Advertise on podcast: Fresh Coast Jazz Backstage

In this energizing episode of Fresh Coast Jazz Backstage, we dive into the power of community and commitment with Carl Brown and Podcast Producer, Suzanne Singh. Hear about the tireless work and commitment that makes the Fresh Coast Jazz Festival a reality. We discuss some exciting behind-the-scenes details and announce the artists who will bring the music and the magic to the 2024 Fresh Coast Jazz Festival. This episode is more than just music—it's a tribute to family, commitment, and the power of giving back. Listen now to experience the passion, heart, and soul of Fresh Coast Jazz. Save the date and don't miss out! Grab your tickets for the 2024 Fresh Coast Jazz Festival happening on August 22nd to 24th! See you there! Episode Highlights: 00:54 - The festival truly is a party with a purpose because not only do we bring the world class jazz talent to town, our festival proceeds go towards doing philanthropic work in Milwaukee. It's really important for us that we are about helping the community and being a part of the fabric of the community. 23:02 - They have all been on the podcast and interestingly, that's one of the things, one of the values of the podcast that, that for me is that I didn't get into the podcast for this to be the case. But what it has done is it's introduced me to some of these artists and their work ethic and how they go about their business. 41:13 - My wife leans over and whispers in my ear and she says to me, this is what we should do, we should start a jazz festival in Milwaukee and have the proceeds go to charity, that's how we honor your parents. And that's how the festival idea was born, and that's why the music piece of it is important, but the philanthropic piece of it is so important as well. Contact Fresh Coast Jazz Festival Carl Brown Email  Suzanne Singh LinkedIn Website

In this energizing episode of Fresh Coast Jazz Backstage, we dive into the power of community and commitment with Carl Brown and Podcast Producer, Suzanne Singh. Hear about the tireless work and commitment that makes the Fresh Coast Jazz Festival a reality. We discuss some exciting behind-the-scenes details and announce the artists who will bring the music and the magic to the 2024 Fresh Coast Jazz Festival. This episode is more than just music—it's a tribute to family, commitment, and the power of giving back. Listen now to experience the passion, heart, and soul of Fresh Coast Jazz. Save the date and don't miss out! Grab your tickets for the 2024 Fresh Coast Jazz Festival happening on August 22nd to 24th! See you there! Episode Highlights: 00:54 - The festival truly is a party with a purpose because not only do we bring the world class jazz talent to town, our festival proceeds go towards doing philanthropic work in Milwaukee. It's really important for us that we are about helping the community and being a part of the fabric of the community. 23:02 - They have all been on the podcast and interestingly, that's one of the things, one of the values of the podcast that, that for me is that I didn't get into the podcast for this to be the case. But what it has done is it's introduced me to some of these artists and their work ethic and how they go about their business. 41:13 - My wife leans over and whispers in my ear and she says to me, this is what we should do, we should start a jazz festival in Milwaukee and have the proceeds go to charity, that's how we honor your parents. And that's how the festival idea was born, and that's why the music piece of it is important, but the philanthropic piece of it is so important as well. Contact Fresh Coast Jazz Festival Carl Brown Email  Suzanne Singh LinkedIn Website

Jazz Tales and Inspirations with Steve Carrington In this soul-stirring episode, host Carl Brown delves deep into the life and experiences of the extraordinary saxophonist, Steve Carrington. As a beacon of inspiration for jazz enthusiasts, Carrington shares poignant anecdotes, his musical influences, and the intricate connection between his music and faith. Tune in for a riveting discussion that weaves together jazz, spirituality, and the boundless passion for music. Join us in celebrating Steve Carrington's musical odyssey and be inspired by the symphony of his experiences. Episode Highlights: 07:12 - Carrington reminisces about his musical roots: "It's like writing the story of life" 20:03 - The profound impact of mentorship and the timeless wisdom shared by Kenny Garrett 38:20 - Embracing life’s rhythm and the vibrant colors Carrington perceives while playing 52:46 - Unveiling the fusion of music and spiritual commitment in Carrington's journey as a rabbi 01:05:17 - Carrington's message of humility and the true path to enlightenment Contact Fresh Coast Jazz Festival Steve Carrington

Catch the vibrant beats of the phenomenal multi-talented contemporary jazz artist Rebecca Jade as shares her nostalgic favorites with Carl and igniting our musical souls with timeless records. She also discusses her multi-faceted interests such as acting, modeling, playing basketball, and being a car and motorcycle enthusiast. Rebecca has two albums under her belt and she shares her experiences with songwriting and her aspirations for releasing more music and potentially doing more acting in the future. Experience her vibrant journey and the perpetual rhythm that keeps her creativity aflame. For the full revelation of her dream dinner guests, her upcoming itinerary, and more heartfelt anecdotes, tune in and join the groove. Check out the episode now to ride the waves of Rebecca Jade’s incredible adventures! Episode Highlights: 27:42 - You just never know, like certain things, like where certain doors close, it's because you're meant to go down this path. So, I'm just so grateful and that really feels rewarding to me that I'm on the path. And again, I'm sure I'll sound like a broken record, but I just don't take it for granted. 31:37 - People will see your grind. I think that's what people saw in me, like I'm always about just a hustle. I want to do the best and grind. People are more willing to help you if they see that you're going to help yourself, and I feel like that was kind of a big aha moment for me. 56:34 - Life is a challenge, but to just stay the course and to enjoy the process and to not stress as much because the journey is going to happen anyway. So, might as well try to enjoy it and like the ups are going to be ups, the downs are going to be downs, but it's a continuous wave. So, be part of the journey instead of stressing when the journey happens. Contact Fresh Coast Jazz Festival Rebecca Jade

Get ready for an electrifying conversation with the dynamic duo, Lemek and Quintin Gerard W! In this riveting episode, they delve into their unique approaches to music, the significance of audience connection, and the exhilarating journey of collaboration. Discover how Quintin's resurgence in music synchronizes with Lemek's blossoming career in what Quentin calls a "double whammy of goodness". They also share their habits after intensive music creation sessions and the thought process behind constructing an album. Plus, don't miss the exclusive preview of Quintin Gerard's upcoming CD! Carl also reveals his anticipation for the duo's performance at the Fresh Coast Jazz Festival. Tune in, feel the beat, and immerse yourself in the musical world of Lemek and Quintin Gerard W! Episode Highlights: 18:05 - Those people, when they graduate, they have no idea how to make it in this industry. They end up being the session players. So, they'll have a great career as session musicians or live musicians, and stuff like that. But I didn't have those aspirations. I wanted to be somebody who has a unique stamp and somebody who has a unique identity. 26:25 - As a musician, you always going to keep performing, keep writing, keep playing. And those creative juices just don't stop. You want to do stuff. 27:54 - You go through your ups and your downs  and sometimes you reach those pitfalls and sometimes you reach those brick walls, and you say to yourself, "Why am I even doing this?" But there's that little voice in your head that says, "Keep going. Don't stop." Because the only time you lose is when you quit. 30:32 - In our world, our family comes first. So, I would never compromise anything, in terms of ethics and morals, that I teach my son over fame and fortune. They just don't work like that in my house. You've got to have ethics. You've got to have morality. You have to be a good person first. 50:49 - Beyond the music, I want to leave people with the idea and the concept that anything is possible in this world. We can't buy the rhetoric that life is too hard, life is this, life is that. Don't accept the word. There are two words that are not in my vocabulary. And I tell Lamek don't put them in his vocabulary. The first word is can't and the second word is try. We don't try to do anything. We just do it. And the second thing is, I don't believe in can't. There's nothing I can't do. Contact Fresh Coast Jazz Festival Lemek Quintin Gerard W.

In this energizing episode of Fresh Coast Jazz Backstage, we dive into the power of community and commitment with Carl Brown and Podcast Producer, Suzanne Singh. Hear about the tireless work and commitment that makes the Fresh Coast Jazz Festival a reality. We discuss some exciting behind-the-scenes details and announce the artists who will bring the music and the magic to the 2024 Fresh Coast Jazz Festival. This episode is more than just music—it's a tribute to family, commitment, and the power of giving back. Listen now to experience the passion, heart, and soul of Fresh Coast Jazz. Save the date and don't miss out! Grab your tickets for the 2024 Fresh Coast Jazz Festival happening on August 22nd to 24th! See you there! Episode Highlights: 00:54 - The festival truly is a party with a purpose because not only do we bring the world class jazz talent to town, our festival proceeds go towards doing philanthropic work in Milwaukee. It's really important for us that we are about helping the community and being a part of the fabric of the community. 23:02 - They have all been on the podcast and interestingly, that's one of the things, one of the values of the podcast that, that for me is that I didn't get into the podcast for this to be the case. But what it has done is it's introduced me to some of these artists and their work ethic and how they go about their business. 41:13 - My wife leans over and whispers in my ear and she says to me, this is what we should do, we should start a jazz festival in Milwaukee and have the proceeds go to charity, that's how we honor your parents. And that's how the festival idea was born, and that's why the music piece of it is important, but the philanthropic piece of it is so important as well. Contact Fresh Coast Jazz Festival Carl Brown Email  Suzanne Singh LinkedIn Website

In this episode, Carl talks to Lemek, an emerging guitarist and New Orleans-based musician, whose father is veteran saxophonist Quintin Gerard W. Beyond simply using a different instrument, what makes this generational hand off unique is the way Lemek builds upon the soul and jazz foundation of his father yet takes his own music into new directions. They talk extensively about Lemek's musical journey and he is determined to make his stamp on the music industry and move it forward. After a long dabble in the studio, Lemek is ready to put on his showstopping performance again. The pandemic has meant that he hasn't been able to get back on stage yet, so it's time for him to take center stage. He wants to make sure all those hard hours in the recording studio are worthwhile - by crafting unique music and showing off everything he can do with an audience of fans once more. Listen to Carl and Lemek discuss the most challenging thing about being a musician and his deep connection to his music. Lemek also shares advice to aspiring young musicians. Tune in to discover how Lemek's music is designed to cause positive change and bring people out of darkness and into creativity. Episode Highlights 18:32 - There's a bunch of people in the city that are fantastic musicians, even better than me. You know what I mean? So, those dudes are going to take your spot, if you can't hang with them so it kind of humbles you in that regard. 35:41 - One of the things that he was always telling me about, he was like, "Whatever field you go into, just make sure that you're the best at it. The best that you could be exactly. Don't go halfway or anything. Just follow that path and get to the end, and make sure that you learn every lesson that's along the way." 52:34 - It's a very intellectual genre, but the format of jazz in all the sub genres, I think it's making somewhat of a resurgence. Especially as of recently because my generation, I guess – this is from what I've seen among people that are around my age – is that they have a little bit of appreciation for things that are moving the boundaries per se. Contact Fresh Coast Jazz Festival Lemek    

In this episode Carl is joined by Kim Scott, one the hottest contemporary jazz artists on the scene right now. Her billboard #1 charting album, Shine, has been a mainstay on smooth jazz radio for the last few months. She has 5 albums to her credit, she has collaborated with some of the top names in the business and she is also a member of the all-female super group Jazz in Pink. She is a smooth jazz flautist, a classical flautist, a flute professor and a radio show host. Kim shares how she is balancing time, her work as a classical flautist, her musical influences and much more. In the ‘Bout it or Doubt it segment Kim shares her thoughts about the category Food and Beverage. Tune in to this episode and learn more about Kim Scott. Highlights: 09:50 - If you`re not affecting the listener you're not doing your job. If you`re not feeling what you're playing and being emotionally vulnerable to the music then you can`t convey an emotion to the listener. 14:24 - I like audiences that are open to possibility, I don't want people to  try to sound like each other, I love people when they're authentic to themselves. 23:23 - You love to be able to send people away from your show uplifted in a better state of mind and move, that is just the best thing in the world. 39:18 - Be fearless, be unapologetic of who you are because you're unique and you`re here to serve a better purpose once you figure that out. Contact Fresh Coast Jazz Festival Kim Scott  

In this episode, Carl speaks with guitarist Andrea Lisa, a new artist to the American smooth jazz scene. She sings with passion, conviction, and purpose. She shares the story of how she got started in music at 15, starting a band in 2011, moving from New Zealand to Australia, and what it was like to leave everything to chase her passion. Andrea talks about the musicians who influenced her music and how, instead of just recording a guitar solo, she ended up recording an original song with Kirk Whalum. She tells the story of how "Get Your Wings Off" came to be and while taking vocal lessons, realized that her voice needed to be treated with the same care as her guitar playing. Listen to Andrea and Carl as they talk about the lifestyle of a musician, which involves a lot of travel and little sleep. Episode Highlights 23:14 - Whenever those feelings are a little stronger than normal, whatever it might be, and my mind starts thinking. When I'm in the mood, I'll just pick up my phone or pick up a pen and paper, or the guitar. That's where it starts. It's never really me wanting to write music, intentionally going to write music. Just me expressing whatever I'm going through. 32:34 - For a long time, the guitar was basically everything to me, especially while I was studying guitar. I took vocals as a second study. I did have vocal training, all of that. 49:21 - I think that even though I'm pretty ambitious and quite a go-getter, I often have these ideas years before I even do them or months before. When we have these ideas, we should do them immediately. We should do them like as soon as we can. Contact Fresh Coast Jazz Festival Andrea Lisa

In today's episode, Carl talks to Quintin Gerard W., who has made quite a splash in the music scene, as an amazing saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist from Louisiana. His single "Broken Promises" reached the top five on all major smooth jazz charts, and that's not even mentioning how both he and his son, Lemek, have been at number one simultaneously. They discuss the importance of recording and having the right energy in a song. They talk about Quintin's music career and how he combined jazz and funk to create his own style, as well as about how supportive the New Orleans jazz scene is to musicians. As a saxophone player, Quintin knows that a song must have three parts to it: rhythm, melody, and harmony. Tune in to hear about how much work goes into being a successful musician, including financial investment, and listen to Quintin share how going to concerts has changed for him now as he is always analyzing and learning while watching a performance. Episode Highlights 20:35 - This music business game is not cheap. So, when you're talking about production fees, studio time, mixing, mastering, promotion, marketing, it's a business just like anything else. 34:36 - Like we talked about earlier, energy. It always has to have something about it. It can't just be a song. There's got to be something unique within that song and if that song does that, then typically that feeling that I get, I'll consider, "Hmm, what was that feeling about that song and what did it make me feel?" If it made me feel that way, it should make other people feel that way as well. 42:20 - That's the message I want to send to everybody. Be a good person, be moral, be ethical, have values, and don't ever give up and teach your children to do the same and you'd be surprised at what can happen when you teach them those basic principles because they're in you. Contact Fresh Coast Jazz Festival Quintin Gerard W.  

 It takes a lot of faith to go out and be the artist that you wanted to be. But, when opportunity comes along your way, be sure to grab it like Nathan Mitchell did. Nathan shares how having the right blend of being a great performer and an amazing musician is necessary in the industry. Listen as he shares his other passions when he is not doing music and find out how being a good performer and musician is about more than just playing instruments well. It’s about being someone that promoters and producers can trust. Highlights 02:35 The door has just opened up and it’s been a journey since then. 11:14 Being a performer and a musician, you have to have the right blend and that’s one of the things that I’ve been taking myself through school on. 25:47 My goal is to try to limit the amount of mistakes, limit the amount of challenges in my presentation and my music, whether it’s on vinyl or streaming or whether it’s on stage, so that the promoters trust me to be on their stage. 29:26 It wasn’t a matter of me deciding, (moving into Smooth Jazz genre), I feel like it found me in shows. 41:29 I like going outside and just experiencing nature. Let’s Connect! Fresh Coast Jazz Festival Nathan Mitchell https://www.nathanmitchellmusic.com/

Carl speaks with Ryan La Valette, a multi-instrumentalist and rising star in the smooth jazz scene from New Zealand, whose debut album on Trippin' N Rhythm Records produced two Billboard number one hits: "Let It Flow" and "Highway 10." Ryan shares the story of how his interest in music began at an early age, and how he was naturally drawn to musical instruments, with a particular obsession with guitars. He also talks about some of his diverse musical influences, including George Benson, Grover Washington Jr., and Motown. Ryan talks about his experience as an emerging artist, the struggles he faced before establishing his career, and his dream of becoming a successful performer and producer, stressing the importance of being single-mindedly focused to achieve greatness. Listen to hear Ryan gives listeners a glimpse into the life and journey of a talented rising star in the smooth jazz world, and offers insights and advice on creative processes, producing, and pursuing one's dreams. Listen to this episode and enjoy some of his music. Episode Highlights 07:04 I think it was on Richard Edwards’s radio podcast, and that was about or that was long before I got signed. That was 2018, when he played my single I had out at the time called Dreaming of You, featuring Donald Hayes. And just hearing your name getting mentioned on the waves and hearing it being talked about and seeing all the comments below, all the love from fans, it was really quite a surreal feeling, which is for sure. 24:13 A lot of people don't really realize a lot of the struggles that we have to go through as artists. Many of us, we have to go through the stages before we have established careers. We do have to work a regular job to survive and pay bills. As long as other emerging artists keep this in mind and they realize that they're not the only ones who have had to do this, they'll be okay. It's all part of the process. 49:43 That’s the beauty of, I think, just jazz in general. You can hybridize this music with anything, make it sound great. 59:14 I think a lot of my current success is still very much underground. I think there's still kind of a lot of curiosity about who I am and everything because I'm not quite on the scene yet, but I'm totally cool with that. It's all part of the process, and I just continue to hustle and grind and work on my craft, and when the time comes where my name finally surfaces, I'll be ready to go. That's the way I look to it. Contact Fresh Coast Jazz Festival Ryan La Valette