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TOP STORIES

Andy Snitzer Takes It To #1 with 'Candy"
May 17, 2013 - After only four weeks Andy Snitzer is sitting pretty at the top spot of the Smooth Jazz Now Top 50 Countdown. "Andy's done well," says John Beaudin Operations Manager at the AirCom Jazz Network, "he dethroned Boney James from the #1 spot," adds Beaudin. MORE

Boney James 5th Week at #1 - Biggest Hit of the Year So Far on Smooth Jazz Now
May 3, 2013 - Things keep looking better for Boney James. The popular sax-man has the biggest hit of the year so far on Smooth Jazz Now with 'Batucada.' It's now been #1 for five weeks. "It's always special when a song stands out that much," says John Beaudin Program Director of Smooth Jazz Now. MORE

Mariah Carey, Alicia Keys and John Legend Set For GMA Summer Concert Series

April 30, 2013 – Good Morning America has announced a huge line up for its 5th Annual Summer Concert Series. MORE

 

Supergroup BWB Charged Up with New Album and Tour
April 25, 2013 – Three gifted smooth Jazz musicians; Rick Braun, Kirk Whalum and Norman Brown came together 11 years ago with their group BWB. These guys put their name on the map with the famous album Groovin’ and are back in full swing with an upcoming release ‘Human Nature’ set for release June 18th. MORE

4th Week at #1 For Boney James on Smooth Jazz Now
April 19, 2013 - Boney James is again the most talked about artist on Smooth Jazz Now. His hit 'Batucada' was the most requested tune on our station for the last two weeks. "You have to love a song with this type of staying power," says John Beaudin, Program Director of Smooth Jazz Now. MORE

HOT SINGLE PICK – Andy Snitzer – 'Candy'
April 10, 2013 – The hottest new song on the Smooth Jazz Now TOP 50 chart last week was Andy Snitzer's 'Candy' entering at an impressive #5. The tune comes from, 'The Rhythm,' Snitzer's 3rd Native Language album and his 8th overall. The label calls the single “sweet funk/pop” which it is indeed. “I just love this song,” says John Beaudin Program Director of Smooth Jazz Now. MORE

It's a Hat-Trick For Boney James - Three Weeks at #1 With Batucada
April 5, 2013 - The most popular song in the land belongs to Boney James. The sax-man is firmly at #1 again, for the third time, with Batucada. "This week, especially, nothing came close to how many requests we got for this song," says John Beaudin Program Director of Smooth Jazz Now. He adds, "Boney could be in the top spot for weeks." MORE

HOT SINGLE PICK - Rob Tardik - "One World" - Tardik Talks New Album LIMITLESS with Smooth Jazz Now
March 27, 2013 – They say “everything is perception” and from the start our image of Rob Tardik has been hard working and positive. With the release of his fourth album LIMITLESS, later this year, we thought we would catch up with Tardik and ask about the sound of the new project. MORE

INTERVIEW - One-On-One with Jim Samuel
March 27, 2013 - With the release of Jim Samuel's new album 'Smooth Covers, Smooth Dance' last week and our 90-minute radio special on his career we thought we would delve a little deeper into what makes Samuel tick. MORE

Boney James Reaches #1 For Second Week on the Smooth Jazz TOP 50 Chart
March 26, 2013 - Boney James had the most requested tune on Smooth Jazz Now for the second week in a row. His new single 'Batucada' has only been on the chart four weeks and two of those have been at #1. "Anytime we get a Boney single we know our audience will get it to #1," says John Beaudin, Program Director of Smooth Jazz Now. MORE

10 Things You Might Not Know About Mike MacArthur
March 26, 2013 - Mike MacArthur has an impressive resume. Playing with Diane Schuur and the late great Maynard Ferguson creates great cache for an artist.
We asked MacArthur for a few more quirky facts about his career that we might not know. Here is what he served up. MORE

Dave Koz & Friends Plan 'Summer Horns Tour'
March 22, 2012 – Dave Koz will be joined by several of his old pals as he kicks off A Summer Horns Tour 2013.
The tour will open in Clearwater, FL June 7th and will run until the end of August. MORE

Smooth Jazz Now To Present World Premier of Jim Samuel's 'Smooth Covers, Smooth Dance' On Friday, March 15, 5PM (EST)
March 15, 2013 – The AirCom Radio Network is proud to present a special 90-minute Full Spin with Jim Samuel. The pianist is releasing his comeback album 'Smooth Covers, Smooth Dance” today and Smooth Jazz Now has the exclusive world premier of the album in its entirety. MORE

Boney James Reaches #1 in Only Three Weeks
March 13, 2013 - Boney James doesn't fool around! The famous sax-man has reached the #1 spot on the Smooth Jazz Now Top 50 Countdown and it only took him three weeks. "Ok, really - this is Freakin' Boney James," says John Beaudin, Program Director of Smooth Jazz Now. "Boney is not just known as a superstar, he proves it with every song and every album." MORE

Natalie Cole Teases About New Music
March 9, 2013 – Natalie Cole has found her muse again! The 'Unforgettable' singer told fans on Twitter that she's coming back. The nine time Grammy winner should have a new album out this year. MORE

Michael Buble Getting Ready For New Album Release
March 5, 2013 - Canadian singer, Michael Buble is getting ready for his upcoming album “To Be Loved’ hitting stores April 23rd. MORE


REVIEW - Mike MacArthur – Feels Like Home (4 out of 5 Stars)
March 2, 2013 – I think the reputation of a music reviewer is that of a bitter and jaded curmudgeon living in a van down by the river. Years ago after writing a blistering review of a project that sounded half finished the artist approached me at a club and screamed, “You must spend a lot of time looking for things to hate?” “Actually it's the opposite, I answered, “I use my hours looking for the good stuff, 3/4 of the trip, however, is filled cliched blah!” MORE

It's Two Weeks at #1 for Euge Groove On the SmoothJazzNow Chart
March 1, 2013 - For the second week in a row Euge Groove had the most requested song on SmoothJazzNow. As a result his 'House of Groove' easily made it to #1 on the TOP 50 chart. "Euge is like Boney James, Dave Koz or Peter White," says John Beaudin, Program Director of SmoothJazzNow, "They all consistently release music that sticks with listeners." MORE

 

SMOOTH JAZZ NOW CHART FOR May 17, 2013

TM LM ARTIST SONG
1 2 Andy Snitzer Candy
2 3 Rob Tardik One World
3 1 Boney James Batucada (five weeks at #1)
4 16 Kim Scott Golden
5 5 Jeanette Harris Keep Holding On
6 8 Drew Davidsen Hi5
7 10 Joe Leader The Secret Garden
8 4 Ethan Farmer Beautiful
9 20 Airborne Sunshower
10 9 Paula Atherton Sassy Strut
Check out the whole chart here
SMOOTH JAZZ NOW TOP 30 COUNTDOWN
 
SMOOTH JAZZ NOW TOP 30 COUNTDOWN
 
New Interviews

INTERVIEW - One-On-One with Jim Samuel
March 27, 2013 - With the release of Jim Samuel's new album 'Smooth Covers, Smooth Dance' last week and our 90-minute radio special on his career we thought we would delve a little deeper into what makes Samuel tick. MORE

10 Things You Might Not Know About Mike MacArthur
March 26, 2013 - Mike MacArthur has an impressive resume. Playing with Diane Schuur and the late great Maynard Ferguson creates great cache for an artist.
We asked MacArthur for a few more quirky facts about his career that we might not know. Here is what he served up. MORE

INTERVIEW - One-On-One (20 Questions) with Wayne Wesley Johnson
December 13, 2012 – SmoothJazzNow has a new artist/interview feature called One-On-One. It’s 20 questions for your favorite Smooth Jazz artists. Most acts will be asked the same questions but we will also change it up on some weeks. MORE

INTERVIEW - One-On-One (20 Questions) with Greg Adams
December 13, 2012 – Greg Adams has been out there. Even though many fans know him from his days with Tower of Power that stint seemed to be just an opening act for what was to come. MORE

INTERVIEW - 10 Things You Might Not Know About Pete Gitlin
December 11, 2012 - It's been a great year for Pete Giltin. The guitarist reached #1 on the SmoothJazzNow.com chart and there's no sign of him slowing down. We asked Pete to give us some rare facts - things you might not know about him. Check out the list. MORE

New Reviews

HOT SINGLE PICK - Rob Tardik - "One World" - Tardik Talks New Album LIMITLESS with Smooth Jazz Now
March 27, 2013 – They say “everything is perception” and from the start our image of Rob Tardik has been hard working and positive. With the release of his fourth album LIMITLESS, later this year, we thought we would catch up with Tardik and ask about the sound of the new project. MORE

REVIEW - Mike MacArthur – Feels Like Home (4 out of 5 Stars)
March 2, 2013 – I think the reputation of a music reviewer is that of a bitter and jaded curmudgeon living in a van down by the river. Years ago after writing a blistering review of a project that sounded half finished the artist approached me at a club and screamed, “You must spend a lot of time looking for things to hate?” “Actually it's the opposite, I answered, “I use my hours looking for the good stuff, 3/4 of the trip, however, is filled cliched blah!” MORE

Review - Terry Wollman - A Joyful Noise - Mango Eater Music (4 Stars out of 5)
November 18, 2012 - Christmas music is a unique animal. A challenging one. Imagine explaining the concept to an alien, "So we celebrate this holiday and musicians, at least once in their careers, get to record the same 30-40 songs and hope that their versions sticks," MORE

REVIEW - Bob Baldwin – Presents Betcha By Golly Wow – The Songs of Thom Bell – Peak Records (**2 out of 5 STARS)
May 1, 2012 - We live in a world where most instrumental music sounds like it was made for a 5x5 vertically moving room and that includes some Smooth Jazz. Interestingly, most Smooth Jazz musicians are technically some of the best players on the planet but many have fallen into this big vacuous hole, an amnesic state, where channelling Bert Kaempfert is common place. MORE

REVIEW - Esperanza Spalding – Radio Music Society (****4 out of 5 Stars) – Heads Up – Concord Music Group
April 4, 2012 – Esperanza Spalding is a groovy chick. I mean, really, when she’s in the room, everyone else disappears and I’m talkin’ more than that big “love-sculpture” hair. She’s the type of musician you might walk up to at a party, ask about her music, and walk away three hours later regretting the question. This lady has a vision so you better have a seat. MORE

Kennard Ramsey – Somos – 5 out of 5
October 20, 2011 – This is no ordinary album. In fact, there is nothing normal about this album and that’s what makes this one of the most perfect projects that’s ever come across my desk. MORE

REVIEW: Colbie Caillat – All of You - Universal Republic
– On her third album Colbie Caillat has decided to strategically give us an uptempo summer-vibe. It still sounds like her smash debut “Coco” but this time it’s Colbie with caffeine and it’s positive and fun. Caillat co-wrote every tune on the album with different famous, mostly behind-the-scenes songsmiths.. MORE

REVIEW - Michael Franks – Time Together – Shanachie Records
– There are not too many things in life as deliciously lazy as Michael Franks voice. The guy could chill out someone on deaths door. Seriously, angst has no place on a Michael Franks record – he’s good at one great thing..making you feel good! MORE

 

 

Jason Miles' Special Project Global Noize Serves Up our HOT SINGLE PICK

May 22, 2013 – Producer/keyboardist Jason Miles has come up with our highest charting new song this week with an interesting interpretation of Sly Stones, 'It's a Family Affair.' The tune entered our chart last Friday(May 17th, 2013) at #11, one of the highest debuts of the year. “I can't wait to hear this album,” says John Beaudin, Operations Manager of the AirCom Jazz Network, “Jason has never released anything that is normal, Jason always makes “out of the box” very tasty and interesting.” The album is called 'Sly Re imagined.'

Smooth Jazz Now talked exclusively with Miles about the Global Noize project. He says, “In the year 2013 you hear the music that was created by Sly and the Family Stone you realize that the music and message is very relevant today.” Miles says he had a specific goal with 'Sly Re imagined,' “I wanted to introduce new generations to this great iconic global music. The world is in need of a strong groove!” says Miles.

Smooth Jazz covers can sometimes sound like exact replicas of the original sans the vocals but Global Noize has thrown their own Groove into the project including a healthy helping of World music influence. Miles adds, “My Group Global Noize was the perfect vehicle to present this music. We break boundaries and respect the music at the same time. When I knew I was going to do the project I was looking for a first song. I had my iPod on shuffle and out of the blue 'It's a Family Affair' came on randomly. I knew I found the song. I immediately called Roberta Flack because she was the perfect voice for the song. The project evolved from there.”

Beaudin says, “We sent out a 30 second snippet of this song, as well as 30 other new tracks, to our AirCom Jazz advisory committee which is made up of (at least) 1000 listeners, we don't tell the advisory members what the track is called or who the artist is – it's a blind taste test and 'It's a Family Affair' easily came out with the most votes.” Looks like Jason Miles has a hit on his hands. - by Beth Knudsen


Andy Snitzer Takes It To #1 with 'Candy"

May 17, 2013 - After only four weeks Andy Snitzer is sitting pretty at the top spot of the Smooth Jazz Now Top 50 Countdown. "Andy's done well," says John Beaudin Operations Manager at the AirCom Jazz Network, "he dethroned Boney James from the #1 spot," adds Beaudin.

In an unprecedented twist of events the chart had 15 new tunes enter this week. "We changed something in the last two weeks," says Beaudin. The AirCom Jazz advisory committee sent out sound bites of 30 brand new tunes and the response to the new songs was amazing. "This added up to tons of requests for these new songs," says Beaudin. "It was an amazing turn of events and a great chance for new tunes to get heard.'

The highest song to enter came from Jason Miles' project Global Noize with the Sly Stone classic 'It's a Family Affair' entering at #11. The tune was also our HOT SINGLE PICK. Look for our interview with Jason Miles coming later this week.

The SmoothJazzNow TOP 50 is a bi-weekly chart based only on audience requests and inquiries. It is a non-payola chart. Pay-for-play is prohibited on the station. – CHECK OUT THE NEW CHART

Boney James 5th Week at #1 - Biggest Hit of the Year So Far on Smooth Jazz Now

May 3, 2013 - Things keep looking better for Boney James. The popular sax-man has the biggest hit of the year so far on Smooth Jazz Now with 'Batucada.' It's now been #1 for five weeks. "It's always special when a song stands out that much," says John Beaudin Program Director of Smooth Jazz Now. "Boney is always one of our top artists here on Smooth Jazz Now but this tune is really taking off," adds Beaudin.

Four tracks entered the chart this week including Tony Exum's 'T-Time' coming in at #49, Process Seven with 'Proces' at #46, Jim Peterik's lifeforce with 'Forces at Play' at #45 and the hghest entry 'One Step Ahead' by Darren Rahn coming in at #42.

The SmoothJazzNow TOP 50 is a bi-weekly chart based only on audience requests and inquiries. It is a non-payola chart. Pay-for-play is prohibited on the station. CHECK OUT THE CHART

 

Mariah Carey, Alicia Keys and John Legend Set For GMA Summer Concert Series

April 30, 2013 – Good Morning America has announced a huge line up for its 5th Annual Summer Concert Series.

It all kicks off May 24 when Mariah Carey hits the stage at Rumsey Playfield in New York City’s Central Park. She will be followed by a new artist every Friday for the next three months. John Legend and Alicia Keys are booked in to appear as well as Carly Jae Jepsen, Selena Gomez and Kenny Chesney among others.

All concerts are free to the public and will take place live during “Good Morning America,” Fridays from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. ET. – MORE

 

 

Supergroup BWB Charged Up with New Album and Tour

April 25, 2013 – Three gifted smooth Jazz musicians; Rick Braun, Kirk Whalum and Norman Brown came together 11 years ago with their group BWB. These guys put their name on the map with the famous album Groovin’ and are back in full swing with an upcoming release ‘Human Nature’ set for release June 18th. The crafty song selections on this CD are reimaging of eleven hits made famous my Michael Jackson.

The trio is set to tour at the beginning of June

Here are the dates:
6/1/2013 2013 Jazz Festival @ Hyatt Newport Beach CA
6/6/2013 Napa Valley Opera House Napa CA
6/14/2013 A Celebration of Black Music Cincinnati OH
6/15/2013 One World Theatre Austin TX
6/21/2013 DuPont Clifford Brown Jazz Festival Wilmington DE
6/22/2013 Uptown Charlotte Jazz Fest Charlotte NC
6/26/2013 Spirit Cruise Ship New York NY
7/19/2013 The Norfolk Jazz Festival Norfolk VA
7/20/2013 Bonelli Park - JazzFest West San Dimas CA
7/21/2013 Bonelli Park - JazzFest West San Dimas CA
8/3/2013 Rodney Strong Winery Healdsburg CA
8/10/2013 Festival of the Vine - Fraze Pavilion Kettering OH
   read more

 


4th Week at #1 For Boney James on Smooth Jazz Now

April 19, 2013 - Boney James is again the most talked about artist on Smooth Jazz Now. His hit 'Batucada' was the most requested tune on our station for the last two weeks. "You have to love a song with this type of staying power," says John Beaudin, Program Director of Smooth Jazz Now.

Only three new songs entered the chart this week including Monkey House with 'Faith in the Middle' at #47, Delilah's 'Love Life' at #44 and Walter Christopher 'You're Beautiful' entering the highest at #42. There were no songs entering in the TOP 20 so we had no HOT SINGLE PICK this week.

The SmoothJazzNow TOP Chart is based only on audience requests and inquiries. It is a non-payola chart. Pay-for-play is prohibited on the station. – SEE THE CHART

HOT SINGLE PICK – Andy Snitzer – 'Candy'

April 10, 2013 – The hottest new song on the Smooth Jazz Now TOP 50 chart last week was Andy Snitzer's 'Candy' entering at an impressive #5. The tune comes from, 'The Rhythm,' Snitzer's 3rd Native Language album and his 8th overall. The label calls the single “sweet funk/pop” which it is indeed. “I just love this song,” says John Beaudin Program Director of Smooth Jazz Now. “Andy is one of my favorite sax player's and also I really love his work with Paul Simon and the Rolling Stones,” adds Beaudin.

“Throughout my career, I’ve had the distinct privilege to make great music with wonderful people who happen to be among the most popular, talented musicians and artists in the world,” says Snitzer. “All of them have been influential in the evolution of my solo career, and it’s very gratifying to realize how much I have grown as a musician and artist over the past 20 years. I like my early solo recordings but they were mostly a relative hodgepodge combination of a lot of things; they didn’t necessarily articulate a distinct stylistic position. Eventually I figured out that making an album was not primarily about being a badass in ten different ways. It’s primarily about setting a compelling mood, taking an artistic position that your listener can sense and identify with. That’s what drove me to create Traveler, and I’m excited that The Rhythm is another step in that direction.” - MORE

 

It's a Hat-Trick For Boney James - Three Weeks at #1 With Batucada

April 5, 2013 - The most popular song in the land belongs to Boney James. The sax-man is firmly at #1 again, for the third time, with Batucada. "This week, especially, nothing came close to how many requests we got for this song," says John Beaudin Program Director of Smooth Jazz Now. He adds, "Boney could be in the top spot for weeks."

Seven new songs entered the chart this week including our HOT SINGLE PICK from Andy Snitzer entering the highest at #5 with 'Candy.' Jeanette Harris came in at #15 with "Keep Holding On' and Jim Samuel also entered strong with his rendition of Christopher Cross' 'Ride like the Wind' at  #15

The SmoothJazzNow TOP Chart is based only on audience requests and inquiries. It is a non-payola chart. Pay-for-play is prohibited on the station. – MORE

 

HOT SINGLE PICK - Rob Tardik - "One World" - Tardik Talks New Album LIMITLESS with Smooth Jazz Now

March 27, 2013 – They say “everything is perception” and from the start our image of Rob Tardik has been hard working and positive. With the release of his fourth album LIMITLESS, later this year, we thought we would catch up with Tardik and ask about the sound of the new project.

“The sound of the new album continues to define my love and passion for the guitar in all its many styles and tones.” Tardik told Smooth Jazz Now in an exclusive interview. “I wanted to keep music fun, accessible for everyone, and the energy quite high throughout and as always have every song holds its own melodically. The premise of the CD is “As humans, we all have “LIMITLESS” potential to do extraordinary things wherever our passion, dedication, perseverance and hard work take us. We just need to take action and open up the doors that life presents to us many times in our lives!”

Tardik says he had a simple goal for the new album, “I wanted to go back and really feature myself and the guitar on this my 4th CD, as my last two CD’s really featured a lot of guest artists and other instruments in the forefront so I wanted to highlight my guitar playing on this outing.” MORE

 

INTERVIEW - One-On-One with Jim Samuel

March 27, 2013 - With the release of Jim Samuel's new album 'Smooth Covers, Smooth Dance' last week and our 90-minute radio special on his career we thought we would delve a little deeper into what makes Samuel tick.

Our own Beth Knudsen talked exclusively to the keyboardist.





Smooth Jazz Now (SJN)- Who was the person that influenced you the most, that got you excited about music?


Jim Samuel - I have to answer this in two parts. As a child my parents encouraged me to play music, paid for piano lessons although they clearly were not wealthy. In fact they were quite the opposite. As I got a little older they were always proud of my accomplishments in music. The second part of the answer is the Keyboardist Brian Simpson, I heard his album "It's All Good" which I really liked and saw him at a bookstore promoting his album. When I saw his performance using a digital key board and accompanying music via a midi setup I discovered how technology now gave the
musician a different world of opportunity MORE

Boney James Reaches #1 For Second Week on the Smooth Jazz TOP 50 Chart

March 26, 2013 - Boney James had the most requested tune on Smooth Jazz Now for the second week in a row. His new single 'Batucada' has only been on the chart four weeks and two of those have been at #1. "Anytime we get a Boney single we know our audience will get it to #1," says John Beaudin, Program Director of Smooth Jazz Now.

Five new singles entered the chart this week including our HOT SINGLE PICK from Rob Tardik, 'One World' at #10. "Rob has always been popular with our audience," says Beaudin, "He's a player with amazing chops and a amazing skill of coming up with fantastic melodies. The other new entries come from Fourplay (#34), Paul Hardcastle (#38), Kim Scott (#39) and Airborne (#44).

The SmoothJazzNow TOP Chart is based only on audience requests and inquiries. It is a non-payola chart. Pay-for-play is prohibited on the station. – MORE

 


10 Things You Might Not Know About Mike MacArthur


March 26, 2013 - Mike MacArthur has an impressive resume. Playing with Diane Schuur and the late great Maynard Ferguson creates great cache for an artist.
We asked MacArthur for a few more quirky facts about his career that we might not know. Here is what he served up.

1. Put the sax to the side for almost 3 years and worked as an upright bass player.

2. Played the bass drum in his high school marching band.

3. Saw Frank Sinatra perform on his 80th birthday in Atlanta GA.

4. Doesn’t like massages at all.

5. Scary movies make him jump....a lot.

6. Was listening to the sax solo in The Heart of Rock N’ Roll by Huey Lewis and the News when he decided to play the saxophone. READ MORE

 

 

Dave Koz & Friends Plan 'Summer Horns Tour'

March 22, 2012 – Dave Koz will be joined by several of his old pals as he kicks off A Summer Horns Tour 2013.

The tour will open in Clearwater, FL June 7th and will run until the end of August.

Joining Koz will be fellow saxaphonists Mindi Abair, Gerald Albright and Richard Elliot.

Go to www.davekoz.com for tour dates. - By Shannon Edwards

 

 

 

Smooth Jazz Now To Present World Premier of Jim Samuel's 'Smooth Covers, Smooth Dance' On Friday, March 15, 5PM (EST)

March 15, 2013 – The AirCom Radio Network is proud to present a special 90-minute Full Spin with Jim Samuel. The pianist is releasing his comeback album 'Smooth Covers, Smooth Dance” today and Smooth Jazz Now has the exclusive world premier of the album in its entirety. “It's amazing,” says John Beaudin, Program Director of Smooth Jazz Now, “Jim's been out of the game for so many years but he's found his sweet spot again – he's found his groove.”

Samuel was once a member of the popular band Bob Brady and the Conchords who had success with "More, More, More of Your Love" and "Everybody's Going To a Love-In" in the sixties. After his rock n roll dreams faded Samuel achieved success in the business world but now he's back. “I love Smooth Jazz but I also wanted to add some energy, some dance grooves to my music,” says Samuel. The result in an uplifting album featuring interpretations of Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder and Toto tunes to name a few.

Tune in to Smooth Jazz Now today at 5PM (EST) as Samuel sits in with John Beaudin and, together, they play every track off the album 'Smooth Covers, Smooth Dance.' The radio special will also be replayed both on Saturday and Sunday nights at 10 PM (EST) on Smooth Jazz Now. - by Beth Knudsen

 

Boney James Reaches #1 in Only Three Weeks

March 13, 2013 - Boney James doesn't fool around! The famous sax-man has reached the #1 spot on the Smooth Jazz Now Top 50 Countdown and it only took him three weeks. "Ok, really - this is Freakin' Boney James," says John Beaudin, Program Director of Smooth Jazz Now. "Boney is not just known as a superstar, he proves it with every song and every album."

Five tracks entered the chart this week. At #42 Jeffrey Osborne with his second tune from 'A Time for Love,' a cover of 'Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight.' Greg Chambers came in at #38 with 'After Hours.' At #33 Ethan Farmer's 'Beautiful' had a strong debut and it was magic #22 for Drew Davidsen and 'Hi5.' The highest debut came from Euge Groove and one of ths silliest titles ever 'old.edu' at #8;

The SmoothJazzNow TOP Chart is based only on audience requests and inquiries. It is a non-payola chart. Pay-for-play is prohibited on the station. CHECK OUT THE CHART

 

Natalie Cole Teases About New Music

March 9, 2013 – Natalie Cole has found her muse again! The 'Unforgettable' singer told fans on Twitter that she's coming back. The nine time Grammy winner should have a new album out this year.

Her website posted the following: Natalie Is Excited To Announce New Music To Be Released Soon. Stay Updated On Everything Natalie Cole By Following Natalie On Twitter @NatMCole

Cole is still on the upswing and busy with her 2013 tour, more concert dates should be posted soon.

Check out Cole’s tour dates here www.nataliecole.com.  - MORE ON NATALIE COLE

 

Michael Buble Getting Ready For New Album Release

March 5, 2013 - Canadian singer, Michael Buble is getting ready for his upcoming album “To Be Loved’ hitting stores April 23rd.

Buble’ tells Justjared.com exclusively, “My new record is about love, happiness, fun and yummy things. Getting to work with my friend and longtime collaborator Bob Rock who produced the entire album was very exciting. We’re a good team. I love the songs we selected this time out. It was also terrific working once again with my songwriting partners.”

This 37 year old crooner has already won three Grammy’s, numerous awards and hit Billboard’s Top Jazz albums chart.

Bublé and his wife Luisana Lopilato are expecting their first child this year too! MORE

 

REVIEW - Mike MacArthur – Feels Like Home (4 out of 5 Stars) – AMG Group

March 2, 2013 – I think the reputation of a music reviewer is that of a bitter and jaded curmudgeon living in a van down by the river. Years ago after writing a blistering review of a project that sounded half finished the artist approached me at a club and screamed, “You must spend a lot of time looking for things to hate?” “Actually it's the opposite, I answered, “I use my hours looking for the good stuff, 3/4 of the trip, however, is filled cliched blah!”

I get a feeling Mike MacArthur also has a thirst for the good stuff. Here's a guy who worked Maynard Ferguson, he also toured with Diane Schuur and had stints with Rick Braun, Jeff Golub, Peter White, Frankie Valli, Craig Chaquico, Chieli Minucci, Rick Derringer, Roger Waters, Blake Aaron, Jeff Kashiwa, Roger Smith and many more.

On 'Feels Like Home' MacArthur recruits old friend Brian Bromberg as producer and he's featured prominently throughout the album on acoustic bass.

The CD kicks off with a firm reminder of his days with, the late great, Ferguson. It's tight, lively and more traditional than smooth. Featuring Rick Braun on trumpet and Jeff Lorber on piano, 'Filthy McNasty,' written by Horace Silver, who was famous for juggling many Jazz styles, is dusted off and revitalized from it's original 1961 version. Hearing MacArthur and Braun together is as tasty as it gets. MORE

 

 

It's Two Weeks at #1 for Euge Groove On the SmoothJazzNow Chart

March 1, 2013 - For the second week in a row Euge Groove had the most requested song on SmoothJazzNow. As a result his 'House of Groove' easily made it to #1 on the TOP 50 chart. "Euge is like Boney James, Dave Koz or Peter White," says John Beaudin, Program Director of SmoothJazzNow, "They all consistently release music that sticks with listeners."

Three new songs entered the chart this week Jessy J's 'Remember the Night' at #46, 'Prima Vista' by Roman Street #44 and the highest entry from Mike MacArthur #33, 'Sanctified.'

The SmoothJazzNow TOP Chart is based only on audience requests and inquiries. It is a non-payola chart. Pay-for-play is prohibited on the station. CHECK OUT THE CHART

 


Diana Krall Cancels Buffalo Show on ‘Glad Rag Doll’ Tour

February 27, 2013 – Canadian Jazz pianist and singer Diana Krall is coming to a city near you. This Grammy Award -winning beauty is in full swing on her ‘Glad Rag Doll’ Tour. In selling over 6 million albums in the U.S. and over 15 million records worldwide, this is one girl you won’t want to miss!

Krall released her album ‘Glad Rag Doll’ in October of 2012 and some of the Jazz music she used was written in the 1920s to 30s and has that take you back in time feel. She also throws in a few ideas from her father’s collection of records that he had collected over the years.

Diana was set to perform at the UB center for the Arts in Buffalo, NY tonight but has postponed that performance due to an upper respiratory infection.

Check out her touring schedule to find tickets in your area. Go to www.dianakrall.com  MORE ON DIANA KRALL

 

ThisJazz Readies to Launch New Radio Station Monday March 4th

February 23, 2013 – The folks who brought you SmoothJazzNow are branching out into a more Contemporary and Traditional Jazz area with a brand new radio station. ThisJazz will also feature a great mix of different Jazz genre's including Smooth Jazz as well. “On SmoothJazzNow we have always had a sub-category of tunes from artists that sound more Contemporary Jazz or, sometimes, Traditional,” says John Beaudin Program Director of SmoothJazzNow. “We though why not do a little research and see if we could serve Jazz fans from a different angle and also include the best Smooth Jazz in the mix.”

ThisJazz will also make the music first. “The new station will not be heavy on talk,” says Beaudin, “The message is the music. Trust me, you won't hear long diatribes on the psychology of Jazz on this radio station.”

Beaudin says the ThisJazz chart will be unique because of the different genre's of Jazz housed in the countdown. “Lots of Smooth Jazz charts include more traditional/standards type singers but our list will be much more diverse than that. We have been testing the mix for almost a year now and all these cats sound great together.” MORE

 

 

Euge Groove Hits #1 On the SmoothJazzNow Chart

February 16, 2013 - Euge Groove is no stranger to the SmoothJazzNow chart. The Sax-man has had every one of his singles spend some time on our countdown and his latest, 'House of Groove,' is #1. "Euge has always connected well with our listeners," say John Beaudin, Program Director of Smooth Jazz Now. "In fact, some of his fans are extra-dedicated. They will call us non-stop and requests his stuff - they love the man."

Two new songs entered the chart this week 'Batucada' from Boney James and the title cut from Ben Tankard's 'Full Tank' CD. "Boney's debut is especially exciting," says Beaudin, "Entering at #10 is really cool." CHECK OUT THE CHART

 

Let’s Not Forget The Jazz Grammy Winners

February 11, 2013 - Every year most of the Grammy headlines are about the Pop, Rock and Country singers but let’s not forget to pay tribute to the Jazz genres.

There were some great take homes last night and Chris Botti scooped up 'Best Pop Instrumental Album' for ‘Impressions.”

The 'Top Jazz Vocal Album' went to Esperanza Spalding with ‘Radio Music Society’ and the 'Best Jazz Instrumental Album' was claimed by Pat Metheny Unity Band for ‘Unity Band.’

The pick for 'Improvised Jazz Solo' was Gary Burton and Chick Corea, soloists for the Concord Label track from ‘Hot House’ and ‘Ritmo’ won for 'Top Latin Jazz Album' from the Clare Fisher Latin Jazz Band.

For a complete list of all the Grammy Winners go to www.grammy.com. MORE

 

55th Grammy Award Winners

Feb 11, 2013 - The 55th annual Grammy Awards were held in Los Angeles last night and The Black Keys, Mumford & Sons, Gyote and Fun came out as big winners during the gala event.

The Black Keys cleaned up with lead singer Dan Auerbach ending up with 4 trophies for 'Producer of The Year' and three Rock category wins with bandmate Patrick Carney.

Mumford & Sons surprisingly took home 'Album of the Year' for ‘Babel,’ while Gyote walked away with 'Record of the Year' Award for their smashing hit single "Somebody That I Used To Know", featuring Kimbra and finished with three awards.

Fun, the American indie pop band, picked up the award for 'Best New Artist' and 'Song of the Year' for ‘We Are Young’ featuring Janelle Monae.

Other winners in the event were Paul McCartney, Adele, Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, among others.

Go to www.grammy.com for the complete list. MORE

 

 

Another Great Week for Greg Adams - 'Carry On' Hits #1 for Second Straight Week

February 8, 2013 - Greg Adams is really clicking with fans of Smooth Jazz Now Radio. His tune 'Carry On' has now made it to #1 for two weeks. "I think Greg comes at a song from a different angle than anyone else," says John Beaudin, Program Director of Smooth Jazz Now. "It's that freshness that really gets the listeners attention."

Three new tunes entered the countdown this week, including two from Canadian Pat Belliveau.

The SmoothJazzNow TOP Chart is based only on audience requests and inquiries. It is a non-payola chart. Pay-for-play is prohibited on the station. Check out the chart


Eric Clapton to Release New Album 'Old Sock'

January 31, 2013 – Eric Clapton is set to release his 21st studio album ‘Old Sock’ on March 12th.

The album is promoted by his own label, Bushbranch, and will include two original tunes ‘Every Little’ and ‘Gotta Get Over’ plus an additional 10 songs of the artist’s favorites!

There is a lineup of special guests including JJ Cale, Chaka Khan, Steve Winwood, Paul McCartney and legendary drummer Steve Gadd.

Clapton will head out on a U.S tour this spring following the release of his new album and coinciding with his Crossroads Guitar Festival at Madison Square Garden.

The English rock guitarist’s last album released was in 2010 called ‘Clapton.’ MORE

Norah Jones Readies To Perform at Oscars

January 31, 2013 – Norah Jones is one busy lady as she is set to perform at the Oscars and is getting ready for her tour.

Jones will sing the theme song from the movie “Ted” during this year’s Academy Awards and the song “Everybody Needs A Best Friend” has been nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song.

Norah is releasing a new digital EP, Little Broken Hearts Remix EP (Blue Note) and is set to promote that in making an appearance on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno February 8th. The EP includes a few new remixes too. CHECK OUT THE CONCERT DATES

 

 

Dave Koz Releasing First Live Album

January 26, 2013 – Dave Koz, the eight- time Grammy nominee, is set to release his first live album. The sax-man will unveil 'Live at the Blue Note Tokyo' through Concord Records on February 12th. The live set was recorded in Japan in 2011 and the features over a dozen songs.

“I feel so fortunate to have spent my professional life on the road, touring all over the world, doing shows for almost 25 years now,” Koz says. “I love it. I’ve gotten to see many amazing places, learned so much, and met so many truly wonderful people. A lifetime on the road…it’s been a real blessing. This CD, my very first live record, captures one magical night of that lifetime and I wanted to share it with you.”

To sweeten the pot, 'Live at the Blue Note Tokyo' has also been nominated for a Grammy award for 'Best Pop Instrumental Album'. MORE

 

Greg Adams Hits #1 on the SmoothJazzNow Top 50 Countdown

January 25, 2013 - Greg Adams is on fire. The famous trumpet master has just hit #1 on the SmoothJazzNow Top 50 Countdown. "Greg is as good as it gets in this format," says John Beaudin, Program Director of SmoothJazzNow. "I'm glad that 'Carry One' connected with our audience," adds Beaudin, "This is one of my favorite songs of the last twelve months."

Our chart had nine new tunes included this week with the highest from the Tony Rich Project. His new single 'Fade Away' entered at an amazing #9.

The SmoothJazzNow TOP Chart is based only on audience requests and inquiries. It is a non-payola chart. Pay-for-play is prohibited on the station.  CHECK OUT THE CHART