Episode 147. Shawn Rivera is an American singer, songwriter, producer, and percussionist, widely recognized as a founding member and lead vocalist of the R&B group Az Yet. The group's 1996 self-titled debut album achieved multi-platinum status and featured two platinum singles.

Musical Success: Az Yet's notable hits include "Last Night" and their Grammy-nominated cover of "Hard to Say I'm Sorry," which was a collaboration with producers David Foster and Babyface.

Production and Arrangement: Rivera is an accomplished producer and arranger who served as the lead producer, musician, and guest vocalist on the late Dr. Maya Angelou's final musical album, Caged Bird Songs.

In this episode not only will we discuss these incredible moments in his musical history; but touch on the times before and after these noteworthy events that led to him releasing his new self-titled album, "Shawn Rivera". To give the listener an idea of how incredible this album is, Troy plays snippets of this nine-song offering with Shawn giving a delightful backdrop about each. Both gentlemen were having such and amazing time that three hours had passed before they knew it. Yes, this is a lengthy episode, but definitely worth the listen. The music and conversation were informative and entertaining.

#shawnrivera #azyet #babyface #Laface #KeithAnders #MayaAngelou #Philarico #baasentertainment #baasentertainmentpodcast #Musicpodcast #troytsaunders #supportindiemusic #supportindieartists #podcast #videopodcast, #R&BMusic, #soulmusic, #acappella

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Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 146. This episode features my special guest, smooth jazz guitarist Garry Percell.

Garry Percell has played guitar for over 25 years and has a solid background in electric and acoustic guitar. Garry is a respected studio and stage musician, producer, and project consultant, and has toured nationally with several recording artists.

A multi-genre artist, Garry has shared the stage with the late, great Richard Smallwood, played in the dynamic Betty Davis Band, and more recently recorded with smooth jazz staples Alex Hawley, Chis "Big Dog" Davis, Marcus Anderson, and R&B mainstay Tony Terry.

In this episode, we cover his musical journey and highlight some of his smooth jazz releases, including his latest single, a stellar reimagined version of "Love Ballard" produced by Chris "Big Dog" Davis.

Also, I have been teasing you with snippets of the BAAS Entertainment theme song written by Lucky Witherspoon and now you can hear it first, in it's entirety, during this episode!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 145. Join host Troy Saunders as he sits down with a true renaissance man of entertainment, the incomparable B.Slade.

B.Slade is a Grammy®-nominated, multi-platinum-selling singer, songwriter, actor, producer, and entertainer whose genre-defying career has garnered him Emmy®, GMA DOVE®, Ovation®, and STELLAR® Awards. Penning and producing over 30 albums and 300+ songs spanning gospel, R&B, hip-hop, jazz, and more, B.Slade is a proven multi-hyphenate life artist.

Renowned for his electrifying vocal range and magnetic stage presence, B.Slade has written, arranged, and produced for icons like Janet Jackson, Chaka Khan, Patti LaBelle, Sheila E., Shanice, Chris Brown, Ty Dolla $ign, Eric Benet, Kim Burrell, Jordin Sparks, and Faith Evans. His visionary artistry transcends genres, consistently pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be a true entertainer.

B.Slade’s creative genius extends beyond the recording studio. He was one of the creative directors for Patti LaBelle’s world tours and the Show/BGV programmer for Janet Jackson’s last five global tours and Las Vegas residency. In 2024, B.Slade launched his own solo U.S. tour, "The B.Slade Experience (BSX)." BSX debuted in Detroit at the renowned Sound Board at Motor City, and toured across the U.S. in 2025, including Las Vegas at the iconic Westgate. This powerful, genre-bending showcase highlights his vocal mastery, dynamic stagecraft, and signature storytelling.

Life Artistry

B.Slade has perfected his craft throughout his career, delivering 'Life Artistry' across genres to diverse audiences worldwide. He explains, "Being a 'Life Artist' means I sing about life in its entirety. This includes the natural and the spiritual, crucial elements in balancing our character and faith. Our lives are filled with experiences of humanity, love, loss, and redemption - I sing about whatever piques my interest in life now. Sometimes, that involves my faith, and other times, I sing, dance, and draw inspiration from my experiences as a human being. I incorporate all these elements into my artistry."

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 144. You know the voice, now get to know the journey.

Detroit-born singer, songwriter, and powerhouse performer Terry Dexter first captured hearts with her soulful 1999 self-titled debut on Warner Bros., featuring the beloved singles "Better Than Me" and "Strayed Away." Her unforgettable vocals have also graced duet classics like "Spend My Life With You" (remix) with Eric Benét, "Remarkable" with Jaheim, and "Lay Me Down" with Will.i.am. In 2008, Terry returned with Listen under Fontana Records, giving us the empowering and critically-acclaimed singles "Beautiful One" and "I'm Free," and reminding the world of her depth and evolving artistry.

Beyond music, Terry's voice and songwriting has been heard and experienced across TV and film, on networks and studios such as ABC, NBC, HBO, BET, SONY and more, while her acting roles include starring opposite Morris Chestnut in "Love in the Nick of Tyme," and her signature role in the Emmy-nominated drama series "A House Divided" for all five seasons wrapping in 2023.

In 2024, she added another milestone starring in Amazon’s mesmerizing and heartfelt global holiday campaign, "Midnight Opus."

After a long hiatus, Dexter reunites with her roots alongside fellow Detroiter, acclaimed multi-instrumentalist and respected producer Duke Williams. Together, they launch their debut release under their newly formed label, Daytwah Sound.
The lead single, "Believer," is a soul-wrenching R&B anthem, infused with Williams' gospel-inspired keys and signature classic soul textures. It takes listeners on an emotionally charged, musically fearless journey. At its heart are Dexter’s raw, commanding vocals, telling a poignant story of redemption, liberation, and inner strength - found in the one place that matters most.

With this release, Dexter and Williams honor the rich musical heritage of Detroit while delivering a fresh, powerful sound that speaks to the spirit, heart and soul. Out now on all streaming platforms.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 143. Join host Troy Saunders as he chats with 2 of the most exemplary artist hailing from Sacramento California; Lucky Witherspoon (son of Jazz/ Blues great Jimmy Witherspoon) and Derek DOA Allen. 

Lucky Witherspoon is just one member of his family gifted with the ability to supersede the norm as far as vocalists go. His mother is a singer herself, as are his aunts and uncles. It’s no wonder why his talent is evident. It’s in his DNA.

If you hear his name around town, it could be because of his current contribution to the community as a mentor and coach to young men and women, especially those in athletics, as he himself was a star athlete. Originally from Los Angeles, Lucky's family moved to Sacramento where he made a name for himself, for the most part pertaining to football. He, in fact, coached and trained his son Akhello, who is a successful NFL player. Lucky's gift did not stop there. His daughter, Lecsi Tomorrow, is also a beautiful and gifted vocalist who mirrors her father's musical prowess. His grandchildren are following suit.

Blessed with a soulful versatile voice with unmatched poetic prose, Lucky Witherspoon, both singer and songwriter, released his first full sized album at fall; "My Story Vol. 1". It is a collaborative effort with his long time friend and mentor Derek "DOA" Allen. The album is still hitting the UK R&B charts. In this episode we highlight gems. "Take Me", "Everything" (the latest single), and "Love & Direction".

Derek "DOA" Allen, also hails from Sacramento, California, is an acclaimed American bassist, award-winning songwriter, and multi-Grammy Award-winning producer. Widely known for his stage name "DOA," a moniker given to him by his best friend, the legendary Chuckii Booker, Derek has carved a legendary path in the music industry. With over twenty #1 hit records and more than forty Top 10 records to his name, his career has spanned more than three decades of groundbreaking success. As a renowned bass player, his contributions have earned him recognition for selling over one hundred million records. As a songwriter and producer, he has touched the hearts of millions, with over fifty million records sold globally.

In this episode we cover both men's history in music which goes back to the mid - nineteen eighties. Their friendship has bounded them together through out the years. To hear two men express discuss their mutual admiration for one another warmed my heart. Through the thick and thin their friendship endured. 

DOA tells about working with Lionel Ritchie, Kem, Joe, Bobby Brown and being signed to Michael Jackson's publishing company. Lucky tells us how he started out as a rapper that sung his own hooks. When asked to choose between the two he decided to leave the industry and concentrate on raising his children. Now that his kids are grown he his back as if he never left. 

Together Lucky and DOA are making music that will last forever and helping the community in which they live. Tune in a check out this informative and inspiring conversation with these two music mavericks.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 142. Join host Troy Saunders as he sits down with "The Love King" Raheem DeVaughn and the multi-talented Grenique to discuss the making of their new collaborative album, "When Butterflies Become Unicorns.”

As Troy plays each song, Raheem and Grenique delve into the inspiration behind the track, sharing insights into the musicians involved and the thought process behind their selection and recording.

Grenique and Raheem have known each other for years, but their musical journey together began when they were reunited at a party hosted by the legendary Erykah Badu. Raheem reveals that each song was personally chosen and developed with Grenique in mind.

Tune in and immerse yourself in music that will uplift your soul. This project is a gem, and Grenique’s return after a 20-year hiatus is nothing short of spectacular.

Don’t miss this fun-filled and spirited episode.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 141. Ashley Scott is a talented vocalist from Philadelphia, PA who released his first album, "Love You For All Time," in July 2025 on Expansion Records. Known for international radio-charting singles like the 2022 release "Together," the groovy "Dance The Night Away" (2020), and his international anthem "Don’t Throw Our Love Away" (2021), Ashley is making his place in the R&B, jazz and dance genres.

He began singing and discovering music at the tender age of 3 from listening and watching his aunt, Helen Scott of The Three Degrees and Delfonics. Ashley continues to release music across the soul, jazz, and dance genres globally.

The biggest part of Ashley’s life and musical path came when he attended Howard University, where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Music. At Howard University, Ashley studied jazz voice under legendary jazz drummer and vocalist Grady Tate, Kehembe Eichelberger, and the late Webster Lewis. Ashley also joined the Howard University Gospel Choir, which produced R&B artist Angela Winbush, Tawatha Agee of Mtume, Pure Soul, and gospel great Richard Smallwood. During his tenure with the Howard Gospel Choir, Ashley has performed behind Edwin and Walter Hawkins, and Dorinda Clark of The Clark Sisters. The choir was also privileged to perform for President Bill Clinton at The Department of Agriculture for the unveiling portrait of former Secretary of Agriculture Mike Espy.

Professionally, he has sung background for Lady Alma and Jean Carn as well as shared the stage with Bilal, Marcus Johnson and Grammy Award winners Take 6. In the studio, he has recorded vocals for Chavous, Sarah's Girl, Geneva Renee, Tye Tribbett, Jim Stephens, and Will Downing.

In other musical attributes, Ashley has served as a Board Member and Vice President of The Recording Academy Philadelphia Chapter. Ashley is the founder of The Soulful Sounds Series that is an R&B educational program. He co-founded a non-profit, The Artists United, with his partner Lox Knox, that educates youth in the entertainment industry through its I.C.A.R.E Academy program. In his personal life, he is a man who gives back to the community.

In this episode, host Troy Saunders and Ashley celebrate the release of Ashley's first full-length album, "Love You For All Time". From the first song to the last they discuss the inspiration for each of the eight songs in this wonderful compilation of music. Funny enough, Ashley expresses how he gets ideas from conversations held in his neighborhood barbershop. Troy jokes how that couldn't be one of his inspirations since he is bald and hasn't been in a barber's chair in over 20 years!

Ashley also highlights the list of exemplary musicians and writers that he has had the pleasure to work with on this labor of love. They include, but not limited to, Frank McComb, Eric Roberson, Najee, and Will Brock. With a line-up like this, how can you go wrong. Some of the highlights include "Always," Forgive and Forget," "Questions," "Not Now," "Looking Up To You," and the title track. Might as well say the whole album. Listen to this episode and decide for yourself.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 140. Peter Lord, visionary artist, trailblazing songwriter, and founding member of the genre-defying collective The Family Stand, returns with "BOOM," the explosive first single from his long-awaited solo album, "Songs From The 8th Dimension," set for release this fall.

"BOOM" isn't just a track, it's a warning shot from the edge of memory and the future. Fusing urgent lyricism, cinematic sonics, and Lord's signature genre-bending style, the single delivers a raw and prophetic energy that resonates in today's chaotic world.

"We forgot the lessons learned… and then… it all went… BOOM."

A bold declaration from an artist who’s never played it safe.

Peter Lord has shaped the sound of generations. As a member of The Family Stand, he helped craft genre-defiant classics like "Chain," "Moon in Scorpio," and "Connected," and delivered the timeless anthem "Ghetto Heaven" - a chart-topping call to consciousness that still resonates. Behind the scenes, he has penned over 600 songs recorded by some of music's elite: Paula Abdul, Nicki Minaj, Common, D'Angelo, Corey Glover, Daryl Hall, Lalah Hathaway, Tamia, Heather Headly, Macy Gray, and many more. Whether on the stage or in the studio, his voice has always spoken truth wrapped in rhythm.

Now, with "BOOM," Peter Lord steps fully into the spotlight with the first track from his album - solo, but never alone. "Songs from the 8th Dimension," due this fall, is an interstellar voyage through time, soul, and sound. Deep, fearless, and unapologetically original, it's a sonic manifesto from a master still evolving.

"BOOM" drops on July 4, and the album lands fall 2025. This time, the revolution comes with a rhythm.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Eldrick Rodgers
SONGWRITER – ARRANGER – RECORDING ARTIST – INSTRUCTOR
Eldrick Rodgers developed his songwriting skills while studying music composition at Virginia Union University school of music. In 2022, he attended the Berklee school of music, successfully completing a course entitled “Writing Hit Songs”.
Eldrick's initial breakthrough in songwriting occurred when he was 19 years old and composed "You’re Free, Be All You Can Be" for the theatrical production "Down on Beale," performed at the historic Omni- New Daisy Theater in Memphis, TN. His national exposure in songwriting began with his involvement in
the Gospel Music Workshop of America, where he was chosen to write for Songwriter’s Conferences and the National Conventions. 
Music education has always been pivotal in relation to the development and success of Eldrick’s music. In 2025, Eldrick was tapped to teach a music course entitled “The Business of Music” at the Cornerstone Christian University.
Eldrick delivers soul-stirring gospel music that uplift hearts and brings communities together in praise. Eldrick has crafted a unique sound in his writing style, blending traditional gospel elements with contemporary urban influences. In 2022, he released his poplar single “Walk Around Heaven” produced by Todd Dulaney. In 2024, he released a single entitled "Jesus” featuring Michelle Prather. It has reached the top 30 position on several gospel and urban charts and is still inspiring listeners all over the world. In 2025, he released his newest single entitled "Give Peace a Chance" featuring Christopher Barnes, encouraging people to consider peace as an alternative to conflict and war.
Eldrick's powerful lyrics and engaging performances have made him a beloved figure in the music community. His collaborative works and church performances showcase his dedication to his craft and his mission of fostering hope and unity through song. As he looks ahead, Eldrick remains devoted to creating music that resonates with the soul and uplifts the spirit.

Keith Mitchell

Keith Mitchell, legendary R&B soul singer and one of the original voices behind the
Grammy-nominated group After 7, is embarking on a bold new journey. With the release of his debut gospel album, "Food For Your Life", and its breakout single "He’s Alive", Mitchell has traded the glow of stage lights for the illuminating presence of God.
A household name among R&B lovers for over three decades, Keith Mitchell helped define a generation’s soundtrack to love. Alongside brothers Melvin and Kevon Edmonds, Mitchell co-founded After 7, a chart-dominating trio produced by Babyface, L.A. Reid, and Daryl Simmons. Their classic 1989 debut gave birth to timeless hits like Ready or Not, Can’t Stop, and Heat of the Moment, all of which earned platinum status and cemented Mitchell’s place in music history.
A native of Indianapolis, Mitchell grew up in Christ at Zion Tabernacle Pentecostal Church. Alongside his brother and two sisters, he sang in the family group The Stars of Zion and later became director of the church’s Young Adult Choir by age 13. With 'Food For Your Life', officially released on July 11, Mitchell has returned to his spiritual roots with intention and passion. 
“After decades of singing about love between people, I now sing about the greatest love of all—God’s love,” says Mitchell. “Food For Your Life" is more than an album. It’s a ministry. While fans of After 7 will recognize Mitchell’s unmistakable voice, they’ll also hear a newfound spiritual freedom in his tone. The album’s themes of restoration, renewal, and hope offer a timely message to a world in need of healing.
Keith Mitchell has emerged from the valley with a message and a mission. 

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 138. Sandra St. Victor, an American singer-songwriter, is celebrated for her powerful voice and genre-defying artistry. Born Sandra Kay Matthews on May 28, 1963, in Dallas, Texas, she nurtured her musical talents at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, an institution that also nurtured artists like Erykah Badu, Roy Hargrove, Norah Jones, and Edie Brickell. She furthered her studies with scholarships to Kansas University and Bishop College in Dallas but ultimately chose to learn through experience, joining a local band led by jazz guitarist Zachary Breaux and embarking on tours across Texas and Louisiana.

In the early 1980s, St. Victor relocated to New York City, where she joined Roy Ayers' touring band, Ubiquity. Her dynamic performances caught the attention of Chaka Khan, leading to a tour with Khan throughout the 1980s. She also toured with Freddie Jackson and Glenn Jones and became a sought-after session vocalist, collaborating with artists like Lisa Fischer, Cindy Mizelle, Audrey Wheeler, Brenda White King, Tawatha Agee, and Curtis King. Her versatility and distinctive voice made her a prominent figure in the New York music scene.

St. Victor, the lead singer of The Family Stand, a trio formed in the late 1980s with Peter Lord Moreland and Vernon Jeffrey Smith, achieved international success. Their hit song "Ghetto Heaven" reached #10 on the UK Singles Chart in 1990 and was remixed by Nellee Hooper and Jazzy B of Soul II Soul. The group also contributed to Paula Abdul's album "Spellbound".

In 1993, St. Victor embarked on a solo career and recorded the album "Sanctuary" for Elektra Records, though it remained unreleased. Several tracks from the album were later covered by artists like Prince, Chaka Khan, and Tina Turner. In 1996, she released "Mack Diva Saves the World" on Warner Bros., which received critical acclaim but lacked significant radio support.

St. Victor continued her solo work with the independent release "Gemini: Both Sides" in 2001. In 2013, she released "Oya’s Daughter" on Shanachie Entertainment, produced by Mark de Clive-Lowe. The album was praised for its fusion of soul, funk, jazz, and multicultural influences.

In 2018, after 25 years of waiting, St. Victor independently released "Sanctuary" on Bandcamp, allowing fans to finally experience the album that had remained unreleased for decades. She also formed the touring ensemble Daughters of Soul, featuring talented artists like Nona Hendryx, Joyce Kennedy, Deniece Williams, Caron Wheeler, Lalah Hathaway, Indira Khan, Simone, and Leah McCrae. The group performed at prestigious festivals such as Nice Jazz, Pori Jazz, and Java Jazz in Jakarta.

Currently based in the Netherlands with her husband and daughters, St. Victor continues to create and perform music that transcends genres and resonates with audiences worldwide.

In this episode, Troy covers Sandra's musical journey while playing some of his favorite songs. 

Songs featured include:

"I am Better" with Josh Milan

"Tight Fit" Chaka Khan with Sandra on backgrounds

"Sweet Liberation"

"Shades of Blue"

"Come Over"

"They're Cool"

"Little Girl" - Lalah Hathway 

"What Have We Learned"

"Dizzy"

"Undiscovered Country"

"Cosmos"

"Freedom"

"Ghetto Heaven"

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 137. Ascendant, an eclectic group that blends jazz, R&B, inspirational, and house, has created a unique sound that has captivated music enthusiasts worldwide. This week, Troy had the privilege of interviewing members Kael Mboya (keyboard and vocals), Michael Lockett (vocals and percussion), Eric Johnson (drums), and Cutis Kincaid (guitar). The conversation took listeners on a journey through the band's over two-decade history, while also providing insights into each member’s personal life experiences within the music industry.

Filled with humorous anecdotes and enlightening revelations, this episode promises to keep listeners thoroughly entertained. Of course, no BAAS Entertainment Podcast would be complete without sampling the artist's musical journey. Troy delved into their crates and played the title track from their 2003 debut album, "Where You Are Now." The musical introduction to the episode was "Gye Nyame," from their album "Illuminate Blue." Troy also shared his favorite cuts from the "Illuminate Green" album, including "Promise" and "Brand New Me." Kael explained the significance of the color choices for each album’s title.

Troy expressed his fondness for "Illuminate Yellow" and highlighted how their music has evolved over time. He also mentioned "It's Not Over," featuring Angela Johnson, and "Faults and All."

The episode ended with a conversation and snippet of their new single "Love Saved My Life." This gem is sure to touch R&B, jazz, house and inspirational music lovers 

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 136. If you’ve ever tuned into The Black Music Archive or Milik Kashad's TV videos, you've witnessed the genius of Milik Kashad. A young filmmaker and music aficionado, Milik's mission is to educate the world about the greatness of Black vocalists in music.

Host Troy Saunders attended an incredible event in New York City organized by Milik called "Crafting The Sound." It was a masterclass on the technical aspects of singing backgrounds for the legendary Chaka Khan. Milik enlisted three of Chaka Khan's most iconic background singers: Sandra St. Victor, Audrey Wheeler, and Karen Bernod. The band also featured Chaka's own musical director, Melvin Lee Davis, along with all-star musicians Ralph Rolle on drums, Felicia Collins on guitar, and Bette Sussman on keys. It was an awe-inspiring and informative night of music and fellowship.

The following week, Troy contacted Milik to express his enjoyment of the show. A mutual admiration for each other's work led to the idea of having Milik on the podcast.

In this episode, we delve into Milik's childhood growing up in North Carolina. He had a passion for singing and dancing, performing in choirs and school talent shows. As a teenager, he was offered a spot at Alvin Ailey School of Dance, but unfortunately, his parents didn’t support his dream, and he never got the chance to attend.

Regarding his singing aspirations, Milik continued singing tenor until he was 18. He explained that he didn't go through puberty until then, and his voice transformed from a high tenor to a deep baritone. This change made him less enthusiastic about pursuing a singing career.

Moving on to his college years, Milik initially majored in social work at the University of North Carolina but later developed a passion for filmmaking at Wake Forest University.

Now ready to pursue a career in filmmaking, Milik relocated to New York City. However, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, and job opportunities were scarce. Despite this setback, Milik's undying love for music and his unique ability to decipher its origins led him to create his own videos and upload them to YouTube. This gave birth to the Black Music Archives channel, which is now known as Milik Kashad TV. Armed with shows like "Explained," "Technically Speaking," and now interviews with legendary artists, Milik has garnered a substantial following of almost 140,000 watchers.

In a conversation with Troy, Milik discussed his love for music and its origins. He mentioned artists like Janis Joplin, Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, and opera legends, expressing his admiration for their unapologetic and powerful voices.

Milik shows no signs of slowing down. With more exciting interviews, live showcases, and films on the horizon, we can expect to see even more from this young, gifted, and Black entrepreneur, filmmaker, and trendsetter.

When asked about his filmmaking goals, Milik expressed his desire to create a film that will be remembered and referenced for generations to come.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 135. James 'PJ' Spraggins, a multifaceted musician and entrepreneur, shares his journey with host Troy Saunders.

The podcast begins with a nostalgic trip down memory lane as PJ recounts his early musical influences. The Clark Sisters' "You Brought The Sunshine" captivated him, and fate intervened when he had the privilege of performing with them both individually and as a group. Church and its music played a significant role in shaping PJ's upbringing, particularly igniting his passion for playing the drums.

PJ's enthusiasm for the drums led him to play in various bands during his freshman year at Alabama State University. Soon after, he embarked on a creative journey, writing and producing his own projects. Troy introduces the audience to the title track from PJ's debut album, "Light Of Day," followed by "Nocturnal Drive," showcasing his versatility as a musician, as he plays both drums and keyboards on this album.

PJ shares a humorous anecdote about the genesis of his song "Come to Jesus" from his subsequent album, "Pure Logic." He then delves into his remarkable journey into mainstream music, collaborating with legendary artists like Stevie Wonder, Peabo Bryson, Frank McComb, Jeff Bradshaw, and many more. This experience led Troy to feature PJ and Frank's collaboration, "70 X 7," from PJ's 2015 album, "Time to Heal."

The conversation then shifts to PJ’s latest singles, "Move to the Groove" and "High Five." Troy also takes listeners back to PJ's 2023 album, "Stick It Out," and provides a sample of "Bounce Back." Throughout the discussion, PJ shares captivating stories behind each song, making the conversation an enriching blend of music and conversation.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 134. A captivating conversation with the talented singer, songwriter, and producer, Noel Gourdin.

Host Troy Saunders begins the episode by playing one of the first singles from Noel's upcoming album, "Back To Basics Vol. 1." They reminisce about Noel's first appearance on the podcast two years ago, where he shared his journey from a young musician to a successful artist. Both Troy and Noel fondly recall their family trips to the South, where they were surrounded by music and the cars their father owned.

As they delve into the music of the new album, Noel talks about his close collaboration with his core set of musicians, including Lorenzo "Zo" Johnson and Carnita Rogers. He describes their working relationship as effortless and highlights Carnita's impressive track record with renowned artists like Maysa and Hil St. Soul.

The conversation takes an interesting turn when they discuss the possibility of releasing "Back To Basics" on vinyl. They then jam to another single, "Get to You," which leads to a discussion about Carnita and Noel's single "Complacent."

Noel shares some exciting news with the audience - he's getting married in October! He reveals that his guest list is growing rapidly, but he's thrilled to be sharing this special day with his family and friends. So, ladies, he's officially off the market!

The conversation continues as they explore the challenges and rewards of being an independent artist. Noel shares details about upcoming collaborations with Teri Tobin, Sy Smith, Conya Doss, Maysa, and the legendary Southern Soul star Jeter Jones.

The celebration of the new album reaches its climax with a discussion and snippets of singles like "Celebration," "New Walk New Talk," "You (I'm Ready)," and the current release, "Might Let You Hit It." Noel aims to release the album by the end of May and encourages listeners to follow him on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates music that's full of heart and soul.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 133. In this episode, host Troy Saunders chats with the multi-talented artist W!LL, a Queens-born, Houston-raised singer, songwriter, producer, actor, and bandleader. They dive into W!LL’s early music, starting with his first EP, "W!ll With the Exclamation," and fan favorite "No Clouds." Troy interprets the themes of the EP, and W!LL confirms much of it reflects real moments in his life.

W!LL shares stories behind tracks like "Hoe Phase" and "GLT," and opens up about his move from Queens to Houston, and eventually to Atlanta, where he became part of its dynamic music scene. He discusses working with Atlanta artists Rahbi and Kela on "Don’t Wanna Leave Ya," and his journey into songwriting and producing.

The episode also highlights songs like "9 To 5," "Til We Land," and "Exclusive," with Troy noting W!LL’s growth in production. Beyond music, W!LL talks about acting, leading his band W!LL and the Exclamations, and upcoming projects.

This heartfelt and inspiring episode showcases W!LL's artistry and passion for music, offering listeners a nostalgic and uplifting experience.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 132. This week Troy sat down with one of music's most versatile and powerful singers; STOUT! Though STOUT is a dynamic singer, her talents reach far beyond that. She is also a phenomenal drummer, writer, style icon, ballroom dancer, actress, producer, mother, and so much more.

Brought up in the Apostolic Christian faith, STOUT gravitated to music at young age. Troy and she discussed who influenced her creativity and how she further developed her talents. Anyone that knows about the Apostolic faith knows that it's a very strict Black Christian denomination. Troy and STOUT talk about her transformation to secular music and how her family reacted to it.

While in college, a good friend told STOUT about an opportunity to sing backgrounds for Alicia Keys. She put in a good word for her and, shortly after that, she was on tour with Alicia for three years straight. By this time, STOUT was also a mother to a beautiful baby girl. Troy and she discussed how she juggled being on tour and motherhood. Would you believe that STOUT is now a mother of four children!

Throughout their conversation, Troy and STOUT laugh and spoke honestly about her goals to be an actress, fashion icon, and to one day sing with Patti LaBelle and Kendrick Lamar!

Troy takes the listener on a ride through some of STOUT'S various music releases. Each song highlighting a different side of this multi-faceted vocalist. The songs included in this episode are "Party," which set the mood for the conversation; "This Joy," which is a fine example of STOUT'S Gospel chops; "Euphoria," one of Troy's favorites; "Queen," which Troy describes as a nod to Prince and Vanity 6's "Nasty Girl"; "Trigger"; and STOUT's latest single, "Grateful". They converse about the making of "Grateful," and how honored she was to perform it at the Brooklyn Nets Pride Halftime Show. Troy personally thanked STOUT for all she does for the LGBTQ community. She goes on to tell Troy how she became involved with the Ballroom community and how proud she is of it.

If you love great music and listening to a conversation that uplifts, enlightens and can restore your faith in humanity, you will love this episode. You will feel the mutual love for life.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 131. Carol Riddick, an artist who has graced stages across the globe winning fans and admirers alike with her extraordinary voice and presence. Highly regarded in the music community for her vocal dexterity, mesmerizing performances and genuinely warm personality, Carol is a unique entertainer whose evolution is ongoing. She has blessed the tracks of many distinguished artists and is featured on records by Anthony Hamilton, Musiq (Soulchild), Jill Scott, Will Downing, Norman Brown, Jeff Bradshaw, and a host of others. Most recently, she can be heard on Eric Bellinger's 2022 GRAMMY-nominated
album on the track "Shine on the World".

After partnering with Axis Music Group, a former Philadelphia-based production
company, Carol started an independent label, CriddickNotes, and creatively
spearheaded the creation and release of her debut CD, "Moments Like This". She also co-wrote, produced, and sang “Nuances,” the intro to WDAS FM 105.3's "Quiet Storm" program which can be heard weeknights, and most recently tapped into her communications background as she hosted her own radio show titled "Love & Life with Carol Riddick" on WURD Radio, the only African-American owned and operated talk radio station in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (and one of only three remaining in the country).

In addition to her recording efforts, Carol lends her impressive vocals to other artists like Philadelphia's Queen Patti LaBelle, and jazz great Gerald Veasley. Most notably, her live performance with R&B crooner Will Downing of the riveting duet "Nothing Has Ever Felt Like This," is sure to take your breath away.

Carol Riddick is a renaissance woman. She's a songstress, songwriter, multi-media
personality, actress, label owner and mentor. In addition, her beautiful spirit, sensuous stage presence and passionate vocal delivery will soothe your ears and alter your spirit in the most alluring way.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 130. Singer Terisa Griffin was born on August 25, 1969 in Monroe, Louisiana. She graduated Wossman High School and attended Northeastern Louisiana University on a music scholarship where she studied operatic singing.

Griffin relocated to Chicago, Illinois and sang backup for Diana Ross on a telecast of The Oprah Winfrey Show. She also toured with R&B legend Jerry Butler. Griffin worked for various Chicago advertising agencies recording jingles for commercials. In 1997, Griffin established her own independent music company, My Naked Soul Productions, where she wrote, produced and starred in a series of one-woman shows including: "One Woman. One Voice: A Musical Tribute to the Queens of Song," "Fantasy: The Divas of Song and Stage, a tribute to Josephine Baker, Eartha Kitt, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and Lena Horne," "Queens of R&B - A Tribute to the Queens of Rhythm and Blues: Dinah Washington, Diana Ross, Aretha Franklin, Donna Summers and Tina Turner," and "Songs Divas - A Tribute to Famous Song."

In 1998, Griffin released her first album "Songbird" as an introduction of original and cover works showcasing her vocal skills. In 2002, she toured with Patti LaBelle and performed background vocals. That same year, Griffin produced and presented her one-woman show, "One Woman. One Voice: A Musical Tribute to the Queens of Song". She also produced and presented "Fantasy: The Divas of Song and Stage, a tribute to Josephine Baker, Eartha Kitt, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and Lena Horne." Griffin debuted her first full-length release, "My Naked Soul," showcasing her talents as a songwriter and producer. In 2007, Griffin established the nonprofit organization, Better Love Yourself, Inc. and served as its CEO and president. In 2011, Griffin provided the title song and appeared in the independent short film "The Truth," directed by Hill Harper. She also released her sophomore double-disc, Soulzophrenic ‘Personalities of Soul' R&B and Dance releases. In 2012, Terisa Griffin auditioned for the NBC television reality series "The Voice" with a performance of Adele's "Someone Like You," where she was selected as a contestant on NBC’s The Voice Season 3. In 2015, Griffin made the Billboard Charts with her CD "Revival of Soul," which peaked at #33 on August 27, 2016. In 2016, Griffin and Better Love Yourself, Inc. celebrated ten years of service.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 129. Troy Saunders sits down and chats with one of the up-and-coming stars on the indie soul scene, J-Darius.

J-Darius was born overseas while his father was serving in the United States Air Force, and raised in San Antonio, Texas. J was surrounded by gospel music as a child and only a few secular artists were played in his household. He always had a love for music. Surprisingly, he didn't come from a musical family even though he loved to sing in his church choir. He explains to Troy that his father could "hold a note," but it was only he and his sister that could sing and she didn't start until college. So they never sung together while growing up, but she does sing backgrounds for him now.

While in college, Jay began to expand his musical knowledge. Listening to and absorbing all the secular music he didn't hear while growing up. Would you believe that he didn't major in music while in college? Find out what his major was and how he relates to it now.

During the pandemic, J-Darius entered the indie soul scene with his soulful first offering, "Let Go". This started his recognition as a indie soul newcomer with a distinctive voice. Since then, he has released three more full albums and two EPs, each with their own distinctive sound, but full of ear-catching tunes. Troy states that he can hear J-Darius' progress with each release. Troy admits not hearing of J-Darius until his release "No Time Wasted". This album made Troy an instant fan. Troy tells J that he had his song "Contagious" on constant rotation. Some of the other songs played during this episode were "Forever," "Moon and Back," "Love of My Life - Remix," "LA Sunset," "Sunset Blvd," "Tonight," "Fell In Love," "My Heart," and "Unbelievable". J-Darius explains his process in writing his songs and what to expect on his next album.

J-Darius also loves musical theater. Find out what shows he has performed in, what are his next performances, and what is on his bucket list.

Throughout the conversation there were plenty of laughs and warm, honest  discussions on music, life, and future endeavors.

Listen to this wonderful conversation now to hear what's behind one of indie soul's most dynamic new artists.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 128. Vahn Black is a Detroit-born vocalist, songwriter, producer and memory worker. She has crafted a sound-world of her own that marries her love of history, jazz vocalists, Black folk traditions and hip-hop producers.

As a teenager, Black attended Detroit School of Arts High School where she studied classical and jazz music as a Vocal major. In 2014, Black placed runner-up in the Detroit Jazz Festival's Youth Jazz Vocal Competition. She later enrolled in Spelman College's music program, focusing on classical vocal performance and modern composition, becoming the first student of the program to perform a senior recital of original non-classical compositions.

In 2023, Black was selected to perform at NPR's Tiny Desk on the Road Tour stop in Atlanta and has also performed as an opening act for MAJOR., Anthony Hamilton, Chrisette Michele, Elle Varner, and Maze featuring Frankie Beverly.

Black’s latest work, "Walk in the Rain," is the second of a trilogy that centers the story of Blues singer Gladys Bentley as told in the 1952 article "I Am a Woman Again". Displaying Black's passion for archival research and amplifying the voices of Black music elders, this project bridges the gaps of Bentley's small archive to create a more complete, imaginative story of her life. This explores Bentley's life-long desire to belong and be loved, the elements of life that brought her joy and the fluid nature of her gender expression and sexuality.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 127. Raquel Rodriguez is a multifaceted artist from Los Angeles who has made a name for herself by continually pushing her creative boundaries and navigating the music industry on her own terms. Raised in LA, Raquel was always recognized for her talent, often being labeled "the singer," yet her artistry goes far beyond that. As a singer, producer, songwriter, and performer, she blends her diverse talents to create a sound that is uniquely her own.

At the heart of Raquel's work is a commitment to authenticity. She thrives on blending personal experiences with broader societal narratives, offering a fresh perspective on womanhood, self-worth, and independence. Deeply passionate about creating art that resonates personally while challenging stereotypes, her music is an honest reflection of who she is - a fusion of soulful vocals, live instrumentation, and modern production that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Known for her soulful vocals, innovative production, and magnetic stage presence, Raquel crafts music that is as heartfelt as it is groovy.

Throughout her career, Raquel has stayed true to her vision and sound. Her breakout studio release, The 310, inspired by her LA roots, features the hit single Mile High, which garnered over 5 million streams and solidified her presence in the R&B scene. In 2021, she followed up with Sweet Side, her independently released debut album that showcased exciting collaborations with the likes of MXXWLL, Matt Johnson (Jamiroquai), and Amber Navran (Moonchild). With over 25 million streams, Sweet Side continues to resonate with fans worldwide, becoming a staple on playlists across the globe.

In October 2024, Raquel released her most personal work yet, Housewife, a project that challenges traditional stereotypes of womanhood and draws parallels between the overlooked labor of housewives and independent artists alike. The album fuses her love for music with her newfound passion for cooking, including a collection of her favorite recipes. Collaborating with familiar producers and songwriters like SammyB, Jess Best, Nigel Hall, Amber Navran, and Dux, along with new contributors like Misha, Housewife blends live musicianship with modern electronic elements, further refining her distinct sound.

Beyond her projects, Raquel’s journey as an independent artist is a testament to her perseverance and dedication. She works tirelessly to bring her vision to life, whether in her home studio or in the kitchen, nurturing connections with her community. Raquel believes in defining success on her own terms - embracing balance, creativity, and joy in both her personal and professional life. With a growing fanbase and an independent team that competes with the best of them, Raquel continues to prove that real fulfillment comes from authenticity. Her artistry, much like her life, is a celebration of individuality, resilience, and the freedom to forge your own path.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 126. Matthew Shell is a versatile multi-instrumentalist, producer, engineer, and educator specializing in genres spanning from smooth jazz and relaxing instrumentals to R&B and soul.

Shell's production, mixing, and engineering credits include Selina Gomez, Philip Lawrence from Bruno Mars' team, Gerald Albright, Paul Jackson Jr., Kenny McNeil, Kenny Wesley, Substantial, Ghen, Molly Moore, Lana Lubany, Collin Brooks, Tiffany Alvord, Carolyn Malachi, Marcus Johnson, DJ Flexx, Greg Adams, Jeff Lorber, and platinum-selling band O.A.R., among others.

Matthew's work on his own albums and for various artists have been featured numerous times on TV, radio, and in press articles, including three times on the Billboard Top 10 charts, twice featured on GRAMMY.com, and multiple times featured on FOX 5 News DC, WPGC 95.5, WTOP, WPFW 89.3, Trish Hennessey's Hybrid Jazz Radio, The Tony Kornheiser Show, and on The Maggie Linton Show on Sirius XM.

In this episode Troy and Matthew discuss how he became such a versatile and unique artist. Matthews sound is eclectic. He is a master at everything that he does from his fiery guitar playing to his knack for bringing the best musicians together from all over the world to help craft one of his gems. 

Even as a child Matthew dreamt big. In this episode Matthew tells of a story on how he planned to make a song Beethoven even better. Matt has the uncanny ability to think out of the box. Mixing genres to together and never shying away from something different. In his songs you can hear bits for Afro Beats, R&B, Jazz, Latin, Turkish, Japanese, House, India, American Indian music and so much more. He is truly a musician of the world.

What is so great about this episode is that Matt didn't shy away from getting in-depth about what went into making some of his most iconic songs. They conversed about songs that he did at the start of his career like his remake of Michael Jackson's "Rock With You" featuring extraordinary vocals of "Kenny Wesley" and "Latin Funk" with Marcus Johnson. Other songs featured are "1.99" where Matthew showcases his incredible guitar playing and Trey Eley plays the hell out of the flute. "Cherry Blossoms in Spring" featuring the GRAMMY Award-winning musician Masa Takumi. They also premiered a new song entitled "Layers" by Naika, a new Haitian artist that is about to take the world by storm; re imagined by Matt. Of course, the episode would not be complete without highlighting some of the gems of on his new album, "FM3 Every Morning," such as "Whispers In The Distance" and "Maui Sunset 3.0".

If you are looking for something new, relaxing and uplifting, you should check this episode out.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 125. David Sylvester started his musical career as a toddler long before he knew what music notes, beats, and tempos meant. He'd become quite skilled at lyrical content creating and tapping into heartfelt emotions through music in his youth.

He was heavily influenced by car rides with his mom where he would sing along as she listened to the great Otis Clay, Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, Johnny Taylor, and other R&B and soul artists. At the early age of 14 he began his professional musical career as a church musician at a COGIC church in Louisiana. When you hear his voice, you can hear how he illuminates the raspy sounds of blues legends Bobby "Blue" Bland and Al Green, who also started as gospel singers.

David released his first full industry standard project in April 2024 entitled SOUL OF THE SOUTH. It features hit singles such as "Too Blessed," "In My Arms," "My Apology," and "Back in Town," which friends, fans, and family members shared all over social media. But it was his single "Lonely Hearts" that has gained the momentum to establish a solid reputation in the soul blues industry.

When asked why should a new fan be interested in his music, Sylvester replied "It's an honest expression of raw emotion, completely original, and soulful. It also has somewhat of a vintage feel," This comment rings true.

When you listen to his music you will hear the vintage sounds resembling the great Otis Redding partnered with the sultry vocal rasp that is often compared to artists such as John Legend, Lyfe Jennings, and Anthony Hamilton. A small focus group said that the artist is a person who tends to overthink things seeking perfectionism, but levels that compassion with a huge heart. David can often be heard stating that. He is an old soul with an intense desire to spread love and positive energy everywhere my likeness is represented.

Expect the release of more original music and some powerful heartfelt live and electrifying performances as this shining star continues to bring great music to soulful ears across the world. A voice that is unique with lyrics coming from a perspective that is not commonly expressed and a nostalgic presence.

If you love warm heartfelt music that is pure and soulful, don't miss this episode. The conversation was warm and sincere. You really get to know the man behind the music. Tunes included in this episode are "Lonely Hearts," "In My Arms," "Thinking About You," "Spirits," " Run Back To Me," and Troy's favorite, "Let You Go".

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 124. In December 2005, Antonio "TONIO" McGaha completed his first project entitled "LOVE" as singer, songwriter, and vocal arranger. He released two singles in 2008, "Love is What We Need" and "Growth & Stability". Both feature Antonio's honest and authentic lyrics paired with his passionate vocals. These releases gained him a nomination for the Youth Gospel Choice Award for Best Male Artist and, in that same year, he took home the prestigious award from the creators of the Gospel Choice Awards.

TONIO believes in the power of authentic musical expression and writes to inspire everyone. In 2016, Tonio released "Addicted," which made its way to jazz stations and playlist all over the globe.

A myriad of influences color his songwriting and vocal stylings. A true student of music, Tonio derives inspiration from soul music and R&B's foremost talents. You can taste delicious hints of supreme artists like Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway, and Marvin Gaye in Tonio's music.

The founder of E.L.C.T. Entertainment, Tonio, carries out his personal mission of "Creating and providing art that is visually and musically stimulating, educational, empowering, and positively inspiring!" The world has just begun to see the fruits of this phenomenal visionary. TONIO is life-changing and timeless.

His EPs include "Love, Life, Loyalty Vol. I, Vol II, Vol. III," "The Rebirth Season 1" and, now, "The Rebirth Season 2".

"The Rebirth Season 2" is a musical exploration of the human experience, highlighting the complexities of relationships. The album captures both the joys and sorrows of life, reminding listeners of the resilience needed to navigate its ups and downs.

Key themes include:

Wins and Losses: Reflects the highs and lows of life, emphasizing resilience.

Joy and Pain: Combines soulful melodies with poignant lyrics, embracing the duality of emotions.

Self-Discovery and Healing: Encourages introspection and personal growth.

The album showcases McGaha's evolution as an artist, featuring a variety of sounds that highlight his versatility. "The Rebirth Season 2" invites listeners on a journey of renewal and inspiration.

OUT NOW! Troy welcomes this incredible man of soul to the BAAS Entertainment podcast. Listen, like and share!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 123. Join host Troy Saunders as he chats the vocal powerhouse singer, writer and arranger Jacci McGhee!

Best known for her belted-out duet with Keith Sweat on the hit song of the 1980s, “Make It Last Forever,” Jacci has returned from a self-admitted dark place to her passion and gift of singing. Actually, Jacci began her reappearance on the music scene in 2015 with step-out vocals alongside Dominique, on DJ Jay Salter’s international EDM hit, "Angel of Mine" (Soul Remix). Once the song took off on the streaming sites, momentum began to build. It continued to escalate with the booking of a modeling job through a chance encounter at a local New York coffee house. "The owner of a gourmet popcorn line approached me and asked me if I would do a print ad for him in a food magazine," she said. "It became my first modeling job." Afterward, she was a bitten by the acting bug, co-starring in a short film on teen suicide with Marc John Jefferies, the actor best known for film and TV productions "Power," "Get Rich or Die Tryin’," and "Losing Isaiah," to name a few.

McGhee's music career was spawned by her duet with Sweat and lead vocals on Salt-N-Pepa's hit, "Expression." Immediately afterward, she was signed to MCA, now Geffen Records, releasing a Top 10 R&B single, "It Hurts Me." With corporate shake-ups, she got lost in the fray, but bounced back as the successor to Sandra St. Victor, taking over as lead vocalist for urban alternative band The Family Stand on their "Connected" album.

Following the dissolution of the band, she steered her vocal talents to opportunities to sing jingles for ad campaigns while raising a family. Her reconnection with DJ Jay Salter resulted in the 2017 Christmas pop single, “Every Day Is A Holiday."

In 2017, the New York native used her vocal and comedic chops to host R&B live showcases in Charlotte, NC, and Philadelphia, and later worked alongside Talent the comedian in collaborative routines.

However, family took priority. Upon her return to New York, the mother of three took a hiatus from music to immediately step into the role of caregiver for her fourteen-year-old daughter, Madison, who was diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes.

A woman of great faith, Jacci said it was a spiritual experience that encouraged her to return to singing. "The Most High touched my spirit and told me to move forward and sing again," she said. That decision resulted in a return collaboration with a friend and former producer, DECLARE. Together, they composed the new single, "If This World Were Mine," with an accompanying video directed by her son, Kamrin, a filmmaker and graduate of the arts from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Her daughter also makes a cameo.

In 2022, Jacci released "Riches of the World," a high-octane cautionary pop record with an equally electric music video, in addition to a remix with legendary hip-hop artist Chubb Rock the following year.

In the summer of 2023, the re-release of the expanded edition of Jacci McGhee's 1992 self-titled debut album hit all streaming platforms. Jacci's 2023 single "Time and Time" would also go on to chart highly on the UK Amazon charts.

A year later, in the summer of 2024, Jacci debuted her latest single, "Slow Down," produced by Father MC, with music composed by Rockwilder. Her latest single, "No More," produced by Producer Declare, is set to release November 8th. This single paves the way for her forthcoming EP, "Jacci's Closet," releasing January 2025.

"I've got butterflies in my stomach because it's all new to me. But it just feels like it's my time and I'm ready." - Jacci McGhee

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 122. Join host Troy Saunders as he gets up close and personal with the one and only singer, songwriter, producer and entrepreneur, Trey Lorenz!

After two decades away from releasing solo music, Grammy-nominated R&B sensation Trey Lorenz is making a triumphant return with his highly-anticipated new single, "Magic." Known for his soulful voice and timeless hits, Lorenz's new release connects him deeply to his Southern heritage, drawing inspiration from the rich musical traditions that shaped him.

This comeback not only marks a new chapter for Lorenz, but also reflects on his journey over the past 20 years. As a key part of Mariah Carey's internationally-acclaimed tours, he has performed in front of millions of adoring fans, solidifying his place in the music industry. From their iconic #1 duet "I'll Be There," to his R&B hit "Someone to Hold," as well as his unforgettable vocals on Groove Theory's classic hit "Tell Me," Lorenz's contributions have left an indelible mark on the genre.

Beyond his musical achievements, Trey Lorenz is deeply committed to giving back to his community of followers. He has worked tirelessly to help individuals achieve their dreams of homeownership through a real estate initiative focused on building generational wealth. As his efforts empower countless families to create lasting financial stability, Lorenz's return comes just in time for his participation in Carey’s nationally-televised Christmas special and as a featured performer on Mariah Carey's 2024 Christmas Tour, bringing his soulful voice to the holiday season's most anticipated celebration.

In this episode, Troy and Trey take a ride through Trey's impressive history in music. From his early beginnings with Red Head King Pin, to Mariah Carey to, his latest return to the recorded music scene.

Troy and Trey have known each other since 1991 and you can feel their connection as they converse about Trey's music and other artists that have influenced them both. The laughter is never ending and the stories fascinating. You will be thoroughly entertained while listening to this episode!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 121. Join host Troy Saunders as he sits down and chats with The Prince of Soul Calvin Richardson!

Calvin Richardson is a national singer, songwriter, and entertainer who delights fans and has a significant market presence and high touring demand. In addition to his own legacy of successful albums and chart-topping singles, he has written multi-platinum, platinum, and gold hit singles for many of the music industry's top recording artists, including Charlie Wilson "There Goes My Baby," Angie Stone "More Than a Women," and Raphael Saadiq "Falling Out".

USA Today declares Calvin Richardson is "influenced by vintage R&B and his gritty vocals sets him apart from contemporaries... fresh vibes for a singer who respects his roots." Calvin Richardson’s music touches soul, R&B, blues and pop. His 8th studio album release, "Gold Dust," produced the chart-topping hits "Let Me Love On You," "Be Your Friend," and "If You're Thinking About Leaving". His 7th album, "All or Nothing," charted in the top 20 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart. His hit single "Can’t Let Go" was in the top 30 on Billboard’s Urban AC Chart and has over 100 million streams. "Treat Her Right" is his prior hit release from "All or Nothing".

Calvin Richardson recorded a tribute album to Bobby Womack called "Facts of Life," which coincided with Womack’s introduction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. "Facts of Life" was highly acclaimed and received a Grammy nomination. Many of his hits remain in rotation in markets around the country. As a well-established artist, Calvin Richardson has released albums through Universal Records, Hollywood Records, Primary Wave Music/BMG Rights Management, Shanachie Entertainment, and his most recent release is distributed through Virgin Music Group via a partnership with Music Matters Entertainment/The SRG-ILS Group.

Tune in to this episode as Troy and Calvin discuss the making of each album while Troy spins some of his favorite cuts. Whether you are a fan of Calvin's or just a lover of great soul music, this is one you won't want to miss.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 120. You might have heard and are following this soulful crooner via his reels on Instagram and TikTok where he showcases his smooth vocals while tackling songs by some of R&B's most iconic vocalists. One of his most liked is his beautiful rendition of Luther Vandross' "Promise Me". These magnificent covers have garnered him a following of over 60k on Instagram and over 86k on TikTok with no signs of slowing down.

In this episode, Troy and Darnel talk about how Darnel got started in the business nearly 30 years ago and how he persevered. Never giving up on his love for music and the dream of becoming a successful  artist.

Darnel began his recording career in 1995 as part of the boy band 2nd Nature. These boys could sing! Troy and Darnel discuss these years and why they only had one album. Troy also played their modest hit, "Can U Show Me". 

Never giving up, Darnel kept releasing music. Troy highlights some of the gems that he put out over the years as they conversed about each offering. Darnel explain why he keeps going and offers advice to aspiring artists.

Darnel's latest single, "What If," was released on October 18, 2024, and features background vocals and production by newcomer Jordan Johnston. What an incredible song! It is guaranteed to be a hit. They discuss how it came to fruition and gave the listener a snippet of a live version.

This is a wonderful episode! You can hear the love the men have for music and excellent vocals. If you love great male vocalists like Luther Vandross, Teddy Pendergrass and Peabo Bryson, check out this episode because Darnel is definitely keeping that torch burning.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 119. Join host Troy Saunders as he welcomes, singer, songwriter, producer, arranger, composer, musician, entrepreneur, and all-around beautiful person, the incomparable Angela Johnson.

Troy and Angela start the conversation by reminiscing about the start of her career with the unforgettable neo-soul band, Cooly's Hot-Box. Angela tells Troy how attending college at SUNY Purchase NY opened her mind to so many new experiences. Angela is originally from a much smaller town called Utica in upstate NY and college life near the big city was initially a culture shock for her, but it was also where she found her true passion in music. It's also where she met Christian Urich and Cooly's Hot-Box was formed.

Angela explains the need to start a solo career, and some of the thought process in making that decision, and then bringing it to life with much success. By this time in the conversation, Troy has played a couple of his favorites from the Cooly's Hot-Box era and Angela's first solo album, "They Don't Know".

Troy dives into one of his favorite albums by her, "A Women's Touch Vol. 1". They laugh on the fact that it has been 16 years and Vol. 2 still hasn't come out. Angela explains why. They share their mutual admiration for the legendary artist Maysa, and then Troy plays "More Than You Know" from the album that featured Maysa's soul-stirring lead vocals.

Troy and Angela discuss her award-winning album, "It's Personal," with its equally popular single "All In Me," featuring the unstoppable Darien Dean. After pondering on which version to play, Troy decided that the house version was his favorite and gave the audience a sample of this mix. This is definitely one that will make you want to get up and dance!

Since they were in the dancing mood, Troy and Angela kept the energy going with their discussion about her latest album, "Best Of Both Worlds," with Swedish producer Opolopo, due to be released on October 25, 2024. Angela told how the project came about and her excitement on its release. Troy was over the moon to hear that it would be available on vinyl. They played the single "Possibilities" and a funky instrumental called "Buffalo".

We also hear about Angela's other new musical endeavors and how she doesn't have plans on slowing down anytime soon.

Troy knows how to make a guest feel comfortable. The conversation was light, jovial and personable. It was a great conversation between old friends. If you love music that is heartfelt and passionate, and positive uplifting dialogue, don't miss this episode!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 118. Join host Troy Saunders as he chats with Sherry Winston! Not only is Ms. Winston one of jazz music's most esteemed flutists, but she is also a record executive, promotional manager, educator, public speaker, composer, author, chef, booking agent, a world-renowned performer, and all-around great person. Come get to know this legendary artist in this episode.

Sherry Winston has performed in many of the major concert halls throughout the U.S., including Carnegie Hall, Constitution Hall, Lincoln Center, and at the Kennedy Center. Sherry performed with icon Stevie Wonder in New York City to honor the legendary Hal Jackson on his 97th birthday. Sherry had the honor of performing for two sitting presidents: President and Mrs. Clinton during their last holiday party at the White House and for former President George H.W. Bush at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in NYC. Sherry has been featured in The New York Times, Ebony, Black Enterprise, Essence and More magazines. Sherry has been a featured guest on the Today Show, "Emeril Live," and has co-hosted and performed on eight shows for BET TV. Sherry has released six CDs with her first, "Do It For Love," going to #1 on BRE and the Black Excellence Charts. "Love Madnes," and "Life is Love & Love is You," were Top 10 at Billboard Magazine.

They start the episode by discussing Sherry's humble beginnings growing up in Corona, Queens, her college years at Howard University, how she began working as a secretary at Warner Brothers Records via their Elektra and GRP subsidiaries, and her move up the ranks becoming Director of Jazz Promotion at Columbia Records.

In the next part of the conversation, they converse about what happened at Columbia Records that made her concentrate on recording her own jazz records, the struggles of an independent artist, and how she copes with the ups and downs of being in the the music industry. This is a must listen for anyone that is in or planning to start a career in music. Words from a wise lady that has been maintaining a successful career for many years.

Throughout the episode Troy plays some of his favorite songs by Ms. Winston, beginning with "Sherry Love," and ending with her latest single, "Spice Island". Sherry tells wonderful stories of working with legendary artists Hubert Laws (and the rest of his family), Patrice Rushen, Jon Lucien, Najee, Kirk Whalum, Grover Washington, Jr., Eric Gale, and more. You can tell that Troy and Ms. Winston thoroughly enjoy each other's company. It was as if they knew each other for a long time even though they just met.

This is a wonderful episode that will keep you intrigued, make you smile and fill you soul with wonderful music!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 117. Join host Troy Saunders as he chats with the soulful Mo Louis. Mo's sax playing is like listening to your favorite singer caress a song that reaches your heart and soul.

Mo Louis is an international recording artist that has been capturing the hearts of smooth jazz fans worldwide! 2023 was a great year for his music, capturing his first Billboard #1 hit with his radio single, "Static". He was a nominated finalist for Smooth Jazz Network's Breakout Artist of the Year for 2023. With his latest release, "To the Maxx," Mo features Grammy Award-winning pianist Jeff Lorber. Together, they will mesmerize with deep grooves that will be sure to leave fans wanting more! Mo is definitely one to watch on the smooth jazz scene.

In this episode, Troy and Mo chat about how Mo developed the love for the saxophone, his inspirations, and how his parents felt about this passion. Mo's determination to be the next Kenny G led him to attend the prestigious Berkley School of Music. Born and raised in Southern California, going to school on the East Coast must have been different for Mo. They discuss the differences. A meeting with the legendary Euge Groove was the springboard that kicked Mo's recording career into high gear. They talk about this meeting and its significance in detail, as well as why it took so many years for Mo to chase his dream.

Now a Billboard #1 artist, Mo is eager to jump into releasing new music, possibly a new album to be released on vinyl, and tour. Mo appreciates his fans and loves to stay in contact with them on social media, and is excited about meeting them face-to-face at live performances.

These are just some of the topics Troy and Mo cover in this episode. Tune in to get the full scoop on one of smooth jazz's fastest-rising stars!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 116. Join host Troy Saunders as he converses with songwriter, producer, and one of the premier flutists around, the incomparable "Ambassador of Instrumental Soul" Darryl Evan Jones.

In the tradition of pioneering contemporary jazz greats like Tim Weisberg and Hubert Laws, Darryl Evan Jones, long known by his fans and peers as “The Fluteman” brings the unique instrument's classic vibe and rich melodic and harmonic possibilities to a new generation.

Darryl Evan Jones' journey has brought him to performances stages like The Cannon Center in Memphis, Philadelphia's Mandell Theater, and the Capital Jazz Fest.  He's also been the opening act for artists like Jeff Lorber, Kem, Boney James, and has shared the stage with Marion Meadows.

The musical style of Darryl Evan Jones is truly original, combining the genres of jazz, classical, and gospel music. He calls his style instrumental soul. Darryl insists that he's a soul singer who can't sing, but expresses his emotions through the flute. He's also the winner of the "Solo Instrumental" category in the (International) 2024 Made In New York Jazz Competition, representing the United States.

Since the release of his “Relentless” album, Darryl has made quite a stir with this memorable project. Darryl Evan Jones unfolds the diversity of the flute as only a master of this instrument can do, a valuable asset to those who love this instrument and all other contemporary jazz fans.

"On The Run," the first radio single from the "Resilient" album, has already made waves by making its mark on the Radio Wave Groove Jazz and SJ Network Charts. The release of the second radio single, "Road Trip," combined with the release of "Resilient," is sure to cement Darryl Evan Jones as a bonified force in contemporary jazz.

In this episode, Troy and Darryl converse on a myriad of topics, from Darryl's humble beginnings growing up in the South Bronx, New York City, to his move to the southern portion of the U.S. They dive into Darryl's outlook on the pluses and minuses of the transition. This made for a very interesting conversation.

Darryl has been playing the flute since that age of 8, but not until slightly before 2005 has he pursued it as a career, really kicking it into high gear within the last ten years. Find out what his other career is and what life-changing events helped him in making that decision. They discussed how and why he started to play the flute and how he cultivated his distinctive sound.

Throughout the conversation, Troy plays some of Darryl's unforgettable music, as the man himself gives the audience the backdrop on each song. Some of the songs featured in this podcast  are "Dream," "Unstoppable," "It's Alive," "Resilient," and "Road Trip".

Tune in and be uplifted by the music and the conversation between two fun-loving and spirited individuals. You would swear they have known each other for years!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 115. Join host Troy Saunders as he chats with writer, producer, multi instrumentalist, and pianist, Jesse Thompson!

Born and raised in Dayton, Ohio, known in music circles as the land of funk, Jesse Thompson couldn’t help but be influenced by the city’s great R&B pioneers – including Slave, Ohio Players, Lakeside and Zapp featuring Roger Troutman. For the past 20 years, the multi-talented composer, pianist and keyboardist manifested these inspirations - and helped bring the legacies of these legendary bands forward - as a former member of the popular and prolific, constantly gigging Columbus-based R&B/jazz ensemble NexLevel.

Unlike many long-time band members and sidemen who work towards someday expressing themselves as solo artists, Thompson was content with his existing whirlwind of activity playing with others. But when the pandemic hit, he instinctively used his downtime to, as he says, “sow a seed of happiness” to create "Weekend Groove" - an irrepressible next-gen disco vibin' house beat-driven track featuring flutist Althea Rene, and a horn section by Kelly O'Donohue, that ultimately became the lead single to his uniquely-titled debut album, "The Inauguration of Jtjazz (Jesse Thompson the Man Behind the Keys)."

Though its dance floor-ready lead single "Weekend Groove" will immediately spark excitement and lift the spirits just as Jesse Thompson intended, there are a multitude of other pleasures to experience on "The Inauguration of Jtjazz (Jesse Thompson the Man Behind the Keys)" - an album which truly rolls like an autobiographical blend of his many influences, from those Dayton funk legends to George Duke, Herbie Hancock, Joe Sample and Brian Culbertson. The album's latest single, "It Doesn’t Matter, " is a sensual, easy-grooving romantic joint featuring Thompson interacting with #1 Billboard charting trumpeter Lin Rountree - who he connected with via mutual connections at the individual HBCU schools they attended. As a showcase for Thompson's great talents on Fender Rhodes, creating a moody effect, and his sparkling acoustic piano, the song taps into Thompson's love of Joe Sample's vibe both with the Crusaders and as a solo artist. The elegant funk ballad "The Right One Baby" offers a similar seductive duality. Troy highlighted three songs from this incredible project, "Weekend Grove," "Obsidian," and "It Doesn't Matter".

Being the son of a father who was a professional jazz drummer and a mother who was a church organist/pianist, Jesse Thompson, aka JTJazz, came by his musical gifts naturally and started playing the drums as his first instrument at the age of five. By the time JT was twelve years old, he played a total of thirteen instruments, the piano being one of them. In addition to his parents, he was influenced by his oldest brother, Marvyn Wheatley, who recorded and played with Parliament and Slave. Thompson spent time with his brothers in the studio hanging out with Slave, Roger Troutman & Zapp, Steve Arrington and other.

These experiences fueled his musical passions and ambitions. While he studied manufacturing engineering and IT at Central State University in Wilberforce, OH, he played in the school's marching band and jazz ensemble and joined the national honorary band of the Kappa Kappa Psi fraternity. His other influences include Alex Bugnon, Jimmy Smith, Billy Preston, Jeff Lorber, James Lloyd and Bob James.

Troy and Jesse discusses Jesse's musical bucket list, future endeavors, giving back, and more.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 114. Join host Troy Saunders as he chats with writer, singer, producer, multi instrumentalist, but known internationally for his jazz saxophone playing, Shola Iyiola.

Shola Iyiola is a name that is synonymous with excellence in the world of music. An international award-winning saxophonist, Shola is on a mission to play and create music that captures and awakens the soul of its listeners. With his unique style sound, Shola has become a breath of creative fresh air in the contemporary music scene.

Born to Nigerian parents in Houston, Shola began playing drums at the age of 3. He started playing music professionally at the age of 18 and has since then been privileged to work with some of the biggest names in the contemporary jazz, Afro-beat and gospel scenes.

What sets Shola apart from other musicians is his self-taught skills in multiple instruments, production, and songwriting. He is a multi-talented artist who has mastered the art of creating music that speaks to the soul. His music is a fusion of different genres, including jazz, afro-beat, gospel, and soul. It is this fusion that makes his sound unique.

Shola's passion for music is evident in every note he plays. He is a true artist who is dedicated to his craft and is always looking for ways to improve and evolve. His music is not just about entertaining his audience, but it is also about inspiring and uplifting them.

In a world where music has become more about commercial success than artistic expression, Shola Iyiola is a breath of fresh air. He is a true artist who is not afraid to take risks and push boundaries. His music is a testament to his talent, passion, and dedication to his craft.

Troy starts off the episode by taking the audience back to Shola's 2015 debut album, "Divine Intimacy". The track he choose to play was a jazzy inspirational tune called "Open the Eyes of My Heart". This number was the perfect way to get the conversation started. It embodied all that is Shola: uplifting, passionate, spiritual, and refined. They converse about growing up in the church and if there were any differences between the Nigerian Church he grown up in and the African American church. Shola shares that he feels that the Nigerian Church has been influenced by the African American Church. Troy then plays a song off of his second album, "Out Of The Wilderness," called "Favor," featuring both Shola and Michael Stuckey on vocals. This song will have shouting and praise dancing by its end.

Troy and Shola discuss the meaning of his name. What a beautiful and blessed meaning. Wait until you hear it. Shola also talks about his frequent visits to his homeland and attending high school there. Troy shared that his DNA test came back with the greatest portion being Nigerian. Shola then told Troy he's going to give him a Yoruba name.

Shola's realization that creating music should come from the heart and soul and not just to become world famous and have hits, creating a legacy, was a turning point in his life. Both men converse about their love for Frank McComb and Kirk Whalum. This led the conversation to his latest album and why he named it "Unstoppable". Troy, of course, followed up by playing the title track and first single off the album.

Shola was pressed for time so they ended the episode with his new single, "Don't Stop". Both "Unstoppable" and "Don't Stop" have a delightful mixture of Afro-beat and jazz. You will feel like you are dancing on the beach in the Caribbean.

Don't miss this episode of wonderful music and positive conversation!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 113. Join host Troy Saunders as he converses the guitarist, songwriter, singer, producer, mixer, engineer, entrepreneur and so much more, David P. Stevens.

The episode begins with a brief and lighthearted conversation on David's early life in Philadelphia. He is the youngest of four children, whose parents both were educators and his father was the pastor at their church. David's father also had a funk band in which David's older siblings were members. He was too young to join, but this influenced David to start playing the guitar and sing.

David explains his many moves in life, from living in Nashville, Detroit, Philadelphia, and eventually Los Angeles. Each move was to accomplish and new goal.

Did you know that David's first album was a gospel album, released in 1999? It is no longer available for streaming. Troy and David discussed the reason for its unavailability and the possibility of re-releasing it.

Throughout the conversation, Troy goes through David's vast catalog of music, highlighting songs that touched him, and David. He started with David's first jazz release in 2005, "Timeless". They grooved to the title track. Another song featured was a beautiful track called "I Need You," which featured both David and Mitchell Jones of Commissioned. David tells how this collaboration came to be and how it was one of the highlights of his career so far. David's collaborations span the who's who in music, including Frank McComb, Maysa, Gerald Albright, Najee, Will Downing, LaToya Luckett, Carol Riddick (their collaboration "Love Is Still in Style" is also featured in this episode), Lin Rountree, Carl Cox, Steve Cole and sooo many more. David inspires to work with even more artists across all genres. Some of the artists on his wish list include Ledisi, Deborah Cox, Barbra Streisand, James Taylor, Lalah Hathaway and more.

Of course this episode would not have been complete without talking about David's latest album, "Go". David once said that his album "Rouge" was his favorite release, but I think "Go" has him changing his mind. The whole album is a masterpiece, so it was hard for Troy to pick which songs to highlight. He started with the jazzy remake of Evelyn "Champagne" King's "Love Come Down" with Erin Stevenson on vocals. Evelyn is the blueprint, but David did a great job reinventing this R&B classic. Then Troy switched gears and played "Cozy," a nod to the the great classic R&B slow jams from the 1980s. Another selection played was "Journey Home," which is bound to be a smooth jazz classic. For the next two songs, Troy enlisted help from David, asking what were his favorites off of the album. David suggests "East Meets West" (an old Norman Brown hit, one of David's influences) and "Might As Well" (a tune that starts off as a smooth jazz classic and by the end you are in the middle of a full gospel experience). They ended the episode with the latest single, "Go," which features the man himself on vocals. This song is at home on any R&B station as well as on smooth jazz formats. David has a new video premiering on September 3 for this single. It will showcase David's acting, scoring and production skills. Look out for the premiere on YouTube.

This conversation covered so many topics. Too many to list here. Just tune in to hear more. Not only was the music incredible in this episode, but the conversation was filled with passion. These two men love what they do and it shows. Don't miss this uplifting and joyful conversation!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 112. Join host Troy Saunders as he chats with truly one of the hardest-working and multi-faceted performers in the entertainment industry, Keith D. Robinson.

In a world where talent is an ingredient for success, Keith D. Robinson is ahead of the game. He is a true triple threat as the talented actor continues his pursuit as an all-around entertainer. Before making his way to Tinseltown, the Kentucky/Georgia native set his sights on music and attended the University of Georgia. He has had an illustrious acting career, landing an incredible 70 projects in both television and film. Keith has been able to establish himself as a face to watch in the entertainment industry for quite some time, starring in popular works like "Dreamgirls, " "This Christmas," "Four Seasons," "Fat Albert," "CRU," and the "Life Story of Mahalia Jackson" staring alongside Grammy Award-winning singer Ledisi and veteran actor Columbus Short. Additionally, he starred in "Saints and Sinners" for all six seasons, which are now available on Hulu.

Robinson may be best known for his critically-acclaimed role as C.C. White in the Academy Award-winning feature film, "Dreamgirls," which remains a major benchmark in his career as an actor and singer. The movie was directed by Bill Condon starring Beyoncé Knowles, Jennifer Hudson, Jamie Foxx, Eddie Murphy, and Anika Noni Rose.

He has gone on to work on several projects, including "Dear John," "Get On Up," the life story of James Brown, alongside the late Chadwick Boseman, "All Eyez on Me," the life story of Tupac Shakur, "35 and Ticking," "Hopelessly in June," and many more. Keith recently completed his directorial debut project, "The Greener Grass Experiment," from his Scenes and Songs Production imprint, in which he not only directed, but he also wrote and starred in the project. This short film was submitted and won the Essence Film Festival.

Moreover, Keith was recently nominated for a NAACP Image Award for the scripted podcast "Crimson Hearts" via Hallmark. Additionally, he filmed a brand-new television show, "Conspirators," in Washington D.C. Mr. Robinson looks to expand his repertoire with a slate of new projects on the horizon such as "LA Social," "The Wilshire," and many other TV, film, and music projects under his Scenes and Songs production company.

In this episode, Troy and Keith converse mainly about Keith's music career while touching on highlights from his impressive history as an actor. Troy started by playing a couple of tunes from Keith's first full-length album, "Love Episodic," released in 2017, "Love Somebody," and "Tip Toe". They also discussed how Keith got his break as an actor. Believe it or not, he never really had plans on becoming  an actor. Hear how it came to be in this episode.

Throughout the conversation, Troy plays songs from Keith's up and coming album "Love Episodic 2". "Love Episodic 2" is scheduled for release sometime in the fall. All but two tracks are songs, in Keith words, "I wrote to get some stuff off my chest." No fluff music here. His latest single, "We Got Somethin," was just released on all digital platforms and debuted at #17 on the Sirius XM Heart and Soul charts.

Tune in to hear some of the hottest R&B from one of the most versatile entertainers in the business. Good music and good conversation. What more can you ask for in a episode!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 111. Join host Troy Saunders as he chats with the architect of the legendary group Klymaxx, singer, songwriter, producer, businesswoman, entrepreneur, and so much more, the Charismatic Diva of Soul, the one and only Bernadette Cooper!

Troy starts the episode off by diving into the persona of Bernadette, asking if her stage personality is any different than her private life temperament. They also converse about her youth, growing up in California, and how she started to play the drums. That led into talking about the making of Klymaxx, and how Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis helped them to define their sound and message, the demise of Klymaxx, and why there are three groups using the Klymaxx name; as well as how the ladies that were part of the original band currently get along. She also made great comparisons to Shalamar and Rufus and Chaka Khan when talking about the possibility of Klymaxx getting back together... It ain't gonna happen. Bernadette also told a funny story on how the song "Meeting In The Ladies Room" came to be. Wait until you all hear this!

Bernadette discussed what she did after leaving Klymaxx and some of the great artists she has worked with. Troy played one of his favorite collaborations Bernadette did with the amazing, late, great Teena Marie called "Crocodile Tears". She also opens up to Troy about her previous career dreams, as well as the vintage clothing store she used to own in Jersey City, New Jersey, her passion for vintage cars, and more of her many talents. Bernadette is a multi-faceted creator. 

Currently, Bernadette is looking to collaborate with some of the more seasoned artists to show the world that they are still viable, sexy and haven't lost their talent. Troy and Bernadette discuss several possible artists and some that have already committed to the collaboration. This led them to her latest offering, "Jealous Bitch," featuring Maxi and Cheri from the Original Mary Jane Girls. A sexy and sassy song that only Bernadette could pull off. Bernadette explains that the song wasn't made to offend. Its mission is to empower, and make people laugh.

Troy and Bernadette chatted like old friends. The conversation was warm and heartfelt. This one I'm sure you all are truly going to love!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 110. Join host Troy Saunders as he chats with singer, songwriter, producer, label owner and just an incredible human, James D-Train Williams!

This episode starts with both men reminiscing about their high school alma mater, Erasmus Hall. D Train tells how Will Downing got him into the school's famous Choral Club and started his music career. Both men had fond memories of their old high school and talk about their mutual friends as well as the idea of doing a documentary about the world-famous school. Other legends like Barbra Streisand, Neil Diamond, May West, Clive Davis, Kedar Massenburg, Bernadette Stanis, Gabe Kaplan and so many more have walked their halls.

D Train explains how, what seemed like overnight, he and his songwriting partner, band member, and mentor, Hubert Eaves III, were on top of the Billboard charts and on tour with George Clinton, Peabo Bryson, Midnight Star, The Deele and so many top acts of that time. He tells how legendary radio DJ Frankie Crocker of WBLS in NYC loved their music and helped to get it played around the country. D Train also explains the thought process behind hits like "Keep On" and "Thank You" and the positive impacted they had on many of his listeners, Troy included.

After five albums, D Train decided not to make another album for almost 20 years. He tells of a performance that helped him in making that decision. D Train still remained a much sort-after session and jingle singer. Working on albums by many of the greats in the industry, including Luther Vandross, Gladys Knight, Cher and Michael Jackson. One entertaining story he shared comes from a session while working on the Michael Jackson "Invincible" album. Hilarious! Wait until you hear it!

Troy and D Train not only talk about music; but they also converse about racism in America, and why many artist prefer performing overseas. D Train also stresses how artists should know their self worth, especially when negotiating their price with promoters. He also expressed his insecurities and how they kept him from releasing new music until now.

With pride and excitement, D Train informs the listener about some of the great music to expect on his new album due to be released later this month or in August. They talk about his latest single, "Time Has Come Today," and how he was inspired by so many artists, including Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield, Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, and more.

This episode never had a dull moment. Full of love, laughter, passion and enlightenment. You will be totally entertained. Listen now!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 109. Join host Troy Saunders as he converses with the smooth, jazzy, multi-genre vocalist and songwriter the incredible Roderick Harper, the Keeper of the Love Song.

In this episode, Roderick and Troy take a trip through Roderick's catalog from 1999 to the present, starting with his first offering, "Beautiful Beginnings," a well-sung collection of jazz and blues classics. Roderick has a sound uniquely his own and transcends all genres. Troy chose to highlight the song "Moonlight" off this album. Roderick tell the audience about attending college in Louisiana, working with the great Ellis Marsalis, and how it led him to this recording.

Roderick also has the knack of reinterpreting a song. One example of this appeared on his next album, "The Essence of Roderick Harper," where he jazzed up Sade's "Stronger Than Pride". A total joy to listen to. Roderick explained the making of this album with the great Nicolas Payton while living in Chicago.

After a 15-year hiatus to raise a family, Roderick reemerges with "Perfect Imperfections". Recently divorced, Roderick returns to New Orleans and tells his story of reinvention and discovery. Troy and Roderick play "Never Will I Marry," a Nancy Wilson and Cannonball Adderley classic, and a song that is dear to Roderick for many reasons.

Other gems played and discussed include: "Look What I Got" from his "Evolving" album, and "Hearts Desire," from his first R&B offering, "Back To Love". The later album spawned three top 5 hits on the UK R&B charts.

Of course they discuss Roderick's epic "2702" album, produced by the incomparable Jamison Ross. This album is truly a masterpiece and a favorite by both Roderick and Troy. To date, it's Roderick's most popular album, reaching the #4 slot on the Amazon UK chart. Troy's chose to highlight two songs off of this album: "Slice Of Life" and "Genuine".

The musical journey brought the listener to his latest project: "Back To Love Vol. 2 (Journey To Love)," a new collection of R&B gems featuring hits "Unforgettable" and "Eternal Love," with more to follow. Troy started the episode by highlighting "Love Is In the Air" and ended it with "Unforgettable," and Roderick's remarkable remake of Major Harris/Luther Vandross' "Love Won't Let Me Wait".

This is a wonderful episode of great music, stories of discovery, reinvention and wonderful conversation. If you love a good slow jam with mellow jazz and R&B infused vocals, this is one you won't want to miss!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 108. Join host Troy Saunders as he takes a look into the world of the multitalented Chester Gregory!

Troy and Chester met back in 2008. By that time, Chester had already solidified his name in the annuals as one of  Broadway's finest performers, and was in the process of releasing his first independent soul album, "In Search of High Love". Prior to this, Chester taught in the Chicago public school system and performed around Chicago in several plays. This led him to the lead role in "The Jackie Wilson Story," which toured the country. The performance brought Chester and the cast to The Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York, where it was met with rave reviews. Chester then landed a major role on Broadway in "Hairspray" and the rest is history!

In this episode, Troy and Chester discuss Chester's reverence for his hometown of Gary, Indiana and the role it played in his career choices. As we all know, Michael Jackson, one of Chester's biggest influences, was from Gary. Chester explains how playing Jackie Wilson and Berry Gordy brought him to meeting Michael himself. It was a full circle moment. Chester also tells Troy his feelings on getting an Honorary Doctorate from his alma mater, Columbia College Chicago.

Throughout the conversation, the guys play snippets from Chester's 2008 album "In Search of High Love," and his latest offering, "Retrograde". Chester tells the listening audience to be on the lookout for a new album. He wouldn't give a release date, but did explain the premise behind the project.

Chester is one of the most talented people in entertainment. Tune in to get a glimpse into what makes this incomparable genius tick. It was a wonderful conversation full of insight, history and music.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 107. Join Host Troy Saunders as he converses with the genre-bending  vocalist, saxophone player, writer, producer and entrepreneur Michael J. Thomas.

From a small town in Kentucky to riding the top slot on the Billboard Smooth Jazz Top Airplay Chart twice, Michael J. Thomas is reaching goals and setting new ones daily as an indie jazz musician. In this episode, Troy and Michael discuss his parents' love for music, especially R&B, funk and pop. Michael Jackson, Teena Marie, Stevie Wonder and Earth Wind & Fire were staples in their home. Michael tells a funny story about a childhood performance he did to the Kool and the Gang classic "Jungle Boogie" in the family living room. Hilarious! You will also hear how the saxophone was not the first instrument he wanted to play. Can you guess what was? Find out in this episode.

Michael also discussed how he wound up in Destin, Florida from Kentucky and how he managed to work with such greats as Maysa, Chieli Minucci, Trammell Starks, Carl Griffin and more.

Throughout the episode, Troy played some of Michael's most unique and well-crafted songs such as "I'll Never Love Again," "OG Bounce," " City Beat," "Sippin The Yak," and more. Plus, a song that even surprised Michael.

They also talked about ways to get one's music to the masses and how Michael is successfully utilizing his newly-learned marketing strategies and apps to do so. 

This episode is filled with great information, conversation and, of course, music from one of the rising stars in smooth jazz, Michael J. Thomas. Don't miss it!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 106. Join host Troy Saunders as he opens his mic to chat with multi- instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, producer, businessman, musical director, and so much more, Marcus Devine.

Born in Detroit, Marcus came from a musical family. Everyone could sing. He states in this episode that his biggest musical influence is his baby brother. Marcus' mother was always pushing him to practice music. From an early age, Marcus was singing in his family church. Some of his earliest influences were gospel superstars such as Marvin Winans, The Commissioned, and John P. Kee. Find out how he went from the church to being the musical director for some of the hottest R&B acts in the business. Marcus has worked with the great Charlie Wilson, 112, Ashanti, Ginuwine, Beth, and so many more.

His mother also inspired Marcus by gifting him a variety of instruments for Christmas and birthdays. Currently he prides himself on the fact that he can play almost any instrument, but his main love is the bass guitar.

Troy and Marcus talked about the state of the music industry, and all the possibilities we have today to release music via the Internet. They also conversed about Marcus's new and inventive way that he, as well as his followers, could make money on his music releases. Tune in and hear how.

Of course we played some of Marcus' hottest releases, starting off with his 2014 single "Your Best," two smokers from his 2017 release, "In My Feelings," ending with his new money-making jam, "The Greatest Show".

Listen In and hear our full juicy conversation. It will make you laugh, sing, tap your foot, possibly put some money in your pocket, and reevaluate some things in your life. This is a good one, y'all! Don't miss it.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 105. Join host Troy Saunders as he converses with singer, songwriter, actress of stage and screen, life coach, one of the funky divas of the legendary girl group En Vogue, and so much more, the multi-talented Rhona Bennett.

Rhona Bennett has been in the entertainment industry since the age of 11. In this episode, Rhona tells Troy how she always knew that she wanted to be a singer and how her dream became a reality. From performing around her hometown of Chicago, to landing a spot on the Mickey Mouse Club, and beyond, Rhona added her own indelible mark on everything she did.

Troy had a few surprises up his sleeve as he played a rare song by Bennett, and a clip of her and Jamie Foxx from his self-titled show, that had them both laughing and feeling nostalgic. Adding to the nostalgia, Troy and Rhona discussed her joining En Vogue, and her message to the fans who are still sore that Maxine and Dawn are not in the group.

They also conversed about Rhona's passion for helping other artists as a life coach and how that came to fruition. Through the many stories told and shared, Rhona and Troy both agreed that love is what is needed to bring us together as a society. Her latest single, "We (Is A Powerful Thing)," helped summarized this wonderful conversation full of laughter, wisdom, history, life lessons and more.

Tune in to hear this fun-filled conversation with one of the most extraordinary entertainers around, Rhona Bennett!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 104. Join host Troy Saunders as he converses with singer, songwriter, producer and all-around beautiful spirit, Michon Young!

Michon's smooth, sultry, and inviting voice has been seducing indie soul and inspirational listeners for nearly 15 years! In this episode, Troy and Michon discuss how she started as a choir member in Pastor Marvin Winans' church. We all know Marvin Winans from the gospel superstar Winans Family. Michon tells the story on how she went from being a part of the choir, to soloist, to being handpicked by Pastor Winans to go on tour with him.

Thirteen years later, Michon has released five albums. The first an inspirational gem called "Possessing The Promise," ten songs of some of Michon's finest work. Her plan was to make this her first and last album. She just wanted to fulfill a life-long dream. They talk about what was her inspiration in continuing to record and release more music.

Troy and Michon joyfully go through her catalog, picking out some of the gems on each album. One thing each song has in common is the expression of love. Whether it's a social awareness song like "Colorless Tears," a song about an ending relationship, as in "Count It A Lesson," or the joy of finding new love, as in "Oooh," the message is always about love.

Of course, Troy highlights the latest project, "Love Is My Lane," last. They start off by sliding into first single, "Bounce Back," released this past January. Then they converse about Michon's work with the incomparable Frank McComb, before ending with the latest single, "Lovely" (Troy's favorite on the album), and "Pull," which was released as a single in the UK.

It appears that the UK audience has crowned Michon as indie soul royalty, and rightfully so. I hope through this episode many more people, not only in the UK, but here in the U.S. and worldwide, will recognized the brilliance of Michon Young.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 103. Join Host Troy Saunders as he chats with songwriter, producer, arranger, musician, and singer, Ricky Jones.

You may remember Ricky from a previous episode where Troy conversed with him and his then-wife Shireen Crutchfield. Together they were Crutchfield Jones. Today, Ricky is a solo act and spilling his heart out on his latest album, "Crazy Sexy". They say that heartbreak makes the best music. Well, that is definitely the case in this project. Ricky's voice has never sounded better as croons, belts and serenades the listener from one emotional gem to the next.

In this episode, Ricky and Troy converse about the feelings and emotions that went into writing favorites like "Tone," "Sleeping With The Enemy," "I Love You More," "I Got It Bad," "Tell Me What's Wrong," "What A Good Woman Will Do," and more.

Ricky couldn't be more honest and sincere. You could hear his pure heart in every word during this conversation. The music and discussion will touch your soul and leave you wanting to hear more from this incredible artist.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 102. Join Host Troy Saunders as he chats with singer, songwriter, arranger, producer, and performance artist Toy Taha!

Hailing from Philadelphia, Toy has a long list of talented family members that have roots in music. In this episode, she talks to Troy about her passion for music and its origins. They also discuss where she draws inspiration from in writing her songs, and true facts behind gems like "Collapsed," the last song on her latest album, "Eight".

Toy's latest album is called "Eight". It has garnered worldwide attention charting in the UK, Germany, Italy, France, Australia and, here in the U.S. Not only is 8 her favorite number, but she took eight years off after first releasing music to world before reemerging in 2022 with new music. Find out what other things in her musical career exist where she used the number 8.

Toy is usually shy and likes her life to stay private. But in this conversation she was willing to open up to Troy about several things that her listening audience might not know. It's a warm and genuine conversation that will have you laughing and feeling good.

Tune in and get a glimpse into one of indie soul's rising stars!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 101. Join Host Troy Saunders as he presents Lawrence Rosenborough, a new up-and-coming artist who artistry bridges the gap between, soul, R&B, jazz, rock, blues and gospel. His voice brings to mind soul-stirring singers like CeeLo Green and D.J. Rogers, but with a style all his own.

In this episode, Troy and Lawrence cover all the songs in his new EP, "Human Relations". This EP is five songs of soulful bliss. The lyrics of each song are profound and thought provoking. No bum tracks here. From the blues/gospel tinged "Flowers," to the final song, a soulful/jazz gem "Back To Civilization," all of the songs will have you eagerly wanting more.

Lawrence talks how growing up in adverse conditions help to spawn his creativity. Lawrence speaks from his heart and soul. In this conversation you can hear the passion as he explains the premise behind each song and meaning behind the lyrics and melody.

Lawrence did not set out to be a solo artist. He wanted to be a songwriter and shop his music to other artists. While on this quest he had an epiphany that no one can express the meaning behind his songs better than he can, so why wait for someone to help him release this energy into the universe? Thus, giving birth to his EP, "Human Relations".

Please join Troy in welcoming this newcomer to the indie soul scene by listening to this podcast and supporting this unique and inspiring artist. Lawrence Rosenborough is the truth!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 100. Join host Troy Saunders as he celebrates the BAAS Entertainment Podcast's 100th Episode and 3rd Anniversary. Hanging out for the celebration is singer, songwriter, producer, actress, professor, entrepreneur, Grammy Award winner Ledisi!

Ledisi has been a constant on the R&B and Jazz charts since 2001. Collecting several Billboard Top 10 albums and singles, 14 Grammy nominations (finally winning in 2021) and winning two Soul Train Music Awards.

In this episode, Ledisi and Troy converse about how they first met over 20 years ago and how their friendship has lasted over the years. They openly discuss topics like Ledisi's humble beginnings, working with her long-time producer Rex Rideout, her current tour and new album, and the state of R&B today. Throughout the conversation, Troy selectively plays snippet of songs off of Ledisi's new album, "Good Life".

Their love and mutual admiration for one another shines through. Troy tells the audience that "this is no casual relationship," and it is evident. Ledisi was at home as they laughed about past experiences and mutual friends. You feel like you are in the middle of something real, special and sincere.

Several artists and industry insiders give congratulatory messages to Troy and BAAS Entertainment Podcast for three years and 100 episodes in support of independent artists. Heartfelt messages from Helen Bruner and Terry Jones, Meli’sa Morgan, Gordon Chambers, Christian De Mesones, David Sosa, Jay Ross the Boss, Kevin Owens, and Grenique are all included.

This is one celebration you don't want to miss.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 99. Kevin Owens may not be a household name, but his voice is woven into some of R&B's greatest moments. From lead singer of the group Ray, Goodman and Brown, to one of Luther Vandross' center stage background vocalists, to lending his sound to some of music's most memorable tunes like, Alicia Keys' "You Don't Know My Name," just to name a few. Join host Troy Saunders as he and Kevin take a quick stroll down Kevin's musical history.

Hailing from Manhattan, NY, 63rd Street and Amsterdam Ave, Kevin tells us about his time growing up in this close-knit neighborhood and how they banded together to help Kevin develop and expand his passion to make music. After graduating from the world-famous Performing Arts High School, Kevin decided to enter the army. Even though he signed up to be a field radio man, his love of music lead him to put together a band that became well known on many of the military bases in Germany, and eventually had him and his band as featured performers on many military shows. This lifted him to celebrity status with special privileges.

Retuning home he became immersed in NYC's vibrant music scene, quickly forming new bands and meeting some of the best in the scene, including the then behind-the-scenes vocalist, Luther Vandross. These connections led to him being ask to join the group Ray, Goodman and Brown. Kevin was the perfect fit for their artistry and a strong bond was forged.

Having known of Kevin's work and incredible vocal abilities, Luther set eyes to woo Kevin from Ray, Goodman and Brown. Luther was revamping his stage show and thought Kevin would be the perfect fit. After a lot of back and forth, the group gave Kevin their blessing to join Luther Vandross' band. The rest is history. In this episode, we talk about those wonderful times. Kevin recalls fondly how Luther took care of everyone and how no one ever had the need for anything. They were a family.

Currently, Kevin is throwing his hat back into the ring with a new song, "Hot Spot," and an upcoming album. His new musical venture is a collaborative effect between him and his children, who write, sing and arrange on many of the songs. Talk about a talented family!

This episode is full of wonderful memories and bright aspirations from a man that has lived his life sharing his ministry through music.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 98. Join host Troy Saunders as he reintroduces our audience to the smooth soulful sounds of Devon Howard. Devon has been on the R&B music scene since the 1990s. He was originally introduced to the world as a member of the group Me 2 U. They hit the charts with songs like "Want U Back," "All Night," and "Raindrops". Since then, Devon has been in a couple of other R&B groups and has written songs for several artists. In 2008, he decided to step out on his own and released his first solo project, "D H". If you visit the BAAS Entertainment Podcast archives, you can listen to Troy's first interview with Devon as they discuss this album and its 2015 follow up, "Return To Love".

Recently, Devon released his best offering yet, "Morning Son," a collection of smooth, sultry R&B songs. In this episode, Troy and Devon focus on the making of this album and thought process behind such gems as "Your Love Is," "Wherever You Are," "Holding On," "Oh Love," and "Moving On".

Devon's mission is to share love. All of his music focuses on love. Love of self, family, friends, that special someone, etc. Troy and Devon discuss the need for more love songs in today's market and the artists they feel are bringing that type of music back, as well as some of the artist that have influenced them over the years.

Join Troy as he chats with the "Prince of Love," Devon Howard!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 97. Join host Troy Saunders as he takes the listener on a ride through the life and career of a true renaissance man, Bradd Marquis. Since childhood, it seems that Bradd had been groomed to be in the field of entertainment. From singing in church as a child to starring roles in several plays, Bradd has learned to do it all. He can sing, act, songwrite, produce, arrange, run a business, promote, and so much more. 

With a voice in the vein of Christopher Williams, Johnny Gill and, Sam Cooke, Bradd has his own unique style and can deliver a song that stirs your emotions and leaves you wanting more. He is a force to be reckoned with.

In this episode, we touch upon how Bradd wound up in the entertainment industry. Believe it or not, it was not the profession he dreamt of being in as a child. A unique play he starred in got him over the fear of being on stage and taught him to put it all out in his performances, literally. We also cover how a leap out on faith landed him on Billboard, and several other music outlets, as an independent artist. Also, find out how the idea of starting a show that paid tribute to the late great Sam Cooke, starring Bradd himself, came to be, and how it evolved into the spectacular that it is today.

Our conversation is laced with some of Troy's favorite Bradd Marquis songs, ending with his current offering, "OU," which will be on his new EP, "I Choose You," dropping shortly on all podcast platforms in April. 

Join us as we turn up the good vibes through laughter, great conversation and music!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 96. Join Host Troy Saunders as he chats with the exuberant musician, singer, producer, songwriter, arranger, innovator and all-around wonderful person, Frank McComb.

Frank McComb has worked with the who's who's in popular music, from Prince to Stevie Wonder to George Duke to Chaka Khan to Branford Marsalis and the list goes on and on. Many people like to label him as a jazz musician, but he is so much more! Able to swing through jazz, soul, R&B, gospel, and pop, Frank can cover many genres of music with ease.

In this funny and high-spirited episode, Frank gladly shares stories on his beginnings in music working with such legends as The O'Jays, LeVert, Gamble and Huff, and Branford Marsalis. One of the highlights of this episode is his story on how playing with Wynton Marsalis at an impromptu jam fest helped him overcome being intimidated around other musicians.

Frank has been in the music industry for over 35 years, first as a session musician, musical director, and a member of Branford Marsalis' band, Buckshot LeFonque, where he sang and played keyboards.

In 2000, he released his critically-acclaimed first album, "Love Stories," which is still a fan favorite. Since then, there has been no stopping this genius of music. Writing, producing, engineering, recording, editing, and promoting most of his music as an independent artist, Mr. McComb does it all - and well!

Tune in to this episode and take a ride on the Frank McComb rollercoaster though his exciting, informative and exemplary career. Troy and Frank laugh and share stories as they take a look into Mr. McComb's extensive musical catalog.

Good conversation, good energy, and, of course, good music! What more could you ask for?

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 95. If you haven’t heard of the multi-talented singer, songwriter, musician, and arranger Matt Cusson, you are in for a treat! I must admit I was in the dark until this past Christmas when I heard his rendition of The Carpenters' "Merry Christmas, Darling". I was blown away! His arrangement and vocal style was phenomenal!

Cusson has worked with such legends as Brian McKnight, India Aire, Stevie Wonder, Dave Koz, James Taylor, Javier Colon, Christina Aguilar, and so many more! Last year he was nominated for a GRAMMY for his impeccable arranging skills. Matt is the real deal!

Catch Troy Saunders' conversation with this extremely versatile artist as they talk about his music inspirations, his past record label experiences, family, and so much more. This episode covers one of the true geniuses in music, Matt Cusson.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 94. Join host Troy Saunders as he and his follow East New York, Brooklyn, native Stix Bones discuss Stix's journey though the worlds of spoken word, hip hop, jazz, and more.

In this episode, they dive deep into the thought process behind the making of Stix's most iconic projects. From his 2006 breakout album, "Groove Like This," to his latest captivating release, "Olimpik Soul". All of Stix Bones' projects are thoroughly thought out with a goal in mind. You are going to love the meaning behind such gems as "L.O.V.E.," "Twice As Nice," the whole "Brooklyn Nites," and let's not forget his current project, "Olimpik Soul".

Troy and Stix laughed, reminisced about the old neighborhood, and had a wonderful time during this 80-minute conversation.

If you love great jazz music with a hip hop flavor, don't miss this episode. You will be totally entertained!

Recording Academy member Stix Bones graduated Purchase College, State University of New York with a Bachelor's Degree in Jazz Performance. Stix started his career touring with Rahzel The Godfather of Noise (The Roots) in the UK and France and touring the U.S. with five-time Showtime at the Apollo winner/author/poet Jessica Care Moore. Shortly after Stix became music director for Lyricist Lounge, a hip hop showcase of rappers, emcees, DJs, and graffiti artists, and collaborated with legendary hip hop acts such as De La Soul, Talib Kweli, Q-Tip, Yasin Bey aka Mos Def, Common, and Doug E Fresh.

Stix independently released his first full-length smooth jazz album, "Groove Like This". The album has graced the airwaves of more than 40 jazz radio stations in the US, jazz Internet and satellite stations across the globe. It has charted in the top 10 on the digital jazz charts and made it to the top 20 jazz charts in France.

Stix became the drummer for internationally-known group Soulfege. Lead by Take Back The Mic founder Derrick N. Ashong, Stix has had the privilege to record two award-winning albums with Soulfege and toured the U.S. The album "Afropolitan" made its mark on the Jazz Week World Charts. Later that year, Stix stepped into the sync world with his single "Stepping In Those Heels" that landed on reality shows "The Real Housewives of Miami" and "I Love Jenni". Stix reconnected with Derrick Ashong to produce music for his Emmy-nominated TV music competition series "Take Back The Mic".

Stix Bones has mesmerized audiences with his band The BONE Squad as the house band for the 3000+ seat Paradise Theater in The Bronx, NY opening for artist such as Charlie Wilson, Chaka Khan, SWV, The Ojays, Babyface, Cedric The Entertainer and more.

Since then the BONE Squad has headlined at venues and festivals including The Tin Pan, The Sugar Bar, The Queens County Festival, The Metropolitan Room, The Cutting Room (NYC), Branford On The Green Festival, and Jazzy's Cabaret. Stix Bones is back on the skins once more with his seminal release, "Olimpik Soul," introducing Olympic Record Holder Bob Beamon on percussion.

With flavors of North African funk in the culturally-layered rhythmics of the instrumental track and sparks of funk flair within the keys, vibrancy radiates from the exuberantly sophisticated core of LEAP. While the syncopated percussive fills and seductive bassline growls set up the grooves, the horn section shimmers the soundscape with an unfaltering sense of expressive euphoria that will heighten any mood.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 93. Join host Troy Saunders as he chats with San Diego-born, raised-in-Philly vocalist, songwriter, producer, and international icon of house music, Lady Alma!

In 2018, after taking a 10-year hiatus to care for her mother, singer and songwriter Lady Alma brought her soaring, searing vocals back to eager audiences who desired her incomparable funk-house-soul stylings. Since then she has been churning out house staples, collaborating with greats like David Harness, The Rainmakers, Ralf Gum, Dego, Terry Hunter, DJ Spinna, Mark de Clive-Lowe, Joey Crawford, Rob Paine, Darryl James, and shows no sign of slowing down. Her latest single, "Joy (Hallelujah)," pairs Lady Alma with the "King of Gospel House" Kenny Bobien and the legendary DJ Marley Marl!

In this episode, host Troy Saunders and Lady Alma talk about the making of "Joy (Hallelujah)" and the message she wanted to convey. They also cover growing up in Philadelphia and how Philly has a special place in her heart, her past projects, as well as the state of house music and how she feels it has changed over her 20-plus-year history in music.

Lady Alma has a beautiful spirit and you can feel her love and passion in every word. If you love house music or just want to listen to a conversation to uplift your spirits, check this one out. The music, as well as verbal exchanges, will leave you in a positive zone of love.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 92. Sy Smith has been a force in the indie soul scene since its inception.  Always a lady, but don't mess with her. Sy has a way of unapologetically getting  what she wants with a smile.

Since the beginnings of indie soul, Sy has written a plethora of songs of other artists like Adina Howard, Gerald Albright, and more. She has sung background for many of the greats in music, such as Kenny Lattimore, Chris Botti, Meshell Ndegeocello, the legendary Whitney Houston, and the list goes on. As a matter of fact, she was one of the premiere background vocalist on "American Idol."

If this wasn't enough, Sy is also a star of stage and screen. Appearing in several plays and TV shows, Sy is a true renaissance woman, and shows no signs of slowing down. Her latest release, "Until We Meet Again," showcases her talent for mixing genres of music to create her own beautiful, indelible sound.
 
In this episode, we talk about her experiences navigating this entertainment industry. We give you a glimpse into her vast music catalog, leading us into her newly-released masterpiece, "Until We Meet Again".

Come join us on this magical ride full of love, laughter, delightful insights, and great uplifting music!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 91. Join host Troy Saunders as he chats with Washington, DC-based, New Haven, CT-born vocalist, songwriter, and so much more, Debórah Bond! Debórah is one of the bright lights in indie soul. She has worked with the greats like Incognito, Foreign Exchange, Ledisi, Melba Moore, Frank McComb, and more! Her sounds is a fusion of music from R&B, jazz, soul, Brazilian, hip hop, and house. Tune in and hear the essence of one of Troy's favorite artists, Debórah Bond.

Launching from her longtime home base of Washington, DC and taking flight to the rest of the world, Debórah Bond has become an integral part of the fabric of the worldwide indie-soul scene.

Debórah grew up absorbing the golden-age sounds of the '70s and '80s soul music that bellowed through her childhood home in New Haven, CT. Artistically, she stands at the intersection of Anita Baker, Sade and Chaka Khan, though she also credits Luther Vandross, Whitney Houston and Stevie Wonder (among many others) for inspiring her to pursue a career as a recording artist.

Upon her arrival in D.C. to pursue a degree in journalism at American University, Debórah quickly fell in lockstep with the top musicians of the local scene. Eventually, she formed a life-changing partnership with the production team Third Logic, comprised of bandmates and songwriting partners Robbie McDonald, Aaron "Funky Chuck" Evans and Kinard Cherry. This partnership yielded two studio albums: DayAfter (2003) and the critically-acclaimed follow-up Madam Palindrome (2011). Playing for eager and excited audiences, she headlined packed houses around the US and EU including: Warner Theater, 9:30 Club, Kennedy Center Millennium Stage, Blues Alley, Blue Note NYC, Cobb Performing Arts Center in Atlanta, and Jazz Café in London. In 2015, she headlined a four-week international residency for Jazz At Lincoln Center in Doha.

An accomplished radio personality and voiceover artist, she hosted a weekly Sunday afternoon radio show at Sirius XM, where she worked for ten years. She recently composed and performed the theme song for a brand new podcast, The Suga, hosted by actresses Tika Sumpter and Thai Randolph. For the past decade she’s been doing radio jingle and voiceover work for Amsterdam-based PURE Jingles.

In addition to her career as a performing artist, she’s a pillar of the D.C. music community, having served six terms as D.C. GRAMMY Chapter Governor. As an educator, she’s been a mentor and voice coach to many aspiring vocalists, and since 2018 has served on the faculty of the Richardson School of Music. She also offers private teaching and coaching sessions.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 90. Join host Troy Saunders as he chats with Washington, DC-based vocalist and songwriter Cecily, known for her agile soprano voice and honest lyrics, on the latest episode of the BAAS Entertainment Podcast.

Cecily grew up with an interest in political science and international relations, and initially planned to get her degree, join the Peace Corp and work for the United Nations. As she progressed through her education, she realized that career path wasn’t right for her and focused more on her singing career, becoming a teacher as a way to support herself during the lean years as a new indie artist. She found out that she loves teaching, and still teaches voice lessons as part of her musical journey.

Her debut album, “Songs of Love and Freedom,” garnered her a 2019 Wammie Award for Best Soul Album. The Wammie Awards celebrate, honor, and uplift local artists for the merit and impact of their work on DC music culture, and Cecily expresses how being recognized by her local music community was so important to her.

Her follow-up 2019 release exploring unconditional love, “Awakening Pt. 1,” continued to earn awards and accolades, including “Best New Soul on Bandcamp,” which praised her “top-notch songwriting and thoughtful self-reflection with a gentle jazz-influenced sound.” Fans are now eagerly anticipating the follow-up, “Awakening Pt. 2,” which is scheduled to drop soon.

Cecily talks about the development of her songwriting, and how she embraced the challenge of writing music. “I do appreciate… song craft… I love trying to figure out… what do I say in a bridge… how do I keep it interesting? How do I flip the storyline?” She also shares how she writes poetry and some of her songs come from poetry, including her new single, “I Am Love,” which Troy shares with our listeners.

Be sure to sign up for Cecily’s mailing list at cecilymusic.com, where you can also purchase physical copies of her music and other merchandise.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Deezer, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Podchaser, Pocket Casts and TuneIn. “Hey, Alexa. Play the BAAS Entertainment Podcast.”

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 89. Join host Troy Saunders as he chats with legendary singer/songwriter Raja-Neé on the latest episode of the BAAS Entertainment Podcast. Raja-Neé shares stories from her early career, including how her love of reggae lead to her producer calling her Raja-Neé, how her first single "Hot & Ready" was recorded in a producer's bedroom closet, and why she picked signing with Flyte Tyme Records over two other label offers. She also discusses her upcoming projects, including releasing new singles and writing a book about her life. Plus, Troy plays Raja-Neé's track, "I Wanna Be Yours for Christmas." Be sure to add the song to your Christmas playlist and support independent artists like Raja-Neé! Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Deezer, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Podchaser, Pocket Casts, and TuneIn. Hey, Alexa. Play the BAAS Entertainment Podcast.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 88. Submerge yourself into the passionate world of the multi-talented Tony Walk. Host Troy Saunders and Tony freely converse about several life changing events in his life, like being raised by his mother, a divorcee, and the challenges he and his family faced, Tony's wonderful church family that supported and nurtured his talents from a young age, and growing up in a tough neighborhood and how it left him insecure and lacking confidence and what happened to help him to start to see his self worth. 

Tony always wanted to be an entertainer, from singing in the church choir to participating in pageants in his youth, to dancing in music videos (his first being Raja-Neé's "Turn It Up" video).

As fate would have it, his keen ability to make people feel good about themselves  led him into a career as a stylist, where has has excelled. Styling some of music's most celebrated artists, including Miki Howard, Chaka Khan, Ledisi, Andre and Sandra Crouch, Darryl Coley, Quincy Jones, Etta James, Mary Mary, and the list goes on.

In 2019, Tony felt  like it was time to dive back into first passion, music. By 2020 he released his first album "Introducing Tony Walk," a collection of classic soul songs with a Tony Walk spin. In this episode he explains why he decided to make this his first effort.

Now with a newfound energy, Tony released his successful follow up, the "Good Vibes Only" EP.  Four of the six tracks charted on the UK R&B charts.

Never letting grass grow under his feet, Tony is not only gearing up to release new music in January, but has a new book being released on Thanksgiving Day. It's called "Cultivating Confidence Through Beauty". Tune in and hear the reasons behind writing this book and get a glimpse into to beautiful mind of this true renaissance man.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 87. Dive into the rhythmic world of Thumper Samuels on the BAAS Entertainment Podcast, as host Troy Saunders uncovers the melody of a musician's journey who’s never missed a beat. From the family clarinet that charted his course to the 'O-ZONE Sound' that's captivating LA, Thumper's story resonates beyond the twelve instruments he plays—it echoes the heartbeat of his hometown of Omaha.

Discover the drive behind his dual GRAMMY-considered works, “Share the Influence” and “Key To My Heart,” and experience the dedication in his tributes to the heroes of our time through his number one singles. With every tale and tune, Thumper reveals how he strikes a chord that not only entertains but heals and unites.

Thumper Samuels' music has struck a chord with audiences, particularly with his singles “Hope (Heal Our Planet Earth)” and “Magic,” which became back-to-back number one hits inspired by the camaraderie and sacrifice of front-line workers during the pandemic. Motivated by the profound impact his songs have on listeners, Samuels is set to release “It’s OK, I’m Here” for free—a comforting message to those facing hardship. Additionally, he’s gearing up to energize fans with an upcoming funk anthem, “You Gotta Get Up To Get Down,” encouraging everyone to dance and celebrate life.

The interview concludes by spotlighting Samuels' philanthropic efforts through his two nonprofit organizations. JADA (Jazz Against Domestic Abuse) is dedicated to raising funds for domestic abuse awareness and supporting victims in their escape from abusive environments. Meanwhile, Our Stars of Tomorrow champions educational aspirations by donating proceeds from one Samuels-composed song each year to college scholarships, specifically aiding low-income students who lack other financial resources or scholarship options.

Join us on this musical odyssey. Subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast on your favorite platform, say "Hey, Alexa, play the BAAS Entertainment Podcast," and step into the rhythm of Thumper’s world.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 86. Welcome back to another riveting episode of the BAAS Entertainment Podcast with your ever-enthusiastic host, Troy Saunders! In today’s show, we're diving into the eclectic world of Kenny Allen – a phenomenal talent whose music is as diverse as it is soulful, blending pop, jazz, R&B, alternative, world music, and hip hop.

Growing up in Washington, DC, in a household filled with music, Kenny was destined for a life intertwined with melodies and harmonies. His parents, both musicians, laid the groundwork for his artistic journey, shaping him into the multi-faceted artist he is today – a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer.

In our conversation, we kick things off with “The Great Lonely Lover,” a track that not only captured Troy's heart but also marked a turning point in Kenny's career. Kenny opens up about his musical evolution, the importance of vulnerability in his work, and how his experiences have influenced his artistry.

Kenny doesn’t forget to pay homage to his mentors, Sean “The Rick” Rickman and Federico Peña, who played pivotal roles in his early career and helped him forge invaluable connections, including with the incredible Me'Shell NdegéOcello.

Our journey with Kenny also takes us to Ethiopia, where what was supposed to be a six-month stint turned into an eye-opening 16 and a half years of musical exploration, filmmaking, and fashion endeavors. This chapter of his life was transformative, broadening his horizons and adding a unique dimension to his music.

Throughout the episode, we'll be treating your ears to a curated selection of Kenny’s discography, accompanied by fascinating stories and insights that give you a peek behind the curtain of his creative process. Learn about his ambitious 12-for-12 project in 2021, where he challenged himself to release a song every month, resulting in a year of incredible music.

Don’t miss out on his latest studio album, “Kalorama,” which is Kenny's 12th release and a testament to his artistic evolution. You can find it and connect with Kenny through his Instagram @mrkennyallen. Make sure to purchase the full album to fully immerse yourself in the sonic world of this indispensable indie artist.

Remember to hit subscribe and join us on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Deezer, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Podchaser, Pocket Casts, and TuneIn for more unforgettable stories and musical journeys. And if you’re an Alexa user, just say “Hey, Alexa. Play the BAAS Entertainment Podcast” to start listening!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 85. Welcome back to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast with your host, Troy Saunders! This episode is a treat for indie music enthusiasts as we dive deep into the world of jazz and genre fusion with the incredibly talented bassist, Christian de Mesones, also known as "Big New York."

In this rich conversation, Christian shares his journey through the realms of music, highlighting how various genres played a pivotal role in shaping his unique sound - a delightful blend of smooth grooves, funky soul, and a touch of Latin flair. Troy and Christian also reflect on the transformative power of music in their lives, discussing its ability to soothe the soul and provide a much-needed escape from life's challenges.

Christian takes us back to his early years, where his siblings introduced him to a world of musical diversity, from the soulful sounds of Motown to the high-energy beats of glam and hard rock. He shares a nostalgic moment from his first concert experience, front row at a KISS New Year’s Eve performance at Nassau Coliseum, which ignited his passion for music and set him on a path to stardom.

With a musical career spanning three decades and collaborations with national recording artists, Christian has carved out his space in the industry. His debut solo album, “They Call Me Big New York,” is a testament to his artistry and dedication, boasting multiple top-ten singles and nearing two million streams on Spotify.

Christian delves into the realities of the music business, emphasizing the importance of regular music releases, strategic marketing, and a deep understanding of the industry to ensure that his music reaches the widest audience possible. His efforts culminated in a #1 hit on Billboard’s Smooth Jazz Airplay chart with “Hispanica (Instrumental),” featuring the legendary pianist Bob James - a milestone achievement that has set the stage for his next big goal: a GRAMMY nomination.

Discover the fascinating story behind “Hispanica,” its evolution from a vocal track to an instrumental hit, and the serendipitous involvement of Bob James. Join us in supporting Big New York’s musical journey and help us catch the attention of jazz radio stations like Watercolors SiriusXM.

Subscribe and listen to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast on your favorite platform, including Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Deezer, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Podchaser, Pocket Casts, and TuneIn. Just say, “Hey, Alexa, play the BAAS Entertainment Podcast,” and immerse yourself in the world of indie music and artistic passion.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 84. Dive into a captivating conversation as host Troy Stephens speaks with renowned songwriter/producer Nes. Discover the unexpected journey Nes took into the music industry, and learn about her incredible rise to stardom after a serendipitous encounter with the Force MDs.

Episode Highlights:

• Unexpected Beginnings: Nes never planned to be a singer but found her knack for songwriting early on.
• The Big Break: A chance performance at a party led to collaborations with legends like Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, Anne Nesby, Johnny Gill, and even Queen Latifah.
• GRAMMY Dreams: Get a glimpse into Nes's passion as she discusses her GRAMMY-considered song "Everything About Me Is Dif’rent.”
• Industry Insights: Nes delves into the lessons she learned from music moguls and her experiences with icons like Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson.
• The Comeback: Unravel why Nes took a hiatus from music and her triumphant return filled with new opportunities.
• Looking Ahead: Stay tuned for upcoming projects, potential collaborations, and two EPs from the unstoppable Nes.

Catch this episode and more on the BAAS Entertainment Podcast, available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. Simply say, "Hey, Alexa. Play the BAAS Entertainment Podcast."

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 83. Your host Troy Stephens returns with an amazing conversation with R&B singer K’Jon, best known for his hit song "On the Ocean," a favorite on the The Steve Harvey Morning Show that hit #1 on the Urban AC Radio charts and #12 on Billboard's R&B charts. As always, Troy plays portions of his favorite K’Jon tracks and encourages everyone to go out and stream - and buy - the full songs. Go out and support these indie artists!

K’Jon begins by expressing that he wants to leave a legacy with his music, something that his kids can remember and have fun with when he’s gone. He wants his music to last for generations. Throughout the interview, you’ll hear how passionate K’Jon is about the music he puts out and how he wants it to move people and make them feel.

Troy and K’Jon discuss how they both grew up listening to all genres and eras of music. They were exposed to so many amazing artists and styles and that reflects on the music they still listen to and produce. The Detroit native is influenced by Motown, and even talks about how he wants to make an album of big band music. We’re hoping that project will come to fruition soon.

“On the Ocean” was featured on K’Jon’s debut album, “I Get Around,” in 2009. Since then, he’s released “Man” (2013), “A Beautiful Thing” (2014), and the pandemic stress reliever “Live, Love & Laughter” (2020). He’s released several singles since his last release, and a new EP is coming out this month. Even though K’Jon has been signed to a major label in the past, he seems to enjoy the freedom and control over his music that being an indie artist allows him.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Deezer, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Podchaser, Pocket Casts and TuneIn. “Hey, Alexa. Play the BAAS Entertainment Podcast.”

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 82. This very special episode of the BAAS Entertainment Podcast highlights the amazing performers - Steven Kroon, Ty Stephens and Carla Cook - who will be part of the BAAS Entertainment Gala taking place on September 16, 2023. These three amazing performers are friends who share a love of crossing musical genres. They are planning an amazing evening of music to benefit two special charities, Chelsea's Charity and The Ana Grace Project. 

The first annual BAAS Entertainment Benefit Gala will be held at Edmond Town Hall (45 Main Street, Newtown, CT) on Saturday, September 16. VIP tickets ($150) include upfront seating, plus a pre-show VIP reception with artist meet and greet, hors d'oeuvres, beverages, and an incredible swag bag full of goodies. Regular tickets are $50 each. This is a show you will remember for the rest of your life.

Ty Stephens started as a dancer, which brought him to New York and gave him the opportunity to perform in back-to-back Broadway shows. Knowing that the career of a dancer is limited, he transitioned into a singer, helped by the legendary Gregory Hines, establishing a career as a performer that has taken him around the world. His style is uniquely his own, centered around 70’s R&B, with jazz, soul, funk, and Broadway, all mixed together.

Steven Kroon got his start in Spanish Harlem in the early 1950s. His father was a musicologist who always played Spanish music in their home. Many of the legendary musicians he listened to, including Tito Puente, lived in the area. Later, they moved to Queens, and were immersed in the music of his neighborhood, which was filled with performers and producers. Count Basie lived four blocks away. All of the combinations of cultures and sounds created Kroon’s distinctive style. The break that changed his life was when he had an opportunity to audition for Luther Vandross. He got the gig and ended up working with Luther for 20 years. He learned so much working with all of the stellar musicians around Luther. Being around Luther, he learned so much about the industry since Luther was so hands-on with everything he did. He also earned the opportunity to work with legendary jazz double bassist Ron Carter. Working with Vandross and Carter exposed Kroon to the very top R&B and jazz artists in the world. After 20 years, he decided it was time to “do me,” left those groups to record on his own and blaze his own path. He created a masterpiece with many of the musicians he worked with. He is blessed, proud and happy now to be able to do what he wants to do.

Carla Cook got her start in the church in Detroit, and always loved to sing in choirs. Her brother loved jazz, giving her an early exposure to the music. Being in Detroit, her high school years were filled with the sounds of Motown. She moved to Boston, and formed the first of several jazz ensembles, gigging at jazz clubs and private events. She moved to New York in 1990, where she began performing regularly on the jazz scene. Her debut album, “It’s All About Love,” earned an AFIM-Indie award and a Grammy nomination, and widespread critical acclaim for her two subsequent recordings, “Dem Bones,” and “Simply Natural”. She is currently a jazz vocal instructor at The Juilliard School.

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Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 81. Host Troy Saunders has his latest conversation with composer, vocalist and jazz soloist Fostina Dixon. She is an instrumentalist who plays soprano, alto and baritone saxes; flute; and clarinet. Troy starts off by expressing his astonishment at who Dixon has performed with, a list that includes Cab Calloway, Sammy Davis, Jr., Prince, and Marvin Gaye.

Fostina talks about the early days when everyone played an instrument in schools. She began on a plastic clarinet and eventually got a wooden clarinet, which led to her musical education. As an educator, she is sorry about the decline of music education in school, and the rise of behavioral issues that educators need to deal with among students. Today, even schools that have music programs make students purchase their own instruments and music isn’t a core part of the curriculum.

In this free-wheeling, wide-ranging interview, Fostina discusses everything from how she got started, came to work with so many legends, her views on the current jazz scene, and the difficulty in crossing over into different genres. There is also a very interesting discussion about Fostina’s feelings on indie artists having to promote themselves on social media and producing their own music. That discussion leads into a deep conversation about the current state of jazz music and how hard it can be for jazz artists in today’s market. Venues are not paying artists as much as they did prior to the pandemic, and even tours of Europe that used to be lucrative have slowed down, creating challenges for anyone who wants to make their career in jazz.

Fostina’s latest album is "New Beginnings," which is now available, along with her complete discography which includes “Leave the Door Open,” “Get on the Floor,” “Vertical Alignment,” “Here We Go Again,” and “Yesterday, Today, & Forever”. Her style is in the pocket, soul-stirring and funky and her improvisation is upbeat and passionate. Troy spins clips from several pieces during the interview and hopes everyone will check out the full tracks from this unique and mesmerizing performer.

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Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 80. Host Troy Saunders has his latest conversation with the legendary Helen Scott, one the founders of The Three Degrees, best known for their 1973 worldwide hit, “When Will I See You Again”. The Three Degrees have been doing it and doing it strong for over 60 years and this special episode will focus on their incredible career.

Their manager Richard Barrett brought three young teenagers, Scott, Fayette Pinkney and Janet Harmon, together in Philadelphia. The three didn’t know each other before joining the group, which recorded for the Philly-based Swan Records. They scored their first hit in 1965 with the single “Gee Baby (I'm Sorry),” which Troy plays a sample of.

Troy says that The Three Degrees helped initiate Philadelphia International Records (“You can say it, I won’t” quips Scott). Philly International is the legendary Kenneth Gamble & Leon Huff soul label that featured The O'Jays, Patti LaBelle, Teddy Pendergrass, and McFadden & Whitehead. Philadelphia International Records created a musical legacy that culminated in "TSOP (The Sound of Philadelphia)," the 1974 hit recording by MFSB featuring vocals by The Three Degrees that was the theme for “Soul Train,” the first TV theme song (and perhaps the first disco song) to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100. When Don Cornelius refused to allow any references to “Soul Train” in the single release, The Three Degrees’ singing of the title was removed. But, the group would achieve their own major commercial success when “When Will I See You Again” became a hit later that year.

Troy and Helen discuss how The Three Degrees had tremendous success in the U.K., where they performed for Prince Charles’ 30th birthday celebration at Buckingham Palace. Not only did they tour the palace before most people were able to do so, but they were invited to attend the wedding reception of Prince Charles and Lady Diana, among the few Americans invited. The press even nicknamed The Three Degrees as “Charlie’s Angels”. The group performed for almost every member of the royal family in support of their various trusts and charities.

Helen is proud that The Three Degrees have maintained that name since 1963. It’s been a joyful ride that not many groups have been able to accomplish. The conversation covers the wide range of styles that the group covered throughout their career and Helen is very open and candid in telling their amazing story. She also shares her suggestions to new artists who are just beginning their musical journey. This episode is a memorable dive into a great musical journey from the legendary singer who lived it.

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Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 79. Host Troy Saunders has his latest conversation with award-winning soul singer and songwriter Teri Tobin. Her music is uplifting and soothing, from the heart, a spiritual experience, all in one beautiful package.

Teri does the interview from her home in Arizona. She was born there, raised in Southern California, lived all over the place, eventually ending up in Houston. After a hurricane damaged her home and caused her to lose her job, she decided it was time to go back home to be with her family.

Teri has performed from a very young age, starting in church, and then getting signed as a teenager to a deal as part of an R&B and hip-hop soul act. When that project faltered, she pursued a promised solo deal that never materialized, before finally finding her place at Howard University, where she found her footing and developed her signature sound of hybrid musical influences from soulful rock to jazzy R&B. Album releases include “Love Infinity” (2011), “Good To Me” (2012), and “Truth Is” (2014).

Since her last album, she’s dealt with writer’s block and a severe bout of COVID that affected her voice, so it’s never been the same. She shares a touching story about how when she recorded a song with her “new” voice, she was forced to re-record the lead vocals and face new challenges while still in recovery, which helped her build her confidence to keep making music.

She’s currently working on her fifth album, “Forever,” and discusses how she is a true indie artist. She has produced and recorded almost all of her own music, and handles every aspect of her music and career. She’s hoping that the new album will be out by the fall, so follow her social media accounts for news about the upcoming release and her performance schedule.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast on Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Deezer, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Podchaser, Spotify, Stitcher and TuneIn. “Hey, Alexa. Play the BAAS Entertainment Podcast.”

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 78. Host Troy Saunders has his latest conversation with two of the baddest brothers on the planet. Music producer Regi Myrix and singer/songwriter/engineer Lamar Kelsey are here to discuss their collaboration "Souladelica" EP and new single, “If You Don’t Mind,” which recently debuted at #2 on the UK Soul Breakers Chart.

Regi Myrix, CEO of Myrix Media Group, is a R&B and soul music producer and multi-instrumentalist. He has a lifetime love of music, beginning with local gigs in New Jersey, eventually becoming an in-demand producer with many artist production credits that have hit the charts in the United States and United Kingdom. Regi is making his return to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast, so go check out that episode for more of his music.

New Jersey-based Lamar “L-Unique” Kelsey started off as a rapper, making his mark as an R&B singer and highly sought-after vocal coach.

Myrix and Kelsey discuss their creative process and how all of the best music comes straight from the heart. Kelsey says that he always sings how he feels and he’s never reading anything when he’s in the studio recording, which comes across as real on the record.

“If You Don’t Mind” is a Nigel Lowis remixed track from their original 2012 collaboration on L-Unique’s album, “I Can’t Go On Like This”. Troy and Regi agree that is an amazing record that didn’t receive the promo it deserved back in the day. Troy plays clips from several tracks on that album, including “Step Song” and “Sex Me While I’m Driving,” which still sound amazing. Regi reveals that they may re-release other tracks from that album so they get the attention they deserve. The original album is available for streaming and is worth adding to your playlists.

Troy hadn’t been able to hear the remix of “If You Don’t Mind” since it isn’t available in the United States yet. Regi promised to send it to Troy as soon as the interview was over (and which Troy reminded Regi several times that he’s waiting for!) Regi came through and Troy played a clip of the U.S. premiere right on this episode! Listen for the official release of the full song in the U.S. in two weeks. Listeners in the United Kingdom can check it out now!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast on Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Deezer, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Podchaser, Spotify, Stitcher and TuneIn. “Hey, Alexa. Play the BAAS Entertainment Podcast.”

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 77. Host Troy Saunders has his latest conversation with an artist who has been on the indie soul scene since 1999. We love her sound, her music, and her spirit, and her name is Hil St. Soul.

Hil was born in Zambia and moved with her family to the United Kingdom at a very young age. Being from an African family, education was extremely important, and she studied biology and chemistry, along with literature, although she never planned to pursue a career in the sciences. As she was finishing university, she started to focus on her musical path, and her songwriting benefited from her background in English literature and her ability to tell a story and express her emotions.

Hil’s goal from the beginning was to make music that was timeless, like the idols she grew up listening to. She has always been drawn to powerful female vocalists like Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, and Gladys Knight, and continues to love artists like Lauren Hill, Erykah Badu, and Jill Scott.

St. Soul tells the story of how when she first started to pursue her music career, she had no idea how to get into the industry. She found a studio in some music magazine and recorded a demo. The owner of the studio heard the demo and told her she had an amazing voice and should start working with producers. The demo wound up in the hands of an A&R person for Dome Records, which ended up being the first label to sign her.

She has released six records during her career. After her Dome Records debut, “Soul Organic” (1999), she followed up with “Copasetik and Cool” (2002), “SOULidified” (2006), “Black Rose” (2008) - which earned her highest chart position, #21 in the U.S. Billboard Hip-Hop and R&B chart, “Release” (a 2009 compilation album), and her most recent release, “Back In Love” (2022).

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast on Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Deezer, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Podchaser, Spotify, Stitcher and TuneIn. “Hey, Alexa. Play the BAAS Entertainment Podcast.”

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 76. Host Troy Saunders has his latest conversation with bass player, producer, TV composer and engineer, “Keeper of the Low Notes,” Melvin Lee Davis. Did you know that Melvin’s playing on the classic “Soul Train” theme from the 1980s? That’s just one amazing fact you’ll learn about the baddest bass player you’ll ever hear.

Davis shares the story of how he started working with Don Cornelius, and basically became the staff bass player for Don Cornelius Productions for several years.

Davis’ philosophy is to avoid writing for specific genres. He plays and writes what he feels at a particular moment. At one time, he hated being called a “funk bassist,” because he feels it limited him to that genre. When making music, it’s important to be able to wear many hats, representing all of the different genres, and be open to all forms of music. This lets a musician be able to step into any session or opportunity and not be mediocre.

Davis is one of the few bass players who plays a seven-string instrument. Davis designed his seven-string bass on his own, and had it custom made by Ken Smith Bass to his specifications. Why does he need seven strings? It gives him more range in his role as a bass player, allowing him to play in higher and lower ranges when the song calls for it.

Davis’ latest project is Output/Input, which he founded with Hamish Stuart from Average White Band, Chaka Khan, and Paul McCartney. They have been releasing singles, and their debut  album, “Forward Motion,” is coming soon.

Los Angeles native Melvin Lee Davis was discovered at the tender age of 16 by Buddy Miles, when a horn player from Buddy Miles' band heard Melvin playing in a local club. Buddy Miles flew Davis to New York to audition for his band and immediately hired him. After playing the New York club circuit, Melvin found himself working with Don Cornelius of “Soul Train”. He has toured and recorded with the Pointer Sisters, Lee Ritenour, Bryan Ferry, David Benoit, Larry Carlton, Patti Austin, Gladys Knight, and many other top acts. Notably, he played on a number of Will Downing’s releases, and has served as musical director for Chaka Khan.

Along with "Soul Train's A Coming," Davis wrote the theme for the TV show "The Party Machine," and has appeared on TV with Johnny Carson, David Letterman, Jay Leno, and Arsenio Hall. Melvin has traveled the world and continues to be in high demand across many genres of music because of his incredible talent and positive demeanor on and off stage.

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Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 75. Host Troy Saunders has an engaging conversation with soul and R&B singer Noel Gourdin. Gourdin is best known for his chart-topping hit “The River,” but this interview explores a deeper retrospective into Gourdin’s life and stellar 20-year career. Gourdin’s music smoothly incorporates classic soul, R&B, and hip hop, bringing styles from different eras together to create something uniquely his own.

Gourdin signed a record deal with Sony at age 24, releasing “After My Time” in 2008. That massive success was followed by “Fresh: The Definition” (2011), and “City Heart, Southern Soul” (2014). All three albums are worth listening to, as well as various singles and EPs he released over the years.

Gourdin talks about how he makes sure every record he releases isn’t “wasted” and they get the attention they deserve. Troy and Gourdin discuss how important it is to make a great impression for every song that’s released since you never know when someone is hearing an artist for the first time and you want to make sure to earn their attention. Gourdin wants to always be memorable when people hear his records.

Gourdin shares a little-known fact that Frank Ocean (under his original name, Christopher Breaux) was part of Gourdin’s debut album, “After My Time,” and he remembers hanging out with him at Chipotle. Gourdin explains how fortunate he was to make that album with so many talented people and it remains an extraordinary moment in his career. This classic album is still available, so go out and buy it!

What would Gourdin say to someone breaking into the industry now? “Be yourself. Don’t try to be like anybody else.” If someone gives you a no, that means you’re not supposed to be there. But, that yes will change your life. Keep on moving, keep on pushing, and look for those vindication moments. “If you have a passion for it, you will rise. The cream rises.”

They close out with his latest single, “Get To You,” along with “Gatcha,” both of which will be included on his upcoming EP. Be sure to check out the latest from this amazing artist.

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Episode 74. Host Troy Saunders interviews soul singer and songwriter, Cornell CC Carter. He’s always smooth and on point and we’re here for it! Cornell called in from the United Kingdom, where he’s working on collaborations and promoting his new single, “It’s So Nice”. He starts off by expressing how important it is to him to build upon the legacy of the amazing artists who have come before him.

For many years, he was devoted to taking care of his family. While he was always on stage and performing, working as a session and background singer, he didn’t dedicate himself to his own music career until his children were old enough for him to put himself out there and follow his passion for music. He has opened for legendary artists including James Brown, Ray Charles, The Whispers, The Temptations, Natalie Cole, and Kool and the Gang.

Cornell has dedicated his entire career to his older brother Donald, an incredible talent with an amazing voice who was tragically killed in a car accident at age 18. Cornell still feels his brother’s presence every time he opens his voice to sing.

Troy plays tracks from Cornell’s debut album, “Vindicated Soul,” followed by “One Love,” the album that put Cornell on the map and remains his most popular release. If you discovered Cornell’s music on “One Love,” be sure to check out the rest of his catalog.

Troy and Cornell engage in a deep discussion that everyone needs to hear about the legacy of Black music and the difference between those who appreciate and honor it and those that try to appropriate it. They delve into how vital it is for today’s artists to look back at what they are building on and how important that musical foundation is to the culture. This discussion alone is worth your time to check out this episode.

Cornell has a vault of songs recorded for his upcoming sixth album, “Let It Go”. That album is dedicated to people who have things going on in their lives that they need to let go. He’s also working on collaborations with DJs in the UK that will be released in the coming months.

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Episode 73. Host Troy Saunders interviews the Queen of Sophisticated Soul, Candace Woodson. They start by talking about how a small-town girl from Kentucky became a queen. Candace explains that she grew up in a family that loved all genres of music. She went to school and learned about the music industry while continuing to develop her craft to pursue her epic award-winning career. Candace wants everyone to know that she is that little girl holding a brush in the mirror, singing those great songs where you need to know every note and how to express what makes the song special. Candace Woodson has a lifelong passion for performing and a talent for resilience she calls “stick to it-ness”.

Candace shares amazing advice given to her by Pam Sawyer, the songwriter who penned “Love Child” for the Supremes. Sawyer told her, “You want to find a song that when somebody is in the car, that they don’t get out until they hear all of that song until the end. You don’t want a song that when someone is driving to the store and the radio is in the middle of the song, they get out of the car anyway. You want the song where they have to listen to the end.” That’s an amazing lesson for everyone looking for a career in music.

Candace’s chart-topping singles include “The Answer Is No,” a defiant female empowerment ballad. “The Answer Is No” hit #1 on the UK Soul Chart Top 30 and has continued to receive airplay on Smooth Jazz Radio as well as other top stations. “Midas Touch (Ooh Ooh),” which hit the #1 spot on the UK Soul Charts, is an up-tempo track perfect to help get the party started.

Another hit for Candace is “Free,” a funky old-school dance anthem that conveys hope and positivity in the wake of adversity. This is a message she conveys stemming from her own experience and feeling after receiving her last cancer treatment at the Medical University of South Carolina. With the help of UK promoter Steve Ripley, who has worked on hits for Diana Ross, Luther Vandross, Maxwell, and Jody Watley, “Free” rose to #12 on the UK Soul Chart Top 30.

This interview is a joy, with so much fun and happiness. That’s what music is all about.

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Episode 72. Host Troy Saunders interviews the GRAMMY-nominated producers and songwriters, plus amazing singers, Helen Bruner and Terry Jones. They have been in the business for over 30 years, entering the world singing as part of large talented musical families. They share with Troy the story of how they met and became lifelong sisters and collaborators, beginning with their first song “I Ain’t Got Time”. Troy surprises them by playing the track, which shows how their exceptional talent was there from the very beginning. If this track don’t make you move, nothing will!

Helen and Terry share stories of overcoming disappointment and failure in the music industry and the value of moving forward. It’s so important to understand both the creative side, as well as the business side, such as how publishing works.

One of the best stories of this episode is when they attended a Warner Brothers Music Grammy party and met the legendary Diana Ross. Ross took their hands and spent 20 minutes sharing pearls of wisdom about being Black women in the music industry that they still use today. “This is your name,” Ross told them. “When they’re gone, it’s still your brand and you need to protect it.”

Helen Bruner and Terry Jones have produced a number of critically acclaimed songs and albums. Their work spans many years, and they've collaborated with various well-known artists in the industry. They are especially known for their ability to blend soul, R&B, and dance music into a unique and catchy sound.

They were nominated at the 51st Annual GRAMMY Awards in 2008 with singer Linda Jones for their single "Baby I Know" for Best Traditional R&B Performance.

Their latest album is “2nd Overture,” and its lead single "I Can't Call It," which has been climbing charts around the world. It’s new, it’s fresh, it’s funky, it’s hot. Get it!

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Episode 71. Host Troy Saunders interviews one of the baddest singer/songwriters out there today, Rebecca Jade. If you do not have her latest album, “A Shade of Jade,” in your playlist, you better go get it. It’s insane from beginning to end. This also happens to be the first record where Rebecca wrote all of the lyrics.

Rebecca talks about growing up in a musical home, and being exposed to a broad range of artists, genres and styles, as well as her ongoing training both as a vocalist and learning to play bass. She explains that it’s very helpful for anyone who wants to be part of the music industry to learn music theory, especially for singers. Rebecca graduated from UC Berkeley on a full basketball scholarship with a degree in Theatre & Performance Studies, has earned her MBA in Marketing from the University of Phoenix, and advanced her musical education by studying Jazz Theory and Classical Voice at Grossmont College.

In 2022, Rebecca Jade earned “Breakout Artist of Year” from Smooth Jazz Network and “Debut Artist of the Year” by JazzTrax, and two San Diego Music Awards (SDMA) for “Best Music Video” and “Best R&B, Funk, or Soul Song” for “What’s It Gonna Be,” the first single off of “A Shade of Jade”. She was nominated for five SDMAs in 2023, and took home “Best R&B, Funk, or Soul Album” for “A Shade of Jade”.

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Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 70. This is one of those shows, y’all. It’s off the hook, informative, and enlightening. In this episode, host Troy Saunders interviews multi-genre artist RAHBI, R-A-H-B-I, all capital letters, no small letters here! Did you know that Rahbi is his real name? Listen and learn its powerful meaning. 

His musical mission is to always lead people to love, which began at his grandfather's church in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia. Still proudly representing Atlanta, RAHBI unites beautiful people with dynamic live shows and a versatile vocal range where he perfectly blends the smooth sounds of R&B, energy-packed pop/rock and sophisticated funk.

Troy and RAHBI discuss his early career, where RAHBI met legendary music executive LA Reid while still in middle school, and penned his first major record deal with the group 4th Avenue. After 4th Avenue disbanded, RAHBI embarked on his successful solo career, which is still going strong today. As always, Troy plays samples from RAHBI’s most popular tracks, and encourages everyone to add the full songs to your playlists.

RAHBI provides Troy with a wonderful break-down of his GoldenChild EP Trilogy, which is split into three “trimesters”. They also discuss RAHBI’s amazing costumes, and how he took his own distinctive style and was influenced by theatre, set design, drag culture, Studio 54, and many other factors to create his signature look.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast on Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Deezer, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Podchaser, Spotify, Stitcher and TuneIn. “Hey, Alexa. Play the BAAS Entertainment Podcast.”

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 69. Host Troy Saunders interviews his fellow Erasmus Hall High School alum, Hubert Eaves IV. Hubert is a multi-talented instrumentalist, composer, and producer, perhaps best known for his infectious pocket bass playing on Erykah Badu’s live album. He’s also recorded and worked with artists ranging from Will Downing, Alex Bugnon, Freddie Jackson, The O’Jays, Seal, Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, D Train, Glenn Jones, Lisa Lisa & the Cult Jam, and Snow.

Hubert shares some history about his famous father Hubert Eaves III, keyboardist, songwriter and record producer, who played with D Train and Mtume and produced Miles Davis, Stephanie Mills, Madonna, Luther Vandross, Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin and Phyllis Hyman.

Hear Hubert’s story about being on tour with Freddie Jackson and meeting an imposter Bootsy Collins after one of the shows. The entire band swore it was the real Bootsy, but Hubert blew him off to everyone’s shock. Shortly afterwards, they saw a news report about the fake Bootsy being arrested for writing bad checks. Years later, at a show with Erykah Badu, the real Bootsy was backstage and Hubert was able to meet him and share the story with his idol.

Hubert talks about the creative process behind his amazing solo tracks, including “Radio,” “Incubated Funk,”, “Dot-D-Dah!” and “Let's Get Serious”. He also drops news about an unreleased single featuring Will Downing that he’ll release “when the time is right”. Troy plays a few clips of Hubert’s music and hopes everyone will check out the full songs and make them part of your playlists.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast on Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Deezer, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Podchaser, Spotify, Stitcher and TuneIn. “Hey, Alexa. Play the BAAS Entertainment Podcast.”

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 68. Host Troy Saunders interviews singer, songwriter, composer, comedian and playwright Kelli Sae. Kelli Sae has released three solo albums independently on her own Kwurk Arts Group Entertainment label. She has toured the world as lead vocalist for Global Jazz Funk Collectives Count Basic and Incognito.

Her voice has perhaps been most widely heard as principal vocalist for the hit television show “Dancing With The Stars.”

Born of Puerto Rican and African descent, her music is a masala of sounds, cultures and influences that drive her instincts. Kelli has worked with Tina Turner, Paul Simon, Seal, Michael Buble, Bishop Briggs, Adrienne Bailon, Jordan Sparks, Chaka Kahn, Eddie Palmieri, La India, Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, Lionel Richie, Angelique Kidjo, Sheila E, Eric Gadd, Ashford & Simpson, Philippe Saisse, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Meshell N’Degeocello, Darlene Love and many more. She’s been the voice of jingle campaigns for Bounty, Dow Products, Levi’s, Chevrolet and others.

Follow and listen to Kelli Sae on Spotify.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 67. Six Degrees of Patti LaBelle. The Queen. The Legendary Godmother of Soul. Hosted by Troy Saunders, Wanda T., and Arif St. Michael.

Our series on the career and music of the legendary Patti LaBelle wraps up by featuring LaBelle’s secret weapon, the great Nona Hendryx. In addition to being an amazing performer, she was the prolific songwriter for many of LaBelle’s biggest hits, including "You Turn Me On," "Nightbird," "Going Down Makes Me Shiver," "Space Children," "Messin' with My Mind," "Gypsy Moths," and "Who's Watching the Watcher". This episode touches both on her work with LaBelle as well as her solo work.

Nona Hendryx gained fame with Patti LaBelle and the Bluebells in the 1960s. A singer in a female band in the era of the Supremes and the Shirelles, she could have been a footnote in music history for the hit “Lady Marmalade” and other soul and R&B hits. But Hendryx, a cousin of Jimi Hendrix (her family changed the spelling), didn’t stop there. She wrote and recorded for film soundtracks and, in the early '80s, fronted her own progressive art group, Zero Cool. Hendryx has collaborated with many musicians from Keith Richards to Talking Heads, written songs for Dusty Springfield and others, produced albums, and done some acting. Her own albums include The Heat (1985), You Have to Cry Sometime with Billy Vera (1992), and Mutais Mutandis (2012).

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Episode 66. Six Degrees of Patti LaBelle. The Queen. The Legendary Godmother of Soul. Hosted by Troy Saunders, Wanda T., and Arif St. Michael.

This episode in our series on the career and music of the legendary Patti LaBelle will focus on  the life of the great Sarah Dash. Special guest is B.J. Nelson. She was known as “The Voice” before Whitney Houston was “The Voice”.

B.J. Nelson began singing in the late '60s in her hometown of Pittsburgh, fronting a band called Insane Soul. She moved to New York in 1979 and after becoming a member of T.M. Stevens' band, T-Bird. During her time with T-Bird, B.J. met guitarist Ronald "Head" Drayton, which led to her becoming a member of Nona Hendryx's band. She has also worked with Duran Duran, Power Station, Will Downing and Robert Palmer.

Sarah Dash was a founding member of the groundbreaking, million-selling vocal trio LaBelle, along with Patti LaBelle and Nona Hendryx. She brought her church-rooted soprano and high harmonies to LaBelle, which began as a 1960s girl group before reinventing itself as a socially aware, Afro-futuristic rock and funk powerhouse, costumed in glittery sci-fi outfits and singing about revolution as well as earthy romance. In 1974, LaBelle had a No. 1 hit, “Lady Marmalade,” and performed the first concert by a pop group - and a Black group - at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City.

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Episode 65. Six Degrees of Patti LaBelle. The Queen. The Legendary Godmother of Soul. Hosted by Troy Saunders, Wanda T., and Arif St. Michael.

In this part of our series on the music and career of the legendary Patti LaBelle, we focus on Patti’s early years with The Bluebells and LaBelle. Our special guest is singer and songwriter Keith Anthony Fluitt, who has performed with Patti LaBelle, Nona Hendryx, Sarah Dash, Diana Ross, Roberta Flack, Bruce Springsteen, Pet Shop Boys, Michael Jackson, Harry Belafonte, and many others. We have asked him to be on the show since he has worked with Patti, Nona, and Sarah.

Patti LaBelle grew up singing in a local Baptist choir, and in 1960 teamed with friend Cindy Birdsong to form a group called the Ordettes. A year later, following the additions of vocalists Nona Hendryx and Sarah Dash, the group was renamed the Blue Belles. With producer Bobby Martin at the helm, they scored a Top 20 pop and R&B hit in 1962 with the single "I Sold My Heart to the Junkman," and subsequently hit the charts in 1964 with renditions of "Danny Boy" and "You'll Never Walk Alone."

The quartet, now known as Patti LaBelle & the Bluebelles, signed in 1965 to Atlantic, where they earned a minor hit with their version of the standard "Somewhere Over the Rainbow." In 1967, Birdsong replaced Florence Ballard in the Supremes. The remaining trio toured the so-called "Chitlin' Circuit" for the remainder of the decade before signing on with British manager Vicki Wickham in 1970. Wickham renamed the group simply LaBelle and pushed their music in a funkier, rock-oriented direction, and in the wake of their self-titled 1971 Warner Bros. debut, they even toured with the Who. The trio also collaborated with Laura Nyro on the superb R&B-influenced album “Gonna Take a Miracle”. By 1973, LaBelle had gone glam, taking the stage in wildly theatrical, futuristic costumes. A year later, they became the first African-American act to appear at New York's Metropolitan Opera House. The landmark performance introduced "Lady Marmalade," which in 1974 became their lone chart-topping single, produced by Allen Toussaint.

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Episode 64. Six Degrees of Patti LaBelle. The Queen. The Legendary Godmother of Soul. Hosted by Troy Saunders, Wanda T., and Arif St. Michael.

John Stanley worked with Patti LaBelle for over 29 years, going from a background singer to her trusted friend and musical director. He has performed around the world with Patti including the LaBelle Reunion Concert at The Apollo, and at the inauguration of President Barack Obama. John was a major contributor to Patti’s CD, “Live! One Night Only,” which earned LaBelle the 1999 GRAMMY Award for Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance.

Stanley discusses iconic moments like singing on TV for Elizabeth Taylor and Michael Jackson on Taylor’s 65th Birthday Celebration, and meeting Jackson backstage. He also tells stories of Prince attending many of Patti’s shows in Minneapolis and touring with Chaka Khan.

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Episode 63. Six Degrees of Patti LaBelle. The Queen. The Legendary Godmother of Soul. Hosted by Troy Saunders, Wanda T., and Arif St. Michael.

The first episode of this series dedicated to Patti LaBelle features music and stories from Patti LaBelle’s solo years, 1977-1990. We play and discuss legendary classics, deep cuts, and live versions of her amazing hits. The podcast is meant to uplift your spirits and make you feel good.

​​Capable of matching the wail of a fire engine and yet just as affecting when singing barely above a whisper, R&B legend Patti LaBelle has enjoyed one of the longest careers in contemporary music. Active since the early '60s with the Bluebelles - the girl group that evolved into '70s funk trailblazers LaBelle - she has notched hits in a variety of sounds including girl group pop, gutsy soul, space-age funk, hard-hitting disco, lush quiet storm, and high-tech pop.

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Episode 62. Troy Saunders, Wanda T, and Arif St. Michael sit down with the one and only I. Khan. She is the daughter of the legendary diva Chaka Khan and a good friend of everyone on the show. Join us as we laugh, reminisce and touch on her incredible music catalog past and present!

Indira Milini Khan was born in Chicago and grew up in Los Angeles and New York City. The sultry young singer comes from a musical family. Her mother is the legendary pop/soul icon Chaka Khan. Indira’s musical influence stems from performers of varied genres: Prince, Aretha Franklin, Minnie Riperton, Joni Mitchell, Steely Dan, Sarah McLaughlin and Sheryl Crow.

Indira began her professional music career at a young age. From the ages of fourteen to seventeen, she was the founding member of the Motown Records group Pretty in Pink. Indira was responsible for co-writing the majority of the groups material. After her stint with Pretty in Pink, she went on to record with Atlantic Records recording artist Miki Howard, Motown Records recording artist Johnny Gill and Island Records recording artist Shabba Ranks. Indira also appeared on projects by Loud Records recording artist Yvette Michelle, Mercury Records recording artist Paula Abdul and has also been featured on several Chaka Khan records as well.

Indira is known in the music industry as a prolific songwriter. It is her deeply personal songs and passionate writing that is true to her heart. Always striving as a singer and performer, Indira has toured extensively most recently with the Daughters of Soul and Rufus, both in the United States and overseas. A benefit of Indira’s travels on the road with her mother is her perspective on how music is a powerful influence in the lives of all people. Though she considers her music mainly R&B, don’t be surprised to hear some funk, rock and jazz spicing up the tracks in her forthcoming release.

In 2016, Indira made her film debut as she co-starred in the TV One Unsung original movie "Love Under New Management: The Miki Howard Story". In the biopic about R&B singer Miki Howard’s life, Indira portrayed her legendary mother. Her performance in the movie received rave reviews and marks the beginning of what is sure to be many future roles.

Despite the many comparisons to her mothers legendary voice, Indira pulls out all the stops when it comes to her own unique style. She expresses her individual diva-tude with humility, grace and power!

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Episode 61. From Dionne Warwick to Aretha to Diana to Patti LaBelle, Luther was influenced by some of the greats in popular music. No wonder he become one of the most success singers of our time. Tune in as we scratch the surface of the many artists that proceeded Luther in greatness and helped him form a style that was undeniably his own!

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Episode 60. Bing. Frank. Billie. Robeson. Aretha. Diana. Dionne. Whitney. Mariah. Michael. Marvin. Luther. It is rarified company, but indelibly classic and everlasting in the annals of American music and a club Luther Vandross' membership is permanent. Coupled with that voice, was Luther’s unique ability to write and sing about love and the shared emotions we all feel in that search and enjoyment of love. Love of family, friends, the special someone - all were themes Luther explored with his music regularly, reaching many, becoming a staple in the most joyous moments of people’s lives through his songs for the last two generations.

At the time of Luther’s death in 2005 following complications from a stroke two years earlier, Luther had been in entertainment for 35 years. From his introduction to the world as a singer on the first season of PBS's "Sesame Street" in 1969 to winning four Grammy Awards in 2004, Luther was a permanent and dynamic force in popular music. He crossed boundaries, starting with his earliest success as a background vocalist and arranger for David Bowie, Bette Midler, Barbara Streisand, Donna Summer, Carly Simon, Judy Collins, J. Geils Band, Ben E. King, Ringo Starr and Chic. He produced records for Aretha Franklin, Dionne Warwick and Whitney Houston. He wrote one of the climactic musical numbers ("Everybody Rejoice") for the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical and Academy Award nominated film The Wiz. Luther's reach is extensive enough that CBS Sports has used his rendition of "One Shining Moment" for their coverage of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament since 2003, and Luther performed the National Anthem at Super Bowl XXXI in January 1997 in New Orleans.

For almost 25 years, from 1981 to 2005, Luther dominated the American R+B music charts like no other artist before or since. In that span Luther released eight #1 R&B albums, seven #1 R&B singles and another five Top 20 R&B singles. He achieved crossover status with eight Billboard Top 10 albums, including reaching #1 with 2003's Dance With My Father; and another five Top 10 Billboard Hot 100 singles.

Between 1981 to 1996, Luther Vandross released 11 consecutive platinum/double platinum albums on CBS/Sony's Epic Records label; and at the time of his passing in 2005, 13 of Luther’s 14 studio albums had gone platinum or multi-platinum. Luther's success was not confined to the United States, with record sales of over 40 million worldwide since 1981, including four Top 10 UK albums (one #1). In March 1989, Luther Vandross was the first male artist to sell out 10 consecutive live shows at London’s Wembley Arena.

Throughout his distinguished career, Luther Vandross was active in charitable causes with the United Negro College Fund and the NY Chapter of the American Diabetes Association, in addition to performing at numerous charity concerts, mostnotably Michael Jackson’s Heal The World concerts in the 1990s. Luther also contributed the song "The Christmas Song" to the "A Very Special Christmas 2" record released in 1992 to benefit the Special Olympics.

Overall, Luther received 31 Grammy Award nominations, winning eight times. Additionally, Luther won eight American Music Awards, including Favorite Soul/R&B Male Artist seven times.

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Episode 59. Hailing from Chicago, Paulette McWilliams became the lead singer with Ask Rufus and was solely responsible for introducing the group to her dearest friend, Chaka Khan. Paulette and Chaka shared the lead in Ask Rufus for some time before Paulette left the band.

"I was so upset about leaving my daughter to tour with Rufus for long periods. I decided that the jingles were so lucrative that the best thing for me was to leave the group."

​Moving from gig to gig, Paulette worked feverishly, and then, thanks to a recording produced by Donny Hathaway and Phil Upchurch, she was “introduced” to Quincy Jones. Upchurch, the world-famous jazz guitarist, sent a studio recording to Quincy. Shortly after that, Paulette became solo/lead singer with Quincy during his "Body Heat" tour, and he featured her on his "Mellow Madness" album - the title song co-written by Paulette. Next, they toured Japan, where one of Paulette's dreams came true: singing a duet live with the legendary Sarah Vaughan while Quincy conducted the orchestra. After moving to New York City, Paulette also toured and sang live with Luther Vandross and recorded with Luther on every album he recorded from "Forever For Always For Love".

Paulette and Luther met when she was a Harlette with Bette Midler and became fast friends because Luther loved Paulette’s voice and said she and he had the most incredible blend. Paulette performed all of the Tammi Terrell duets with Marvin Gaye on his last tour, which was recorded live. 

"I felt like I was Marvin Gaye’s kid sister. He always made me feel comfortable on stage singing with him."

As one of the most in-demand background vocalists in the industry, Paulette worked with some of the best artists, performers, and producers, such as Quincy Jones, Luther Vandross, Bette Midler, Dolly Parton, Diana Ross, Joan Osborne, Billy Idol, David Bowie, Keith Emerson, The Brecker Brothers, Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Lopez, Lauryn Hill, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Jennifer Lopez, Patty LaBelle, Deborah Cox, Michael Jackson, Johnny "Guitar" Watson, Herbie Hancock, Anastacia, Teri Lynne Carrington. She also recorded duets with Johnny Mathis and sang a solo on Noel Pointer’s last CD, arranged the background vocals, and sang on them for Noel Pointer. Paulette has performed at jazz festivals /clubs, including the International Jazz Festival in The Netherlands and Thailand, Japan, Monterey, Indonesia, China, Trinidad, Milan, Amsterdam, Moscow, and Bern, Switzerland, including Ronnie Scotts in London and the Blue Note in Milan and Tokyo. Recently at the Blue Note in Beijing, China asked back for the second time.

It is also essential to note that Paulette has sung solo/group on numerous TV commercials such as for Folgers Coffee, Kellogg, McDonald's, Coca-Cola, Diet Pepsi (with Britney Spears), Cadillac, Cover Girl, American Express, Celebrex, MasterCard, United Airlines, Budweiser Beer, Coors, eBay, and Mercedes. 

"I sang so many national commercials that I can’t even name them. I did 600, at least."

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Episode 58. Six Degrees of Luther Vandross - Luther's Unmistakable Background Arrangements with Special Commentary By Legendary Vocalist Cindy Mizelle.

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Episode 57. Six Degrees of Luther Vandross - Rare Tunes and Collaborations.

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Episode 56. Ivan Hampden Jr., Founder and President/CEO of Hamptown Music Institute, was born and raised in New York City, and grew up in Harlem’s musically diverse neighborhoods to the rhythms of R&B, Salsa, Caribbean, Jazz, Blues, Pop, Funk and whatever else trickled in. This saturation of music inspired Hampden to start playing the drums at the age of eight, with the local Catholic school marching band. By age 13, he was playing in local clubs in and around New York City, with Blues musicians who helped instill in him a sense of timing and groove. The musical diversity of his early youth set the foundation for Hampden’s future work with percussion and keyboards.

Hampden started his formal training in 1973, studying at the Jazz Mobile with Charlie Percep, and at Mannes College of Music with Norman Grossman. He went on to attend Bronx Community College in 1977, where he received private lessons at the Metropolitan Opera with Richard Horowitz. During his first semester at Bronx Community College, a friend told him about the Dance Theatre of Harlem. Hampden had to be involved and joined the orchestra - a position he still holds today. While at the Dance Theatre of Harlem, Hampden was also a drum and percussion instructor at the Harlem School of the Arts, and at Seton Hall University in the Black Music Department. But his talent reached far beyond Harlem. Hampden has touched and enhanced the New York theater community as well, performing for various shows on Broadway, The Alvin Ailey Dance Theater, and many more.

Not only an accomplished drummer and percussionist, Hampden is also a producer and songwriter who collaborates with such artists as Luther Vandross, Nick Ashford, Chaka Khan, Eartha Kitt, and many others. 

Along with being Luther Vandross’ drummer and co-writing partner for 17 years (which earned him recognition four times from the Grammy Awards as a musician, arranger and programmer on a number of Vandross' platinum recordings) until the time of the consummate musician's death, Hampden currently records and tours with other notable artists such as Stephanie Mills, Ashford & Simpson, Roberta Flack, Phil Perry, Vanessa Williams and Jennifer Lopez.

In 2001, Hampden relocated to the south, where he continues to write and produce in between touring around the country and world.

In fall 2007, Hampden signed on as an adjunct professor at North Carolina Central University in Durham, North Carolina, teaching recording production I and II, and audio postproduction. In the fall of 2010, Ivan also accepted an offer to teach Drums and Percussion at Johnston Community College.

After 10 years of teaching as a music educator in North Carolina, he is now Founder and CEO of The Hamptown Music Institute in Clayton, North Carolina, where his mission is to "develop the next generation of music industry professionals and artists." While continuing to be in demand as a music producer, Ivan is also working with new local talent around the country.

Live Performance credits: Bonnie Raitt, Al Jarreau, Dionne Warwick, Maceo Parker, El Debarge, Kenny Lattimore, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Michael MacDonald, India.Arie and Joe - the list goes on and on. New and accomplished talents alike seems to gravitate toward Hampden.

Recording Credits: Hampden’s recording resume includes such artists as Diana Ross, Akiko Yano, Ann Nesby, Doc Powell, Jocelyn Brown, Mavis Staples, The Temptations, Nestor Torres, Marcus Miller, Cathy Dennis, Howard Hewett, Luther Vandross, Beyonce Knowles, Ashford & Simpson, Sy Coleman, Tramaine Hawkins and Roberta Flack, just to name a few.

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Episode 55. Brooklyn-based singer/songwriter TERRON AUSTIN is one of those artists the world has truly been waiting for. As a native of Cincinnati, Ohio, TERRON honed his vocal performance skills singing in local churches, talent shows, major gospel concerts & theater troupes. Early on, TERRON developed a passion for songwriting, vocal arranging & production in area recording studios before relocating to New York City in 2015 to pursue a master’s degree in entertainment journalism.

Since then, TERRON has spent the past eight years writing, recording & lending supporting vocals in studios & on stages across the globe serving a plethora of world-renowned artists such as TLC, Teedra Moses, B. Slade & Shanice. TERRON can currently be seen touring internationally with the illustrious “Queen of Neo-Soul,” four-time Grammy Award-winner Erykah Badu.

With his eyes set on making his own impact on the world of music & the entertainment industry at large, TERRON most recently made his solo debut with a prominent feature on summer 2022's "B-Boy Blues" Original Motion Picture Soundtrack now streaming on BET+.

In 2022, TERRON also garnered the lead single & title cut from the compilation project "Lovers Lane," which landed in the Top 10 Best R&B Albums lineup in Croatia, with additional major support in London, Amsterdam & Brazil. Follow this budding international recording artist today on all social platforms - @terronaustin & stay tuned for his debut project in 2023.

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Episode 54. When I was signed to Motown I really didn’t get the type of experience that I wanted. Motown was one of the greatest labels in our history, and to a lot of
its artists and fans. The music had a lot to say and when you listen to it today it places you in a time and place of remembering. I grew up with my parents listening to music, so when I discovered I could sing as a little girl watching soul train and other shows it infused my dreams. I wanted to do what they were doing.

I really want to feel like that little girl again. My parents and my family were so influential in shaping me, I discovered I could sing at the age of 11 and just so happened my entire family is talented including all of my siblings and we used to sing all the time so it came naturally.

You have the innocent little girl who just wanted to be a singer and entertainer, then you have the adult with the lessons of life that you’re taught going through life with the combination of the good and the bad, and believe me they both come together.

Believe it or not, the love of my son kept me in the fight of my life. As a woman giving birth and raising a child, knowing that I have to be a mother first, an artist really kept me grounded and my mother, father and family’s support gave me so many opportunities.

I'm just so thankful to God, my parents, my family, those who were good to me, that I made it through to see this day, and still have a career and a chance to start over, grow, love and most of all create beautiful music that audiences can love and enjoy. Also I want to thank the struggle for the valuable lessons.

I'm Grenique Harper, recording artist.

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Episode 53. Detroit native J. Brown has cultivated a unique sound that continues to shock the world! Brown began his musical career at the age of eight years old with the help of his mother. She encouraged him to join the church choir and, after years of singing, Brown's passion grew. His outstanding vocal talents stood out from the rest to where he was offered an opportunity to regularly perform at the Pistons and Lions games in his home city. Brown's voice opened doors that he could never have fathomed. When he graduated from high school, he was granted a fall academic scholarship to Grambling State University. This is where his passion for music became his profession!

Brown was exposed to a wide variety of music, such as Bell Biv DeVoe, Jon. B, Mint Condition, Brian McKnight, Usher, Jay-Z, Jimi Hendrix, Nas, and Sting, which helped him during his creative process. After college, Brown began worked with Universal Republic Records, and released "Imma Love You Right" and "Sex On My Money" ft. Gucci Mane. This led to Brown creating his own top ten UAC Billboard hits "Give It 2 U," "Sunrise Sunset," and "Moon". The evolution of J. Brown continues.

As of January 2022, J. Brown joined the Sono Recording Group (SRG/ILS) (UMG). This year, Brown is bringing a new sound to SRG/ILS and is not holding back.

"I want to bring back music that will ultimately make people fall back in love. I want to take fans to a musical realm where love is light and fun. I want people to say, 'This guy has music that is not only good, but timeless!'" - J. Brown

Brown's upcoming single "Simpin" embodies that timeless essence. "Everyone has been there... 'Simpin' for someone. This song is colorless, ageless and, most importantly, relatable!" Brown's debut album is to be released late 2022. Brown's feel-good music will take the world by storm.

"Let's get back to the real love and the music that really matters and means something." - J. Brown

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Episode 52. Six Degress of... Chaka Khan. This episode concentrates on Chaka Khan's incredibly musical family! Taka Boom, Mark Stevens a/k/a Noochi Norton, Chaka's siblings, and her daughter Indira Milini Khan!

This 2 hour and 25 minutes podcast will take you on a trip through each family member's musical journey, from groups they have been in, songs they have written, solo ventures, collaborations, and much more. We couldn't cover everything because each persons repertoire is so vast, but we hope you will see how incredibly gifted Chaka Khan and her other family members are, and how each contributed to music.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 51. For this episode, I decided to add to the discussion three fellow Khannoisseurs, who are just as passionate and knowledgeable on our subject matter, the one and only Chaka Khan, as Wanda, Arif and I. Our special guests are the multi-talented Wallace Gary, singer, educator and and all-around music aficionado, MonRay Francois, and the man of so many talents he needs his own podcast, Mr. Cleo Manago! In this conversation, we talk about our loves, likes, and even our dislikes. We laughed, sang and played some of the music by Chaka that makes our hearts sing! Sit back with a nice beverage, subscribe, download, listen and enjoy!

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Episode 50. In this episode, we will be covering some of Chaka Khan's best, b-sides, collaborations, and other rare tunes.  From Patti Austin, to The Average White Band, to Stevie Winwood, I believe Chaka has contributed her vocal expertise to more artists' music in more genres than any other artist in the past 50 years. After this podcast episode, you will see why I say this. Of course, we can't cover all the songs during this podcast, so like the other three episodes and check out the iTunes and Spotify playlists that accompany this episode!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 49. Meli'sa Morgan has been an R&B powerhouse for almost 40 years! From her beginnings as  the lead vocalist of Shades of Love, they brought us the #1 dance song "Keep In Touch (Body to Body)," to being one of Chaka Khan's background singers to her #1 R&B cover of Prince's "Do Me Baby," to her string of R&B and jazz hits, Meli'sa has been a constant in the field of soul and jazz music. If Meli'sa is on the bill you know there is going to be some incredible sangin' going on that night. She never disappoints!

Come join Meli'sa, Wanda, Arif and Troy as they converse about Meli'sa's beginnings, her rise to fame, her memories of singing with Chaka and others, as well as her new ventures. If that wasn't enough, we will even play a few songs of other incredible artists that have been influenced by Chaka's dynamic voice.

This episode is a wonderful look into the great Meli’sa Morgan, as well as scratching the surface of some of the artists that Chaka has influenced in her almost 50-year music career. This was an informative and fun-filled conversation that stemmed from love. Love of music, love of history,  love of laughter, love for one another, and love of life!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 48. This episode covers Chaka Khan's unique, versatile and powerful vocal style that has kept her in the game for almost 50 years! Joining in on the conversation is the incredible Karen Bernod!

For those of you that don't know, Karen has been in the game for over 30 years! From her vocals on the house classic "Motherland," to singing backgrounds for Paul Simon, Marc Anthony, Rueben Blades, Ru Paul, Whitney Houston, Luther Vandross and Stephanie Mills.

Karen also toured and recorded with Erykah Badu. If remember Erykah's live CD, when she covers "You Don't Have to Cry" by René & Angela, and Erykah says "Karen, tell me why you don't have to cry." and Karen goes into this incredible solo! FIYAH!

Karen also toured with D'Angelo and Incognito, with whom she sung lead on three of their most memorable tracks, "Marrakech," "More of Myself," and "Yesterday's Dream," and last but definitely not least, she toured with our featured artist Chaka Khan! Who else to get in on the conversation than someone who has witnessed Chaka's genius night after night for  several years.

Karen has also put out three incredible solo projects, "Some Othaness 4 U," "Life @ 360 Degrees," and "Planting Seeds". Most recently, Karen released a house tune that will surely lift your spirits and get you feet to moving, called "Truth Iz".

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Episode 47. The first episode of Six Degrees of... featuring CHAKA KHAN! Troy and co-host Wanda T. will be focusing on the artists who influenced Chaka's creativity, from Aretha Franklin to Stevie Wonder and everyone in between.

To help start the inaugural season of Six Degrees of... we have invited our friend and vocalist extraordinaire Arif St. MIchael.

Arif has traveled the world vocally supporting and recording with many critically-acclaimed performers such as Pearl Jam, Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Billy Joel, Asha Puthli, Deborah Harry, Martha Wash, Me'Shell Ndegeocello, Kelli Sae, Fonda Rae, Sandra St. Victor, Caron Wheeler, Degrees of Motion, Toshi Kobuta, Jazzhole, Indira Milini Khan, Tonni (Funkin For Jamaica) Smith, Aaron Carter, Madagascan jazz vocalist Anna Rahzafimbahiny, Stevie Wonder and Austrian pop/jazz group Count Basic.

He's also shared the stage with many icons in the industry such as Herbie Hancock, Chaka Khan, Harvey Mason, Dewey Redman, Joshua Redman, Jennifer Holiday, Dennis Chambers, Teri Lynn Carrington, and Roy Ayers to name a few. Arif has also lent his vocal talents to perform on dance records by Caravan feat. Arif St. Michael (The Promise) and for Bobby D'Ambrosio’s dance tune of the Eddie Kendrick classic "Girl You Need A Change of Mind."

Arif's musical knowledge will amaze you and his spirit will keep you uplifted.

Hop on over the Spotify and listen to our playlist to listen to everything from this episode and so much more.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 46. In this episode, Troy calls on his friends and co-hosts of the Six Degrees Of... Podcast, Wanda T. and Arif St. Michael, to talk about our favorite holiday songs.  Included in this episode are songs by Luther Vandross, The Clark Sisters, Output/Input, Ledisi, Anita Baker, Nancy Wilson, Avery Sunshine, Chris "Big Dog" Davis, Nat King Cole, and Donny and Lalah Hathaway! Tune in as we celebrate the holiday season with great music and banter.

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Episode 45. Darryl Anders has been making his own way in the music scene for over 25 years. Based in the ever-funky Bay Area of California, Darryl has gigged with some of the who's who in music like Tower of Power and Ledisi. He has also written and played the music for some of your favorite video games and so much more. In 2012, after years of playing behind other musicians, Darryl unleashed his AgapeSoul brand. "Believe in Love" was his first release under AgapeSoul. Since then, there was no slowing this music powerhouse down. In 2018, he released "Conversations". This gem boasts some of the finest musicianship on the indie soul / jazz scene. Now he is back with another incredible album, "Heart Conditions," six songs of music magic. The first single, "Breathless," is a smooth banger worthy of all the love it has been receiving on the soul and jazz radio and charts. Join me as I sit down with this mastermind of song Darryl Anders on the BAAS Entertainment Podcast!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 44. Desmond Parson, a man of vision, passion, and song. Music was and is the outlet in which he conveys his thoughts. Born in Washington D.C. in the mid 70's, Desmond's interest in music peaked at the age of 4 when his grandmother would play albums by the likes of Gladys Knight, Teddy Pendergrass, and Michael Jackson. However, it was one artist in particular that his grandmother played that would forever change his appreciation for and approach to music: Stevie Wonder. 

Through studying the albums of Stevie Wonder, Desmond would learn the many roles of an artist: a vocalist, writer, composer, producer, arranger, all of which Desmond performs on all of his projects. Desmond started playing the piano at age 10 by learning melodies taught by his uncle. From joining singing groups in high school to presently directing his own band, Soulfied Village, Desmond's musical journey is ever evolving. Through his involvement with the DC music scene, Desmond has performed at many historic venues in the Washington D.C. area including Takoma Station Tavern, Smith Public Trust, and The Kennedy Center, and has shared the stage with the R&B group, The Dramatics. Desmond infuses the sounds of R&B and neo-soul to create a style all his own.

Desmond's latest album, "Like A November," came out on November 11th and is already #2 on the Amazon UK Soul Chart and #12 on the US Chart. In our conversation, we talk about the making of this incredible piece of music, growing up in Washington DC, Desmond's musical influences, his approach to making music, and so much more. Tune in and be inspired by this well-versed, passionate and relatable artist.

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Episode 43. David Sosa is a New York-based singer and songwriter. Musical stylings such as opera, jazz standards, and Broadway contributed to David developing an eclectic taste and multi-genre performances. While sonically contemporary, David's musical influences stemmed from '90's R&B and extended into the soul music of the '60's and '80's. Powerhouses such as Luther Vandross and Donny Hathaway, and prominent women like Patti LaBelle, Mariah Carey, and Rachelle Ferrell, significantly added to David Sosa's soundscape.

Tune in and hear about the man behind the music. Spiritual, comedic, honest, grounded, loving and more. All this, and he can sing and write his ass off!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 42. Blue Soul Ten has a musical career that spans over two decades. He got his start as a radio deejay and would later go on to study music production at Berklee College of Music.

His sincere passion for his craft of choice can be heard through his songwriting, production and collaborations with international vocalists and performers. The Blue Soul Ten sound is a blend of jazz, soul, hip-hop and EDM. His works have captured the emotion and imagination of listeners around the world.

His production company, Greenehouse Music, began in 2008. He produced several tracks on underground remix projects and independent releases. Soon after, he realized that starting his own imprint was the only way to get his true sound out, and control his own destiny in the world of commercial and independent releases.

Greenehouse Recordings immediately began working on its first release, a complication CD featuring several collaborations with artists and producers. It was received with regional fanfare and its success brought many opportunities to work with even more dynamic and talented people.

As time went on, Blue Soul Ten realized that his true passion was bringing musical productions to life, and spreading his production imprint into new areas, genres and markets. Slowly the label Greenhouse Recordings was tucked away, and he launched full force as Greenehouse Music once again. This time around, he landed several deals with production companies, artists and labels, and began producing and writing for projects around the world.

The next phase of his evolution will be driven by new releases, new collaborations, and new genres of music. We can't wait for you to hear more from Greenehouse Music. Come hear my conversation with the man behind this incredible music dynasty!

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Episode 41. H'Atina (pronounced Ah-Teena), the "H" is silent. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, she is a soulful singer/songwriter. Her vocal background and abilities include rhythm & blues, pop, funk, neo-soul, jazz, Latin jazz, adult contemporary, and musical theatre, and she has an amazing vocal range and tone.

She has fiercely emerged on to the music scene with serious force, pursuing her first love, music. H'Atina's music defines her and energizes her to give her audience the best of herself. She captivates her audience through her unique, soulful, sultry voice and passionate performance. H'Atina will win you over with her beautiful smile and warm, humble and kind spirit. Listen to my conversation with this indie soul treasure.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 40. "I am an artist... period," declares Lindsey Webster. "I have influences from many musical genres and have been influenced by them from a young age. I believe in the power of music to empower and reach people on multiple levels."

The stunning, charismatic and amiable Lindsey Webster's roots span the worlds of R&B, pop, rock, jazz, and beyond. Her flawless range has been compared to Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, and Minnie Ripperton, while her breezy and poetic songwriting is reminiscent of Sade.

Soultracks says, "If Carole King and Sade had a kid, she would be Lindsey Webster."

Popmatters touts Webster's work as "Classy, consistent, and exceptional."

Webster's refreshing approach has garnered two Billboard #1s and seven Top 10s on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Chart, making her the first vocalist in the format to garner a #1 since the iconic Sade.

Her latest release, "Reasons," continues her run of Top 10 Billboard Contemporary Jazz hits. Currently it sit firmly at #7. I sure it will continue to climb. Tune in and enjoy my conversation with this exceptional, soul-stirring artist.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 39. Hear how Gavin Holligan went from a highly-successful British football player to experimenting with different types of music and performing with and behind such greats as Stevie Wonder, Gloria Gaynor, Joselyn Brown, and Floetry, as well as collaborating with some of Britian's most sort-after producers, writers and musicians.

He is now bringing his own soulful music to the world with the release of a heartfelt song entitled "More Than One". "More Than One" received tremendous reviews, mainly due to its powerful lyrics and emotive vocal performance. The song was accompanied with a picture collage YouTube video featuring a string of soul-stirring images. Since the release of his heartfelt ballad, Gavin's music has been likened to the jazz-infused organic instrumentation, behind the warm vocal palette of GRAMMY Award winner Gregory Porter, or perhaps even the fresh spin on yesteryear's rhythm & blues music, brought to us by the 10x GRAMMY Award winner John Legend.

Gavin was also the featured vocalist on dance DJ Riva Starr's single "If I Could Only Be Sure" (Dec. 2020) which received rave reviews and airplay from the likes of Annie Mac at BBC Radio 1.

Gavin Holligan could easily be summed up as a "modern day - classic artist," delivering much of the craftsmanship you would expect to hear from iconic heroes of old. With a rich musical history, potent songs, quality musicianship, and an engaging stage presence, you can't help feeling that Gavin Holligan will always offer up his audience something worth waiting for!

His latest album, "I Need A Song," is out as a limited-edition release. He only made 500 CDs and they can be purchased exclusively via his website.

The single "This Hotel Is Closed" made me an instant lover of his pure, heartfelt, and soulful sound. It is with great excitement that I bring to you my conversation with the unique and gifted artist.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 38. Born and raised in Detroit, MI, Beth a.k.a Beth Griffith-Manley has built an impressive career outside of being the daughter of Motown legend Johnny Griffith of the Funk Brothers. She has toured around the world with Anita Baker and KEM as a background singer. Branching out to a solo career from the molding of Anita Baker and KEM she took a leap of faith, landing her a spot on season 16 of NBC's "The Voice" with coaches Kelly Clarkson and John Legend. After a short break, Beth is back with a new album, "Get To Know Me".

"Get To Know Me" is an album that will truly bring back the essence of '90's R&B. Marcus "Daheatmizer" Devine, who has produced a lot of great R&B hits, has a chemistry with Beth's sound that's undeniable. Together they have produced an album that has a '90's R&B vibe, but still remains current. The albums features artists Q. Parker (from the group 112), and Swifty Mcvay (of D12 fame), and touches on many real-life situations (love, self-confidence, break-ups, makeups, belief, and women empowerment).

Beth and I have a spirited conversation as we talk about all the incredible songs on this project. Tune in and become reacquainted with one of R&B's best-kept secrets, Beth.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 37. Bassist Mark A. Walker is a highly sought-after performance and session musician within the gospel, soul/R&B, and smooth jazz genres, noted on various projects and stage performances with iconic creatives such as Gerald Albright, Lalah Hathaway, Will Downing, Maysa, Richard Smallwood, Yolanda Adams, and the list of artists continues to build to date.

Hand picked as lead musician on "Duke's Stroll" by MiParis Music label executive Michael Upshaw, Walker successfully ignites rhythmic passion in the "tribute" to the late-great legendary George Duke, a highly-respected multi-instrumentalist and artist known across multiple music genres around the globe. Michael Upshaw shares: "Mark A. Walker is one of the well best-kept secrets in music. His deep tones on the bass guitar have been heard worldwide on songs in gospel, R&B and smooth jazz. Mark A. Walker is a music aficionado."

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 36. In 2008, Marqueal met smooth jazz star Brian Culbertson. Impressed by his playing and singing, Brian offered Marqueal a spot in his touring band. Over the next 10 years, Marqueal traveled the world with Brian, appeared in two DVDs, and was featured on four albums. The exposure gave him the confidence and desire to become a solo artist.

Marqueal’s solo debut album, "Catalyst," was released in October 2013. It helped to establish him as an emerging artist in smooth & contemporary jazz. After leaving Brian Culbertson's band in the summer of 2018 to focus on his solo career, he recorded his second project, "Intention & Purpose". Released in February 2019, the album is a musical journey through contemporary jazz, soul/R&B and hip hop, and it showcases his growing skills as a songwriter, arranger and producer. The album yielded two Top 20 hits on the Billboard Smooth Jazz Singles Chart, "If You Only Knew," and "The Edge".

Currently, Marqueal's third solo album, "All We Have Are Moments". is rising on all smooth jazz charts. His latest single off of the album, "Sistas," features Brian Culbertson and is in the Top 10 of Billboard's Smooth Jazz Chart. To support the album, Marqueal is touring with Brian Culbertson as a featured special guest, as well as touring on his own. Catch him when he comes to your town.

In addition to leading and touring with his own band, Marqueal occasionally tours with The Legendary Isley Brothers and the prodigious guitarist/vocalist Isaiah Sharkey. He has also shared the stage with some of the greats in music, performing with legends such as: Gerald Albright, Patti Austin, Peabo Bryson, Jonathan Butler, Will Downing, George Duke, Candy Dulfer, Floetry, Aretha Franklin, Larry Graham, Buddy Guy, Lalah Hathaway, Al Jarreau, Joe, KRS-One, Kenny Lattimore, Maysa, Frank McComb, Marcus Miller, Najee, Mike Phillips, Eric Roberson, David Sanborn, Jill Scott, Sy Smith, and Kirk Whalum. In Chicago, he still performs locally with Brother John Kattke and Midnight Sun Band. Marqueal also collaborates with Chicago-based artist/producer DJ I.N.C., and has been featured on numerous projects of I.N.C.'s since 2000.

Marqueal was proud to be recognized by the Chicago Defender as a Man of Excellence in 2014. Father, mentor and friend to many, Marqueal Jordan is a humble man who is focused on achieving greatness through his music and his deeds.

Our conversation will give you insight to this artist's wonderful career and  incredible body of work. Sit back and enjoy.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 35. What a  joyous conversation: Wanda T, Arif St. Michael and I, Troy Saunders, had with the one and only songstress Meli'sa Morgan. We laughed, sung and played some our favorites from her vast catalog. Tune in and listen to our conversation with this R&B legend!

Meli'sa Morgan is an R&B songstress that exploded on the music scene in the late '80s. Meli'sa Morgan came on the scene as a singer with a sultry yet powerful vocal style that could deliver a funky soul song like "Fool's Paradise" to get you on the dance floor, then sing a slow ballad like "Do Me Baby" to put you in a romantic mood. A voice that was perfect for R&B, soul, gospel, and jazz, Meli'sa Morgan is blessed with the gift of singing, having a sultry yet powerful vocal style and sound that brought the magic in her hit songs like "Do Me Baby," "Do You Still Love Me," "Fool's Paradise," "Now or Never," "If You Can Do It," "Love Changes (with Kashif)," "Back Together Again" (with Freddie Jackson), "Still in Love," and so many more!

Meli'sa Morgan grew up singing gospel music, but earlier in her teens her career led her to dance and soul music. At 16, Meli'sa Morgan recorded and is the voice on the hit #1 dance song "Keep in Touch Body to Body"!

Morgan honed her craft and experience from singing background on tours and in the studio with artists like Chaka Khan, Whitney Houston, Kashif, opening for Gladys Knight, and many more. Meli'sa learned about the music industry and sought knowledge about the business. Solidifying her writing and publishing rights was extremely important.

As a teenager, Meli'sa went to modeling school. Later on, she studied at Juilliard School of Music and took acting classes at the Lee Strasberg Acting School, while continuing to gain experience performing around New York City with top musicians. This gave her the knowledge and experience to produce and write most of the songs on all of her albums and CDs, something that most artists in the business didn't know about or didn’t want to do. Meli'sa Morgan continues to produce and write on all of her songs and CDs to this day.

Her latest single, "Footprints of an Angel," is setting the indie charts on fire, and it's likely to hit the Billboard charts shortly. It's a classic R&B song with the passion that only Meli'sa can deliver. We talk about this and more in this episode. Tune in!

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Episode 34. Rachel Walker is a singer/songwriter and performer originally from the Bronx, NY. Rachel has toured as a member of the legendary funk/soul group Sister Sledge while opening up for headliners Kool and The Gang in countries such as France, Scotland, The UK, Beirut, Morocco, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Rome, and Copenhagen, plus Philadelphia, PA for Pope Francis at The World Meeting of Families.

Rachel is no newcomer to the indie soul universe. Her first offering, 2009's "Walk With Me" was an indie soul gem. Her voice is passionate and soothing. Rae is an excellent songwriter and her lyrics are from the heart. The title song, as well as "Free," "My Life," and "Another Story" are stand outs.

Riding on the success of "Walk With Me" in 2010, Rachel release the single "Falling," which instantly became a fan favorite.

After taking a break from touring to regroup and get her creative juices flowing again, Rachel came back hard with her album "Ra[E]volution"! With new eyes, Rachel penned new songs like "Supawomen," "Lesson Learned," and "Come n Get Me". The later even had an firey remix that I just love!

Now all grown up, Rachel has found her calling in acoustic soul music. Her recent singles "Vampire" and "Say Something" mix, soul, R&B, and a little bit of country, into a beautiful acoustic soul gumbo! I love it!

Listen in on our conversation and hear Rachel discuss her story, struggles, loves, and, of course, her music.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 33. The legendary Miki Howard is back and shining brightly with a soulful and gusty remake of an old Abbey Lincoln tune, "Throw It Away". It has already reached #1 on the UK Soul chart and is climbing the charts here in the U.S. as well! We welcome this incredible artist back with open arms and are honored to have her on our podcast. We laughed, fussed, talked about her past and present endeavors, and just had a great time. Listen in as we converse with this iconic lady of soul.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Alicia Michelle "Miki" Howard was the daughter of two well-known gospel singers. Her father, Clay Graham, sang with the Pilgrim Jubiliees, and her mother, Josephine Howard, was a member of the Caravans, a group that would eventually be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

When Howard was in her early teens, her mother moved the family to Los Angeles. Already aiming at a career in music, the 15-year-old Howard received her first break when she participated in a teen beauty contest. Augie Johnson, leader of the group Side Effect, happened to be in the audience. Impressed with Howard's singing talent, Howard also joined the lineup of Side Effect in 1978 when another singer departed. She sang with Side Effect until 1982.

Howard signed a contract with Atlantic Records in the mid-1980s and recorded her first solo album, "Come Share My Love," in 1986. The title track from the album was its first single, hitting the top ten of the R&B charts and reaching number five in late 1986. A remake of the pop standard "Imagination," which Howard had fought to include on "Come Share My Love," was another hit from the album.

Howard's second solo album, 1988's "Love Confessions," offered another top-five R&B hit with "Baby Be Mine." "That's What Love Is," a duet with Gerald Levert, also hit the R&B charts. In the meantime, Howard's third solo album, "Miki Howard," was released in 1989 and proved her most commercially successful to date. The single "Ain't Nuthin' in the World" became Howard's first number-one hit on the R&B charts, and another song, "Love Under New Management," followed it to number two and became one of Howard's signature tunes.

Howard continued with a successful solo career after switching to Giant Records in 1991. Her first single under her new contract, "Ain't Nobody like You," became Howard's second number-one R&B hit. The subsequent album, 1992's "Femme Fatale," featured Howard's renditions of classic tracks originally performed by Dinah Washington ("This Bitter Earth") and Billie Holiday ("Good Morning Heartache").

After a casting director saw her perform some Billie Holiday tunes at a New York City concert at Radio City Music Hall, Howard was offered the chance to portray Holiday in a nightclub scene in director Spike Lee's 1992 film "Malcolm X". The following year, Howard recorded an entire album of Holiday songs, "Miki Sings Billie," including her favorite Holiday tune, "Don't Explain." In 1993, Howard made another movie appearance in director John Singleton's "Poetic Justice".

She released "Live Plus" in 1996, and a comeback album of original material, "Can't Count Me Out," in 1997. After a four-year hiatus, "Three Wishes," was released in 2001 to excellent reviews. The album earned a GRAMMY Award nomination for Best Traditional R&B Recording.

She followed that with "Pillow Talk" (2006), "Private Collection" (2008), "I Choose To Be Happy" (2015), and a live recording "Miki Howard - Live In Concert" in 2015.

Howard was featured on the second season on TV One's critically-acclaimed bio-series "Unsung". Miki's episode was the highest rated of her season and in 2015 was adapted into a TV movie for TV One to be released in June of 2016 with "Chi-Raq" actress Teyonah Parris in the lead role.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 32. Tune in as we converse about Ace's music and upcoming benefit concert with PIFEST. Also sitting in on the conversation will be Adina Nyree, one of PIFEST's founders. She'll be discussing its mission and upcoming Intimate Garden Series Concerts. This episode will be full of smooth jazz and a few concert ideas to make your summer evenings memorable.

While studying manufacturing and engineering in college, Ace Livingston prospered as a bass player by broadening his scope and performance style for a variety of music genres. His passion for music allowed him to cope with the abrupt end to his soccer dreams and became the driving force in defining his sense of purpose. Ace committed to pursuing a full-time career in music and co-founded a jazz band. After his breakthrough performance at a music festival in Mexico, hosted by Sean "Diddy" Combs, Ace was presented with opportunities to tour as a bassist for many A-list artists.

Ace's eclectic skills and versatility are especially outstanding during his live performances. He has gained national and international notoriety for his musical and professional reputation. His dynamic musical resume includes tours and collaborations with Harry Connick, Jr., 98 Degrees, J. Lo, Pink, and Joe. Ace has also toured the world playing gospel with Youthful Praise, jazz with Alex Bugnon, Israel Houghton & New Breed, and pop & R&B with Bobby Brown, Rachelle Farrell, Chico DeBarge, Usher, and Jaheim.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 31. National recording artist and saxophonist Dee Lucas has been noted as the hardest-working indie artist in contemporary jazz, while steadily growing his brand and fan base beginning with "Remembrance" in 2004. Thereafter, it has been a steady showcase of unique stylings with "Something to Ride 2" (2007), "Standing Room Only" (2010), "Rebirth of the Smooth" (2012), "The Smooth Factor" (2014), "Going Deeper" (2016), "The Sweet Spot" (2017), "Going Left" (2018), and the critically-acclaimed "The Time Is Now" (2020).

"The Time Is Now” marked his ninth worldwide release and is arguably considered his best work to date. It features some of the brightest producers and special guest artists in Adam Hawley, Blake Aaron, Darryl Williams, David P. Stevens, Lew Laing, Jr., Gino Rosaria, and George Freeman. Dee's latest album has been positioned on several music charts including the Billboard Top 20 Smooth Jazz charts. It also was recently nominated for the Indie Soul Smooth Jazz Album of the Year award.

As as runner-up in the 2007 Capital Jazz Festival Competition, Dee Lucas has co-billed with an extensive number of artists such as Boney James, Norman Brown, Ronnie Laws, Nnenna Freelon, Hugh Masekela, Gregg Karukas, Peter White, Nick Colionne, Michael Franks, Peabo Bryson, Miki Howard, The Mahattans, and Howard Hewett, just name a few. He has performed at several jazz festivals such as The Arizona Jazz Festival, The Jacksonville Jazz Festival, The Savannah Jazz Festival, The Atlanta Jazz Festival, and The Myrtle Beach Jazz Festival.

Lucas has recently released a new single titled "Hot Ice," featuring keyboardist Gino Rosaria, to kick off the 2022 campaign. It has already garnered rave reviews, which will set the table for his tenth album release, "No Boundaries," scheduled for early 2023.

Listen to this episode and hear about his humble beginnings in the music industry, to becoming one of the giants in smooth jazz. We laughed, shared positive vibes and, of course, played plenty of music!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 30. Ivan Hampden Jr. has dug into his music vault and released 13 jazzy soulful gems featuring some of the who’s who in the business. Guest appearances include the late great Luther Vandross, Nick Ashford, Valerie Simpson, Paulette McWilliams, Lisa Fischer, Barry Eastmound, Mike Phillips, John "Skip" Anderson, Nat Adderley Jr., and the list goes on. Listen in on our conversation as we highlight some of these songs and what went into making them. The music is as uplifting and freeing as our conversation. Tune in and be inspired!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 29. When you take a drummer, keyboardist, and acoustic guitarist with a degree in mass communications, that has a catalog of over 40 pop/R&B songs from club bops and pop singles, to conscious inspirational songs and sexy club ballads, this is what we call the definition of music entertainment for all: Austyn King.

His compositions of relevant music production, captivating approach to the R&B music landscape, velvety vocals, and ability to make cover song remixes to popular hit songs so effortlessly, you start to wonder what he will do next.

The difference between him and other artists in his genre is that all of his songs are produced, written, and even self engineered. No matter the musical approach, it's all coming from the talented mind of Austyn King.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 28. Castella hit the music scene in April 2020 with the release of her original tune, "No Ordinary Love". Hailing from Long Beach, California, Castella has sang her entire life. Castella's family and friends know her as Cathy Rebecca Crowell-Thompson, wife, mother of three, and human resources executive. In the latter part of her career in HR, she was inspired to tap into the creative side of her brain by mentor and writing partner, Darryl Swann.

Castella released her first EP, "Thinking About You," produced by Corey Stampley, in late 2019. She released her first single from that EP, "No Ordinary Love," in April 2020. This tune reached #24 on the Smooth Jazz charts and garnered her a "Breakout Artist of 2020" nomination by Smooth Jazz Network, an original iHeartRadio station. She then decided to make another record and release it on her birthday as a gift to herself.

During the pandemic, she met producer Jeff Canady. Along with Jeff, they pushed out two amazing records: "Let Me Love You" and "Sleigh Ride"! "Let Me Love You" reached #33 on the Smooth Jazz Charts and rose to #5 on the Urban Charts and rose to #1 on the Black Planet Radio Chart in Italy. "Sleigh Ride" rose to #6 on the Smooth Jazz Holiday Chart.

Castella's work on "Let Me Love You" garnered her nominations for the "President's Award,", "Newcomer of the Year," and "Best Female Artist of 2020," as well as being named "Artist of the Year" by the "Central Standard Time Show" on stlsmoothjazz.com, and she has the hardware to show it!

Ever true to her work and trusting her heart, Castella decided to reach back into her pocket and release her tune "Mojito" from her debut EP, a very special record to Castella and her team where her mentor, multi-platinum GRAMMY Award-winning producer Darryl Swann contributed with writing on the tune, as well as mixing and mastering the tune - in fact, all of her tunes. "Mojito" did well on the charts, rising to #2 on the Urban Influencer R&B/Soul Chart and #49 on the Smooth Jazz Network Top 100 Chart!

Castella continues to work on more music to share with her fans. Castella released her chart-topping tune, "So Glad I Met You," featuring trumpeter and friend Willie Bradley. This song did well on both Smooth Jazz Charts, as well as hitting #2 on the UK Soul Charts and #1 in Canada with TeeRex Radio! Castella had the wonderful opportunity to work with French producer Tom Glide to produce a remix of "So Glad I Met You," which topped the UK Soul Breakers Chart at #1 as well as making several charts in the UK and Canada Top 10!

Castella released her second EP, "Let Me Love You," on January 7, 2022. On the same day she released her single "So Into You," a remake of the 70's classic by the Atlanta Rhythm Section, with an exciting radio campaign spearheaded by Gorov Music Marketing in the U.S. and Gary Van den Bussche in the UK. "So Into You" has already made a big splash by hitting #1 on the UK Soul Breakers Chart on January 3, 2022. Castella's new EP includes three previously released original tunes ("Let Me Love You," "So Glad I Met You," and the "Central Standard Time Show Groove"), and two of Castella's favorite tunes that she chose to remake: "So Into You" and "My Funny Valentine." The remakes are a window into who Castella is as an artist!  She loves music of all genres and the remakes are just a small piece! Stay tuned for more from Castella.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 27. With over 50 million streams of his music: R&B hit maker Saint Jaimz has been diligently working for decades making a name for himself in the worldwide music industry as an independent artist. Saint Jaimz' timeless voice is bound to blast you back to the iconic sound of 90's R&B.

The Chicago-born musician takes a highly creative approach to music, adding his own innovative spin on the popular stylings of the genre. Saint Jaimz' innate ability to bring back to life the classic sound of R&B has seen him gain the attention of fans, critics, and moguls from every kind of genre. Noting that he doesn't just make "love songs," he creates "LIFE songs," the kind of tracks that can be returned to again and again for timeless joy and wisdom for years to come.

So far this year, Saint Jaimz has release three incredible singles: "LuvU Down," "It's Gonna Get Betta," and the most recentm, "It Ain't Werkin". Two of his singles, "Baby Come To Me" and "Being Gentle," both reached the #1 position of the UK Indie Soul Chart.

Since the taping of this episode, Saint Jaimz has released four more chart-topping singles: "Tell Me," "Everyday Is Your Day (The Wedding Song)," "Get Back," and "Neva Gonna Ball Again". This brother is not playing around!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 26. From her early days as a girl singing solos with the choir at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Houston, TX to her years on the Broadway stage and beyond, the inimitable voice of Jennifer Holliday has riveted the hearts of audiences from around the world. She is a Broadway legend in every sense of the term: her iconic portrayal of Effie "Melody" White in the 1981 smash hit "Dreamgirls" will forever be a template for delivering gut-wrenching, timeless performances, evidenced in Ms. Holliday garnering a GRAMMY Award for her performance of the show-stopping torch ballad "And I Am Telling You, I'm Not Going," plus a coveted Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her role as Effie.

Her second album, "Say You Love Me," won her a second GRAMMY for her rendition of Duke Ellington's classic "Come Sunday."

From 1985 to 1992, she had five Top 10 singles on the R&B and Dance Charts and her star continued to shine brightly with collaborations and appearances with other megastars: Barbra Streisand, Luther Vandross, David Foster, Paul Simon, Michael Jackson, Maurice White and Foreigner, with whom she performed on a special version of "I Want To Know What Love Is."

In 2014, Ms. Holliday released her first album in two decades. "This Song Is You" stirred long-time fans and garnered a new generation of enthusiastic listeners, landing Ms. Holliday back in the Top 20 R&B charts with rave reviews.

Standout television appearances include David E. Kelley's "Ally McBeal," "American Idol," and "So You Think You Can Dance." In 2016, Ms. Holliday returned to the stage starring alongside Cynthia Erivo in the Broadway revival of "The Color Purple," as sultry singer Shug Avery. She is a long-standing, dedicated supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and an advocate for mental health and suicide prevention.

Recently, Ms. Holliday has appeared on the hit TV show "The Masked Singer" as Miss Teddy, where she thrilled and electrified the nation with her still-powerful and captivating voice. Jennifer is riding high on the charts with her latest single "So In Love".

We are honored and pleased to have this living icon on the BAAS Entertainment Podcast. Listen in and hear our enlightening and free-flowing conversation!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 25. Michelle Brooks-Thompson is a national award-winning Independent recording artist and music performer from Springfield, Massachusetts. She is known for her appearance as a finalist on the hit TV show, NBC's "The Voice." Since competing on "The Voice," Michelle's versatile and phenomenal singing ability has privileged her to grace a multitude of diverse musical platforms across the country. She has become known by all as a dynamic powerhouse vocalist!

As quoted by Maroon 5's frontman and NBC's "The Voice" vocal coach Adam Levine, Michelle has been gifted with a "supernatural singing ability." Michelle's vocal tone and power is highly compared to the late musical icon, Whitney Houston. She has often been referred to as the "Whitney Houston of Gospel Music." With a passionate goal for being signed to a major label, Michelle's music success throughout her indie artist career has continued to expand with notable accomplishments. She was crowned as the 2017 Super Top Dog winner of world-famous Amateur Night at the Apollo. Most recently in 2019, she was the winner of the 15th and final season of Keene Idol (New Hampshire). In March 2022, Michelle was crowned the winner of the 1st Annual Unsung Heroes singing competition hosted by The Music Room in Cape Cod.

Michelle has consistently performed at various churches, indoor and outdoor concert venues, sporting events, private functions, and on national TV programs such as "Dr. Bobby Jones Presents" (Impact Network), TBN's "Praise the Lord," the "Bishop Eric Lloyd Show" (Rhema Network) and more. The vocal sensation, featured in People Magazine's October 2018 Special Edition as a finalist on "The Voice," has shared the stage with Grammy and Stellar Award-winning gospel and secular artists such as Donnie McClurkin, James Fortune, Shana Wilson, Zacardi Cortez, American Idol's Melinda Doolittle, NBC's "The Voice" Noah Liz, Doobie Powell, Bebo Norman, Eric Taylor and others.

With strong gospel musical roots that were cultivated as a young child in her grandfather's church, Michelle was recognized and claimed as a "child prodigy" because of her ability to sing and play the piano by the age of 9. After the passing of her mother, Michelle took on the role of music director for her grandfather's church at the young age of 14, which she served for seven years. While serving in that musical capacity, Michelle broaden her vocal and musician skills by taking private piano lessons, competing in talent competitions, and singing professionally for various recording artists.

Michelle pursued her passion for music by attending the prestigious all-women's college in Massachusetts, Mount Holyoke, where she majored in Music studying Vocal Performance and Piano. Upon receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in Music, she was accepted into Boston's Berklee College of Music for a Performance Diploma Program. Michelle chose to pursue her next steps in music independently and deferred her acceptance to Berklee. Since then, she has crafted her singing ability which can undeniably be ranked with some of the major gospel and secular artists of her time!

Michelle has founded and directed several educational institutional and church choirs. In addition to her professional singing career, she has taught music curriculums and vocal lessons at schools as well as independently. In addition to having won several local, regional and national musical talent competitions, Michelle is the co-author of the 2017 book entitled "Pretty In His Presence." She is also an actress and has appeared in several stage plays including the gospel stage play "When the Child Cries," and "For Colored Girls," directed by international playwright Lee Harris.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 24. "But what I love about our love? We never give up." 

This is the real-life position of the extraordinarily gifted couple: Heman and Shira Israel, aptly called The Royalty Duo. Celebrating the recent release of their debut album, "Marriage," The Royalty Duo is culminating years of individual musical successes into a unified progression of what happens when you make music with the one you love.

What does actually happen when you make music with the one you love? In the case of The Royalty Duo, you go viral when your wife performs a flawless cover of Busta Rhymes' daunting verse in the Chris Brown hit, "Look at Me Now." Beyond that, they have graced several notable stages and performed in front of thousands of people around the country and beyond. Some of their most memorable moments on stage include being invited firsthand by Rickey Smiley to perform at his iconic Stardome club in front of a sold-out audience, along with performing at Ronnie Devoe's "Married for Life" event, and also at The Dikembe Mutombo Gala, to name a few.

They make indelible impacts with their performances at marriage conferences, weddings, corporate events, and festivals. And now that their debut album has released and is charting in the US and the UK, perhaps an international tour is soon to come!

The Royalty Duo has emerged!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 23. During the summer of 1976, Cory Daye's voice wafted through the bamboo forests of New York's Fire Island like an intoxicating fragrance. As the lead vocalist and co-founder of Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band, she beckoned the island's dwellers to untold pleasures while the group's self-titled debut stirred dancers into sweaty, salty abandon. Boardwalks seldom pulsed with such a bewitching beat.

Fire Island was worlds away from the South Bronx, where Daye first met composer/arranger Stony Browder, Jr. (guitar/piano) and his brother, lyricist August Darnell (bass). Drummer Mickey Sevilla and vibe master "Sugar Coated" Andy Hernandez (aka Coati Mundi) helped crystallize the group's musical aesthetic, which had morphed from R&B into a blend of big band, soul, Latin, jazz, dance, and pop. Produced by Four Seasons tunesmith Sandy Linzer, Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band (1976) brought the grandeur of swing-era bandstands to the discotheque, melding wry social commentary with classic Hollywood romanticism.

"Everybody's favorite album is Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band on RCA,” critic Vince Aletti wrote in his "Disco File" column for Record World. "It's this summer's major surprise hit not only because three cuts are eminently danceable ("Sour and Sweet," "Cherchez La Femme," and "I'll Play the Fool"), but because the group's fabulously eclectic sound - drawing on several decades of American pop music from big band jazz to doo-wop soul to sophisticated disco, full of sly musical quotes - is so fresh and appealing" (7 August 1976).

Aletti would later declare Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band the "Most Essential Disco Album of 1976," while the Los Angeles Times named Savannah Band "the hottest disco act in the country" (26 November 1976). Even Aletti's peers in the rock press cheered the group's arrival. "It's a pleasure to admit that their music is a fresh pop hybrid with its own rhythmic integrity, and that its sophistication is a lot brighter and more lively than most of the organic bullshit making it to the rock stage in the mid-'70s," Robert Christgau noted in the Village Voice.

Rolling Stone published its own rave review of Savannah Band's debut. "The highest moments introduce a genuinely surrealistic disco whose adventurous use of bitonality and electronic sound effects stands in absolute contrast to the recent disco market’s cynical prefabrication of oldies," wrote Stephen Holden. "I'll Play the Fool," "Cherchez La Femme," and especially "Sour and Sweet," are group originals that literally explode the genre with their brittle scintillating audacity" (23 September 1976).

With a sound that signaled disco's penchant for innovation, Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band supplanted the Bee Gees' "You Should Be Dancing" from number one on Billboard's "National Disco Action Top 30" in October 1976. A month later, "Cherchez La Femme" debuted on the Hot 100 where it would peak at #27 and introduce one of the era's most indelible opening lines - "Tommy Mottola lives on the road" - to the airwaves. The album itself was certified gold and earned the group a GRAMMY nomination for Best New Artist.

In 1979 Cory Daye released her solo album, "Cory and Me". Rolling Stone, November '79 - Cory delivers a vocal performance that's direct and elusive, girlishly simple and musically sophisticated, sexy without being huff-and-puffy.   When Daye makes her entrance in any song, it's like the sun breaking through a bank of dark clouds. Paired again with producer-extraordinaire Sandy Linzer, singles "Single Again," "A Wiggle and A Giggle," and the thumping "Pow Wow" will no doubt become favs of music lovers all over the world."

Tune in to this episode and catch my conversation with this legendary artist!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 22. Russell Taylor is a multi-faceted artist possessing a broad musical range heavily informed by the rich sounds of American cities he’s called home throughout his life (Philly, NewYork, and the DMV). He approaches his artistry with an old-school flair rooted in showmanship and a commitment to grow and connect with audiences authentically. Taylor's willingness to experiment with various sounds is one that has allowed him to navigate through various genres effortlessly.

The new single, "Cherry," is a perfect blend of pop production and warm soulfully seductive vocals.

Steeped in the rich musical tradition of Philadelphia, Russell absorbed the sounds and style of the artists that came before him, as well as his peers. He has performed in sold-out shows at the Apollo, was voted one of VH1's You Oughta Know Artists, and his music has been featured on "The Morning Buzz Live," "Stop/Watch," and shows like "Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.," "The Fosters," "Degrassi: The Next Generation," "Atlanta Exes," and "Black Ink Crew."

The definition of a true musical alchemist, he transforms his inner thoughts, feelings and experiences into pure soul, shifting the energy in the room with his touching vocals, heartfelt songs and sincere lyrics. Through the arts of acting, producing his music and his series SoulVersations, directing plays and designing for his clothing brand The Blxcks, Russell is polymath whose sole focus is to have you re-connect with the deepest part of your soul - to make you FEEL.

Russell and I converse about his nearly 25 years in the indie soul industry, and remind the audience of the music that has captivated this dynamic artist's fans over the years. We end our podcast discussing his hot-and-juicy new single "Cherry"! Tune in to laugh, single and uplift your spirit.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 21. Maysa is the kind of singer who takes hold of a song and enraptures her audience in the palm of her hand as she delivers lyrics, phrases, melodies and harmonies in a way that only she can. Blessed with an instantly-identifiable honey-toned mezzo-soprano, and an undeniably brilliant and magnetic stage presence, Maysa's alluring vocals, candor, honesty, humor, and purity as an artist make her a rarity in this business.

Having collaborated with everyone from Stevie Wonder to Incognito, Angela Bofill, Will Downing and Jonathan Butler, Phil Perry and more, Maysa can hang with the best. It is no wonder she was the recipient of many awards for her work, including Soul Train's first Centric Award in 2009, and her first Grammy nomination for Best Traditional R&B Performance for her remake of Nancy Wilson's "Quite Fire" in 2014.

The Baltimore native, who grew up in a loving household with amazing parents, is proudly the mom of one son, Jazz, who was born prematurely at 25 weeks while she was on tour with Incognito in 1999. Jazz is now in college studying photography and music production.

In 2018, Maysa became the owner/founder of her own record label, Blue Velvet Soul Revords. The company has released four singles, "You Are Not Alone," "It's Gonna Be Alright," "Lovin' You Is Easy," and "Soft Words".

To celebrate her first record printing, Maysa designed a commemorative blue velvet box set with those four singles as an EP called "The Fab First Four," in January 2021.

Coming soon, Maysa will release her 14th solo studio album, "Music For Your Soul". If the first single, "Just Say," is any indication, look out for another outstanding album from the Queen of Jazzy Soul, Maysa!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 20. This episode features three incredibly gifted and energetic artists, all with their own style and sound. The one thing they all have in common is their love and passion for good R&B, soul, gospel, and house music. Here a bio on each artist. Enjoy!

Parkes Stewart: In the golden years, there was a message in the music, as Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, and Stevie Wonder proved. Their lyrical content could almost be spiritual. Parkes Stewart delivers music that is heartfelt and spiritual. His music evokes comparisons to the great rhythm and blues artists that influenced him. Gifted lyrically, he takes smooth to a new level. Linking old school flavor with a new school vibe. If the name Parkes Stewart is both familiar and unfamiliar, it's because he has written songs for other artists such as "Cry On" for 112, "Open Arms" and "More than Just A Melody" for Yolanda Adams, "Ordinary Just Won't Do" performed by Dave Hollister, Issac Carree, and "I Am Here, No More Loneliness," and "Victory" for Commissioned. Parkes Stewart sings and writes a thrilling combination of spiritual, soul and R&B music that seamlessly blends songs of longing, pain, love, and hope. His latest single, "Clear Your Mind," is a prime example of a souful R&B gem with a smooth and and uplifting message. So "Clear Your Mind" and let Parkes' music soothe you.

Water of Elegance: Here at BAAS Entertainment we like to introduce new rising stars on the indie soul scene. This month it's Water of Elegance. Her sound is as unique as her name. It is a fusion of R&B, jazz and soul. Born in Jacksonville, Florida, she has been singing since six years old. Her mission to to promote positive inspirational music that brings happiness and spreads love across the planet. We definitely could use more love nowadays. R&B superstar Montell Jordan recognized Water of Elegance for her postive and inspirational music in a special YouTube video shoutout! Her lastet singles, "My First Love" and "Born To Live," have been flying up the UK Indie Soul Charts! Be on the look out for great things from this emerging artist.

Saint Jaimz: R&B hit maker Saint Jaimz has been diligently working for decades making a name for himself in the worldwide music industry as an independent artist. Saint Jaimz's timeless voice is bound to blast you back to the iconic sound of 90's R&B. The Chicago-born musician takes a highly creative approach to music, adding his own innovative spin on the popular stylings of the genre. Saint Jaimz's innate ability to bring back to life the classic sound of R&B, has seen him gain the attention of fans, critics, and moguls from every kind of genre. Noting that he doesn't just make "love songs" he creates "LIFE songs". The kind of tracks that can be returned to again and again for timeless joy and wisdom for years to come. So far this year Saint Jaimz has release three incredible singles: "LuvU Down," "It's Gonna Get Betta," and the most recent, "It Ain't Werkin". Two of his singles, "Baby Come To Me" and "Being Gentle," both reached the #1 position on the UK Indie Soul Chart.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 19. PARTY OVER HERE! Ty Juan just keeps the music coming! Come hear what all the hype is about! His latest album, "Mood 22," is a R&B masterpiece. It's a perfect combination of old and new R&B music. Using some of today's recording methods but infusing the tracks with soulful vocals, plus meaningful and uplifting lyrics. I just love it!

"Mood 22" has reached #2 in the Amazon UK Top Indie Soul Albums and the current single, "Good Love," is a Top 10 single on the Indie Soul Singles Chart.

Tune into this episode to hear Ty Juan and I discuss the process of making this album as we spin more gems off of the project. There is something on it for everyone! Treat your ears and spirit, they won't be disappointed.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 18. The BAAS ENTERTAINMENT PODCAST is proud to have the the dynamic duo Crutchfield Jones on this episode. You might remember Shireen Crutchfield from the late 80's girl group The Good Girls, and Ricky Jones from the boy group, Yours Truly, both on Motown.

Since then, they both continued to have successful careers in entertainment. Shireen not only modeled but became known for her many acting roles. Ricky put out several solo projects and has worked with such incredible and legendary artists as Celine Dion, Lionel Ritchie, After 7, Babyface, Wynona Judd, James Ingram, and more.

Now they have come together as CRUTCHFIELD JONES! Their latest song, "Crazy Ass," has been flying up the charts in the UK, Canada and the US.

Join me in a conversation full of love, joy, laughter and, of course, "Crazy Ass" music! What a great time we had. It was like talking to old friends! Don’t miss this uplifting episode.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 17. Drawing comparisons to some of music's greatest singer, songwriter, producers like Babyface, Michael Jackson and El Debarge, Devon Howard has constructed a style and feel very reminiscent of his childhood inspirations, yet uniquely all his own.

Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, Devon's greatest influence was his father, Melvin Leonard Brown, who was a songwriter for a few local groups of his era including The Bleu Lights, who enjoyed a hit release written by Brown. After graduating from The Baltimore School for the Arts, Devon joined the group Me 2 U who scored a record deal with RCA Records allowing him to write two songs on the album. The self-titled debut album contained production from Vincent Herbert (Lady Gaga, Tamar Braxton) and Ron Fair (Christina Aguilera, Keyshia Cole). The project released two singles, "Want U Back" and "All Night," both charting on the R&B Billboard charts respectively.

After Me 2 U disbanded, Howard and two other members of the group formed Diverisiti, signing to Global/EMI Records. This venture gave Devon the opportunity to write and produce twelve songs on the CD. The group toured the United States promoting their music and eventually went on to do solo projects. In 2005, Howard signed with an indie label in Europe and released his first solo project entitled "Urban Eclecticism." The success of that project lead to a record deal in Japan and garnered more fanfare abroad for Devon.

In 2007, the release of Howard's hit single "Other Side of the Bed" through Global Entertainment marked his first release in the United States. The video for the single was directed by Chris Robinson (Beyonce', Usher, Bruno Mars) and played on video outlets worldwide, including VH1 Soul and BET. Global released a second single "Yesterday" in 2008, a duet with Baltimore's own Paula Campbell, which fared well at Urban AC radio.

In the subsequent years, Devon performed around the country opening for major and independent artists, including Joe, Mario, KeKe Wyatt and Dionne Warwick. Taking time to produce projects and delve into other facets of the entertainment industry, Howard has created a suite of songs that feels reminiscent of old school classic love songs yet still retaining relevance in today’s market. The album entitled "Return To Love" and its singles "Back To Paradise" and "Could This Be Love," have already gained attention across the globe and is set to make its debut in the United States at Urban AC radio. "Return To Love" is currently available on most digital outlets.

Devon is not just the nice guy with the smooth sexy voice, he is the winner of the Heineken/ASCAP Initiative for Songwriting. Amidst his hectic schedule he also finds time to give back. He’s been an advocate for foster kids and homeless teens in his hometown Baltimore the past fifteen years. Devon also put together a compilation CD of local artists where 100% of the proceeds went to supporting a day shelter for homeless youth and young adults. Devon Howard has also performed at countless charitable events and have donated to various organizations including The Red Cross and America’s Harvest.

His latest single "Forever and Always" reached #8 on the Indie Soul chart in the UK and is doing just as well here in the US. Look out for my conversation with this incredibly gifted artist and humanitarian.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 16. Shirley Jones is not only part of the legendary sister group The Jones Girls, but has a successful solo career as well!

In the business for over 50 years and still going strong, who can forget hits like "Do You Get Enough Love," "You Gonna Make Me Love Somebody Else," "Dance Turned Into A Romance," and "Nights Over Egypt” - wonderfully remade by Incognito featuring Jocelyn Brown and Maysa, and in 2016 Will Downing. "Who Can I Run To," remade by the 90's girl group Escape, became an instant classic by both groups, and the list goes on!

"Soul Steppin'" is her latest single and it's moving up the UK Soul Chart. Join me on the BAAS Entertainment Listening Experiences for the Indie Artist Aficionado Podcast to hear the stories behind the songs! What a great time Aunt Shirley and I had discussing these hits and more!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 15. Both Ty Juan and Regi Myrix sat down with me and discussed not only their incredible collaborations, but we went deep into both of these incredible songwriters, producers, artists, and entrepreneurs' history in music! Those of you who follow indie soul know these gentlemen have been setting the UK Soul Chart ablaze since 2021 with such chart toppers as Ty Juan's "Love On The Dance Floor," their collaborations "The One," "It's A Vibe" with Shawndella, and "Live It Up" with Michelle Brooks-Thompson. The Jam and Lewis of indie soul show no signs of slowing down with Ty Juan hitting us hard with all-new jams on January 26th. Tune in and check out our incredible conversation.

If you are unfamiliar with these incredible artists, tune into my playlist on Spotify and iTunes!

Here the Spotify link:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6Rr56e9iXxs9aYGEJdjry0?si=e5a25e868b684fdb

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 14. Grammy Award-winning writer Gordon Chambers has written hits for the who's who's in the music industry. I mean all of our legends, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Gladys Knight, Chaka Khan, Yolanda Adams, The Isley Brothers, Patti LaBelle, Phyllis Hyman, Anita Baker, Angie Stone, and the list goes on! He is also one of indie soul's most outstanding artists. With four incredible albums under his belt, he has proven that he can not only write monster hits, but sing with the best of them. I'm so honored to have had the chance to sit down and chat with this multi-talented artist. Can I say enlightening?

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 13. BAAS Entertainment is back with season 2 of our podcast! Our first episode of the season features my conversation with the high energy, always exuberant, Alyson Williams! Tune in and get a history lesson on the origins of the some of icons in hip hop and R&B. Alyson Williams is a master class!

Entrepreneur, philanthropist, and radio host, are just a few of the hats renowned Harlem-raised recording artist Alyson Williams wears. With a voice so hauntingly pure, Alyson is able to transport you to your very own utopia while effortlessly showcasing she really can do it all.

Alyson was inspired to study dance under the supervision of Arthur Mitchell, founder of The Dance Theatre of Harlem. She also studied with Alvin Ailey and performed with numerous other dance companies. Alyson was granted a scholarship to Marymount Manhattan College. She later attended City University of New York, as a member of the Aaron Davis Center for the Performing Arts Program. Alyson was awarded an internship to work side by side with Benny Ashburn, manager of the world-famous Commodores. Before she knew it, she was singing background in the studio with iconic artists such as Melba Moore, Evelyn Champagne King, and Kurtis Blow. After a plethora of collaborations with Kurtis Blow, Alyson became the quintessential "hook girl" for the rap and hip hop genre. Alyson's internship turned out to be life changing. In a short amount of time, her talent was recognized. Alyson became an in-demand studio session singer. She also became a featured member of the '80's vocal group High Fashion on Capital Records.

Following her path of success, Alyson instantly grabbed the attention of Def Jam label CEO, Russell Simmons and became the first female R&B artist to sign with the label. As a founding member of Def Jam, Alyson helped to further Russell's vision. Fueled by excitement and passion, Alyson recorded two albums on Columbia Record's OBR (Original Black Records) label and remained with the label when it made its switch to Sony. Her first album, titled "Raw," spent an impressive 67 weeks on the Billboard charts, matched only by Madonna's "Like a Prayer," and went gold in the UK. Altogether, the album produced four top five singles, one of which is the sultry and ever-popular hit, "Just Call My Name." Her second album, self-titled, featured songs produced by Al B. Sure and Babyface and also boasted several chart-topping singles.

After leaving Def Jam, Alyson collaborated with award-winning producer Marcus Johnson and together they produced Alyson's third solo album, titled "It's About Time." With an innate business mindset, Alyson launched her own production company, A.W.P. A Woman's Prerogative. A.W.P. allows Alyson to write musical stage plays, books, television treatments, produce concert series, and much more.

Having studied communications broadcasting for radio and television, Alyson has most recently embraced her communication roots and become an on-air radio personality on WHCR 90.3 FM The Voice of Harlem. Her show is called "Love Notes with Alyson Williams, In The Chill Zone."

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 12. Beth is not only the daughter of the Funk Brothers' Johnny Griffith, but she has sung backgrounds for the legendary Anita Baker, and superstar Kem. Beth was also a contestant on season 16 of "The Voice" in 2019, where her voice had John Legend and Kelly Clarkson fighting over her. She's a singer, songwriter, actress, author, producer, and the owner of her own record label! Beth is a multi-talented artist and trendsetter. Check out our conversation, now!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 11. Since the age of sixteen Cindy Mizelle has been making her mark in the music industry as one of the premier background singers. Cindy has sung with almost everyone in music, from Evelyn Champagne King, to Wilson Pickett, to Chaka Khan, to Luther Vandross, to The Rolling Stones, to Mariah Carey, to Whitney Houston, to Alicia Keys, to Bruce Springsteen, to Stevie Wonder, to Steely Dan, and the list just goes on.

Listen to some of the behind-the-scene stories as Cindy discusses her incredible journey through the music industry, as well as what she is up to now. What an incredible conversation! We laughed, reminisced and, of course, listened to some of the great music Cindy and her peers have graced us with. Enjoy!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 10. From the first time I heard her voice in 2003 I was in love. Her incredible version of "My Funny Valentine," from Marcus Johnson's "In Person - Live" DVD, took my ears on a musical journey.

She's a singer-songerwriter, record and music producer. She has worked with some of the best artists in the music industry, from Erykah Badu, Marcus Johnson, Raheem DeVaughn, The Roots, Foreign Exchange, Chaka Khan, Sy Smith, Conya Doss, Lenny Kravitz, Madonna, and the list goes on. Her voice embodies several genres of music from rock, soul, R&B, gospel, jazz, world, and even classical. Yahzarah can do it all!

Check out this podcast episode as we converse about her musical journey, her process of songwriting, her struggles and how she overcame them, and all of the new and wonderful endeavors she is currently embarking on - including her latest album "The Ceremony!"

Yahzarah's wonderful story and positive energy can be felt throughout this episode. Tune in and enjoy!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 9. I had the pleasure to sit down with the iconic Paulette McWilliams. Ms. McWilliams has been in the music industry for over 50 years and is still going strong. Not only has she sung background for Luther, but she was the original lead female vocalist for Rufus and introduced Chaka Khan to the group. She was also one of Bette Midler's Harlettes, sung lead with Marvin Gaye, Johnny Mathis, and appeared on Quincy Jones's gem "Mellow Madness".

Her background credits read like the who's who of the music industry, from David Bowie, to Billy Idol, Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson, Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Lopez and Steely Dan, and that's a mere drop in the bucket. Paulette McWilliams is LEGENDARY!

Tune in to this episode and hear the back story behind Paulette's interaction with all these great artists as she navigated the music industry for more than half a century.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 8. Born Anthony Walker, Tony Walk has been singing since the age of nine years old. His love for music was evident in his ability to approach any genre of music vocally and master it in a signature style showcasing his smooth and fluid tenor voice. A gifted singer, songwriter and producer, Tony Walk has worked with music industry greats, including Aretha Franklin, Billy Preston, En Vogue, Celine Dion, Little Richard, Andre Crouch, Etta James, Miki Howard, and Vesta Williams. Tune in to this episode to hear how he decided to finally release his first album "Introducing Tony Walk," a collection of classics. This CD crosses international boundaries and showcases Tony's masterful approach vocally to pop, rock, R&B, gospel and soul influences, all wrapped in a project that appeals to any music lover, while staying true to his message of love, social consciousness, spiritual awareness, and equality.

Is there anything this man can not do? From modeling, to styling some of the entertainment industry's most iconic artists, to being a soulful crooner, Tony Walk has made his mark in several aspects of the entertainment industry. Tune in to this episode to hear about a bit about Tony's upbringing, passion for music, struggles, and how he overcame them. His story and music will uplift and inspire you. What and great conversation we had! Tune in and enjoy!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 7. The BAAS Entertainment Podcast's August Summer Heat Episodes begins with the soulful crooner, songwriter, producer and actor Darien Dean! It was great to catch up and chat with Darien. It has been over a decade since we first met; and to see his growth as an artist makes me smile.

If you never heard of Darien Dean be prepared for a wonderful musical journey during our podcast!

Here's a little more on Darien Dean as written on his website:

Darien Dean is an artist with a purpose. Hailing from Mount Vernon, New York, this soul singer burst onto the scene with alluring vocals and a distinctive stage presence. Fed a healthy diet of hip hop and classic soul, this multi-talented MC, singer, and dancer, honed his abilities as a producer, arranger and engineer to craft a unique and authentic approach to contemporary songwriting.

A natural born entertainer, Darien’s spirited musical style earned him a coveted spotlight at the 2010 Soul Beach Music Festival in Aruba, opening for Mary J. Blige. He has captured the interest of industry executives and enamored the Capital Jazz Festival audience. He was crowned victor of the Budweiser Superfest 2010 Battle for the Crown of New York and ultimately the Grand Champion of the the competition. His humble, yet star-studded rise to fame has placed him amongst the honorable ranks of soul super heavyweights: Kem, Anthony Hamilton, Raheem DeVaughn, Jazmine Sullivan and many more.

A stateside collaboration with fellow independent artist Angela Johnson spawned the song “All in Me” which led to a Japanese tour. The song charted as high as number 4 in the DC market on commercial radio WHUR amongst such artists as Usher, Alicia Keys, Sade and more.

Darien has been touring "Departures" extensively, including several European tours, with sold out shows in Germany, the U.K., France, Switzerland, Austria, and Montenegro. He has played world famous venues such as Ronnie Scotts (London), Bizz’Art (Paris), Jazzclub Minden, Orange Room JazzRadio Berlin (Germany), B.B. Kings and Blue Note (NYC) to name just a few.

A true journeyman, "Departures" has taken him on an ambitious tour through Southeast Asia (Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam), Australia, Bali, and Hong Kong in addition to several shows upon his return to the U.S.

Darien’s avant-garde delivery of timeless music with provocative social themes demands a rooted footing in the genre of soul music.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 6. A consummate multi-talented entertainer and performer, Ty Stephens has performed around the world, gaining an international audience with a cool, urban-tinged adult-contemporary sound, based on jazz, funk and R&B.

"Stephens' voice is like honey... pure and sweet..."
- The Philadelphia Tribune

"...a must-see band to be experienced live...!"
- The New York Amsterdam News

"The CD ("Deeper In Fantasy") is filled with funk that is laced with a jazzy flavor and wrapped in a soulful blanket... touches on all the emotional buttons of love... once you see Ty Stephens & Romantasy live in concert, you'll be hooked!"
- The City Beat (TCB) Magazine

"Deeper In Fantasy: ...the vocally dexterous Stephens is in total control..."
- Blues & Soul Magazine (U.K)

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Ty Stephens is an award-winning singer/songwriter, entertainer and recording artist (Grand Prize Winner Jazzmobile/Anheuser-Busch Solo Jazz Vocalist Competition, NYC, 2006, and First Place Winner R&B/Blues Category of the International Songwriting Competition 2002 for "Somethin' Strange"), co-writer and original cast of "From My Hometown," co-writer/production, choreographer and star of the long-running "Shades Of Harlem" revue show, and co-writer/production, choreographer and currently starring in the new off-Broadway hit "On Kentucky Avenue" (Songbirds Unlimited Productions/StepForward Entertainment).

He has appeared on Broadway in the original productions of "Sophisticated Ladies" and "Marilyn, An American Fable". He has recorded with industry legends Harry Belafonte, Peggi Lee, dance music icon Dan Hartmann, disco pioneer Nile Rogers ("Beevis & Butthead"), master drummer Baba Olatunji, renowned trumpeter Chuck Mangione, singer Gwen McCrae, Def Jam premier artist Alyson Williams, among others.

"Deeper In Fantasy: "The whole album seems to be a sort of musical aphrodisiac..."
- The St Croix Avis (U.S. Virgin Islands)

"Jazz-influenced baritone, with its haunting gospel overtones..."
- The Sunday Mail Magazine (Zimbabwe)

"Deeper In Fantasy: It's the best album by a male artist I've come across this year..."
- Soul Express Magazine (Finland)

Ty studied dance and performed with John Hines Dance Theatre (Philadelphia), in New York at the Alvin Ailey School, The Rod Rodgers Dance Co., Fred Benjamin Dance Co., Chamber Dance Ensemble, and has also appeared in "The Wiz" (summer stock) and "The Genius of Ray Charles" (Spirit Productions - London, (UK), Lyon (France), Mumbai (India), Niagara Falls (Canada)), to name a few.

He has also starred in numerous TV & radio commercials, including KMart, AT&T, Burger King, McDonald's, Yugo cars, Colt 45 Malt Liquor (with Billy Dee Williams), Mars Bars (with Luke Perry), Crystal Light, SOS Soap Pads, and many more.

Ty appears regularly in Russia as a guest artist with Russian drummer Oleg Butman's jazz trio and sax great Igor Butman's Big Band. He celebrated his fifth tour of Japan with superstar Toshi Kubota's 25 Anniversary "Gold Skool" tour 2011-2012, a sixth tour, "L.O.K.," in 2015, and a seventh in the summer of 2017!

"Aquarian Mind: ...worth the waiting... above bar... magnificent!"
- Soul Express.Net (U.K)

With his band (the) SoulJaazz, Ty has spent six seasons at the world famous Sporting Club in Monte Carlo as the Sporting Orchestra and enjoyed four tours of eastern Russia through the U.S. State Department and The Vladivostok Philharmonic, and most recently, a second tour of Busan, Korea, also with the U.S. State Department.

Ty's latest compilation "Spirit Rising" is an excellent combination of inspirational, soul and jazz!! Ty's voice melts like butter on every tune.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 5. Dawn Tallman, The Queen of Gospel Energy, was born and raised in Danbury, Connecticut, where she began singing in the house of God from childhood. Later, she expanded her body of work into the R&B and dance scenes. Dawn's voice and style have been compared to those of many great vocalists like Chaka Khan, Caron Wheeler, and Oleta Adams; yet her style is completely and audibly her own. Her ear for harmonies and her perfect sense for the placement of backgrounds and adlibs make her a producer's dream and an audience's delight. Dawn's voice has blessed numerous singles as the featured artist and she is on the must-call list for many producers when they are looking for someone to arrange and sing backgrounds.

Dawn has just finished her long-awaited full-length album, "For Me," produced by Honeycomb Music boss Josh Milan. Outside of dance music, Dawn is working with GRAMMY-nominated oroducer Chris "Big Dog" Davis. She has added to the success of albums for Chante Moore, three albums for Maysa, two albums for Phil Perry, and the GRAMMY-nominated Gerald Albright.

Some of Dawn's tours include: Patti La Belle, KC & JoJo, Keith Sweat, Dave Hollister, Michelle Williams, Stephanie Mills, Calvin Richardson, and Kim Burrell. She was booked for three months of work at the Soul Star Cafe in Tokyo, Japan.

She has captured the Top 10 of the Billboard Dance Chart several times. Her recordings can also be found on iTunes and many download sites throughout the world. Dawn has numerous Top 10 and Number 1 sales positions on these sites. 

Dawn has most recently increased her writing credits, partnering with Glenn Thornton of Slaag Records, together writing more than 100 songs.

What a pleasure it was to sit down and converse with this incredible artist. We laughed, shared heartfelt stories, sang, talked about her past, present and future endeavors.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 4. Lamone is a multi-talented vocalist, songwriter, and producer with an incredible vocal range. Always a leader, this "soulja" of music and art blazes his own trail. Lamone heard music all the time, influenced by his idols: Mom, Dad, Donny Hathaway, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Patti, Chaka, and Aretha. With his ability to evoke the artistry of such legends, Lamone has developed a soulful yet eclectic style of his own, mixing R&B, jazz and hip hop beautifully and melodically.

Born and raised in Waterbury, Connecticut, Lamone is no stranger to going against the grain, or straying from the norm. He is working with multi-talented producer/musician/songwriter Chris "Big Dog" Davis. "Big Dog" has worked with Brian McKnight, Vesta, Will Downing, Phil Perry, Najee and many more.

He has toured worldwide with smooth jazz pioneer Najee. Lamone is the featured artist, singing the notable song, "Fallin' in Love" on Najee's 2005 release, "My Point Of View". In 2007, Lamone released his debut CD, "Eclectically Speaking," and in 2011 released another EP, “On The Rocks”. Recently, his single "High Off You" reached Number 1 at WYBC 94.3 in New Haven CT, which knocked Justin Timberlake's "Suit & Tie" from the top spot!

Released independently through his own imprint, Xclusive One Music, his latest CD, "Smooth," is creating a huge buzz and gaining momentum with the release of the first single, "Nightlife". It is an infectious dance song, mixing classic with new R&B tearing up radio and dance floors across the globe.

Lamone has performed as an opening act for Jill Scott, Charlie Wilson, KEM, Chaka Khan, Anita Baker, and has been 20 feet from stardom from Me'lisa Morgan. His experience combined with his dynamic stage presence undoubtedly commands an audience's full attention.

In this episode we converse about Lamone's love for music and the process behind such hits as "Rearview Mirror," "Smooth," "Born To Be Kings," and more. We also touch on his collaborations with smooth jazz favorite Najee and how this incredible partnership evolved. We talked and laughed for over 90 minutes. Time flies when you are having fun. Lamone is just as smooth and easy to talk to as his music is to listen to. It was a pleasure to sit down with him. I'm sure you will enjoy this episode.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 3. Chinah Blac is an old friend and I'm so happy and blessed to have her on my show!

Chinah has sung with some of the greats in music such as The Dave Matthews Band, Erykah Badu and Jill Scott! We be discussing her past projects as well as her current project, the music powerhouse group SoArtistic, which features not only Chinah but three other vocal beasts, Melonie Daniels, Mike Davis, and Kelley Andre!

This four-way blend of vocal talent is here to captivate your inner ear. Four powerhouse souls have joined forces to present SoArtistic.

These vocal elements truly represent a full-bodied sound and style. This mix of talent will delight your musical palates with a myriad of fresh original music, cornering multiple genres.

SoArtistic's musical roots all stem from growing up in the church. This professional "Quad Squad" are perfectionists when it comes to the arrangement of harmonies, and vocal manipulation. Their stage performances are high energy with and a blend of Broadway storytelling which is the backbone of the SoArtistic show.

SoArtistic members are all international and national recording artists with a plethora of a-list background industry experience headlining performances with the likes of Mariah Carey, Erykah Badu, Mark Anthony, Don Henley, Jill Scott, and the list goes on.

SoArtistic's freshman album is a combination of true soul, today's R&B, inspirational, funk, dance, and feel-good music that's just summed up to being musically dope!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 2. Ashley Scott is a talented vocalist from Philadelphia, PA. He began singing and discovering music at the tender age of three from listening and watching is aunt Helen Scott of The Three Degrees. A foundation of meaningful music was instilled from his parent’s record collection of artists like Earth, Wind, & Fire, Stevie Wonder, Chicago, The Delfonics, and, naturally, The Three Degrees. As a teenager, Ashley organized and performed in high school talent shows.

The biggest part of Ashley’s life and musical path came when he attended Howard University where he received his Bachelor's Degree in Music. At Howard University Ashley studied jazz voice under legendary jazz drummer and vocalist Grady Tate and the late Webster Lewis. Ashley also joined the Howard University Gospel Choir, which has produced R&B artist Angela Winbush, Tawatha Agee of Mtume, Pure Soul, and gospel great Richard Smallwood. During his tenure with the Howard Gospel Choir, Ashley has performed behind Edwin and Walter Hawkins and Dorinda Clark of The Clark Sisters. The choir was also privileged to perform for President Bill Clinton at The Department of Agriculture for the unveiling portrait of former Secretary of Agriculture Mike Espy.

Professionally, he has sung background for Lady Alma and Jean Carn as well as shared the stage with Vivian Green, Bilal, Marcus Johnson and GRAMMY Award winners Take 6. In the studio he has recorded vocals for Chavous, Sarah's Girl, Geneva Renee, Tye Tribbett, Jim Stephens, and Will Downing.

In 2016, Ashley has released his debut single, "Words." Ashley went back to his roots with the recording process of this song. "The song was written and composed by Alysha Ashley and I. She is from Kentucky and while composing this song I wanted to enhance the song with more lush arrangement and vocals, which is what you don't here in the music of today. With an ensemble of the best musicians and vocalists from the Philly area, we recorded the song in the Lab studios with engineer Craig White (formerly of Philadelphia International Records). We also had some additional production assistance from Will Downing which was an honor. Though the song is about being in love it is more about the interaction of a couple in the heat of a discussion. It encourages the listener to watch your "Words" and if you don't have an answer in that moment then it is ok to table it for another time."

Ashley's latest single, "Don’t Throw Our Love Away," reached the #3 spot on the UK Soul Chart! To continue on the success of this song, a remix for all you that love house music is scheduled for release in June. I can’t wait!

I have known Ashley for some time now; and he is one of the coolest, most honest, and genuine artists I know. Tune in to hear his journey! What an incredible conversation!

In other musical attributes Ashley is currently Vice President of The Recording Academy Philadelphia Chapter. Ashley is the Founder of The Soulful Sounds Series, an R&B Educational Program. He co-founded a non-profit The Artists United with his partner Lox Knox that educates youth on the entertainment industry through its I.C.A.R.E. Academy program. In his personal life he is a husband and father who gives back to the community.

For more information Visit:

www.AshleyScottMusic.com

www.Facebook.com/IAmAshleyScott

www.twitter.com/AshleyScott3

www.instagram.com/AshleyScott3

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

Episode 1. Born and raised in the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, PA, Tanqueray was surrounded by music from an early age. As a child, she wanted to be the next Whitney Houston. With her powerful and soulful voice, she is well on her way. Her first album, newly released on March 26th, is called "Definition of A Woman" and it's flying up the charts in the UK. It contains several of her Top 10 UK Soul Chart Singles: "This Kind Of Love," "This Thing," and "Reflections". There is not one throw away track on this compilation. Stellar performances from the beginning to end.

Tanqueray has won the Readers' Choice Best New Artist Award on SoulTracks.com.

Now that you know a little about Tanqueray's talent, check out this podcast to hear what went into the making of "Definition of A Woman". It was a complete joy conversing with this wonderful emerging artist.

If you are a soul/R&B music lover, this is one interview you don't want to miss. Like her music, Tanqueray is honest, forthright and beautiful.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms. 

BAAS Entertainment - Listening Experiences for the Indie Artist Aficionado is back with a new podcast highlighting the best in indie soul, R&B, jazz, house and inspirational artists.

Back in 2009, founders Troy Saunders and Darryl Hill realized the need for a place where independent music artists could showcase their talents, in an upscale and homey venue. The seeds of BAAS Entertainment were planted. First known as Bangin' Ass Artists, fellow artists loved the risky name, but corporate America didn't. So the name was changed to the BAAS Group, using the initials. Under that title, Troy and Darryl M. Hill put on incredible showcases that highlighted artists like Alyson Williams, Dionne Farris, Trina Broussard, Kimberly Nichole, Rahbi, Ra-Re Valverde, Angela Johnson, Monet, Chinah Blac, Darien Dean, Brown Baby Girl, Gordon Chambers, Abby Dobson and more! Before you know it they were sponsoring Grammy parties in Los Angeles as well as their showcases in NYC.

Sadly, Darryl passed in 2011. Recently, Troy decided to restructure and rebrand the BAAS Group to BAAS Entertainment. With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, putting on in-person showcases were unfathomable. So Troy decided to showcase artists via podcasts. First came the SIX DEGREES OF... Podcast where he, along with his co-hosts Wanda T and Arif St. Michael, showcase artists they felt made an indelible mark in music. Shortly after, the BAAS Entertainment Podcast emerged highlighting the best in indie soul, R&B, jazz, house and gospel. Tune in every week as Troy sits down with some of the best indie artists around. They laugh, converse and, of course, play music. It's always an uplifting experience.

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms.