LOTL-Radio The Comfort Zone

Powerful baritone voiced singer L.J. Reynolds is best known as the lead singer of the Dramatics, a role he has held for more than three decades.  Debut new music from his latest project "Come Get To This" A native of Saginaw, Michigan, Reynolds began performing as a child, when he won many awards as a dancer.  However, his expressive vocals won him notoriety around Michigan, and while still in high school he became the lead singer for the group the Relations.  He recorded as a solo artist in the early 70s before replacing William Howard in the Dramatics, then one of the hottest R&B groups in the country, though one beginning to mature into a purely R&B act.  Reynolds recorded a numbr of hits for the group, the biggest being the top 10 "Fell For You," before again going solo in 1980.   Reynolds had some solo success, the biggest being the wonderful mid-tempo hit "Key to the World," before returning to the Dramatics in the mid-80s.  He has remained in the group ever since, occasionally also releasing solo albums.  

At most times when an artist chooses to record an entire project of covers their song choices are usually scrutinized. This is especially true when their work is unproven on a national level. Yet, this notion certainly did not deter jazz chanteuse Kat Webb from recording a debut reflective of her eclectic tastes in contemporary and classic pop, R&B and jazz. After spending a few years singing background, songwriting and as an audio engineer, this self-declared quasi-Hippie vocalist decided to honor many of her childhood heroes like Mahalia, Ella and Aretha, along with legendary composers Burt Bacharach, Duke Ellington and John Lennon.  Webb begins An Old Soul with a bluesy swagger for “Come Sunday,” the Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn composition covered by Cannonball Adderly and Mahalia Jackson with Ellington’s Orchestra. One of the most coveted jazz classics, another Ellington & Strayhorn creation “Lush Life,” showcases Webb’s melancholy approach.  Webb sprinkles some sass on Al Green’s southern soul signature classic, “I’m Still in Love with You.” Her ability to flex some swing is evident on the Frank Sinatra classic, “All or Nothing At All.” The absolute highlight on An Old Soul is The Beatles’ “Blackbird,” where Webb’s turns on the vocal jets, climaxed by a hypnotizing duet with saxophonist Ezra Brown.

Los Angeles, CA (September 9, 2011) – After years of playing on each other’s projects, The E Family came together to produce this ultimate, long overdue and highly anticipated labor of love, “Now & Forever.” Available in stores on September 20, 2011 on Sheila E’s Stiletto Flats Music through Waterfront Entertainment (Fontana / Universal), “Now & Forever” pays homage to their collective diversity of styles, influences and experiences. The E Family is a force with which to be reckoned. Pete Escovedo discovered and cultivated a love and passion for music, embracing Latin jazz and passing it on to his sons and daughters. Pete has performed and toured with Tito Puente, Mongo Santamaria, Bobby McFerrin, Cal Tjader, Woody Herman, Billy Cobham, Boz Scaggs, Anita Baker, Arturo Sandoval, Poncho Sanchez, Carlos Santana, and Chick Corea to name a few. Today, Pete leads one of the country’s top orchestras, performing their own unique brand of Latin jazz. Pete’s daughter, multiple Grammy® and Emmy® nominee Sheila E. for her Outstanding Contribution as Musical Director for Fiesta Latina: A Performance At The White House, is also an impressive drummer, composer, producer, musical director and philanthropist, having performed with artists such as Ringo Starr, Prince, Jennifer Lopez, Lionel Richie, Diana Ross, George Duke, Placido Domingo, Natalie Cole, Phil Collins, Celine Dion, Quincy Jones, Stevie Wonder and countless others. Juan Escovedo brings his flavor of R&B to the table, having performed with a roster of noted artists including Patti Labelle, Jodi Watley, Lou Bega, MC Hammer, En Vogue, Herbie Hancock and many more. Youngest son Peter M

Jeanne Ricks is described as a singer with a "smoky soulfulness" (New Entertainment Weekly Magazine), but her talents don't stop there. As a composer, she has actualized a myriad of impressive accomplishments that would have taken some a lifetime to achieve.   Famed Guitarist George Benson selected Jeanne's 'Love Remembers' for the title track of his Warner CD; Francis Ford Coppola chose one of her songs for his critically acclaimed movie 'Assassination Tango', starring, Robert Duvall; Anita Pointer chose 'Thorny Rose', 'Always', and 'Stronger than Pride' for her upcoming CD; Chaka Khan recorded 'Don't Ask Me' for a WEA release; and Tony Ransom recorded  'Take It To Heart' and  'Turn To Me' for his Expansion/EMI solo album.  Her song 'Simple Pleasure' was recently chosen for The Weather Channel's 1st ever commercial CD release, titled 'The Weather Channel Presents: Best of Smooth Jazz' which reached #1 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz chart. A multi-instrumentalist who plays Acoustic & Electric Guitar as well as Keyboards - Jeanne lends background vocals to two of Steve Coleman's tracks on his groundbreaking CD The Sonic Language of Myth [RCA/Victor]. Her new CD "Make it Work!' was released in August 2009 and features Jazz saxaphonist Walter Beasley

L. Young has released two albums to date (2004's “'They Just Don't Know”, and 2007's “The 12thLetter”) and has just released the third, “Love Is A Verb”, in early 2011. He now resides in Los Angeles where he has made a major impact on the local and regional live music scene. L. has graced the stage with such artists as Patti LaBelle, Toni Braxton, Gladys Knight, Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Teena Marie and Jermaine Jackson just to name a few. Some of his credits include writing and production on KeKe Wyatt's 2010 release Who Knew, production of Babygirl (Terrys Theme) for B2K on the 2002 Barbershop Soundtrack, and writing and producing Nicole Sherzinger from the platinum selling recording group The cat Dolls. L. also has songs on the platinum selling Booty Call soundtrack, Dangerous Grounds, The Long Kiss Goodnight, and Dough Boys soundtracks. You will also find L credited for music in many network tv shows such as The new CW's The Game, Girlfriends, ABC's According To Jim, One Life To Live, VH1's Basketball Wives, and USA Network's Burn Notice.

Leon Ware, respected songwriter and producer of some of soul music’s most coveted recordings is in a somber, reflective mood. Touting. His latest collection, “Moonride” is trademark, smooth, soulful, romantic Ware, the kind of music that helped Ware craft his most noted recording, Marvin Gaye’s historic “I Want You” album in 1976. However, that album alone doesn’t do Ware, who remains largely unknown outside specialist soul music circles justice. Born In Detroit, MI in 1940 it was natural that Ware would find his first home at Motown, writing for the likes of the Martha Reeves & The Vandellas, The Miracle, Kim Weston and Isley Brothers. Writing for Ike & Tina Turner’s 1971 album “‘Nuff Said” for United Artists landed Ware a solo deal at the label resulting in 1972’s self titled debut album, though his vocal career actually began 12 years earlier in 1960 with ABC Records. However, Motown would provide Ware some of his most memorable successes. In the early ’70’s he formed a collaborative partnership with Diana Ross’ younger brother Arthur “T-Boy” Ross resulting in Michael Jackson’s “I Wanna Be Where You Are” (from the "Got To Be There" album) and of course, Marvin Gaye’s historic “I Want You”. Further collaborations throughout the decade with the likes of Minnie Riperton, AWB, Donny Hathaway, Quincy Jones, the Miracles, Bobby Womack. What, perhaps, though is most compelling about Ware’s story is the longevity of his songwriting career. On into the ’80’s and ’90’s he has received songwriting credits for the likes of Loose Ends, Jeffrey Osborne, Teena Marie, James Ingram, Isley’s, Chico Debarge and Maxwell (“Sumthin’ Sumthin’”).  

“Living in truth” is a perfectly natural concept. It’s hard, though, to put it into practice in a multi-tasking world subject to constant change and pressure from numerous sources. Faced with such challenges, we can find either solace or relief in the music that surrounds us. Skilled singer and songwriter Stacye Branche is choosing the more optimistic path -- or “Evolution” -- to find that frequently elusive zone of self-empowerment and creative prosperity. In fact, with the release of her self-penned and -produced fourth album, The Evolution to Living in Truth, she’s taking quite a big step. “I wanted to make a record that people would remember me by when I’m no longer here,” she remarks candidly. “I wanted it to be a statement of me, and not time stamped.” After working with producer Lloyd Tolbert on her first two independent CD’s, she decided to take on production responsibilities due to creative differences and what she felt was too much focus on a “commercial” sound on her last set (2004’s For the Man I Love). “I had an ‘Ah!’ moment. Initially, I didn’t even care if this new album was released, as long as I could get it done and have it to listen to.”  

JACNIQUE...sensationally soulful, jazzy, sultry siren. 2011 winner of 2 Black Music Awards for "Best Neo-Soul Artist" and "Best Urban Soul Artist". 2011 Los Angeles Music Awards nominee for "Jazz Artist of The Year" and "Jazz Album of The Year". It was once said that, “only passions, great passions can elevate the soul to great things”. The very essence of that statement is reflected in the mind, body, soul, and music of Jacnique Harris-Love. Known to her fans simply as Jacnique (pronounced Zsa’nique). This sensual, soulful songstress embodies all the qualities of a natural superstar. She is an avid songwriter, pristine vocalist, sensational performer and a runway renaissance woman. With graceful elegance, seductive sensuality, sassy sophistication, and a truly beautiful voice that seems to trace the very beat of your heart; she sends her audiences into a hypnotic frenzy. Her sultry soul music represents a harmonic groove in a world full of ambient noise and sound. Jacnique does not get by on an image or any gimmicks, she is exactly the person you see & hear on stage. She eats, sleeps, and breathes the musical passion, vocal artistry, class, grace, beauty & essence of what it is to be Jacnique. Jacnique’s enchanting musical skills were developed early on in her life. From the age of 5 years old, those closest to her could see a prodigy in the making as she virtually mesmerized her family and peers with her God given talents.

He's been referred to as "Cult Icon," "Urban Word Man," "Groove-Master," "the Underground King of LA," "dancer extraordinaire," "the modern day Sammy Davis, Jr." "One Cool Cat," "Cool to the Bone," "the Svengali of Sensuality," and "the best kept secret in the music "The coolest cat working in Hollywood," as quoted by the Los Angeles Times, pretty much sums it up. Add to that, "Toledo has learned from the best and it shows in his performance," "The show is top notch and really must be experienced" and "...but it's apparent where he is: establishing himself as one of the hottest acts in modern music." He went on to work as a choreographer and dancer for recording artists including Janet Jackson, Sammy Davis, Jr., Paula Abdul, Diana Ross, The Pointer Sisters, Bonnie Rait, The Mask, Al Green, the Isley Brothers, George Michael, Smokey Robinson, Toni Braxton, and Kathy Sledge, and directors such as Antoine Fuqua, David Fincher, Dominick Scena, Thierry Mugler, Rupert Wanewright, and Charles Whitenmier. His choreography of Us3's "Cantaloup" video earned him an MTV Video Award nomination.

Seattle’s soul-singer-songwriter Darrius Willrich drips a sensuous interplay of soul, jazz, and inner city longings. Sure to engage your all your senses, with the look, sound and feel of yesterday’s soul-today. The spirit of Stevie Wonder, D’Angelo, and Herbie Hancock, season the musical stew that is Darrius...Sweet Urban Soul. THE SECOND HOUR OF THE SHOW Musician-Keyboardist, Composer, and Musical Director, Cassandra O’Neal, is living every musician’s dream by working on projects like the Mary J. Blige’s Heart of The City Tour, recording the DreamGirls soundtrack, and currently playing with Prince and his highly-synergized team of New Power Generation Veterans, Renato Neto and Morris Hayes, on-stage together since the Grand Palais and La Cigale concerts in France back in October, 2009. “It’s a blessing to work with Prince,” says O’Neal. “What an honor to play with one of the Greatest Artists of all Time!" Never conceding to life’s challenges, O’Neal has since played on various recordings and numerous tours for several of R&B, Gospel, and Pop’s biggest acts, including Babyface, Patti LaBelle, Macy Gray, LeAnn Rimes, Pink, 98 Degrees, Chaka Khan, Kirk Franklin, Steven Bishop, and CeCe Winans, among others. O’Neal says that, as she tours with Prince, she is more inspired than ever to take her talent to new heights, and encourage others to be extraordinary. “With the God-given gift of music, and my mother’s encouragement, I was empowered to pursue my love for music as a career,” said O’Neal. “I’ve made it and if I can do it, you can do it too! Don’t be afraid to stretch out and just do YOU!”

NeoSouljahis a multitalented Spoken Word Artist/Singer/Songwriter/Vocal Producer. That is saying a lot, with just a little. Appearing on stages from accompanying noted poets from HBO’s Def Poetry Jam, to  a Special Demand, Standing Room Only headliner for the Spotlight on Jazz & Poetry Jazz Festival (Philly, PA), to sharing the bill and stage with noted artists such as the critically acclaimed Jazz pianist Brian O’Neal(KEM),and Grammy award winning trumpeter Sean Jones,Neo’s sharp wit, smart lyrics/poems, and 5 octave range of sultry to powerhouse vocals have brought validated her as “a little something extra” in the field of Spoken Word/NeoSoul-Jazz.  In short, this 2 time nominee for Best Spoken Word Artist for the Ohio Hip Hop Awards (2010-2011) has honed her skills to the point of giving nothing less than stellar performances in every venue she has found herself in, even walking away with top honors in several local, state, and multi-state/country poetry “slams”.  Her lyrical prowess is equal to her vocal dexterity as she peppers her spoken word pieces with a higher level of language ($120 words as she is teased), and other languages when applicable.  Through her writings Neo has set a goal to be the poet for the sophisticated ear as well as the lover of raw street poetry.  To her credit, she is a “Clean Speak” – meaning profanity is not the norm for her material.  This has given her the ability to perform on college platforms as the first Spoken Word artist to implement and host an open mic for the National Society of Black Engineers’ National Conference, to several Christian organizations major conferences. Her project broaches every subject from God to sex without requiring a warning label.. but don’t be misguided. 

In 1979 The Jones Girls “You Gonna Make Me Love Somebody Else” showed Gamble and Huff still had the magic touch. The classic went top ten on Billboards’ R&B and Disco Charts. However, lead singer Shirley Jones and sisters Brenda and Valorie were not new to the game. Gospel singer Mary Frazier Jones groomed her daughters unique harmonies when they were babies in their hometown Detroit. By the time Shirley and her sisters signed with Philadelphia International Records, they were teenage veterans. The Jones Girls traveled the world for several years as fellow Detroiter Diana Ross’ back up singers. Ms. Ross even let the girls shine with their own spot where they sang “If I Ever Lose This Heaven”. Diana Ross told Gamble and Huff The Jones Girls were too good to be anybody’s back-up singers forever. Those Philly years provided Shirley and her sisters with a string of hits. They include “Who Can I Run To”, “I Just Love The Man”, “Dance Turned Into A Romance” and their Grammy-Nominated classic “Nights Over Egypt”. After a brief unsuccessful stay at RCA Records , The Jones Girls decided to take a hiatus. Brenda got married and Valorie entered college. But Shirley still wanted to sing. She returned to Philadelphia International Records in 1985 as a solo artist. Shirleys’ 1986 Debut album “Always In The Mood” proved she could handle the spotlight alone. Her 1986 classic “Do You Get Enough Love” stayed number one on Billboards R&B Chart for Three weeks!!! “Do You Get Enough Love” proved to be prophetic.

Ask Beyonce, Usher, Aretha Franklin, Jessica Simpson, Vanessa Williams, Tyrese, Will Smith, Basia or DJ Tony Moran who is one of this generations prominent vocalist; they would agree its Grammy Nominated recording artist Trey Lorenz. Blessed with an unique voice that boasts stellar octave ranges, melodious harmonies and stunning lead vocal deliveries, Trey Lorenz's vocal instrument has stood out over two decades captivating millions of music’s fans both consumers and celebrities. Best known as the trusted back-up singer and SONY ATV songwriter to international superstar Mariah Carey, Lorenz has always found success by entertaining audiences with mesmeric performances with Ms. Carey ever since their first promotional tour in 1990. THE SECOND HOUR  Pedigree will tell. In rhythm and soul, it’s bred in the bone.Tasha Taylor, the youngest daughter of pioneering R&B artist, Johnnie Taylor is having a breakout year with the release of her first solo CD, TAYLORMADE. And the magic will continue, when Tasha makes her Broadway debut, creating the role of Margie Hendrix in “Unchain My Heart,” the upcoming new musical based on the life and music of Ray Charles.An entertainment triple threat, Tasha is a multi-talented musician, actor and performer. As a musician she is the complete package, an accomplished singer, songwriter, musician and now, producer of TAYLORMADE. Early R&B artists like Johnnie persevered, though often confronted with financial inequalities and social indignities but the rich heritage of their music continues to dominate popular music today.

Oakland, California native Lenny Williams possesses one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary music. With his rich, passionate vocal style, he is rightfully regarded as one of R & B's most influential soul men. Williams began his musical career making records that have subsequently become R & B and Pop classics, tunes like the mega-hit "Cause I love You" (recorded on his solo album) and "So Very Hard To Go', which he recorded as the lead singer for Tower of Power. Lenny's style has transcended into the new millennium, influencing many of today's newest R & B and Pop vocalists. Lenny himself sounds better than ever, and can be heard on his new CD " Unfinished Business" on LenTom Records.Over the past few years, Lenny has continued his solo career, touring the US, Europe and South Africa In 2004 and 2005 Lenny Williams and Kanye West were honored recipients of the BMI song writers award for the song "Over Night Celebrity" recorded by rapper Twista. He has recently shared stages with Aretha Franklin, The Whispers, Rick James, Boney James, Bobby Womack, Ohio Players, Al Green, Usher, K-Ci and JoJo, Alicia Keyes, Anthony Hamilton and Frankie Beverly and Maze. Lenny has also expanded his multi-dimensional career to include acting, starring in several stages plays "Love On Lay Away" starring Deborah Cox, actor Mel Jackson and Martha Wash. He also appeared in "What Men Don't Tell" starring Kenny Latimore, Shante Moore and Dottie Peoples the hit stage play "When A Woman's Fed Up". As an icon of the past and the present, Lenny Williams continues to expand his musical prowess and flex his newly found acting skills. He is sure to continue wowing his fans in the United States and beyond for decades to come.

Although she's already firmly established as one of the jazz world's most acclaimed and respected young vocalists, Nicole Henry's vibrant new album Embraceable makes it clear that she can't be categorized so simply. "I consider myself a singer who loves singing jazz," notes the versatile Miami Beach-based artist. "However, no matter the style or story, I’m always striving to be myself.”powerfully expressive, emotionally resonant voice has already earned her three international top 10 albums, the most recent being her 2008 release The Very Thought of You. She's also won an international reputation as a beguiling live performer, enchanting audiences on multiple continents. The aptly titled Embraceable showcases the uplifting energy, sophisticated soulfulness and lyrical sensitivity that have endeared Henry to listeners around the world. However, the new album is a substantial departure from her prior releases, which established her as a peerless interpreter of jazz and pop standards. In contrast, Embraceable finds Henry applying her sublime vocal skills to a captivating set of songs drawn from a diverse array of sources, encompassing impressive new originals, covers of some '60s and '70s classics, and a trio of vintage jazz numbers. The material is delivered in a variety of musical settings that range from expansive orchestral arrangements to spare acoustic performances. The album matches Henry's distinctive voice and abundant charisma with a stellar musical cast that includes saxophonist Kirk Whalum, pianist Gerald Clayton, harmonica virtuoso Gregoire Maret, and Grammy-winning arranger Gil Goldstein, and was helmed by Grammy-nominated producer Matt Pierson (Kirk Whalum, Jane Monheit, Joshua Redman).