follows:

Oct. 12 – Atlanta, GA @ Variety Playhouse
Oct. 13 – Charleston, SC @ Music Farm
Oct. 16 – Ashville, NC @ Orange Peel
Oct. 17 – Norfolk, VA @ Attucks Theatre
Oct. 19 – Carboro, NC @ Cat’s Cradle
Oct. 24 – New York, NY @ Town Hall
Oct. 28 – Northampton, MA @ Iron Horse
Oct. 29 – Boston, MA @ Somerville Theatre
Oct. 30 – Burlington, VT @ HG Showcase Lounge
Nov. 1 – Montreal, Canada @ La Tulipe
Nov. 3 – Toronto, Ontario @ Danforth Music Hall
Nov. 4 – Waterloo, Ontario @ Starlight Club
Nov. 6 – Ann Arbor, MI @ The Ark
Nov. 8 – Columbus, OH @ Newport Music Hall
Nov. 9 – Cincinnati, OH @ 20th Century Theatre
Nov. 11 – Louisville, KY @ Headliners
Nov. 12 – Indianapolis, IN @ Music Mill
Nov. 13 – Milwaukee, WI @ Shank Hall
Nov. 15 – Chicago, IL @ Park West
Nov. 16 – St. Paul, MN @ Fitzgerald Theatre
Nov. 18 – Madison, WI @ High Noon Saloon

RHINO TO RELEASE FRANK SINATRA 5-DISC CD/DVD ‘SINATRA: VEGAS’ ON NOV. 7

Rhino is set to release five previously unreleased Frank Sinatra concerts that were taped in Las Vegas throughout his career for the 5-disc CD/DVD boxed set Sinatra: Vegas, which is due for release on Nov. 7. The discs will include performance tapes in 1961, 1966, 1978, 1987, and 1982. Nancy Sinatra and Dean Martin can be heard on Somethin’ Stupid, recorded at Caesar’s Palace in March 1982. Other performance include the Count Basie and his Orchestra from performances at the Sands Hotel in 1966. Also included is a DVD of 1 May 1978 show at Caesar’s Palace, which includes My Way, America The Beautiful and Send In The Clowns, plus backstage footage.

Track Listing For Sinatra: Vegas
Disc 1:
Introduction/Announcement
The One I Love Belong To Somebody Else
Don’t Cry Joe
Imagination
Moonlight In Vermont
Without A Song
In The Still Of The Night
Here’s That Rainy Day
The Moon Was Yellow (And The Night Was Young)
Monologue
You Make Me Feel So Young
The Second Time Around
River, Stay Away From My Door
The Lady Is A Tramp
You’re Nobody ‘Til Somebody Loves You
Bows
Young At Heart
Witchcraft
On The Road To Mandalay
Bows
Sinatra Speaks On Segregation In Nevada

Disc 2:
Introductions
Come Fly With Me
I’ve Got A Crush On You
I’ve Got You Under My Skin
The September Of My Years
Street Of Dreams
Fly Me To The Moon (In Other Words)
Monologue
You Make Me Feel So Young
The Shadow Of Your Smile
Get Me To The Church On Time
Luck Be A Lady
It Was A Very Good Year
Don’t Worry ‘Bout Me
My Kind Of Town
Introductions
My Kind Of Town
Sinatra Speaks On Working With Count Basie

Disc 3:
Get Me To The Church On Time
I Get A Kick Out Of You
I Can’t Get Started
Without A Song
Hey Look, No Crying
The Lady Is A Tramp
Monologue
Night And Day
All Or Nothing At All
The One I Love Belongs To Somebody Else
These Foolish Things (Remind Me Of You)
Somethin’ Stupid (with Nancy Sinatra)
Theme From New York, New York
Bows

Disc 4:
I’ve Got The World On A String
At Long Last Love
Witchcraft
The Gal That Got Away/It Never Entered My Mind
For Once In My Life
My Heart Stood Still
You Are The Sunshine Of My Life
Monologue
Spring Is Here
What Now My Love
I Get Along Without You Very Well
Pennies From Heaven
Angel Eyes
Mack The Knife
Bows

DVD:
Backstage (Before The Show)
Welcome To Caesars
All Of Me
Maybe This Time
The Lady Is A Tramp
Didn’t We"
Someone To Watch Over Me
Something
Baubles, Bangles And Beads
The Gal That Got Away/It Never Entered My Mind
Monologue
My Kind Of Town
Send In The Clows
Monologue
Don’t Worry ‘Bout Me
Introductions

KCRWMUSIC.COM SET TO EXPAND

KCRW has expanded the online presence of KCRWmusic.com as KCRW star DJs like Nick Harcourt, Chris Douridas, Tom Schnabel, Jason Bentley, Garth Trinidad and Anne Litt are back to back instead of spread out over differenct days and times. Staring on September 4, KCRWmusic.com hit the airwaves at 88.9 FM in Santa Monica, CA. In this unprecedented move, the feature the programming from KCRWmusic.com on their broadcast stations, beaming out to channels throughout Southern California. As one of the top 20 webcasters worldwide, KCRW puts the best of underground flavors, independent records and progressive major releases withing reach 24/7. KCRWmusic.com boasts the same variety and cutting edge music that defines the station’s eclectic identity, featuring electronica to progressive pop, Latin alternative to modern soul, hip-hop, trip-hop, world music and more. Plus, now KCRWmusic.com is featuring "Today’s Top Tune," a 24-hour-only downloadable song of the day. As of this writing, this option has not yet become available, however, I do look forward to downloading some free cool music.

BRIAN MCKNIGHT TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM ON NOVEMBER 14th

Best-selling singer, composer, and producer Brian McKnight will release his first album for Warner Bros. Records on November 14th. Entitled 10, the album is the Grammy-nominated singer's tenth album overall. McKnight describes the album - which ranges from his signature soul ballads to smooth, sleek R&B - as "the same old Brian, just better. I finally feel like I'm in a place where I'm appreciated," he says, referring to his recent signing to Warner Bros. Records, "and that made me very comfortable and eager to work. On this record, from beginning to end, you can tell that there weren't a lot of things on my mind other than the music." Recorded in Los Angeles over the past year and a half, 10 features a duet with Jill Scott on the romantic More Than Just A Thang, shared production credit with Brian Michael Cox (Usher, Mariah Carey, Bow Wow, Mary J. Blige, Toni Braxton) on Comfortable, and a collaboration with McKnight's country star pals Rascal Flatts on the plaintive Red, White, And Blue. "The subject matter I'm dealing with on that song, the soldiers and being away from home, is a real down-home kind of story, and one that red-blooded Americans will identify with," says McKnight, who co-wrote the song with long-time friend Brandon Barnes. "So when they heard that song, both parties said, 'We have to be a part of it. It's something really special'." In addition, songwriters Tim Kelley and Bob Robinson, known as Tim and Bob, contributed to two tracks on 10, Unhappy Without You and the album's first single, Used To Be My Girl, which hits radio on September 26. McKnight has sold more than 16 million records worldwide since his platinum self-titled debut was released in 1992. As a songwriter and producer, the Buffalo, New York, native has recorded with some of the music industry's biggest stars, including Mariah Carey, Justin Timberlake, Willie Nelson, Nelly, Vanessa Williams, and Kenny G.

LIONEL RICHIE ANNOUNCES COMING HOME TOUR

Tickets-for-Charity.com, the official online charitable ticketing partner of Lionel Richie's Coming Home Tour, and United Way of America today announced that beginning September 1, 2006, an exclusive pre-sale of tickets for Richie's upcoming fall 2006 concert tour will benefit United Way. The pre-sale includes premium seats and VIP packages at different price levels for every show on the tour. The 16-city tour will begin in Detroit on October 27 and end on November 25 in Oakland, CA. During the pre-sale period, which ends on September 22, tickets for the tour are only available at Tickets-for-Charity.com and every purchase benefits United Way. Lionel Richie's Coming Home album featuring the hit single, I Call It Love is in stores on September 12.

"We are thrilled that Lionel Richie's upcoming concert tour will benefit United Way and we thank Tickets-for-Charity for making it possible," said Brian Gallagher, President and CEO of United Way of America. "United Way is committed to making a difference in people's lives throughout the country. This is a great way for Lionel Richie fans to contribute to the work of United Way, such as ensuring children are ready for school or improving access to healthcare. Besides," Gallagher continued, "Lionel Richie is an incredible entertainer."

Tickets and VIP packages, including backstage passes to an exclusivepre-show party and a meet-and-greet with Lionel Richie, are available at http://www.tickets-for-charity.com for purchase at face value plus a pre-determined donation amount, which will benefit United Way, especiallyin the 16 tour cities.

"Based in theatres and small venues, Lionel Richie's Coming Home tour will be an intimate, unforgettable experience for fans," said Jord Poster, founder of Tickets-for-Charity. "They'll not only get access to some of the best seats in the house, they'll also receive the satisfaction of knowing they've helped United Way in their important work supporting communities
across the country."

"I have always believed in the work of United Way," said Richie. "They are there day-in and day-out in towns across America to make things better for young children, families, or those affected by crises like Hurricane Katrina. I couldn't be happier that this great organization will benefit from my tour thanks to Tickets-for-Charity."

United Way makes a difference every day in the lives of millions of Americans by addressing the underlying causes of critical issues facing communities. While local United Ways tackle issues based on local needs, common areas of focus include helping children and youth succeed, improving access to healthcare, promoting self-sufficiency, and strengthening
families.

Tickets-for-Charity offers fans access to great seats at their favorite sports, music and theater events that are not available anywhere else and - in the process - gives them an easy way to support important charitable causes. Tickets-for-Charity.com, which launched in August 2005, has raised more than $1.6 million for highly respected national charities through charitable sales for music and sports events, including The Rolling Stones' A Bigger Bang 2005-2006 Tour, Barbra Streisand's 2006 Tour and The Boston Red Sox 2006 Season.

UPDATED TOUR DATES INFO FOR BRIAN SIMPSON, JONATHAN BUTLER, KIRK WHALUM, KYLE EASTWOOD, MICHAEL LINGTON, WAYMAN TISDALE & PEANUTS WHALUM…

BRIAN SIMPSON
Sept. 10 – Jersey City @ NJ Liberty Park
Sept. 16 – Scotssdale, AZ @ AZ Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts (with Nils and Turning Point)

JONATHAN BUTLER
Sept. 8 – West Bend, WI @ Ziegler Moraine Jazz Festival
Sept 9 – Lithonia, GA @ Stewart Amphitheatre
Sept. 10 – Jersey City, NJ @ Liberty Park
Nov 4 –11 – Dave Koz Cruise – Mexican Riviera
Jan 20-27 – Smooth Jazz Cruise Hosted by Wayman Tisdale –Caribbean

KIRK WHALUM
Sept 10 – Jersey City, NJ @ Liberty State Park
Nov 4 –11 – Dave Koz Cruise – Mexican Riviera

KYLE EASTWOOD
Sept 16 – Mission Viejo, CA @ Lake Mission Viejo
Oct 10 – Dallas, TX @ W Hotel Dallas
Oct 12 – New Orleans, LA @ W Hotel New Orleans
Oct 16 – Santa Cruz, CA @ Kuumbwa Jazz Center
Oct 18 – Santa Barbara, CA @ Soho’s
Oct 20 – Palm Springs, CA @ Annenberg Theatre
Oct 21 – Avalon, CA @ Avalon Casino Ballroom

MICHAEL LINGTON
Sept 8 – West Bend, WI @ Ziegler Kettle Moraine Jazz Festival
Sept 9 – Huntington Beach, CA @ BB Jazz Festival
Sept 21 – Las Vegas, NV @ Santa Fe Station Casino
Nov 4 – 11 – Dave Koz Cruise – Mexican Riviera

PEANUTS WHALUM
Sept 20 – St. Louis, MO @ Brandt’s Red Carpet Lounge
Oct 5 – St, Louis, MO @ Brandt’s Red Carpet Lounge
Oct 12 – St. Louis, MO @ Brandt’s Red Carpet Lounge
Oct 19 – St. Louis, MO @ Brandt’s Red Carpet Lounge
Oct 26 – St. Louis, MO @ Brandt’s Red Carpet Lounhe
Nov 16 – St Louis, MO @ Brandt’s Red Carpet Lounge
Nov 23 – St. Louis, MO @ Brandt’s Red Carpet Lounge
Nov 30 – St. Louis, MO @ Brandt’s Red Carpet Lounge

WAYMAN TISDALE
Sept 10 – Jersey City, NJ @ Liberty State Park
Sept 12 – Mew York, NY NBA Store
Sept 13 – Springfield, VA @ Circuit City Washington, DC
Sept 16 – Los Angeles, CA @ City of Refuge Church
Sept 30 – Baltimore, MD @ Lyric Opera House
Oct 6 – Newport Beach, CA @ Hyatt Newport Beach
Oct 7 – Temecula, CA @ Thornton Winery
Oct 14 – Windsor, CA @ The Windsor Green
Nov 4 – 11 – Dave Koz Cruise – Mexican Riviera
Nov 20 – Harrisburg, PA @ Sunoco Performance Theatre
Dec 31 – Reston, VA @ Hyatt Regency Reston
Jan 20 – 27 – Smooth Jazz Cruise Hosted by Wayman Tisdale - Caribbean

JAZZ CHILL NEWS BITS...

Brian Culbertson is hitting the road throughout November and December with Bobby Caldwell, Warren Hill, Ray Parker Jr and Eric Darius on the Soulful Christmas tour.

Upcoming New York City area Jazz concerts…
Charlie Hunter 3 @ Jazz Standard on Sept. 7-10.
Gloria Lynne @ Trumpets on Sept. 7-8.
Luciana Souza ‘Brazilian Duos’ featuring Romero Lubambo @ Jazz Standard on Sept. 13-17.
Airto Moreira @ The Stone on Sept. 17.
Gabriela Anders @ 55 Bar on Sept. 17.
Beat Kaestli @ 55 Bar on Sept. 19.
Eliane Elias @ Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola on Sept. 19-24.
Michael Camilo & Tomatito @ Blue Note on Sept. 25-27.
Patrice Rushen featuring Terri Lyne Carrington @ Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola on Sept. 25-26.
Karrin Allyson @ Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola on Sept. 27-30.
Fourplay @ Blue Note on Sept. 28-29.
Chieli Minucci @ Trumpets on Sept. 30.

Boney James and Aaron Neville headline the Smooth Jazz CD101.9 concert at the Nokia Thaeter in New York on Oct. 13.

Simply Red have a new single, Oh What A Girl, coming out for release on September 25.

Jeanie Byron and Chuck Mangione headline the upcoming Cape May Jazz Festival, NJ coming up from Nov. 10-12, 2006.

NINA SIMONE GETS REMIXED AND REIMAGINED THIS FALL!

RCA and Legacy Recordings, has teamed up with producer Scott Schlachter to present the first release of a new series, Remixed & Reimagined. This brand-new collection includes many of Nina Simone’s most stand-out selections from her RCA Records period, namely those titles that sparked the imagination of the club world. Her music and life struck a powerful chord with the emerging club underground that was simmering in New York and Chicago during the late ‘70s and early ‘80s post-disco era. Fueled largely by the gay and multi-ethnic minorities that pioneered the movement, the flourishing subculture - and soon-to-be global dance music revolution - embraced Simone’s music and message. These tracks have been reinvented by some of contemporary dance and electronic music’s best producers, including Francóis K., Tony Humprhies, Mocean Worker, Coldcut, Nickodemus, Groovefinder, Madison Park & Lenny B., Chris Coco, DJ Logic, Organica, and more. Nina Simone: Remixed and Reimagined will be in stores 10/31!

NEW CD RELEASES FROM ALICE RUSSELL, BLAZE, TANIA MARIA, RANDY CRAWFORD, JAZZTRONICK, FLORA PURIM, AVERAGE WHITE BAND, CAROL RIDDICK & MORE…

Lots of new releases are listed, plus keep a look out for releases in the coming weeks and months from Boney James (Shine on Sept. 26), Kyle Eastwood, Diana Krall, Joyce Cooling, George Benson/Al Jarreau Duets Album, Steve Cole, Brian Culberton, and Jim Brickman.

Afrodizz - Froots
Alice Russell – Under The Munka Moon 2
Alphonso Johnson – Spellbound
Ann-Margret – Love Rush
Arista All Stars – Blue Montreux
Art Of Noise – What Have You Done With My Body, God?
Average White Band – The Definitive Groove Collection (2-CDs)
Ayetoro – Omo Obukun – The Afrobeat Chronicles Vol. 2
BB&Q Band - Genie
Birmingham Sound – The Soul Of Neal Hamphill Vol. 1 (Various Artists)
Blaze – Most Precious Love – Blaze Essentials
Blue Note Plays Billie Holiday (Various Artists)
Blue Note Plays Cole Porter (Various Artists)
Blue Note Plays Gershwin (Various Artists)
Blue Note Plays Rodgers & Hart (Various Artists)
Bonnie Raitt – VH1 Classic Decades Rock Live Presents Bonnie Raitt And Friends (CD/DVD)
Brisa Roche – The Chase
Buddy Greco – Route 66: A Personal Tribute To Nat King Cole
Bugz In The Attic – Back In The Doghouse
Carlos Garnett – Black Love
Carol Riddick – Moments Like This
Chaka Khan – The Platinum Collection
Chic – The Definitive Groove Collection (2-CDs)
Christina Aguilera – Back To Basics
Crusaders – Crusaders 1
Crusaders – The 2nd Crusade
DJ Logic – Zen Of Logic (with John Medeski & Charlie Hunter)
DJ Spinna – Intergalactic Soul
Dave Hollister – The Definitive Collection
David Grisman Quartet – Classic Dawg (DVD)
Dells –Oh, What A Night
Dexter Gordon – Great Encounters
Doc Powell – Doc Powell (w/Brian Culbertson, Kirk Whalum, Bobby Lyle)
Eliane Elias – Around The City
Eric Roberson –Erro Live Vol DC (CD/DVD)
Flora Purim – Nothing Will Be As It Was
Fontella Bass – The Very Best Of Fontella Bass – The Chess Collection
Fourplay – Fourplay X
Free Spirits Volume 1 (Various Artists)
Freddie Hubbard – Rose Tattoo
Gap Band – Gold (2-CDs)
Geri Allen – Timeless Portraits And Dreams
Grant Green – Live At Club Mozambique
Harvey Mason – Funk In A Mason Jar
Harvey Mason – Marching In The Street
Heritage Orchestra – Heritage Orchestra
Hermine Pinson – Changing The Changes In Poetry And Song
Horacee Arnold – Tales Of The Exonerated Flea
Imagination – Just An Illusion – The Best Of Imagination
JR Bailey – Just Me And You
James Brown – Live At Montreux 1981
Jane Bunnett – Radio Guantanamo
Jazz Allnighters 5 Compiled By Tatsuo Sunaga Sunaga T (Various Artists)
Jazz House Independent Vol. 5 – Jazzy House Meets Disco & Nu Soul (Various Artists)
Jazztronick – Remixes Part 1
Jazztronick – Remixes Part 2
Jazztronic & Others – Jazztronica 2
Jean-Luc Ponty – Fables
Jean-Luc Ponty – Aurora
Jean-Luc Ponty – Individual Choice
Jean-Luc Ponty – Open Mind
Jimmy Cliff – The Harder They Come: Film & Soundtrack Edition (CD/DVD)
Jody Watley – The Makeover: Journey To Electronic Soul
Juke Joint 2 Compiled By Boozoo Bajou (Various Artists)
John Lee Hooker - Crawlin’ King Snake
Julie Dexter & Khari Simmons – Moon Bossa
King Curtis – King Curtis Live At Fillmore West
Laurindo Almeida featuring Bud Shank – Brazillance Vol. 1
Lee Ritenour – Smoke ‘N’ Mirrors
Leon Ware – Leon Ware
Lou Rawls – The Lou Rawls Show: With Duke Ellington (DVD)
Luther Vandross – The Ultimate Luther Vandross
Mandingo – Primeval Rhythm Of Life
Maria Muldaur – Heart Of Mine: Maria Muldaur Sings Love Songs Of Bob Dylan
Monday Michiru – Free Soul Collection
Mongo Santamaria – Fuego
Monica Salmaso – Trampolim
Motown – The Complete Motown Singles Vol. 5 – 1965 (Various Artists)
Nancy Wilson – Turned To Blue
Natural Selection – Come On Over
Patrick Adams – Master Of The Masterpiece – The Very Best Of Patrick Adams
Patti LaBelle – The Definitive Collection
Randy Crawford & Joe Sample – Feeling Good
Ready Or Not Vol. 2 – Deep Jazz Grooves From The CBC Radio Canada Archives (Various Artists)
Rice And Beans Orchestra - Dante’s Inferno
Rodney Lee – Satellite Orchestra
Rurals – Nettle Soul
Sambajazz – Batida Diferente (Various Artists)
Sammy Davis Jr. – The Definitive Collection
Serge Gainsbourg – Monsieur Gainsbourg – The Originals
Sleep Walker – Voyage
Smokey Robinson – Pure Smokey
Smokey Robinson & The Miracles – Gold (2-CDs)
Soul Com Bossa – Compiled By Khari Simmons (Various Artists)
Tania Maria – Intimidade
Touch Of Class – Move Means Everything
Victor Davies – Hear The Sound
Wax Poetics – Issue #18 – August/September 2006
Willie Bobo – Lost And Found
Wilson Simonal – Wilson Simonal Canta Tom E Chico
Yma Sumac – Mambo

AARON NEVILLE TO HEADLINE SOUL TOUR WITH HIS QUINTET

On October 1, Aaron Neville will kick off a tour in support of his new soul album Bring It On Home ... The Soul Classics. The tour will feature Aaron joined by his quintet featuring brother Charles Neville. Neville puts a new twist on classic soul tunes from Rainy Night In Georgia, to Respect Yourself, to Ain't No Sunshine and others. "These are songs that I grew up listening to in New Orleans," says Aaron of these classic songs "And I can't wait to perform them on the road."

Of Neville’s new CD, Joe DiMuro, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Burgundy Records states "Legendary soul classics performed by one of the greatest soul voices of the 20th Century...it doesn't get better than that. Only a voice like Aaron's can make these soul classics new again. It's All Right has been one of the most added songs at AC Radio for two weeks in a row. This week It's All Right is also the second most added song at the Smooth Radio Format.

Bring It On Home ... An Evening Of Soul Classics Tour Dates (Partial List - Additional Dates Added Daily)
Sept. 8 - Meridian, MS (Riley Center for the Performing Arts – Mississippi State Theater)
Sept. 9 - Meridian, MS (Riley Center for the Performing Arts – Mississippi State Theater)
Oct. 2 - Saint Petersburg FL (Mahaffey Theater)
Oct. 3 - Stuart, FL (Lyric Theatre)
Oct. 4 - Tallahassee FL (Florida State University)
Oct. 6 - Atlantic City, NJ (House of Blues)
Oct. 7 - West Long Branch NJ (Monmouth State Univ. Pollak Theatre)
Oct. 8 - Boston, MA (Berklee Music Hall)
Oct. 9 - Annapolis, MD (Rams Head On Stage)
Oct. 13 - NY, NY (Nokia Theatre - CD 101 Festival)
Oct. 14 - Westhampton Beach, NY (Westhampton Performing Arts Center)
Oct. 16 - Uncasville, CT (Mohegan Sun Cabaret)
Oct. 17 - Uncasville, CT (Mohegan Sun Cabaret)
Oct. 18 - Alexandria VA (The Birchmere)
Oct. 20 - Chicago, IL (Live From Studio A - NBC Tower)
Oct. 21- Chicago, IL (Live From Studio A – NBC Tower)

BRIAN MCKNIGHT SIGNS TO WARNER BROS. RECORDS

Warner Bros. Records is pleased to announce that it has signed best-selling soul artist, composer, and producer Brian McKnight to an exclusive long-term recording contract. His first album for the label, titled "10," will be his tenth overall. It will be released in November of this year. "Warner Bros. has a long-standing tradition of success and integrity with their artists. I am honored to be a part of this amazing organization and I am looking forward to a long and great relationship," says Brian.

McKnight, whose multi-platinum albums include Back At One and Anytime, has sold more than 16 million records worldwide since his platinum self-titled debut was released in 1992. As a songwriter and producer, the Buffalo, New York native has recorded with some of the music industry's biggest stars, including Mariah Carey, Justin Timberlake, Willie Nelson, Nelly, Vanessa Williams, and Kenny G. Rolling Stone magazine praised his last album, 2005's Gemini, calling it "painstakingly crafted contemporary R&B that is creative, innovative artistic expression." Brian has earned countless award nominations -- Grammy Award, MTV Music Award, and Blockbuster Award -- and received a Soul Train Award for Best Male Singer, an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Male Artist and an American Music Award for Favorite Soul/R&B Male Artist.

"Brian is a triple threat as a singer, songwriter, and producer," says Warner Bros. Records CEO Tom Whalley. "His ability to reach audiences of all ages and musical tastes is a testament to his talent and versatility. We're delighted that he is joining the Warner Bros. family." Brian will be a musical guest on the new Fox series "Celebrity Duets." The show, debuting with a two-hour episode on Aug. 29th, is an elimination contest that pairs recording stars with celebrities, with judges and viewers deciding the fate of each duo. The celebrities will compete for a $100,000 cash prize that will be donated to the charity of their choice.

NOUVELLE VAGUE RELEASES 'BANDE A' PART'

Nouvelle Vague’s Bande A’ Part moves musically between Jamaica to the Calypso Isle of Trinidad via Cuban salsa, Haitian voodoo and eventually back to the Brazilian coast. The arrangements and orchestrations are very colorful – a lot of percussion and acoustic guitars topped off with sensual feminine voices, accordions and steel drums. Nouvelle Vague also covers songs by ‘80s groups Yazoo, Visage and New Order on this release. In other words, think of the type of songs that are typically set in the Caribbean between 1940 and 1970, and imagine a young Jamaican with his acoustic guitar singing Blondie’s Heart Of Glass in his Kingston township and now you can envision what the overall sound of this album is like.

THE CD101.9 PLAYLIST: THE TOP 10 SMOOTH JAZZ SONGS

Here’s a snapshot of New York’s CD101.9 top ten as of August 24, 2006:
1. Ray Parker Jr – Mismaloya Beach
2. The Jazzmasters – Free As The Wind
3. Eric Darius – If I Ain’t Got You
4. Euge Groove – Chillaxin’
5. David Benoit – Beat Street
6. Peter White – What Does It Take
7. Corinne Bailey Rae – Put Your Records On
8. Mindi Abair – True Blue
9. Fourplay feat. Michael McDonald – My Love’s Leavin’
10. Wayman Tisdale – Get Down On It

GEORGE BENSON ADDED TO CD101.9 LIBERTY JAZZ FESTIVAL

George Benson has just been added to the CD101.9 Liberty Jazz Festival at Liberty State Park in New Jersey. The line-up as it stands now is as follows:

September 9: Alex Bugnon, Gato Barbieri, George Benson, Gil Parris, Norman Brown, Patti Austin, Paul Taylor & Raf Gomez.

September 10: Brian Simpson, Gerald Albright, Jeff Golub, Jonathan Butler, Kirk Whalum, Peter White, Rafe Gomez, Richard Elliot, Stanley Jordan & Wayman Tisdale.

SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISES WITH DAVE KOZ, JEFF GOLUB, GEORGE BENSON & OTHERS...

Dave Koz has assembled a stellar musical line-up featuring a broad range of contemporary jazz vocalists and instrumentalists to create the ultimate musical experience for his upcoming Dave Koz & Friends At Sea Cruise. Newly announced special guest David Sanborn joins Mindi Abair, Patti Austin, David Benoit, Rick Braun, Jonathan Butler, Michael Lington, Jeffrey Osborne, Brian Simpson, Wayman Tisdale, Jeff Golub, Euge Groove, Kirk Whalum and Peter White. The cruise sets sail in November.

Jeff Golub and the Warren Hill Band set sail on the CD101.9 Smooth Cruise season finale on Aug. 30. The smooth jazz cruise will sail along New York’s Hudson Bay.

George Benson, Gerald Albright and Nick Colionne will headline yet another smooth jazz cruise, this one departing from Galveston, Texas. The cruise dates are Jan. 28 – Feb. 4, 2007 and will travel through Jamaica and Mexico.

LEGENDARY MUSICIAN MAYNARD FERGUSON DIES

Grammy Nominated Trumpeter Known for 'Gonna Fly Now,' the Theme to the Movie Rocky, was 78

Walter "Maynard" Ferguson, one of the most influential musicians and band leaders in the history of Jazz,passed away August 23, 2006 at 8:00 pm Pacific Daylight Time at Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura, California. He was 78 years old. His death was the result of kidney and liver failure brought on by an abdominal infection. Ferguson's four daughters Kim, Lisa, Corby, Wilder and other family members were at his side when he passed away after this brief illness. He spoke by phone with his friend and manager Steve Schankman from St. Louis, longtime tour manager Ed Sargent, and friend, and fellow trumpeter Arturo Sandoval.

Ferguson had recently returned home to California from New York after several sold out performances in July at the famed Blue Note Club. During this time, Ferguson and his Big Bop Nouveau band also recorded a new album at Bennett Studios in Englewood, New Jersey. Maynard Ferguson, born May 4, 1928 in Montreal, started his career at the age of 13 when he performed as a featured soloist with the Canadian Broadcasting Company Orchestra. He played with some of the great Big Band Leaders of the 1940's including Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Barnett, Jimmy Dorsey and Stan Kenton. In 1945, at age 17, Ferguson became the leader of his own Big Band. The 78-year old musical phenomenon went on to record more than 60 albums, receiving numerous honors and awards including the GRAMMY(R) nomination for Gonna Fly Now. In 2005, Ferguson was awarded Canada's highest civilian honor, the "Order of Canada" from the Right Honorable Governor General Adrienne Clarkson. In addition to those accolades, Ferguson has been the recipient of DownBeat Magazine's prestigious "DownBeat" Award.]

"The Boss," as Ferguson is known, has been performing for packed houses for decades. His recent DVD release, "Live at The Top," captures one of his most memorable performances, a concert held at the Plaza Hotel in Rochester, New York in 1975, with Ferguson performing alongside fellow music pioneers Stan Mark, Ernie Garside and Bruce Johnston. Most recently, Ferguson and Big Bop Nouveau Band had been touring the United States. He was preparing for a Fall Tour beginning mid-September in Tokyo, Japan. He had also been invited to play for the King of Thailand's 80th birthday in January.

Ferguson's body will be cremated in his hometown of Ojai, California. Memorial contributions can be made to the Maynard Ferguson Music Scholarship Fund at University of Missouri - St. Louis, which was established by Steve Schankman at Maynard's 75th birthday celebration. Schankman and the Ferguson family are planning a memorial concert to take place in St. Louis which will feature many of the band's alumni and friends who Ferguson performed with during his more than 60-year musical career.

Maynard Ferguson's latest, and last, recording will be released later this year as a legacy to the life of Maynard Ferguson.

CONCERT NEWS: DAVE VALENTIN, PATTI AUSTIN, HERBIE HANCOCK, JAZZ ON THE ISLANDS & MORE…

Dave Valentin performs at Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola in New York City, Aug. 29 – Sept. 3.

Jazz legend Charlie Haden, Ernie Watts, Alan Broadbent and Rodney Green are set to perform at the River Run Centre in Ontario, Canada on Aug. 31. Their tour is to promote the latest album by the Charlie Haden Liberation Orchestra, Not In Our Name. Haden won a Grammy award in 2005 for the best Latin jazz performance on Land Of The Sun.

The Detroit Jazz Fest is scheduled for Labor Day weekend from Sept. 1-4 and headliners include Ahmad Jamal, Joe Locke & Milt Jackson Tribute, Detroit Jazz All Stars, Oscar Castro-Neves, The Funk Brothers, Buckwheat Zydeco, Lewis Nash Quartet, Lonnie Liston-Smith, Taj Mahal, Rachelle Farel, Dianne Shuur and many others. For more information click to www.detroitjazzfest.com.

Funk-inspired Brazilian drum ensemble, Wailing Junket, perform at Supperclub in San Francisco on Sept. 9.

Al Green is set to perform at the Charleston Music Heritage Festival being held on Daniel Island in Charleston, SC on Sept. 16.

Banco De Gaia will perform a mixed set of Banco dance-floor classics old and new at Boca in San Francisco on Sept. 16. Banco is currently touring the West Coast supporting his critically-acclaimed new album, Farewell Ferengistan.

Quincy Jones, Billy Dee Williams and Phylicia Rashad host the 2006 Thelonious Monk International Piano Competition in Washington, D.C. on Sept. 16-17. This 20th Anniversary Gala will also include appearances by Patti Austin, Ron Carter, Herbie Hancock, Jane Monheit, Joshua Redmond, Wayne Shorter, Arturo Sandoval, John Pattitucci, George Duke, Andrew Hill, Terence Blanchard, Carl Allen, Danilo Perez, and others still to be announced.

"Jazz On The Islands" is a 10-day annual music festival with an international flavor is in the planning stages and will debut in 2007 in Bradenton, FL. The festival will include a series of live performances at outdoor venues along Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key. The Bradenton Convention and Visitors Bureau will partner with a German firm, JazzRadio Ltd., which operates Europe’s only 24-hour commercial jazz station. The Berlin station, Jazz Radio 101.9 attracts visitors via satellite and on its popular Web site, www.jazzradio.net.

The upcoming Catalina Island, CA Smooth Jazz Extravaganza is gearing up for some smooth jazz weekends in October, with the following artists line-up: Peter White (Oct. 5); Marc Antoine (Oct. 12); and Jonathan Butler (Oct. 19). Also appearing at the Catalina Extravaganza for the first time will be new British keyboardist Oli Silk and brand new saxophonist Jesse Jay.

NEW RELEASES FROM DAVE HOLLAND, JODY WATLEY, GREGER HILLMAN & MARK WEINSTEIN

NEW RELEASES……….Dave Holland follows-up is critically Grammy-award winning album Overtime with Critical Mass, his first new studio album in five years. Critical Mass includes eight original compositions performed by Holland and his acclaimed quintet featuring Chris Potter, Steve Nelson, Robin Eubanks, and Nate Smith……….If you like Jobim and Bonfa, but with a modern twist, then you will surely enjoy the new album from Mark Weinstein called O Nosso Amor on Jazzhead Records. Weinstein is joined on this project by Romero Lubambo (guitar), Nilson Matta (bass), Paulo Braga (drums), Guilherme Franco and Jorge Silva (percussions)……….Jody Watley’s new release, The Makeover, features a collection of classics (her own and those of others) and a couple of new jams. The lead single Boderline completely twists the Madonna classic into a chilled-out gem which explains why its been embraced by lounge DJs here and abroad. Other hot tracks include Watley’s hot version of Love Hangover (produced by Chris Brann, Rodney Lee and Watley). Watley and producer Ron Trent rev up Bob Marley’s Waiting In Vain for the clubs, while DJ and producer King Britt reinvents Watley’s own Don’t You Want My Love………..Swedish saxophonist Greger Hillman has just released his new album, I Am Ready. Hillman has recorded with producers like Jason Scheff (Chicago), Peter Wolf (Frank Zappa), John Beasley (Miles Davis), Jeff Richman and Jimmy Haslip (Yellowjackets). His new release I Am Ready is out now via the Hillman Records label (www.hillmanrecords.com). The album, I Am Ready, contains ten original songs written and produced by Hillman. The title cut, I Am Ready, is a straightforward smooth jazz tune, which sets the mood for the rest of the record. Home At Last reflects on Hillman’s musical career as he goes full circle coming back to the style of music which got him started playing the sax some twenty years ago. "Having studied jazz, improvisation and composition and playing mostly jazz- and soul gigs for many years now, I wanted to go back to my roots," says Hillman.

RICHARD BONA RELEASES ‘TIKI’ HIS 4TH ALBUM

Bassist, vocalist and composer Richard Bona has released his fourth studio album out now entitled, Tiki. Bona takes his musical influences ranging from Afrobeat, Latin rhythms, jazz, pop, bossa nova and funk, and presents his own unique twist on it all with an underlying African exquisiteness on the soothing Tiki. From the lovely nursery rhyme Ida Bato to the jazzy ballad Esoka Bulu, the samba-influenced Akwa samba Yaya, or the lead song Please Don’t Stop which features vocals by John Legend. Richard Bona takes the listener on a journey from his African roots that shows both growth and maturity. Bona was born in Cameroon and grew up in a musical family, and after moving from Cameroon to Paris and finally to New York in 1985, he became one of the most in demand collaborators on the international jazz scene. He worked with a remarkable array of artists such as Paul Simon, Harry Belafonte, Chaka Khan, Queen Latifah, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea and Salif Keta to name a few. His debut album Scenes From My Life was released in 1999, followed by two critically acclaimed albums that made him a true ‘triple threat’ to the music world. Richard Bona is slated to perform at Joe’s Pub in New York City on September 6.

TOWER RECORDS FILES FOR BANKRUPTCY; SEEKS IMMINENT BUYER

Tower Records on August 20 filed for Chapter 11 in federal bankruptcy court. According to the filing in Delaware, eight entities own and operate the 89-store chain of music and entertainment stores plus a direct sales network and warehouse distribution facility under the Tower Records name. According to the filing, there are thousands of potential creditors, and among the 40 largest are Six Degrees Records ($1.9 million) in San Francisco; International Periodical ($1.3 million) in Chicago; City Hall Records ($595,000) in San Rafael, California; and Baker & Taylor Book ($437,000) in Chicago). Tower blames their demise to ‘industry-wide decline in the sales of physical music and video products" and "intense competition from music downloading (legal and illegal); ‘big-box’ retailers which use music and video as loss-leaders and other industry-wide factors." Tower has indicated that it would prefer to keep it business intact through the sale, through an asset liquidation, which includes the venerable Tower brand name could also occur. In the meantime, Tower is aiming to complete the sale within the October timeframe, a schedule that would allow the chain to focus on the all-important holiday buying season. We hope that Tower can find a means to this end so that music fans can still enjoy Towers’ huge inventory and selection. The last thing that we need is to depend on the likes of Target and Best Buy for our CD purchases.

ADULT CONTEMPORARY AND CLASSIC JAZZ TRUMPHET PLAYER, GUYMON ENSLEY RELEASES SOLO CD

Adult Contemporary and Classic Jazz Trumpet Player, Guymon Ensley is one of the hottest up and coming songwriter, arranger and performers from the Detroit Area. Ensley, a classically trained musician plays and arranges all genre’s of music. Whether it’s an eighteen-piece big band arrangement or a nine second jingle for kids, it is written, performed and recorded with the same professional intensity.The CD Meet Guymon Ensley is his first solo release. It is a Extended Play (EP) CD, featuring three of Guy’s smooth jazz works and an instrumental remix of Grandma’s Hands by sixties songwriter Bill Withers. During the 2006 Detroit Music Awards, Guymon Ensley was nominated for ‘Outstanding Jazz Composer’ and ‘Outstanding Jazz Instrumentalist’. Guymon, the leader of two groups has received acceptance from worldwide audiences. "GEQ" the Guymon Ensley Quintet plays classic jazz, jazz standards, bebop and original compositions. In 2003, GEQ released their first CD Here Put This On. This unit has been together since 2001 and is a favorite at Baker’s Keyboard Lounge in Detroit, the world’s oldest jazz club. They recently completed their fourth international tour to Negril, Jamaica, the Hawaiian and Eastern Caribbean Islands. GEQ received the nomination for ‘Outstanding Modern Jazz Group’ during the 2006 Detroit Music Awards. Guymon Ensley and All Together Again perform the finest in Smooth Jazz and R&B. From the club setting to the concert or festival venue, they have become a sought after unit, representing a good time for everyone. Ensley is also the founder of GEQ Jazz Records, an independent record label dedicated to maintaining the integrity of jazz. For more information click to www.guymonensley.com.