KGMJ - MARCH 10, 2013

Hey folks! Thanks for stopping by to check out the latest blog entry. Last week was a bit crazy with artist interviews and liner note assignments - which is why I delayed this current entry until now. Again, I do appreciate your support and readership. Now, on with the show!

BILAL - “A LOVE SURREAL”

The Purpose Music gang has another winner on their hands and a well-deserved one at that. “A LOVE SURREAL” is the fourth release from BILAL and so far the reaction has been very positive. Pre-orders and great reviews helped Bilal’s latest album sell over four-thousand copies within the first week of sales (according to Billboard magazine) and rank high among the most downloads on iTunes. A colleague of Common, the Roots and Grammy winner Robert Glasper (who played keyboards on two tracks), this latest effort from Bilal is a much softer and more acoustic approach to his brand of lyrical R&B and soul. Check out the video for “Back To Love” and buy the album (click the link http://www.amazon.com/A-Love-Surreal-Bilal/dp/B00AXM48WG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1362962998&sr=8-1&keywords=bilal+a+love+surreal )

MARC McBARRON KESSLER

Went to see Marc McBarron Kessler at Don’t Tell Mama’s here in NYC last month (thank you, Theresa Poukamissas for bringing me along!) where he presented his two-man show with singer J. Michael Reeds, “Notes From The Playground”. Marc’s works are indeed promising and with enough perseverance, he could someday be in the same league as the great composers of the Broadway stage (think of the two Stephens - Sondheim and Schwartz, to be exact). The stories Marc writes about are unapologetically autobiographical and poignant. His new show, “The Naked Arcade”, (with J, Michael Reed, Go Mahan and Francesca McAaron) will be at the Underground Lounge in NYC on Saturday, March 16^th (show time - 10pm, click the link for details - http://www.theundergroundnyc.com/events/nextweek). Enjoy this clip from “Notes” where Marc sings, “You’re A Star”.

MARC McBARRON KESSLER "YOU'RE A STAR" VIDEO

SHARON RAE NORTH

Thanks to music manager Tonya Hawley for tipping me off to this Virginia-based chanteuse. From standards to smooth jazz, Ms. North has built up her rep during the past many years in her home state and the southern region of the USA. Sharon’s work has brought her to the attention of Hollywood, when she performed at the wrap party for the filming of “Lincoln”. Her second album on the 32 Bar label, “Gee Baby” was released last year to positive raves. For readers in the Richmond area, Sharon will be gigging at the Wine Loft  (Glen Allen, VA) on Thursday, March 21^st from 8pm to 10pm (click the link for more info - http://sharonraenorth.com/catch_me_here/ ). Here she is from a TV appearance performing the title of her debut disc, “The Way You Make Me Feel.”

THE J. DAVIS TRIO

For almost 15 years, the J. Davis Trio has built a strong following thanks to their perfect blend of hip-hop, jazz and cool rap. The “J” is Julio Davis, whose father was the legendary Chicago soul music producer/executive/label owner, the late Carl Davis (trivia buffs - Mr. Davis named one of his publishing firms after his sons Julio and Brian). Within seconds of listening to their tracks, I was pleasantly reminded of how the three elements I mentioned work so well together. The J. Davis Trio is definitely in the same league as the Roots, A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul. Julio plays multiple instruments such as the vibes whereas the remainder of the group (Dave Smith, Sam Sharp, Chris Greene and Dave Winer) round out with acoustic bass, drums and horns. The group’s fourth album is now available and they will be in Brooklyn at Freddy’s Bar (the Back Room) on Friday, March 22^nd at 11pm (click the link for details http://freddysbar.com/events/1094/the-j-davis-trio-11pm/). Meanwhile, enjoy this nickel bag of hip-hop jazz, "The Answer".

　

　
MIKE MacARTHUR

When I first met saxophonist and hometown pal “Big” Mike MacArthur, he was a young lion fresh from college in Florida and ready to tackle his grad studies at Columbia University’s Manhattan School of Music. It was a honor to have him work with me and my partners at M.O.F.U. Productions (he served in our pit orchestra for cabaret shows at NYC’s Duplex). A veteran of Maynard Ferguson’s orchestra, Mike went back to Florida and has recorded works both as a leader and a sideman. His latest album, “Feels Like Home”, finds him front and center with a group of heavy hitters that include Rick Braun (horns) as well as keyboardist Jeff Lorber. The long-player pops with energetic solos and precision performances. Click the link to buy the record ( http://www.amazon.com/Feels-Like-Home-Mike-MacArthur/dp/B00B35PB2S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1362963798&sr=8-1&keywords=mike+macarthur) and check out this clip of Mike at the NAMM convention from last year.

A FINAL NOTE…

As many of you know, my passion for music has been in my being since I can remember. While I do have my preferences, as you may have probably figured out, I listen to as well as acknowledge many genres - from soul, jazz and rock to stage tunes, country, folk and classical. That is one of the goals for writing this blog - to bring attention to these forms of music and those who create fine works on an independent level. Yes, there are folks at the major labels who make great music but the big companies have the financial resources to promote their music. The independent acts and businesses have to be more creative to gain support - from social media to continuous gigs and good ol’ word of mouth. That’s why I do what I do here on the blog - help get the good word out for the independent folks. As long as I am here on this earth, I will continue to bring forth these great talents and their music. And I do thank you very much for the support of this blog and the music makers you read about on your PC, laptop, tablet, android, iPad, etc.

Take care and tune in for the next blog entry coming your way at the end of March!

Best regards,

　

Kevin

PS - Any and all inquiries regarding acts, gigs, music and info are greatly appreciated! Send me an email, kevingoins@juno.com , find me on Facebook or follow me on Twitter (kevingoins1). Thanks!　

　

　

　

KGMJ - 2/20/2013

Yes indeed, folks! Another edition of the KGMJ for the month of February. I want to take a moment and thank all who have read the blog and posted your feedback, comments and suggestions via Facebook, Twitter, emails and texts. Greatly appreciate the support and the readership. Let’s dive in to the pool, shall we!!
 

ABIAH @ THE BLUE NOTE, NYC (2/11/2013)

What a great way to spend a wintry Monday evening in the Big Apple! Singer/songwriter ABIAH did two sets at the Blue Note, each one to a packed house. Performing tunes from his latest release, LIFE IS A BALLAD, Abiah fronted a five-piece acoustic band and three solid background singers. His voice…what can I say? Abiah’s tenor is soft yet strong and sonic (think a male version of Minnie Riperton, folks…yes he’s that good!). With great tunes such as “Scent Of A Woman” (new song), “Foolish Heart” and “Doves” (his take on the Prince classic), Abiah had the audience within his spell.

Abiah’s music is a moody yet soft blend of jazz, classical, soul, pop and even folk, all helmed by his classically-trained voice. In the middle of the show, Abiah welcomed Jean Baylor of the duo Zhane to perform “Goodbye”, and their voices more than complimented each other. She even joined him on the encore as well. Abiah is, to this writer, carrying on the tradition of the gentle music that has emerged from the Upstate New York area (he, like me, is from Rochester, NY) and Canada over the past 50 years, from Gordon Lightfoot to the team of Don Potter & Bat McGrath (who worked with Chuck Mangione in the early 1970s).

When I met Abiah backstage, he and I discovered we shared common ground being that we are both from Rochester NY - we graduated from the city’s public school district, shared the same high school voice teacher (Patricia Alexander, mother of famed opera star Renee Fleming) and were raised by mothers who were classically driven (his mom accompanied the great William Warfield, mine studied opera at Canegie Mellon University prior to marrying my Dad).

Now, if only our hometown can have Abiah as part of the Rochester International Jazz Festival next year (and yes, this is a not-so-subtle message to my friends back home to help get the word out!!).  Check out Abiah's reworking of the Prince classic:

BILLY VERA GETS THE GRAMMY (finally!)

Composer/artist BILLY VERA is best remembered by fans for his #1 hit from 1987, “At This Moment” (used in the TV series, “Family Ties”) as well as the 1967 classic, “Storybook Children” with the late Judy Clay. But to many in the recording industry, Billy is a rock and soul music historian who has put his knowledge and personal recollections to great use as a liner note writer and researcher for CD compilations as well as reissues.

I was first knocked out by his authorship when Billy penned the notes for the Rhino Records collection, “The R&B Box”. Actually, these weren’t just notes, Billy practically wrote a BOOK filled with anecdotes, information and first-hand accounts of seeing these legends in action.

Through the years, Billy earned four Grammy nominations for Best Liner Notes and this time, he finally got the prize for his work on the Ray Charles anthology, “Singular Genius - the Complete ABC Singles Collection”, released on the Concord Music label. I cheered when fellow writer A. Scott Galloway posted this info on his Facebook page and I had to put it on mine as well. Very inspiring to see a colleague earn such an honor. And I gotta say this - when I started writing liner notes in the late 1990s, Billy was one of the folks I’d call to get information and even guidance.

Congratulations, Billy. An honor well earned and deserved.  Let's go back in time for a tune he had written which was a hit for Bobby Goldsboro - "With Pen In Hand".

CARL DAVIS REMEMBERED

On the evening of the Grammy Awards, during their In Memoriam segment, I let out a big “hell, yeah!” when I saw the picture of one of my music biz mentors on the TV screen. The late CARL DAVIS has been called The Dean Of Chicago Soul and for great reasons. Record producer, label executive and owner, publisher, Carl was responsible for hits such as “Duke Of Earl” (Gene Chandler), “Monkey Time” (Major Lance), “Dear Lover” (Mary Wells), “Whispers [Getting Louder]” and “Higher & Higher” (Jackie Wilson), as well as “Love Makes A Woman” (Barbara Acklin) when he was the A&R chief for Okeh Records and the Brunswick label. Towards the early 1970s, Carl had his own labels (Dakar/Bashie) and was promoted to VP of Brunswick Records. That’s when the fun really kicked in thanks to hits he released by Tyrone Davis (“Can I Change My Mind”, “Turn Back The Hands Of Time”) and the Chi-lites (“Have You Seen Her”, “Oh Girl”). The mid to late 1970s, he launched two other labels - Innovation II and Chi-Sound.

But what I remember of Mr. Davis was the great help he had given me when I was hired at Brunswick Records in 1995. From the first phone call we had to meeting him in person to our final conversation months before he passed, Carl was always willing to talk about the work he helped create, set the record straight on many issues (for instance, Young/Holt Unlimited did NOT play on “Soulful Strut” - the hit that bore their name - and yes, Motown’s Funk Brothers DID play on Jackie’s “Higher & Higher”), the artists he produced and even about his family, which he named his many companies after (Julio-Brian Music - his sons, Jalynne Productions and Pam Records - his daughters).    The purpose of these conversations was simple - to help me navigate the sometimes choppy waters of the recording industry.

Carl was always in good spirits when we talked and during my business trips to Chicago, stopping by his house for a visit was imperative. This was at a time when many Windy City music legends opened their doors for this travelin’ man who was (and still is) yearning for knowledge. Carl Davis, Eddie Thomas, Willie Henderson, Richard Pegue, Thomas “Tom Tom” Washington, Simtec Simmons, Cicero Blake, Andre Williams, William “Sonny” Sanders, Joshie Armstead, Wesley Wells of the Steelers, Chuck Colbert (American Breed, Rufus, Daylighters), George “Paco” Patterson (Midnight Movers Unlimited).

When I needed to speak with Carl in January of last year for liner note research, legendary arranger/composer William “Sonny” Sanders forewarned me that he was ill. The moment I heard Mr. Davis’ voice on the phone, the oxygen tank he used was in full operation. Yet, he spent whatever time was needed to discuss the music he produced for the late Mary Wells (his recollections can be found in the liner notes for the SoulMusic Records collection of Mary’s 20^th Century Fox recordings). Carl had asked me if I was still living in Wisconsin and after explaining to him that I was moving back to New York City in the spring, he responded, “Good! Get out of Wisconsin, Kev. You belong back in the big city. The (music) industry needs guys like you to help tell the stories about us music makers”. Weeks after I made my transition back to the Big Apple, Carl passed away at the age of 77.

I had originally written an obit for SoulMusic Records when he died but always wanted to write something more personal. Carl’s recognition by the Grammy folks provided that opportunity. As I say on my Facebook page - rest in peace, Mr. Davis, and thank you for the music and your contributions to the industry. You will be remembered and missed.  Here's one that Carl produced for his dear friend and buddy (his words), the late WALTER JACKSON.  From 1965 - released on Okeh Records (which they re-recorded in '75 on Chi-Sound), "WELCOME HOME".

　

GIGS, GIGS AND MORE GIGS!!

If you’re going to be in the NYC area within the next few days, check out these shows….

SOUL FACTORY PRESENTS, SATURDAY FEBRUARY 23^RD, DROM NYC

Another SOUL FACTORY PRESENTS event this weekend, held the last Saturday of each month at Drom in NYC’s Village. Presented by folks such as Purpose Music Group and State Farm Insurance. Featuring KIM HILL, GENO YOUNG and BRIANNA COLLETTE.  Call for reservations.

COLLETTE, FRIDAY MARCH 1^ST, BLUE NOTE NYC

Look folks, I’ve been talkin’ ‘bout COLLETTE for a couple of months, based on gigs she performed at Drom as well as BB King’s. On Friday, March 1^st, she’ll be leading a midnight soul/jazz jam at the Blue Note here in the Big Apple. Tickets are only ten bucks - that’s right, ten dollars (as in two fives, ten singles, a five-four singles-four quarters….get the picture??). So, do yourself a favor, get a ticket - hell, get two tickets (for your and your honey/friend/life partner/bind date), hire a babysitter for the kids and make plans to be at the Blue Note at the midnight hour that first Friday in March. (And yes, Collette, you’re welcome!!!)

THAT’S ALL, FOLKS!!

Thanks again for reading, gang! Tune in next time for features spotlighting the rock act, STREET KING HEROS, a young man of soul named DENNIS “YOUNGBLOOD” TAYLOR and more commentary from yours truly about the industry. Comments and feedback are always appreciated (follow me on Twitter - kevingoins1 - or friend me on Facebook). Take care, be well and keep listening to great music!

Regards,

　
Kevin

　

KEVIN GOINS MUSIC JOURNAL - FEBRUARY 6, 2013

Hi-de-ho, hi-de-hi! Thanks for clicking the link for another edition of the KGMJ. Dang, is it February already??? The new year is going by pretty quick so far! Hope everyone is having a sweet 2013, so far. Let’s get down to biz….
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THE SUPER BOWL DIVA-DOME!

My old partner from a 1990s production company, Bill Vila, asked me for my perspective in regards to the performances that took place during this year’s big game - musical, that is. In particular, my take on ALICIA KEYS doing the Star Spangled Banner. Well, let’s start from the beginning….

 

JENNIFER HUDSON - I have to admit that Ms. Hudson and the kids from the Sandy Hook Elementary School took the prize for their fine rendition of “America, The Beautiful”. Nothing but pure emotion here in their performance, folks. Jennifer’s contralto was in control and the kids made this worth listening in a big way. If you didn’t feel anything during this segment, better check your pulse.

 

ALICIA KEYS - Looking mighty fine in that red dress, Ms. Keys took a page from the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin (co-opted by ‘Ree‘s legendary producer, Jerry Wexler) - just sit at the piano and sing. Alicia took her time with “The Star Spangled Banner”, no rushing, no going for the loud, high notes that has rendered her voice to a gravel-pitch in prior concert performances. She knew that she had to come correct and did so. A fine job, Ms. Keys.

 

BEYONCE, KELLY AND MICHELLE - All jokes aside regarding the electric bill, Beyonce and company brought down the house with their knock-out presentation. Yes, the musicians were miming to tracks. Yes, Beyonce cut her background vocals prior to show time. Yes, it was a dazzling light show that would have made the folks at General Electric smile. But Ms. Knowles was smart - her lead vocals were live and in the house. She didn’t try to dance and sing simultaneously from start to finish - she did one or the other. Having Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams along for the ride was a smashing touch. It was a performance, indeed. Didn’t expect anything less.

All in all, a fine show. A damn good game (congrats to the Baltimore Ravens). Just one note - being that the Super Bowl was in New Orleans, it would have been great if the handlers had included at least a couple of nationally-known NOLA-based acts for the half-time show or to perform our country’s anthems (Uh, can we say Aaron Neville!!! The man does have a new album out!). Okay, maybe these folks aren’t that well known to many of the young ‘uns who watch the performances but really, gang…..Fats Domino, Irma Thomas, the Neville Brothers, Harry Connick Jr, Lenny Kravitz…need I say more!


Okay, there’s my rant….moving right along….

ABIAH

Singer/composer ABIAH has been receiving rave reviews for his new album, “LIFE AS A BALLAD”, released via Madoh Music and NIA Distribution. A native of my hometown, Rochester NY, Abiah made his debut years ago under the name Jeramiah with an album on Universal/Republic Records. Lack of promotion for that effort prompted him to go the independent route and all for the better. Since the release of his latest disc, Abiah has earned praise from the jazz and contemporary music circles. How to describe his music? A moody piano jazz-influenced set of ballads with his sweet tenor and keyboard work being the highlight. Abiah will be at the Blue Note here in NYC on Monday night, February 11^th. Check out his latest tune, “SEPTEMBER” and look for a review of his Blue Note gig in a future edition of this blog.

MONET CHERISE

The Brooklyn-based MONET CHERISE has been doin’ her thing for quite some time and her gig at Drom’s Soul Factory Presents in November had the crowd on their toes. Combining dance, jazz, Latin and soul, Monet plays a multitude of instruments (flute and guitar, in particular) and her vocals are as sultry as they are playful. Her current album, “LIFE SIZE MIRROR” is available via her own company, Nyamekye Songs LLC, and the folks at Purpose Music. In addition, Ms. Cherise has a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Adelphi University and has directing as well as producing credentials on her resume. Check out Monet’s SPIRIT.

　

　

A SOULFUL CONVERSATION WITH…..LILA POLITE

A media maven and entrepreneur based in Harlem, LILA POLITE is the publisher of Utley Branch Books, a sweet boutique house of fine publications. In the past, Ms. Polite has worked for broadcasting and sports entities as well as spent her time in the music biz trenches as a concert promoter and record executive. This SOULFUL CONVERSATION took place in late September of last year. I must admit that it was folks such as Lila and many others who motivated yours truly to expand into the blogging arena and this journalist is forever grateful. Click the link below for my interview with Lila....
　

　
https://soundcloud.com/#user140611011/lila-polite-soulful
　

A SOULFUL CONVERSATION WITH…..DONALD CLEVELAND

This brotha has been in the record biz so damn long, he should have taken over the major labels eons ago! But nooooo! DONALD CLEVELAND spent several years making sure that classic soul, R&B, dance and jazz albums make it onto CD and download thanks to his work with labels such as Universal Music Group, Razor & Tie Music, Funky Town Grooves and currently, the Purpose Music Vaults. This SOULFUL CONVERSATION covers not only his work in the industry but even advises the music lover as to what needs to be done in order for folks to see their favorite classics come back out of the vaults.

https://soundcloud.com/#kevingoinsproductionmedia/donald-cleveland-soulful
　

ELISA RANDAZZO

She’s the daughter of two songwriting legends, composer Teddy Randazzo and lyricist Victoria Pike. Based on the West Coast, ELISA RANDAZZO served as an executive for Broadcast Music Incorporated (BMI) for quite some time Two years ago, she recorded a great solo disc, “BRUISES AND BUTTERFLIES”, that showed off her prowess in the genre of folk-rock. But don’t call her music “retro-works”, Elisa brings a fresh, modern perspective to her compositions, creating something quite original. In addition, Elisa has her own clothing line based on the duster look of the old west. She took time off from music to raise her young daughter but will be heading back into the studio soon. Looking forward to hearing some great new stuff from Ms. Randazzo. In the meantime, check out “CIRCLES”….

THE BOLTS

Produced and managed by industry vet Guy Eckstine, THE BOLTS and their new album, “WAIT ‘TIL WE’RE YOUNG” is as crisp as a cold splash of water to a sleeping giant. Tight musicianship and solid harmonies grace their latest album. The Irvine, CA-based band consists of guitarist Heath Farmer, bassist Adam Farmer, keyboardist Austin Farmer, guitarist Ryan Kilpatrick, and drummer Matt Champagne The long-player will be available in 24-bit high resolution audio via iTunes this month (translation - it’s gonna sound SLAMMIN’ in digital!). Check out their video, "THE TRUTH"..

FINIS!

That’s it for another edition of the blog! Tune in next time for more music news, commentary, interviews and, yes, great tunes and videos. Thanks for reading and my best regards to you always!

KEVIN GOINS MUSIC JOURNAL - JANUARY 23, 2013

Hey folks! Thanks for checking out the journal and the great feedback received regarding the first edition. Checked out some great performances and have some new info to share but first I’d like to address something that really shouldn’t be such a big issue…and ya’ll know what I’m talking about…..

BEYONCE AND THE INAUGURATION

Ms. Bey did her thing on Martin Luther King Jr Day and someone within the Armed Forces Marching Band had said she lip-synched, which a representative has since tried to smooth over. The press and media have made this into such a big deal - even Chris “Hardball” Matthews covered this on his MSNBC program the other night. Experts have chimed in on CNN about the pro’s, con’s and what-for’s…

Here’s why this is so NOT a big deal to this music industry journalist/pundit/professional/blah-blah-blah….

1) LIP-SYNCHING HAS BEEN THE NORM FOR DECADES - From Dick Clark to Don Cornelius and every other music TV show in between (Shivaree, the Lloyd Thaxton Show, Shebang w/Casey Kasem), artists have been lip-synching their tunes on the tube for a mighty long time. Ask any radio DJ from back in the day who have hosted teen record hops as well. Reasons have been many - because the goal was to promote the record and not the performance (Dick Clark’s argument), a live performance is expensive to stage (Don Cornelius). And it’s not gonna stop anytime soon. Whitney, Michael Jackson, even Bruce Springsteen & the E. Street Band lip-synched at the Super Bowl half-time shows they headlined and they didn’t catch that much grief.

2) WE’RE NOT TALKING MILLI VANILLI HERE - That was a completely different issue altogether. Fabrice (RIP) and Rob were mouthing to someone else doing the singing. It was only when they tried to pressure their record producer Frank Farian into having them cut the vocals for their proposed second album that he (Farian) spilled the beans and the stuff hit the fan. Bey was lip-synching her own vocals.

3) DAMAGE CONTROL IS TO BE EXPECTED - If Beyonce had sung live and her voice cracked or something along those lines, folks from left and right and in between would have had a field day. She would have been torn to shreds in the press so bad that Christina Aguliera would have sent her a sympathy card. She figured better safe than sorry due to the fact that his was indeed an historic event. Even Aretha Franklin gave Beyonce an indirect pass when she said that singing outdoors when the temperature is cold is not an ideal situation - and the Queen of Soul speaks from experience, having done so at a prior Inauguration.

To my colleagues in the electronic media - there are more important issues to tackle out there. Let’s leave this one alone.

Now, on with the show….

DWELE, ANTHONY DAVID AND COLLETTE - B.B. KING’S CLUB, NYC. MONDAY, JANUARY 21ST.

A great triple bill that was well worth venturing out to Times Square on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day! Soul music was in great abundance thanks to these great acts! (Photos courtesy of Colleen Rubio, reproduced with permission).



First up, COLLETTE hit the stage giving props to our POTUS and then launched into a sweet set of acoustic soul and R&B with a tight rhythm trio. Performing tunes from her album, “Juneteenth Revolution”, Collette did not disappoint with her vocal style and good humor. While her performance at Drom last month was fine, she was at times overpowered by the live band. Not so here - Collette was more comfortable in this acoustic atmosphere, which allowed her singing skills to shine even brighter. She should definitely do more “unplugged” type shows in the future. Click the link to check out Collette's guitar and vocal version of her single "Material Star" (taped two summers ago).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMFrUZBz6sI



ANTHONY DAVID came on next with the guitarist and drummer from his band, the Do-Gooders. What an impressive performance! No need for bass or keyboards here. Anthony charmed the crowd with his solid repertoire of songs culled from his four albums, including his latest release, “Love Out Loud”. Accompanying himself on guitar as well, Anthony’s set was solid and polished. The highlight was his tune, “Girlfriend” - spelling out the perils of a committed man going out for a night on the town without his loved one and getting hit on by women at the club (Memo to Mr. David - ladies are indeed more attracted to men who already have a honey….it’s a vibe thing, I guess!). His latest single, “Can’t Look Down’”, sounds so good acoustically, I do hope that his label - Purpose Music - will consider releasing an “unplugged” version in the future (get on it, Mr. Littlejohn and Mr. Johnson!),  Click the link to Anthony's Girlfriend", taped a few months ago.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55AWFesXUEo



Finally, there’s the Motor City’s own DWELE, who came on dressed as if he just taped a segment of the 1960s TV show, “Shindig”! (White tuxedo jacket, black slacks, cinnamon dress shirt and bow tie). He had the ladies swooning from jump with his brand of neo-soul, anchored by a seven piece band with horn section. Echoing the masters of soul such as our dear Mr. Gaye, Dwele did not disappoint the crowd with his smooth vocals (low baritone to falsetto) and was greatly supported by his background vocalist.  Dwele's set was indeed intense and passionate to those who were definitely “feeling it” that night. Towards the end of the show, Dwele left the stage and serenaded the audience right where they wined and dined, much to their absolute pleasure! Brotha-man is lucky he didn’t lose his shirt that night - and if he did so, I highly doubt those who enjoyed themselves would have complained! Click the link and check out Dwele's "Obey", from his latest album, "Greater Than One".
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFAPDfbEKlI

UPCOMING EVENTS

 

SOUL FACTORY PRESENTS GREENTEA, ELIJAH BLAND AND FELICIA TEMPLE, DROM NYC, SATURDAY JANUARY 26TH.

Held on the last Saturday of each month, SOUL FACTORY PRESENTS highlights the best from the world of independent soul music and this weekend is no exception. If you want to see great performances and are in the NYC area, go to Drom on Avenue A this weekend and check it out. Click the link for reservations.

http://www.dromnyc.com/events/2228/soul-factory-presents

ASHLEY ALLEN, PIANOS, NYC, FRIDAY FEBRUARY 1ST

Singer/songwriter ASHLEY ALLEN will be showcasing her brand of power pop/dance at Pianos here in NYC. Her works are in league with what SHOULD be heard on the radio and seen via video channels. Free admission to this performance. Click the link for info and check out a clip of her music.

http://www.pianosnyc.com/

 

 

ON THE NATIONAL FRONT…

 

VINTAGE TROUBLE

Props to George Littlejohn of Purpose Music for hipping me to this LA-based band. Managed by industry vet Doc McGhee, VINTAGE TROUBLE (Ty Taylor - vocals, Nalle Colt - guitar, Richard Danielson - drums, Rick Darrio Dill - bass) combines the best of powerful rock with the “umph!” of soul. Their 2010 album, “The Bomb Shelter Sessions” has sold thousands of CD’s thanks to the band’s heaving gig schedule and great word of mouth. Their legion of fans, dubbed “Troublemakers”, is growing fast and quick with every show they do. Vintage Trouble has appeared on the UK’s Jools Holland Show and last December, they brought down the Ed Sullivan Theater on the Dave Letterman Show (Mr. Sullivan would have been more than proud!). They recently toured as the opening act for the Who. If they come to your city and town, do yourself a favor and check them out. I know I will! Click the link to their website and check out the music clip posted here. http://www.vintagetrouble.com/bio.html

Well, that does it this time for THE KEVIN GOINS MUSIC JOURNAL. Tune in for the next edition, when I’ll be posting a SOULFUL CONVERSATION with publisher/entrepreneur LILA POLITE, music from soul man JARRARD ANTHONY and many other goodies. Thanks for reading and please feel free to post any feedback you may have! Regards, Kevin

A NEW DAY…..A NEW BEGINNING

Well, here it is folks…..the debut of THE KEVIN GOINS MUSIC JOURNAL, something I’ve been talking about for a few weeks. The goal of this blog is to draw attention to the music makers and shakers - past, present and future - with an emphasis on independent works. Why focus on the indies? Because most of the success in the recording industry, as far as contemporary music is concerned, has come from the indies. The list of folks is long, the record labels almost as extensive.

In addition to the artists and the labels, this journal will also serve as a place where issues dealing with the music industry can be discussed with candor. Also, and most importantly, I will bring to you, the reader and the listener, interviews and commentary from those in front of the microphone or guitar amp as well as behind the scenes folks who have brought excellence to this business of music.

Finally, look out for things to come from my archive of interviews and articles I have done over the many years as well as future discussions via the SOULFUL CONVERSATIONS series I launched in mid 2012.

I look forward to this new journey and hope you will enjoy it, too!


CARLTON J. SMITH - TRAIN SONG

Hard to believe that it’s been 20 years since I met the soulful force that is CARLTON J. SMITH. Singer, songwriter, actor, soul savant (to borrow a phrase from legendary record exec Jerry Wexler), Carlton has been doin’ his THANG almost as long as Gray’s Papaya in NYC has sold hot dogs (okay….a slight exaggeration….). For the past few years, he’s been playing the big and small rooms over in Shanghai, China as well as putting together some fine music for present and future release. Here’s a taste of what Carlton has been up to - a soulful twist on a Tom Waits tune that will be available soon for download. Check out the video for THE TRAIN SONG and click the link for more info regarding our dear Mr. Smith! (CARLTON'S WEBSITE)


ANTHONY DAVID - CAN’T LOOK DOWN

When’s the last time you’ve heard a song so catchy, the repeat button MUST be engaged! Well, my colleagues at PURPOSE MUSIC GROUP (George Littlejohn, Russell Johnson and Donald Cleveland - NYC and NJ's answer to Philly's Gamble, Huff and Bell!) has just the thing, courtesy of their Grammy-nominated artist, ANTHONY DAVID. His fourth album (now available), LOVE OUT LOUD, features this poppy slice of soul, CAN’T LOOK DOWN, and believe me I couldn’t give my CD player a rest from blasting this tune (yeah, yeah….I still play CD’s…and records….hell, even 8-tracks!!).

Anthony wiIl be sharing a bill with Dwele at B.B. King’s Nightclub in NYC’s Times Square on Monday, January 21^st so if you live in the area, get your tickets NOW ‘cause it’s gonna be sold out soon! (Opening act - Collette...more on her later!)
BB KING'S - DWELE, ANTHONY DAVID (opening act - COLLETTE)

In the meantime, enjoy the video and if you like it, click the link below and BUY IT!
ANTHONY DAVID - LOVE OUT LOUD


TEIRA DOOM and REAL SCHOOL PEOPLE



http://realschoolpeople.blogspot.com/

For many years, TEIRA DOOM has documented the histories of folks in the entertainment biz via her excellent blog series, REAL SCHOOL PEOPLE. No matter if the person or persons are well known, behind the scenes people or obscure, Teira has given the spotlight to those who have paved the way in the industry - people who have made their mark in their given fields with excellence and class. And Teira herself is no slouch, either - she’s composed music and produced jingles for the ad agencies, was a staffer for NBC-TV’s “The Midnight Special” and is an experienced tech wizard. Check out REAL SCHOOL PEOPLE and show Teira some love with your feedback


COLLETTE, CHOKLATE and DARIEN DEAN at DROM-NYC, DECEMBER 29, 2012

What a night for soul music here in the Big Apple! Three great indie acts with strong skills took to the stage on a light snowy Saturday night at DROM in NYC’s Alphabet City for the excellent SOUL FACTORY PRESENTS series - co-sponsored by Soul Factory, the Bloom Effect (hey, Fiona Bloom!),Rich Johnson, State Farm Insurance (“…like a good..” okay, I’ll stop singing!) and Purpose Music Group. The acts included COLLETTE, DARIEN DEAN and CHOKLATE (links contain music videos from their releases).

First up, COLLETTE wowed the audience with an upbeat set of songs from her album “Juneteenth Revolution”. Her brand of soul reflects what we need more of nowadays - music with melody that tells a story. (Link to buy album - COLLETTE - JUNETEENTH REVOLUTION)

DARIEN DEAN came on second with a solid set of smooth sounds that had the audience wanting more (and he gave more!). A suave singer with charm to boot, Damien was a winner from start to finish, performing tunes from his albums (click the link to buy his lateste release - DARIEN DEAN - IF THESE WALLS COULD TALK)

Finally, CHOKLATE closed out the show with a deep set of songs and a powerful performance. Choklate was a real trooper - doing her thang while under the weather and that did NOT keep her from bringing it to the stage, performing tunes from her albums such as her latest release, "Fly" (Click the link to buy - CHOKLATE "FLY")

My kudos to all involved with the Soul Factory Presents series - held the last Saturday of each month at Drom NYC. Click the link for more info and make your reservation for the next gig!
DROM NYC - SOUL FACTORY PRESENTS (Saturday.January 26th)


That’s all for now, gang! Stay tuned for more music news, interviews, the SOULFUL CONVERSATION series and other great things coming your way.

Feel free to drop an email or follow me on Facebook and Twitter.

Thanks for reading and listening!

Kevin

kevingoins@juno.com
twitter - @kevingoins1

Stay tuned, folks!  Starting in January 2013 - coinciding with my 30th anniversary in the media and music business - I will launch this blog to cover what's happening in the recording industry (past, present and future).  I promise it will be a great adventure and do hope you will come along for the ride.  Looking forward to speaking with those in the biz about the biz as well as reading your comments and feedback.  Be well, have a blessed Christmas, Haunakah, Kwanza and New Year. 

Best regards always,

Kevin Goins