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BELINDA

Belinda is the Founder of BackBeat R&B, an R&B, Jazz, and Lifestyle online publication. Her passion for old school music reverts back to when she was very young. She thanks her Dad because he always loved music and loved to dance. She had the pleasure of interviewing greats like Chi-Lites Marshall Thompson, Manhattans Gerald Alston, Dramatics LJ Reynolds, and Klymaxx's Joyce Fenderella Irby just to name a few. She's covered the Newport Jazz Festival, Capital Jazz Festival Essence Festival, Saratoga Festival, and Temptations and Four Tops Concert! Belinda entertained the idea of blogging for her own personal enrichment after retirement from City and County Social Services. (Total of 33 Years) She is so happy to embark on this new adventure and loves it because she gets to meet new and exciting people in a a field that she has a great passion for!

NEW RELEASEWHERE ARE THEY NOW?

” My Love Is Free “as “Double Exposure Teams Up with Iconic Disco Artists for a Ultimate Disco Themed Cruise”

by BELINDA
written by BELINDA
Double Exposure, the R&B group with six decades of experience is ready to heat up “The Celebrity Summit’s Ultimate Disco Cruise”
Fresh off the limited-edition green vinyl re-release of their debut album “Ten Percent,” Double Exposure joins other classic acts such as K.C. and The Sunshine Band, Kool & The Gang, Billie Ocean, Sister Sledge, Heatwave, Taylor Dayne, and more.
Co-founder Leonard “Butch” Davis is thrilled to be part of the Ultimate Disco Cruise and to perform alongside talented artists. He looks forward to entertaining old and new fans alike. Co-founder Joe Harris also shared his excitement, mentioning that Double Exposure will add a spark to the cruise and that fans are eagerly waiting to see their performance.
The Ultimate Disco Cruise will take place from February 25 to March 2, 2023. Tickets can be purchased on the website ultimatediscocruise.com.
Double Exposure was signed to Salsoul Records in 1975 and released their debut album, “Ten Percent,” in 1976. The title track reached No. 54 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on the dance/disco charts. The original group consisted of Leonard “Butch” Davis, Charles Whittington, Jimmy Williams, and Joe Harris, and today Leonard “Butch” Davis and Joe Harris continue the legacy with two new members, Lorenzo Bell and Kenny Pitt.

#oldschoolrnb #doubleexposure #rnb #rnbmusic #tenpercent #myloveisfree #everyman
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FESTIVALS

A STAYCATION AT THE FABULOUS NEWPORT JAZZ FESTIVAL FOR 2023!

by BELINDA
written by BELINDA

The Newport Jazz Festival is an annual event that takes place in Newport, Rhode Island. The festival features some of the biggest names in jazz, as well as up-and-coming artists. Attending the Newport Jazz Festival is a must-do for any jazz lover, and there are plenty of great places to stay while you’re in town. 

One option for accommodation is the Hotel Viking, which is located right in the heart of Newport. This historic hotel offers comfortable rooms and a variety of amenities, including an on-site restaurant and a fitness center. The Hotel Viking is also within walking distance of many of the city’s main attractions, including the Newport Jazz Festival.

Hotel Viking

Another great option for accommodation is the Castle Hill Inn. This luxurious inn is located on a 40-acre estate and offers stunning views of the ocean. The inn features elegant rooms and suites, as well as a spa and a restaurant. The Castle Hill Inn is also just a short drive from the Newport Jazz Festival.

Castle Hill Inn!

For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are also many great hotels and inns in the area that offer more affordable rates. The Newport Marriott, Hyatt Place and The Newport Harbor Hotel are some of the good options.

The Newport Marriott

If you’re planning on attending the Newport Jazz Festival, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance, as the city can get quite busy during the festival. Whether you choose to stay at a luxurious inn or a more budget-friendly hotel, you’re sure to have a great time at the Newport Jazz Festival and enjoy all that Newport has to offer.

 

In conclusion, Newport Jazz Festival is one of the premier jazz festivals in the country, featuring a diverse lineup of both established and emerging jazz musicians. The city of Newport is a great place to visit, with plenty of accommodation options to suit any budget. Hotels like Hotel Viking, Castle Hill Inn, Newport Marriott, Hyatt Place and The Mainstay Hotel & Conference Center are great options to consider. So, book your trip to Newport now and experience the magic of jazz!

 

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Emerging ArtistsFESTIVALSSpotlight

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 15TH ANNUAL CLASSIC R&B MUSIC FESTIVAL @ KALAHARI RESORTS & CONVENTION CENTER!

by BELINDA
written by BELINDA

The 15th Annual Classic R&B Music Festival in the Poconos was a spectacular event that brought together some of the biggest names in the genre for an unforgettable musical experience.  This all inclusive 5-day vacation of music and memories took place at Kalahari Resorts in the beautiful Poconos Mountains from Oct 2-Oct 6,2022, and featured a lineup of talented artists who delivered electrifying performances that had the crowd dancing and singing along.

One of the headliners of the festival was the legendary Stephanie Mills, with her powerful vocals and known for hit songs like , “Never Knew Love Like This Before”, ” Home”, “Feel The Fire”. and “What Cha Gonna Do With My Love”, had the crowd on their feet with her iconic harmony and smooth choreography.

The Legendary BlueNotes Feat. Sugar Bear

The Fabulous Ms. Mills was joined by other classic R&B acts like The Intruders, Keith Washington, The Delfonics featuring Wilbert Hart, Force MD’s, First Choice, Harold Melvin’s BlueNotes , Allure, After 7, Regina Belle, The Honey Cone, Black Ivory, Evelyn Champagne-King, Russell Thompkins Jr and the New Stylistics who also brought their soulful sounds to the stage.          

This festival is a perfect opportunity for people who love classic R&B music to come together and enjoy some of the most iconic artists of the genre. It’s a great way to relive the past and remember some of the most classic songs from the golden era of R&B.  It’s an event that should never be missed by any fans of R&B music. 

The HoneyCone

The 15th Annual Classic R&B Music Festival  was not only a celebration of great music but also a celebration of the genre’s rich history. The festival brought together classic R&B acts who have been in the industry for decades and contemporary R&B acts who are shaping the future of the genre.

Another highlight of this incredible music festival was the presentation of The Bernard E. King Legends Award Dinner honoring the host, Maurice “The Voice Watts” for 40 years on Radio and The After 7 Legacy Award.  In 1992, Maurice “The Voice”  Watts “created his own legacy as an on air radio personality of  “The Love Zone”, a show heard around the world from NYC to Tokyo Japan. The After 7 Legacy Awards followed and was presented to current members of the group Kevon Edmonds, Keith Mitchell and Daniel McClain. The group continues to perform and tour the world wowing R&B fans with their energetic performances. 

The Food!

More Food!

 

The festival organizers did an incredible job of creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere for music lovers of all ages. The crowd was diverse, and everyone was there to have a good time.

The 15th Annual R&B Classic Music festival was a big success and has solidified its place as one of the best R&B Music festivals on the East Coast.

Overall, the 15th Annual Classic R&B Music Festival at Kalahari Resorts  was an unforgettable week of music and memories. With an incredible lineup of talented artists, the festival brought together R&B music lovers of all ages to celebrate the genre and its rich history.  BackBeat R&B can’t wait for the 16th annual festival coming in 2024! We will be there.

*For more information on the 16th Annual Classic R&B Music Festival click the link: https://classicrandbevents.com/

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Did You KnowRemember When

WE LOVE THE ICONIC 60’S, 70’S AND 80’S, A TESTAMENT TO THE ENDURING POWER OF R&B!

by BELINDA
written by BELINDA

R&B music has been a staple in American culture for decades, and the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s were no exception. Those decades produced some of the most iconic and enduring R&B songs of all time. From Marvin Gaye to Michael Jackson, the R&B music of the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by music lovers of all ages.

Starting with the 60’s, “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye is considered one of the greatest R&B songs of all time. Released in 1971, this socially conscious anthem addresses issues such as poverty, war, and police brutality. It was a departure from Gaye’s previous work. Another classic from the 60’s is “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” by Gladys Knight & the Pips. This timeless hit, released in 1968, is a soulful masterpiece that showcases Knight’s powerful vocals and the Pips’ tight harmonies. Another notable song of the era is “Respect” by Aretha Franklin, originally recorded by Otis Redding in 1965, but Franklin’s version, released in 1967, became a feminist anthem and reached number one on the R&B chart in the U.S.      

Moving on to the 70’s, Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” is one of the most iconic R&B songs of the decade. Released in 1972, this funk-infused hit features Wonder’s signature harmonica playing and showcases his incredible musicianship. Another classic from the 70’s is “Let’s Get It On” by Marvin Gaye. This sensual ballad, released in 1973, is a timeless love song that showcases Gaye’s soulful vocals and masterful production. Another notable song of the era is “Sexual Healing” by Marvin Gaye, released in 1982 after his death, it reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance, Male in 1983.     

Finally, the 80’s saw the rise of Michael Jackson as a dominant force in the R&B world. “Billie Jean” is one of his most iconic and enduring hits, released in 1982, it topped the charts in several countries and cemented Jackson’s status as a pop music icon. Another classic from the 80’s is “Ain’t Nobody” by Chaka Khan, released in 1983, it reached number one on the R&B chart and number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100. Another notable song of the era is “I Want Your Sex” by George Michael, released in 1987, it reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and is considered one of the most controversial songs of the decade.    

In conclusion, the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s were a golden era for R&B music, and these songs continue to be celebrated and enjoyed by music lovers of all ages. From socially conscious anthems to sensual ballads, these songs have stood the test of time and remain a testament to the enduring power of R&B music.

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Did You Know

THE GODFATHER OF NEO-SOUL ROY AYERS!

by BELINDA
written by BELINDA

Roy Ayers is a legendary jazz and R&B musician, known for his smooth and soulful sound that has inspired countless artists in the music industry. He is also known as the Godfather of Neo-Soul. Ayers began his career as a jazz vibraphonist, but he soon began incorporating elements of R&B, funk, and soul into his music. This fusion of genres helped to establish him as one of the most influential and respected musicians of the 1970s and 1980s.

Ayers was born in Los Angeles in 1940 and began playing the vibraphone at the age of five. By the age of 21, he had already recorded his first album as a bandleader, and he quickly established himself as a rising star in the jazz scene. In the 1970s, Ayers began incorporating more R&B and funk influences into his music, releasing a string of successful albums such as “He’s Coming”, “Red Black & Green” and “Everybody Loves the Sunshine”. These albums featured a mix of original compositions and covers of popular songs, and they helped to establish Ayers as a major force in the R&B and soul music scene.

In the 1980s, Ayers continued to innovate and evolve his sound, releasing albums such as “In The Dark” and “No Stranger to Love” which featured a more electronic and funk-influenced sound. He also collaborated with a wide range of artists, including funk legend George Clinton and R&B singer Phyllis Hyman.

Ayers’ influence can be heard in the music of many artists, including A Tribe Called Quest, Erykah Badu, and Kendrick Lamar, who have all cited Ayers as an inspiration. His smooth and soulful sound has also been used in a number of films and television shows, including “Black Dynamite” and “Insecure”

In recent years, Ayers has continued to tour and perform, and he has also released a number of new albums. He has been honored with numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP).     

In conclusion, Roy Ayers is a true legend in the world of jazz and R&B music. His smooth and soulful sound has inspired countless artists, and his legacy continues to live on through his music. If you’re a fan of jazz, R&B, and soul music, then you owe it to yourself to check out the music of Roy Ayers.

 

 

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ObituaryRemember When

10 R&B ARTIST WHO DIED TOO YOUNG!

by BELINDA
written by BELINDA
R&B music has lost some of its brightest stars to untimely deaths, leaving fans heartbroken and the music industry in mourning. These artists had a profound impact on the genre and their music. They continue to be loved and celebrated today.

                                 Here are 10 R&B artists who died too young:

1.   Luther Vandross – Luther Vandross’s death in 2005 at the age of 54 was a tremendous loss for the music industry. The singer was a  true icon of R&B and his powerful voice and emotive performances will always be remembered.   

2.  Minnie Riperton – Minnie Riperton (Mother of actress Maya Rudolph) died in 1979 at the age of 31 from breast                 cancer.  She was a talented singer and songwriter, best known for her hit single “Lovin’ You.”   

3.  Barry White – Barry White died in 2003 at the age of 58 from kidney failure. He was a talented singer, songwriter,           and producer, best known for his deep, distinctive voice.                         

4. Michael Jackson – Michael Jackson’s death in 2009 at the age of 50 was a shock to the world. The King of Pop was an       influential figure in R&B and his music continues to be celebrated today.     

LONDON – FEBRUARY 8, 1983: Michael Jackson at the BPI awards to collect an award on behalf of Barbra Streisand held in London 1983.(Photo by Dave Hogan/Getty Images)

5. Tammi Terrell-  Terrell, a Motown label soloist who was already well-known, gained popularity when she teamed up    with Marvin Gaye. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing,” and “You’re All I Need to        Get By” were among the memorable duets performed by the two. Terrell received the news that she had a malignant brain tumor during this time. The young vocalist underwent eight operations, but her condition continued to decline, and she passed tragically on March 16, 1970, one month before turning 25.       

6. Otis Redding- Redding, made his imprint on the musical scene in 1962 with “These Arms of Mine.” The timeless classic “Sitting on the Dock of the Bay” was his biggest hit, though. Sadly, Redding would not live to witness the significance of his hallmark song because it was released one month after his passing(age 26) on December 10, 1967, in a plane accident.   

7.  Donny Hathaway- Hathaway, a gifted vocalist and composer, rose to fame in the late 1960s as a songwriter who produced successful songs for other musicians. But by the end of that decade, he had a recording contract of his own and was well-known for his duets with Roberta Flack, “Where is the Love?” and “The Closer I Get to You,” which made him a star in the music industry. Despite his fame, Hathaway struggled with despair, which ultimately resulted in his apparent suicide on January 13, 1979, according to authorities, who claim he jumped from a hotel room on the 15th floor at the age of 26.   

8. Sam Cooke- Cooke, known as “The King of Soul,” helped make soul music famous and opened the way for a number of      illustrious performers. Cooke was one of the first African American musicians to launch his own business, and he   boasted      more than 20 top 40 songs in his discography. He started his own publishing and record label. Despite his   groundbreaking achievements, Cooke passed away in questionable circumstances on December 11, 1964, when a hotel   manager shot him to death after alleging that he had attacked her. He was 33 years old.             

9. Marvin Gaye- Gaye, a Motown superstar, amassed an outstanding discography of classic songs, from political satire to love ballads. Throughout his life, he battled despair and drug addiction. When he and his father got into a fight on April 1, 1984, which resulted in the singer’s death from a deadly gunshot wound, his inner demons came to a head. Just one day before turning 45, Gaye passed away.                   

10. Whitney Houston- Whitney Houston was a multi-platinum-selling singer who rose to fame in the 1980s as one of the best R&B voices of her period. Ms. Houston had the skill, good looks, and pedigree of a pop diva from the beginning of her career more than 20 years ago. She passed away at the age of 48 and left behind a rich musical legacy that will endure for decades.                   

 

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Did You KnowRemember When

LET’S NOT FORGET ” WHAT’S GOING ON” WITH MARVIN GAYE!

by BELINDA
written by BELINDA

Marvin Gaye’s voice was heard by millions, and he always sang from the heart. But, at the end of the day, despite all of his obstacles and complexities in his life, he will be a man remembered for his music, songwriting ability and his voice. You can turn on the radio at any time, anywhere , or even the world, and hear something by Marvin Gaye, such as “Inner City Blues,” “Save the Children,” “Pride and Joy “, “Sexual Healing”, and  ” What’s Going On”.

When  “What’s Going On” was released, it was Gaye’s first album to credit him as a producer and to credit Motown’s in-house studio band, the Funk Brothers.  “What’s Going On” was recorded between 1970 and 1971 in sessions at Hitsville U.S.A., Golden World, and United Sound Studios in Detroit, as well as The Sound Factory in West Hollywood, California. 

On May 15, 1969, while traveling with The Four Tops on their tour bus, Renaldo “Obie” Benson witnessed police brutality and violence against anti-war protesters at Berkeley’s People’s Park in what became known as “Bloody Thursday”. Later, Benson told author Ben Edmonds, “When I saw this, I began to wonder, ‘what was going on here?’  One thing led to another. “Why are they sending children so far away from their families”?  “Why are they attacking their own children in public?”  When Motown songwriter Al Cleveland returned to Detroit, he wrote and composed a song based on his conversations with Benson about what he had seen in Berkeley.  Benson originally, sent the song to the Four Tops but his bandmates turned the song down.

He then offered the song to Marvin Gaye. Gaye thought “The Originals ” would benefit from the song’s melancholy flow. But Benson eventually persuaded Gaye that the song was his. Benson agreed to the singer’s request for partial writing credit. Gaye added a new musical composition, a new melody, and lyrics reflecting Gaye’s disgust with the climate of the country. Gaye later tweaked and enhanced the song, “adding some things that were more natural, which made it seem like a story and not a song… “we measured him for the suit and he tailored the hell out of it,” according to Benson. 

The rest is History. Some people will never understand (Including BackBeat R&B ) why “What’s Going On” was nominated for two Grammy Awards in 1972 including Best Male R&B Vocal Performance and Best Arrangement Accompanying Vocalist(s), but failed to win in any of the categories. We all know “What’s Going On” was considered the best album of all-time by critic surveys in Rolling Stone, The Guardian and New Music Express. Therefore, it’s time to give credit where credit is due.  We will never forget Marvin Gaye, the man and his music.  His music will continue to live in our hearts and minds forever.    

 

 

 

 

 

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FESTIVALSLIFESTYLER&B Places Of Inte...R&B Travel & A...

IN SEARCH OF THE 5 BEST JAZZ FESTIVAL CRUISES /GETAWAYS !

by BELINDA
written by BELINDA

In search of the best Jazz festival cruises? You’ve arrived at the right place!  I believe crusing something everyone should do at least once in their lives!  However, I should warn you that after a few days of partying it up at sea, the prospect of returning to Sand and Land festivals may not be as appealing!

Jazz cruises are the most comfortable way to enjoy a festival, because it’s also an awesome vacation and experience.  The destinations are always beautiful, the cruise amenities are top-notch, and the sunrises/ sunsets you’ll witness while onboard the ship will leave you amazed and astounded.  They also can be a fantastic way to get up close and personal with your favorite artists and hosts.  It’s a really nice and intimate vibe on board the Jazz cruises compared to the massive land & sand festivals. And it’s pretty exciting to see your favorite artist strolling around on the ship. This is why BackBeat R&B put together In Search Of  “The 5 Best Jazz Festival Cruises/Getaways!  Check them out!

 

1. Warren Hills “Cancun Jazz Festival” is an All-Inclusive music festival that will be  taking place at the Moon Palace in Cancun, Mexico November 6-8 2022 plus a post night concert on Nov 9th 2022, with the legendary Earth, Wind & Fire . Get your tickets Warren Hill’s Music Getaway and live large at the beautiful Moon Palace Resort.  Enjoy the very best of the music and the Mexican Caribbean

 

2.  The Jazz Cruise ’23 with special guest star, the Legendary Wynton Marsalis:  January 06-13, 2023, sailing on the Celebrity Millennium Ft.Lauderdale,Costa Maya, Cozumel and Nassau. Get your tickets now!

The Jazz Cruise

3. Check out “The Greatest Party at Sea”, The Smooth Jazz Cruise Festival sailing January 20,2023-January 27, 2023 from Ft.Lauderdale to Grand Cayman, Costa Maya and Cozumel. There will be so much fun and  great music planned so don’t miss it! Start planning now! 

https://thesmoothjazzcruise.com/

 

4. Spend a relaxing evening on the water in New York City with The Manhattan Evening Jazz Cruise. The cruise is ideal for a romantic evening out because it takes you out of the busy city and allows you to enjoy live music and drinks away from the crowds and traffic. Views of Lower Manhattan landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Financial District are also available.  

https://www.viator.com/tours/New-York-City/Manhattan-Evening-Jazz-Cruise/d687-6288P18

5. Chris Botti At Sea is a new and exciting Jazz cruise in which  the legendary jazz musician curated and launched.  Celebrity Cruises’ Summit will sail from Miami to Aruba and Curacao from February 8 to 15, 2024, bringing together the best in music, accommodations, and destinations. The cruise will officially launch in Oct 2022, for Presale tickets check out: This is a BackBeat Favorite by Chris Botti:  Italia by Chris Botti

https://bottiatsea.com/

DISCLAIMER

This site contains product affiliate links. We may receive a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links at no additional cost to you!

 

 

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Emerging ArtistsSpotlight

The BackBeat R&B Spotlight is on R&B Recording Artist Kenny Stockard!

by BELINDA
written by BELINDA

Kenny Stockard once said,  ” We should Be Lifted Up in Music because that’s my job” and it’s a job he has excelled at very well. The R&B  musician from Pittsburgh is known for his dynamic, powerful, soulful and impressive singing voice.  Kenny grew up singing in churches  and music is just a part of who he is.  Kenny’s calling and passion for music was inspired by his grandfather. He didn’t think he had much of a choice but to become a musician because it’s in his blood.

BackBeat R&B is pleased to do this new Q&A interview with Mr. Kenny Stockard. He discusses his debut album “Chase Chance“, The best advice given to him by another musician and What fans can look forward to in the future from him. 

BB:      Welcome to BackBeat R&B Kenny, so given these unusual Covid-19 times, what does a typical day look like for you and how have you adjusted?

KS:   So, I definitely wake up later than I used to. But I used to wake up between 5-6am and now it’s like 7:30-8 naturally so that’s a good thing lol. I’ve learned rhythms to my day that I didn’t have before the pandemic. I wake up and read, workout, eat then dive into whatever project I’m working on. I’m currently learning more about sound engineering so that takes a lot of my day time work hours. And most evenings I’m either in a rehearsal for shows/recordings or performing around Pittsburgh somewhere haha.

BB:  I read your grandfather was your biggest musical inspiration for getting into this business, what would you like to say to him now that you are on your way to stardom?

KS:  Nothing, he knew who I was when I was born. I would just like to smile at him in gratitude one more time. 

Photo Credit: Cameron Warren

BB: . What kind of singer would you classify yourself as?

KS:  I would say I’m a soul singer. I think that speaks to my gospel and R&B influences so I think that’s the most accurate right now. Who knows what kind of singer I’ll be in a decade though. Cause I just go wherever the music takes me.

BB:  Do you play any instruments and write your own songs?

KS: Oh yeah! I play keys, a little guitar, a little bass,drums & trombone. I also write a lot. With others and by myself. I’ve always been a writer.  In 6th grade I used to enter these essay contests at school so I could win 1st place which was Burger King lunches instead of eating the school lunch haha. I had a lot of Burger King that year.

BB: What’s the best piece of advice another musician ever gave you?

KS: Well this was said by a great musician in an interview and I’ve taken it to heart. Paraphrased: “Don’t sing on your capital,                sing on your interest” -Leontyne Price 

BB:  You have worked with legends like Willie Nelson and Van Morrison, what was that
great experience like?
KS:  You know it felt like just working with every other musician, they obviously have more money and influence than most of the musicians I’ve worked with. But they’re still humble musicians and it was great to be a part of what they are doing.

BB: Who are your favorite Jazz and R&B Artists ?
KS: Anita Baker, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Herbie Hancock, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin,
Otis Redding, Whitney Houston, Ray Charles. I may be missing some but the people I study
and listen to most are these peeps.

BB:  Do you feel the internet has impacted the music business ?

KS: Well, I don’t have experience in the music business that precedes the internet and its influence
but I can speak to what I’ve studied about the differences. With music being released 24/7 listeners expect new music faster than the days of record store releases or just physically having to go somewhere to purchase a record.  I think the internet has given artists who are not attached to a label an opportunity to maintain more control over the business of their music. You can find resources a lot easier now than before the internet to support any idea or vision you have.  The internet also enables your music to become internationally known without leaving your home.

BB:  Tell us something about your debut album, Chase Chance?
KS:  It’s a project that just details some important moments in the past 7 years of my life. My relationship to substances, women, difficulty and to life itself. I’m an optimist and everything spins positively in my brain, no matter how hard, that’s how I get through and I just wanted to share my perspective on the stuff we all go through (dead end jobs, failed relationships,unhealthy coping mechanisms, this pandemic lol).  I also wanted the project itself to be presented as a way of honoring my late sister and so the album is named for her 2 daughters, Chase & Chance, my oldest nieces.

BB:  What is one message that you would like to give your fans and what is next for Kenny Stockard?

KS:  I’d like to say that everything gets better if you stick around long enough to see it. Don’t beat
yourself up over what “should” be, as it pertains to your life, but be thankful for what is and thankful that you’re still here to see even brighter days.

Right now I’m working on a few new things….a book, my next two albums, one of which will feature some of my family…. So many things… just know I wake up everyday intent on working to add something positive to this world so that’s what I’ll be doing until I can’t be doing haha.      

 

Here is a favorite video we love by Kenny Stockard called “Getting Out of Here“

DISCLAIMER

This site contains product affiliate links. We may receive a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links at no additional cost to you!

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Emerging ArtistsNEW RELEASE

A BackBeat R&B Exclusive With A Rising Star-Aiyana Lee, Endorsed By Elton John “As The One To Watch”

by BELINDA
written by BELINDA

Meet the multi-talented Ms. Aiyana Lee !  This young beauty is ready to take the world by storm as she works her way up to releasing another EP by late 2022.  For those who love Alicia Keys, SZA, HER and Jazmine Sullivan, she is a songstress who dominates the heart with her sophisticated voice and stage presence.  Her soulful vocal abilities and songwriting skills makes her one of the most brightest, talented and promising new artists today.

Recently, she was featured in The Sun, Vibe Magazine, Flaunt, Entertainment Tonight, Vulkan Magazine, UK paper and Wonderland.   She was also featured as iHeart Radio’s “On The Verge”artist January 14, 2022.  Check out her national TV debut  (Below) on The Real, performing her fiery R&B song and Top 10 US R&B Radiotrack “Gangster of Love”.     

Let’s start from the beginning!  What was the inspiration behind you having a career in music? 

I was gravitated towards it since my inception. My mom would always play music around the house and have artists play at our home. It was a world I was inspired and connected to from the beginning.  A different medium of creativity that allowed me to express who I am.

 

I read you come from a musical family, your Mom (Nicole Daciana Anderson) is a multi-platinum singer-songwriter, your GrandFather (Jimmy Ruffin) was a writer and R&B singer with several hit records including, “What Becomes of The Broken Hearted “and  “Hold On “.  Lastly, your Uncle, (David Ruffin) a singer with the legendary “Temptations”.  Would you say, it was almost inevitable that you would follow in the musical footsteps of your family?

I think it showed me the range of artistry there is! From soul to pop to rock and taught me not to be afraid to explore or express using sounds from different eras! It was inspiring to see all of their careers, but also insightful to see the negative aspects and effects of the industry.   

What do you think you’d be doing if you hadn’t gotten into music?

First of all IMPOSSIBLE hahaha! But I’ll say for the sake of this I’d be doing what I’m also continuing to do now! Writing, acting and any medium that involves expression and creativity. 

Looking back on your life now, what would you say is your favorite childhood memory, dream, book? (My audience would love to get to know you)

Performing on stage as a child was the highlight of my childhood! My mom taking me on tours, me being able to interact with an audience and put on a show was like a fairytale and dream come true. 

Book wise I’d say, I really love the “Throne Of Glass” ya fantasy series and it was one of the gateway books to my now incredibly fleshed out collection! Haha. The protagonist is a female assassin and to me, i related to her. 

 

You have been featured as a 2022 artist to watch in “the UK paper The Sun, Vibe Magazine, Flaunt, Entertainment Tonight, Wonderland and the cover of Vulkan Magazine”. You have been called ” the One To Watch” by the iconic Elton John on his Rocket Hour podcast.  How does it feel to be so young moving into the direction of this kind of Stardom?

I’m honestly just incredibly grateful to be able to say that this is what I do! I get to perform, interact with people from all over the world and share my art and hear the way it relates to people who have gone through similar situations as me! I think at the end of the day music is connection, it’s one of the fundamental human languages that bypasses spoken word. 

I’m honored for all of the belief and kind words spoken! And I’m a huge Elton John fan so that really had me literally bawling like a baby! 

*Photographed by Steven Gomillion

Let’s talk about your new Release, what is the name of your EP, when will it come out and is there an inspiration behind the music? 

My story, my experiences, my life! This entire project is like my diary. It tells a very vivid detailed story that encompasses the last few years of my life since my arrival in L.A from London. From detailing the realities of being “broke in a city full of rich kids” to the really intense and dark “Miserable” that tells the disastrous and life threatening relationship I had with my now deceased father that had also tried taking my life. And of course of of my favorites “Table for three” that dives deeply into self love and my realization that “one ain’t got to be a lonely number”. 

“Wednesday Child “(SIDE A) is out right now accompanied by 3 music videos! (SIDE B) along with some other surprise projects that  are on the way!  

Social Media has been a part of your life since you were very young, if you could go back in time as an artist trying to make it organically, would you?

I did! Hahaha! From me and my mom selling out cds from the back of a truck to going on the road. We’ve done it all. From me knocking down door after door in the city, and hearing no’s to karaoke in the street. You name it, I’ve tried it. I think social media is a great tool and helps to really connect you with your audience and share at a faster rate but, with that being said, I think social media is a tricky thing and can be overwhelming for anyone, including artists.

Just curious, if you could listen to 3 famous artists who would they be? And of the 3, who would you love to do a musical collaboration with?

Queen, Amy Winehouse, Bruno Mars, I’d say the same for musical collaboration if it were possible. I’m also in love with Louis Capaldi, Miley Cyrus and Finneas!

Do you write any of your own music?

Of course! It’s all my story, especially on this project. It Was really like opening up my diary.

Now that you have your new release is coming out, what else can fans expect within the next year?  What Social Media      Platforms can we find you on?  Any tour dates set up yet?

Lots of new music, lots of great collaborations and some really cool shows I’m over the moon about! I’m opening for Dru Hill, on a show with Lucky Daye and working on a project with the legendary Diane Warren. I’m honestly am so excited for that ; as Diane is literally one of the coolest and most real people I’ve ever met and of course A LEGEND who’s written all of my favorite songs!  It’s a true honor.

I’m on Instagram @aiyanaleeofficial and Twitter @aiyanaleeinnit 🙂 I love to talk to people so definitely interact with me on those!

 

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