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.

‘Radio Music Society’ is Spalding’s third album and the follow to ‘Chamber Music Society,’ the titles are way too similar but the singer says the new album is meant as a companion, rather than a sequel to the last one. “Originally I thought it would be fun to release a double album,” she explains, “One disc with an intimate, subtle exploration of chamber works and a second one in which jazz musicians explore song forms and melodies that are formatted more along the lines of what we would categorize as “pop songs.”

Spalding, as you may remember, won the Grammy for ‘Best New Artist’ last year, stunning the music world because not that many people knew who she was – many still don’t! Will this album change that? Maybe, ‘Radio Music Society” is certainly a richly textured, well-balanced adventure that cleverly marries Jazz, Pop and World music. Her vision is so clearly expressed on this album that I found myself listening alone with headphones at high volume so not to miss any of her hundreds of brilliant vocal nuances.

This album is easy. It’s so effortless. Spalding’s message is like a dance, a drug that’s hard to deny. Being adventurous, in the music industry, usually has its price but this lady has found the pocket, that inviting bridge that allows the listener to simply trust.

Spalding’s mother was a single parent in Portland, Oregon and home-schooled her daughter for a few years during elementary school. A very young Esperanza spotted classical cellist Yo Yo Ma on ‘Mister Roger’s Neighbourhood,’ so many years ago and her fate was set – she knew her mission in life. READ MORE

It's Time for Our Annual Garage Sale!
March 12, 2012 - Each year we clean house at the Smooth Jazz Now studios. It's time for our annual fundraiser! We are raising funds for our new mixing board for the main studio and your help would be appreciated.

Here's how it works. We are adding new Ebay auctions every day offering 10-CD sets with starting bids of $9.99. That's $1 for a CD!!!

In many cases the CD's are still sealed and/or have only been played once. Also since there are three radio stations under our roof (the others being www.rockhistorybook.com and www.whatsinvisible.com), you will see auctions featuring many genre's including Traditional Jazz. Rock, New-Age, ambient etc.  Also look for some autographed CD and LP's.

Remember we will be adding 20-30 auctions every day for the next 30 days.

Happy bidding and thanks for the support! Check out our auction page HERE

Smooth Jazz Now and Friends Remember Whitney Houston February 21, 2012 - As it was stated during the Grammy Awards, "We've had a death in the family." Now our own Jazz family is remembeing Whitney Houston. Everyone on our staff were touched by the outpouring of love and sadness for Whitney. Check out our exclusive comment from friends and colleagues.   Gregory Abbott: “The world has sustained an incredible loss and I personally am crushed that Nippy (Whitney) has left us. Artistically she had one of the most satisfying voices I have ever heard. A melodic pop sensibility, tinged with a down home gospel flavor that gave it authenticity. I just love listening to her. I first heard her sing out at New Hope Baptist Church in New Jersey while on an expedition out there to hear her mother (Cissy) sing. We were considering using Cissy to sing backup vocals on songs I was recording for my very first record deal. What a surprise to hear her young daughter with her angelic composure as she proceeded to shake the rafters loose. I absolutely had to have her sing as well, and I ended up singing several duets with Whitney (unreleased). I was nervous as hell. Whitney was one hundred percent rock solid calm and at home. Amazing. She was only seventeen. She sounded like a singer ten, fifteen years older.  She and her mother helped me through that session with advice on how to build drama, phrasing, and using different parts of the voice to communicate the emotion of a song. We all know Whitney's track record of accomplishments. She has made as great an impact on the music industry (and especially singers) as any individual possibly could make.  All through the years, Whitney has been supportive and someone I've truly called "friend". What a generous, vulnerable soul was she. How painful that she's gone. I will miss her very, very much.”  - Gregory Abbott   “It’s unfortunate that it took Whitney Houston’s death for the world to remember how amazing she was.  After watching The Bodyguard for the first time and listening to her ‘Greatest Hits’ continually for the past week it’s hard not to be in awe at the brilliance of what she was. Now as we move on it’s as important to learn from what happened. This is a tragedy and we need to pay attention to it.” – John Beaudin, Host and Program Director fo Smooth Jazz Now “The world has lost one of the all-time greats. She had such a rare gift, one that reached the outer-limits of the globe...no matter the language, her voice was understood. That's the mark of a true icon, someone who's influence will be felt forever. The world will miss you, Whitney.” - Dave Koz     READ MORE TRIBUTES ON WHITNEY HERE

Lets Remember Whitney Houston, The Good and Bad
February 21, 2012 - Shock, disappointment and horror are some of the many words fans used to describe Whitney Houston’s untimely death last week (February 11, 2012). My family and I were outside a Starbucks when one of our radio listeners texted me with, at first, the rumor. We immediately thought of the crazy Jon Bon Jovi death rumour from December but unlike that one which seemed ridiculous at the time, the death of Whitney was entirely possible. In fact, it seems it had been possible for years.

By the time we got home confirmation was all over the internet. Whitney was dead.

Interestingly, we lost the singer three days away from the 27th anniversary of the release of her self-titled debut album. I remember it well.

On Valentines Day in 1985, Arista Records sent every announcer in our building a free copy of Whitney’s album. Even though I worked for an Adult Contemporary radio station, I didn’t exactly jump at the gift. I thought the young girl on the cover looked strange and somewhat exotic. Was this a world music album I remember thinking?  This just wasn’t your typical LP style for an incoming superstar. I put the album in my trunk and forgot about it. READ MORE

Adele Wins Six Grammy Awards And Nicki Minaj Embarrasses Herself
February 12, 2012 - As expected it was a huge night for Adele at the Grammy Awards. The singer, from Tottenham, North London, England, walked away with six trophies including "Song," "Record" and "Album of the Year." In her usually classy way she thanked "the doctors who brought my voice back." On stage she described her album "21" as a story that "everyone's been through. Which is a rubbish relationship." Adele's totals tied her with Beyonce as the most wins by a woman in one evening but if you judge it for vocal prowess, it's Adele hands down!

Nicki Minaj, who I don't really consider a musician, presented a convoluted, silly performance. It was easily one of the most embarrassing performances in Grammy history. In it's very Lady Gaga-esque over-the-top attention seeking shtick Minjaj lip-synched through exorcism on stage to one of the worse songs ever recorded - "Roman Holiday." Hey Nicki, can you hear the sound of angry catholics at your door? Good luck with that!

Unfortunately, Dave Koz did not win a Grammy tonight. He was nominated for Best Pop Instrumental Album for "Hello Tomorrow," Booker T Jones won it for his CD "The Road From Memphis."

The Best New Age album went to Pat Metheny (he must be so happy to be known as a New-Ager) for "What's It All About."

Best Improvised Jazz Solo was awarded to Chick Corea for "500 Miles High." He also won for his trio, Corea, Clarke and White, for Best Jazz Instrumental Album with the CD "Forever." Terri Lyne Carrington picked up Best Jazz Vocal Album.

Bela Fleck and Howard Levy were honored with Best Instrumental Composition
for "Life In Eleven."

The Foo Fighters were also big winners with five Grammy’s. Lead singer Dave Grohl walked on stage and reminded the audience how the band’s new album "Wasting Light" was recorded in his garage, the old fashioned way. He said, "The human element of making music is most important. Singing into a microphone, learning to play your instrument. It's not about being perfect. It's not about what goes on in a computer, but what goes on in here and what goes in here," as he pointed to his head and heart. The strange part was the Foo Fighters then performed in the Electronic dance music set of the evening?

Kanye West, who had the most nominations at seven, picked up four Grammy’s.

Also a big congrats to Justin Vernon and his band Bon Iver who won Best New Artist and Best Alternative Album.

The night was filled with tributes including the reunited Beach Boys, Glen Campbell and, of course, Whitney Houston. Jennifer Hudson's rendition of the Dolly Parton penned "I Will Always Love You," a Whitney signature song, was breathtaking. Houston died yesterday in L.A.

There was a huge milestone for Alison Krauss who officially became the only living artist with 28 Grammy Awards. She surpassed Quincy Jones tonight by winning Best Bluegrass Album. - by John Beaudin

Your 54th Annual Grammy Awards Updates
February 12, 2012 - This is how to start a shindig! Bruce Springsteen and E Street Band opened the 54th Annual Grammy Awards with the new single "We Take Care Of Our Own." It was big, it was real, it was beautiful. 

LL Cool J, the nights MC, started his job by saying a prayer for Whitney Houston who died in L.A. yesterday. The reality of her death certainly hit hard when Whitney was featured on the giant screen singing "I Will Always Love You."

Bruno Mars showed his harder edge performing "Runaway Baby" from his "Doo - Wops & Hooligans" album.

Alicia Keys and Bonnie Raitt did both the Blues and Etta James proud by performing the late music icon's great hit "Sunday Kind Of Love." The pair also gave out the nights first award "Best Pop Solo Performance" which was picked up by Adele and "Someone Like You."

Chris Brown, who famously almost lost his career and freedom a few years ago at the Grammy's after beating the crap out of Rhianna, performed next. He's as much of a great lip-syncher as he is a dancer. It was a great performance however.

Best Rap Performance goes to Jay-Z and Kanye West for Otis. 

Jack Black introduced the sensational Foo Fighters who blew the roof off with their nominated "Walk." Best performance so far!

Coldplay and Rihanna shared the stage next. Well, at least Coldplay sounded good!

Best Rock Performance was picked up by Foo Fighters for "Walk."

Maroon 5 kicked off the Beach Boys tribute with "Surfer Girl." Foster the People did  a great job of "Wouldn't It Be Nice." Then for their 50th Anniversary the reunited Beach Boys took to the stage to perform one of the most loved songs in pop history "Good Vibrations." It was classic!

It's an event when Paul McCartney does anything but having Paul perform with Diana Krall and the Eagles Joe Walsh, well, it doesn't get much more tasty than this. Paul performed his new Jazz single "My Valentine" followed by, of course, a standing ovation.

Chris Brown won "Best R&B Album" for F.A.M.E.

The Civil Wars seemed to upstage Taylor Swift with her kiddie-country music and her variation on a boy-done-me-wrong theme. God this girl's music is boring!

Song of the Year was won by Adele's "Rolling In The Deep." Everyone predicted this one!

"Own The Night" by Lady Antebellum was Top Country Album.

Adele's comback was complete when the talented singer took to the stage for her hit "Rolling In The Deep." After undergoing a throat operation there was no doubt tonight that her pipes were back! She also got a much deserved standing ovation.  Maybe Lady Gaga learned something, probably not.

The Glen Campbell tribute was sensational with Blake Shelton, looking too uptight as usual, doing a cool version of "Southern Nights" and he also had the pleasure in introducing Campbell, who suffers from Alzheimer's. The music legend sang his signature "Rhinestone Cowboy."  He received the recording Academy's Lifetime Achievement Award.

Best New Artist was Wisconsin-bred band Bon Iver.

Gerry Rafferty was missing from the tributes of fallen music heroes that we lost in the last year and Dan Peek of the group America was also not mentioned. Jennifer Hudson did an amazing rendition of Whitney Houston's classic "I Will Always Love You."  It was a vocal triumph and a fitting tribute to the wonderful voice that put Whitney on the map over and over in the eighties and nineties. Something that Hudson seemed to pull off tonight.

Drake introduced Nicki Minaj who served up the most embarrassing moment, that I can remember, in Grammy history. Her over-the-top badly theatrical lip-synched performance was hard to watch in that half-baked high school kind-of-way. As the cliche goes that's five minutes I can never get back!

Adele, again to no one's surprise, won Record of the Year and Album of the Year.

McCartney closed off the show with some Beatles classics. He was joined by Bruce Springsteen, Joe Walsh and Dave Grohl of the Foo Fighters. Could it get any better? Easily one of the best Grammy nights ever - minus Miss Minaj.  - by John Beaudin

Whitney Houston Died in the Bathtub
February 12, 2011 – More information is surfacing concerning the death of Whitney Houston. Sources close to the investigation say that the singer was found in the bathtub at the Beverly Hilton hotel in Los Angeles. Her face was underwater.

Houston’s stylist, hairdresser and two bodyguards were just outside the bathroom at the time of her death. The crew were set to help the singer prepare for the Clive Davis pre-Grammy party. After not hearing from Whitney for over an hour they became concerned. One of them knocked on the bathroom door but heard no answer. That’s when a female hairdresser opened the door and screamed when she saw Whitney with her face underwater and her legs were up. One of the bodyguards quickly pulled her out and attempted CPR. Unfortunately, the singer was probably already dead as her body was very cold.

After paramedics arrived they also tried, in vain, to save her live. She was pronounced dead at 3:55PM.

Sources also say that the singer was taking Xanax. When she had big performances it’s something she took to calm her nerves and last night she was set to perform a song at the Clive Davis event. Some are guessing that she may have fallen asleep in the bathtub and drowned.

Houston was also drinking a lot the night before she died.

Whitney Houston’s Mom Says The Singer Seemed Fine Before Her Death
February 11, 2012 – According to Whitney Houston’s mother, Cissy Houston, she spoke to her daughter just before she died and Whitney seemed absolutely fine.

The elder Houston says she spoke to her daughter about 30 minutes before she died. The pair talked about attending the Clive Davis (pictured with Houston) pre-Grammy party.

Whitney apparently spoke to her cousin, singer Dionne Warwick a few hours earlier today and says there were no signs of trouble. The pair also talked about the pre-Grammy party and how they both wanted to sit together.

Whitney was spotted outside a nightclub this week looked heavily intoxicated. There were also rumors that the singer was on the brink of bankruptcy.

Houston died at 3:35PM today at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. No cause of death has been released. MORE

Whitney Houston May Have Already Been Dead When Paramedics Arrived
February 11, 2012  - Whitney Houston died this afternoon. She was 48. Some sources are saying there was nothing the emergency workers could have done to save Houston’s life.

A member of the singers entourage found her in her room at the Beverly Hilton hotel this afternoon and immediately called hotel security, then 911 was called. According to some sources Houston was unresponsive by the time paramedics arrived.

Paramedics performed CPR but nothing worked. She was pronounced dead at 3:55PM.

According to Associated Press there were no signs of foul play in her room however a full investigation is underway.

Houston had a well-publicized battle with drugs for many years. MORE

Whitney Houston Dead at 48
February 11, 2012 – Whitney Houston has died according to her publicist. The singer, who was 48, passed away today according to Kristen Foster but it was unclear how the singer died. According to some sources, Houston died at the Beverly Hilton hotel.

Of course the Internet is abuzz on the cause of death being drug related but nothing has been officially announced.

Houston peaked in the 1980’s and ‘90’s with huge hits like "How Will I Know," "Saving All My Love for You" and "I Will Always Love You." She not only had one of the best voices in any genre but also won numerous accolades including 6 Grammy Awards, two Emmy Awards and 22 American Music Awards. Needless to say tomorrow nights Grammy broadcast will no doubt be filled with Whitney tributes.

Peter White to Release ‘Here We Go’
Feb 10, 2012-  Skilled guitarist Peter White is set to release his 13th upcoming album, ‘Here We Go’ on March 13, 2012.

This British-born musician released his debut album in the 1990’s and has been one of the core artists in Smooth Jazz ever since. "Peter is not only one of the most trusted players in Smooth Jazz but he's also one of the nicest men I have ever met," says Smooth Jazz Now Program Director John Beaudin. "There are very few artists that I trust without listening to first and Peter White is one of them," adds Beaudin. "I haven't heard the album yet but I know it will be great because this guy has hit the mark on every single record he has released!" 

The new CD features eleven tasty tracks and Peter will talk about them with John Beaudin on-air within the next two weeks.

"Here We Go" includes some familiar co-horts of White's including keyboardist Philippe Saisse and producer DC. David Sanborn is also featured on the title track.  Kirk Whalum and Andrew Neu also lend some saxophone magic on the project. MORE

Toto’s Steve Lukather Set to Join Ringo Starr's 13th All Starr Band Tour
February 10, 2012 – It’s no secret that Steve Lukather, like many of us, is a huge Beatles fan. It was announced this week that the Toto guitarist and founding member will join Ringo for the famous tour to begin in Niagara Falls Ontario on June 14th.

Lukather says, "I am deeply honored and excited to join some old and new friends and a musical hero Ringo Starr on this summers USA tour. It is a dream come true and I plan to being my best and enjoy every moment! Its gonna be massive fun!"

Also announced on the tour are Gregg Rolie of Santana & Journey fame along with All Starr alumni Richard Page, Todd Rundgren, Mark Rivera, and Gregg Bissonette.

Each musician gets to sing their classic hits and Ringo does his biggies including, "It Don't Come Easy", "Photograph", "Little Help From My Friends" etc.

The tour runs until July 21 at the Greek Theatre in L.A. but more tour dates are expected to be announced shortly. MORE

Norah Jones to Release New Album in Spring
Jan 31, 2012 - Good news for all the Norah Jones fans out there! The singer is set to release a new album in spring called 'Little Broken Hearts.'  This will be Jones' fifth studio CD and she will be joined by producer and musician, Danger Mouse who is notably the backbone for the project. He also co-wrote many of the tunes with her.

Jones will really be promoting this project with tons of shows this year. She is set to appear at many festivals including a stint at the Hollywood Bowl.

Though she has never out-performed her debut album, "Come Away with Me," from 2002, the nine-time-Grammy winner, with the famous rootsy voice, just keeps belting out the tunes. Norah insists on writing songs that speak to her soul more than returning to the same radio-formula hits of the past. MORE

Etta James Dies at the Age 73
Jan 20, 2012 - Etta James, an iconic R&B American singer known for her classic songs “ At Last” and “Something’s Got A Hold Of Me” has died today at the age of 73.

Recognition and appreciation has rolled in for James over the years. She was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2000 and in 2001 she was honored with a Grammy for Lifetime Achievement. Etta was also inducted into the Grammy Hall of fame in 2003.

Etta is survived by her two sons Donto and Sametto who are both musicians that performed in her band. MORE

Kenny G's Wife Files For Separation
January 20, 2012- Kenny G may be standing in the ring with his wife of 20 years, Lyndie Benson-Gorelick. According to TMZ she has recently filed papers for a legal separation from the sax player in L.A. County Superior Court stating “irreconcilable differences.”

Both parties have hired bigwig lawyers and maybe that's in preparation for a match in divorce court. TMZ reports Kenny has scooped up lawyer Laura Wasser, who has represented Angelina Jolie and Kim Kardashian.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductees Announced
Dec 9, 2011- Well, after much consideration let it be known the class of 2012 inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame have been announced. Congrats to first time nominee Guns N’Roses and previously nominated groups Red Hot Chili Peppers and Beastie Boys who all made the grade.

It turns out the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ended up letting in seven of the total 13 acts nominated. Inductees Donovan, Laura Nyro, Freddie King and The Small Faces/ The Faces will also be rising to the occasion.

 All of this will be wrapped up in this year’s ceremony scheduled for April 14, 2012 in Cleveland and tickets will go on sale Dec 17th. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame will also be celebrating that whole week with special events and the impressive opening of their new library and archives. The word isn’t out yet whether Guns N’ Roses and Beastie Boys will be performing at the event but it looks promising for The Red Hot Chili Peppers since they are already touring the U.S. in 2012. MORE

Lionel Richie Honored with Humanitarian Award
Dec 5, 2011- It is no surprise that today, iconic superstar Lionel Richie is set to receive from the Harvard Foundation at Kirkland House, the 2011 Peter J. Gomes Humanitarian Award.

Richie has written and recorded many billboard hits and has co-written a few songs aimed solely to benefit hunger victims in Africa and also for the earthquake in Haiti in 2010. He also gives back in supporting and helping to raise funds and world awareness for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

"The students and faculty of the Harvard Foundation are pleased to present the 2011 Humanitarian Award to Mr. Lionel Richie in memory of the late Reverend Peter J. Gomes," said Dr. S. Allen Counter, director of the Harvard Foundation. "Richie is one of our nation's most creative musical artists, who has inspired many through his artistic and philanthropic endeavors. Reverend Gomes would be proud of the selection of the legendary musician, Lionel Richie, for this singular honor. We are honored to have him as our special guest on the Harvard campus."

George Michael Recovering from Pneumonia
Dec 2, 2011 - Oh no, is what I thought when the news came out that George Michael was recently stricken with respiratory complications in Vienna, Austria. It was so bad that George has to cancel his show two hours before it was about to start, get himself into an emergency room and looked at fast!
The 48 year old pop singer was diagnosed with a lung infection and on the insistence of doctors rest is his only option. He cut out a number of shows on his ‘Symphonic’ tour to fight the illness and then decided to pull back completely.

Death of the CD Expected By 2013
November 22, 2011 - Industry insiders are saying that the compact disc may be a thing of the past within 2 years! I remember when that little shiny disc wiped out the cassette tape and I thought that would never happen.

According to Side Line Music Magazine, the CD is set to expire by 2013 and will be in motion to start elimination sometime into 2012. The only CD’s that will be out there will be limited edition prints from major record labels. Here we are now left wrapping our minds round streaming and digital download options with retailers such as iTunes and Amazon. The truly bad news is a digital download has inferior sound to a CD, so once again I guess speed kills.

The magazine tried to get a statement from some of the big labels to confirm the extinction of the CD and no one would come forward but some employees and associates of the labels said indeed things are in the works.

So, like all things, time will tell if our CD’s will be collecting dust on our shelves and if inevitably we will be clicking a link on our computers for our song selection.  MORE

Are The Police Returning?
Nov 16, 2011- Well, if you’ve got the main member of the band saying no then that’s a big fat no! In an interview with Billboard Magazine, Sting, vocalist/bassist of the band (that was most popular in the 70’s and 80’s) can’t see the trio getting back together again. “You know, it's something I am very proud of but I’m not sure there would be a reason to open it again except for nostalgic reasons, and I think we did that” in 2007-2008, he said. “I thought we did it very successfully. The timing was perfect. Everybody was happy to see us. So you know say, ‘OK, let’s close the book….”

 Here’s a double whammy too for Sting fans as he says they shouldn’t expect a solo album anytime soon either. Ouch!

Right now Sting is promoting his 25 Years box set, one-CD greatest hits album and iTunes app. “It’s hard to know what the new model is. I think the app is the new model,” says Sting. “People are going to stop buying CDs. People are going to stop selling and making them, so I am looking for different ways to get music to people, and the application at the moment seems to be the favorite.” Looks like Sting is just moving with the times. MORE

Dave Koz- Ultimate Christmas Collection & Tour
November 15, 2011 - Dave Koz fans are thrilled with his fourth Christmas album. All the songs on his new release “Ultimate Christmas” are compilations from his three previous holiday albums. Now this is ringing in the festivities Koz style!

The Collection features 18 holiday classics and special appearances on vocals by Kelly Sweet and Kimberley Locke.  Koz also throws in two brand new instrumentals with: “Welcoming the Season and “Welcoming the New Year.”

Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour 2011 starts on November 25th at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center in Atlanta, GA. What a better way to kick off the 14th anniversary of the tour than to be joined by a great line- up featuring Rick Braun, Jonathan Butler and Candy Dulfer . Each artist will bring to the table their own hits and jam together on many holiday favorites.  Check out the tour dates below. – By Shannon Edwards

Check out the Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour dates

Dr. Conrad Murray Found Guilty of Involuntary Manslaughter
November 7, 2011 – Michael Jackson fans are cheering in the streets right now. Dr. Conrad Murray has just been found guilty of Involuntary Manslaughter.

All twelve jurors found Michael Jackson’s last doctor responsible for his death.

A sentencing date was set for November 29, 2011. Murray was denied bail for his own safety and for the safety of the public. He was led away in handcuffs.

Michael Bublé Works Harder for What He’s Got!
November 4, 2011 - Here is a Canadian crooner who has won over the hearts of many with his genuine voice, captivating smile and boyish looks. The singer has sold over 35 million records worldwide and has won many awards during his solo career.

Michael works harder for what he’s got and realizes how much he could lose, especially while sitting at the top of his game. ''I’m more afraid of failure now than I have ever been,” Bublé told British magazine GQ. “It's only recently I've understood the maths of what make artists go up and down. They make too much money. They have too many people blowing smoke up their ass. You have to have that fear and desperation. Always want to do something better.”

Buble’ is now getting set for the festive season promoting his new Christmas album, which is no doubt going to be another hit. The 36-year old performer feels very fortunate to have many devoted fans and consistent record sales.

Coroner: Amy Winehouse Died of Alcohol Consumption
Oct 26, 2011- Well, we finally know what killed Amy Winehouse. As many feared it was one of her vices that took her away. According to a coroner’s report released today it was a result of alcohol consumption coining it a “death of misadventure.” Amy had ultimately died of voluntary actions on her part and nothing criminal had taken place.

Winehouse had a long time battle with substance abuse and was found dead on July 23, in her London apartment at the young age of 27. Investigators found three empty bottles of vodka in her bedroom and apparently she had been on a bender after being sober for three weeks. It was stated that an autopsy on Amy’s body actually showed her blood-alcohol level was 5 times over the legal drinking limit.

Last month her parents created the Amy Winehouse Foundation in her memory to help raise funds to aid people in similar situations. MORE

Smooth Jazz Now has a Sister Radio Station
October 25, 2011 – It was only a matter of time before the Air-Com Radio Network added another station to its line-up. Interestingly, the new station attracts the same demographic as the very popular Smooth Jazz Now – 35-64 adults.

We are proud to announce Rock History Book to the fold. The new radio station focuses on Classic Rock first but is also plays a sprinkle of new music as well. “We represent the 1970’s as the major decade on the station,” says Operations Manager John Beaudin, “But we also play much from the 1960’s and the 1980’s. Beaudin adds that any station with a name like Rock History Book.com needs to represent all the decades of the Rock n Roll era.

Rock History Book will also be giving away iPad-2 packages, like Smooth Jazz Now, but at 11AM (eastern) where the Jazz station does it at 12-Noon (eastern).

Also expect to hear some familiar voices on Rock History Book. Beaudin and Shannon Edwards from Smooth Jazz Now will cover the morning duties and popular musician and Smooth Jazz Now DJ Johnny J Rivera is hosting the Afternoon Drive program.

“I know a lot of Smooth Jazz fans, like me, also love the Classic Rock format,” says Beaudin. “As different as the formats are sonically,” says Beaudin, “It’s important to note that most adult Smooth Jazz Lovers grew up in the 60’s and 70’s.”

You can listen to Rock History Book here http://streamdb2web.securenetsystems.net/v4/index.cfm?stationCallSign=ROCK1&relocateURL=true

You can go to the official site here http://www.rockhistorymusic.com

Only Nine iPad-2 Packages Left to Win on Smooth Jazz Now
October 24, 2011 – It’s a great time to win an iPad-2! With the Holidays just around the corner you could consider it a great present for yourself or, better yet, give it to the one you love!

We want to congratulate all our listeners who have already won these great iPad-2 packages worth over $900 but lets remember, we have nine packages left.

Each weekday at 12-noon (eastern) John Beaudin will call out 5 names from our Smooth Jazz Listeners Club. The first of those five to call us back at (917) 310-7625 will win the iPad-2 package. If we don’t get a winner, the first time, John will call out 5 more names, up to 20 names each weekday.

Also remember our sister station, Rock History Book, gives away the same iPad-2 packages but instead of 12-Noon (eastern) our Rock station starts calling out names at 11AM (Eastern). Like Smooth Jazz Now, you need to be a member of our mailing list. Join here

If you’re not a member of our Smooth Jazz Listeners Club its very easy to join. Just fill in the pop-up that appears when you go to listen to Smooth Jazz Now Radio.  You can also join via the form on the left hand side of each page of Smooth Jazz Now.com.

Get ready for the holidays with Smooth Jazz Now and the sensational iPad-2!

REVIEW - 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.

There is something that happens to a critic after many years of writing reviews. The writer either ends up loving everything they hear, and God knows most Smooth Jazz reviewers are shameless flag-waivers, or the critic needs to hear something with inventive originality – something that paves a new road. This album has all of the latter.

Kennard Ramsey is a successful film composer who has worked on such projects as “Ted Bundy,” “Ringmaster” and the TV shows “Knots Landing” and “Lincoln Heights.”

This whole project has a world-music feel wrapped around cool contemporary Jazz. The opening track kicks off like a Peter Gabriel album, dark, moody and mysterious. “Neo Shaman” serves as a great introduction to an artist ready to shake up the genres that he effortlessly flies through. The tune is melodic, pretty and the toe-tapping quota wasn’t lost on my ears either. The great Stanley Clarke also does an incredible bass solo.

Guest vocalist Chiwoniso handles “White Owl” a tune inspired by a dream that Ramsey had about a carnival of people passing through turnstiles possibly in New York. It’s got a Sade vibe that could make this a single.

“Loved Right” is the type of tune much needed in the Smooth Jazz format. It reminded me of the great work that Bernie Williams has been doing in the last few years. It has many hooks for radio but it’s all in its sense of cool that brings the track top-notch. Like much of Ramsey’s catchy film work I’d be proud to have this catchy little ditty as my soundtrack.

The proof in the different angle this album takes is best demonstrated on “This Time,” how Ramsey’s guitar and DJ Maga Bo’s drum programming almost sound like one instrument. The tune, about warm summer nights, demonstrates that pretty doesn’t have to be generic or derivative.

The gorgeous “Interlude (for Ian & Lucy)” is dedicated to his children and really portrays the innocence of those building block years when mortgage and savings were not in our vocabulary.

As we begin our new “star” ratings system today for album reviews, we all turn this corner on Smooth Jazz Now with a great beginning. 5 out of 5, yeah, we kinda like this one! MORE

Now Even More Chances to Win an iPad-2 From Smooth Jazz Now – LISTEN TODAY TO WIN
Last week “Smooth Jazz Now” called out one name to win a new Apple iPad-2. Today, starting, at 12/noon (eastern) we will give up to 4 listeners a chance to win the hottest gadget in the world.

John Beaudin will call out a name at noon, if that person does not call us back, at  (917) 310-7625, within 15 minutes he will call out another name at 12:15PM, then 12:30 and finally at 12:45.

These are the top-of-the-line iPad 2’s with Wi-Fi + 3G and 64 gigs. You can't buy a better iPad!

Make sure you are a member of our mailing list. You need to be to win! If you are not a member then simply join via the pop-up that appears when you go to listen to Smooth Jazz Now Radio. (Top right hand side of each page of our site)

Want to increase your chances to win? Just forward our weekly emails to a friend and our tracking system will let us know. You will get an extra chance to win with every person you forward our mailer to. Why not increase your odds.

Members of our mailing list also have a chance to win a “Mountain of 100 Classic CD’s” on Wednesday, August 31 at 1:10PM. Just listen for your name. Also “Smooth Jazz Now” hands out "Classic Albums Ten Packs” each weekday. Listen to Smooth Jazz Now at 11:10AM,  1:10PM, 3:10PM and 5:10PM (all times eastern) with John Beaudin. If you hear your name call us back at (917) 310-7625 within 15 minutes and the albums are yours!

The new iPad-2 is thinner, lighter and faster than it’s predecessor. It’s a must have!

Smooth Jazz Now Tightens Up The Sound
August 2, 2011 – With two more Smooth Jazz stations (WLOQ in Orlando and Wave/Toronto) giving up on the format this week we thought it was time to mix up the genre, just a bit! “Smooth Jazz Now” has decided to add more life to this format.

You may have noticed a gradual change in our sound during the last month. We have re-listened to every song on our station, carefully, to make sure they represent a sense of positivity, an interesting journey and most of all we listened for melody. “There has been too much generic groove in this format,” says “Smooth Jazz Now” Program Director John Beaudin. “So many of the songs sound the same and lack melody and life so we made sure to add more familiar songs with more tempo.” Consider it a “Greatest Hits” format for Smooth Jazz.

“We are lucky,” says Beaudin, “we get hundreds of calls each week from our listeners with fantastic requests and great advice – we are listening to them on where this format should go.”

Listen for Your Name Today to Win an iPad 2 on "Smooth Jazz Now"
July 27, 2011 - "Smooth Jazz Now" is very excited to be giving away our first, of many, iPad-2's today (Wednesday July 27) at 12:10PM (eastern). It's the hottest gadget in the world!

Smooth Jazz Now.com is giving away an iPad 2 each week to members of our mailing list.

John Beaudin will draw for a name today, if it's you call us at (917)310-7625 within the hour and it's yours. These are the top-of-the-line iPad 2 with Wi-Fi + 3G and 64 gigs. You can't buy a better iPad!

If you are not a member of our mailing list then simply join via the pop-up that appears when you go to listen to Smooth Jazz Now Radio. (top right hand side of each page of our site)

Want to increase your chances to win? Just forward this email to a friend and our tracking system will let us know. You will get an extra chance to win with every person you forward our mailer to. Why not increase your odds.

So remember, listen for your name every Wednesday at 12:10PM starting TODAY. READ 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.

The singer’s father, Ken Caillat, co-produced two of Fleetwood Mac’s biggest albums, “Rumours” and “Tusk” and that early inspiration has always showed in her music but nothing like the first tune on this album, “Brighter Than the Sun.” It could easily fit on most Buckingham/Nicks-Mac projects. It’s also her latest single from the CD. It easily reflects that silly-willy-in-love drug that changes the directions of our lives – It’s an irresistible pop tune. 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!

Franks has taken some time away from the studio with his last project being “Rendezvous in Rio” from 2006. “Time Together” is a very consistent CD like it’s predecessors. Many of the songs have a similar feel but if you truly get Franks vision, his philosophy of wonderment then it all makes sense. It’s the smaller things in life, the simple things that bring us to where we want to go. Franks really gets that.

The lead off single “Now That the Summer’s Here” is one of his strongest tunes in twenty years. It’s as if he grabbed all the different nuances from his strongest tunes and got back in that winning zone. Chuck Loeb produced this one and three others on the album and provides guitars, keys and drums to the mix. Let this one be a perfect soundtrack for the summer of 2011. MORE

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