An Interesting Read

I referenced J Dilla before, on my blog last month. An NPR music blog, A Blog Supreme, published an article a few days ago echoing the enthusiasm for the late talent of Dilla. But besides that, the article tells of his musical and life history.  It also explains the significance of his music and how it continues to reach, change, and influence several music scenes, especially jazz. It's a good read.



Also, Happy Belated Dilla Day (February 9).

Why J Dilla May Be Jazz's Latest Great Innovator

Anna Moffo, Kanye West, and Me

So, I've got a recital coming up. And I'm guessing of the 5 people that read my blog, none of you are even close enough to get here. In preparing for my recital however, I've become more and more obsessed with vocal music. One of the pieces I'm performing is from Rachmaninoff's 34th opus, entitled Vocalise No. 14. It's a tirelessly performed piece but for me, it's a first. It's gorgeous in every way. A great recording of the late and great Anna Moffo is posted below. She glides with such ease that it's almost unbelievable.

I thought it would be great to do some other "well-known" music on my recital this time around. It starts with Kanye and ends with West; I'm putting my money where my mouth is.

I'll have a sneak peak recording from rehearsal on my website next week.

New Music for the New Year

Just listened to this guy on NPR while driving home from Sam's Club. 2013 just keeps getting better! He has remnants of D'Angelo and Bilal mixed with something new and interesting. Love his voice. His name is José James. He has two albums out from 2008 and 2010; his Junior album is titled No Beginning No End. Preorder on iTunes and Amazon available now. I'm excited.

www.josejames.com

The NPR Story from today available online.

Reinventing Hip Hop

James "Dilla" Yancey, was a hip-hop genius. While he has passed on, his music continues to inspire people all over the country, Miguel Atwood-Ferguson included.

Miguel is brilliant in his own right. I love his orchestral settings of J. Dilla's music, his raw passion, and his intellect. The guy is really in love with music and good at spreading that love. People should know who both of these guys are. Below is an example of their musical paths crossing. I would love if I could be apart of something like this.