It is not everyday that you hear a great cover of a classic Anita Baker tune, and then you come across people like New York's own JazzEMatt, flexing his vocals to put his magic on the stage.
Check out this cool cover of Anita Baker's "Been So Long" performed by JazzEMatt at Moda Grill located in the Jamaica section Queens, NY.
Look out for this dope artist, coming out with his original project soon and performing in and around New York.
The song "I Only Have Eyes For You" may have been written by Harry Warren and Al Dublin in 1934, but it still retains its beauty in the present day.
The popular romantic jazz song or standard, has been covered by many artists since the day that it was introduced to the world in the film Dames, including recently at a celebration of music concert at Brooklyn's Medgar Evers College by the Medgar Evers College Jazz Ensemble which is directed by Professror Roman Mitchell and features a plethora of the colleges students and graduates. This rendition is directed by the scholar and also features Mitchell on trumpet, Stephanie Jeannot on vocals, Steven Lawrence on piano, and Nathaniel Manning on drums.
Have you heard this cool rendition of the Gene De Paul's and Sammy Cahn's 1953 jazz standard by the Medgar Evers College Jazz Ensemble featuring vocalist Jovann Alexis Augustin?
This song was performed by this lively and very engaging group live at Megar Evers College in Brooklyn, NY.
In April, during Jazz Appreciation Month, the Medgar Evers Jazz Ensemble did a live performance; "A Spring Affair," where they serenaded Medgar Evers College students and faculty with a series of songs from the Great American Song Book and also from popular culture.
The performance was about an hour long and featured singers and musicians of the group who contributed to the event that took place in the welcome center located in the Bedford Avenue building of Medgar Evers college in Brooklyn, NY.
An excerpt from the show was aired on April 10, 2016 on WNYE 91.5FM on Jazz on the JNote show which is hosted and produced by Stephanie Jeannot. If you dd not get a chance to hear this program, you can now listen to it on soundcloud at https://soundcloud.com/stephanay-jnote/01-jazz-on-the-jnote-41016
Ken Burns said, “Louis
Armstrong is quite simply the most important person in American music. He is to
20th century music (I did not say jazz) what Einstein is to physics.” His music
has that ability to influence a person’s playing and their mind.
He was a native New Yorker who lived in the Corona
section of Queens, NY and one of the most significant things about this jazz
great to me was that of all the thing is life (the music, the traveling all
over the world, his family), what made his world wonderful were the children in
the neighborhood running to him and greeting him as Uncle Louis when he came
home from touring. After hearing that story at one of the many tours offered at
his home, now a museum in Corona, NY, “What A Wonderful World” became one of my
favorite tunes.
My story is a little
different though. I was invited to perform at a Leukemia Foundation Fundraiser
hosted by Roxanne Productions and it made me consider a few things.To have everything and complain is selfish.
When I say everything, I mean good health. Once you lose your health, you lose
everything. But then to not be in the greatest of help, having to deal with
hospital visits and radiation therapy everyday and to make it a cause to
benefit others, is going beyond yourself and instead not just drowning in the
effects of something but becoming a cause for change.
To see an event like
this and to know that people are so beautiful to do things like this, in my
opinion, makes the world wonderful. For that reason, I performed and dedicated
to this song for the fight and for the cause. What a wonderful world it truly is
to still be able to raise up the name of Jesus and bless him the only way a
person knows how, in good times and in bad. Thankful, for the opportunity of
being part of this awesome event.
A cover song is a song that was created by and performed by another artist that is reinterpreted by someone else.
Jazz artists created blueprints of what jazz music is and decades later, singers and musicians remain entrenched in history when sharing tunes, many of which are known as jazz standards, with an interpretation of one's own.
There are so many jazz standards that can be added to a repertoire, some of which I am just discovering as I read the book "Jazz Standards" by Ted Gioia which is sort of like an A to Z guide of
standards. Gioia shares the best versions that were ever released and performed of each.
The last few months have been very interesting. I have always loved to sing and always sang with a passion within, but had very little vocal or music training. I guess there is a stubbornness that goes along with a genuine love to sing and liking how the sound is released but without any structure or true knowledge of the theoretical values of music. Then I came across Jazz Mobile and found that musicology is fun. It is eye opening and really has enriched my life. So thankful for the opportunity.
A few things I learned:
- I do not know everything about music
- There is more to singing then singing
- Knowledge is power
- Theory in music is important
- I need to listen more than sing
- Listen a lot to other artists
- Jazz has so much history and I am a part of its culture
In listening more, I have found that there are no limits to versions and interpretations of a song. Not one person sings it the same. And with every version, there is something to love so much that you may even add a bit of it to your way of interpretation.
Such was the case for my performance of "Take the A Train" at the Jazz Mobile Student Recital/Award Ceremony at the end of the three moth jazz workshop I was blessed to participate in. I admit; I find myself listening to on singer more than any other. And in that listening, I lack knowledge on how other singers did it. Then I nominated myself to sing a song at the recital and the student rehearsal, I took it upon myself to listen to five different versions back-to-back and on repeat mode. I listened to both instrumental and vocal jazz versions.
Still not a perfect version, but glad I as able to try it and do some improv. Please watch my performance with the students of Jazz Mobile, performed at Wadleigh at our end-of-program recital. How cool that even our recital performance was still somewhat in rehearsal or preparation mode with guidance and direction from our teachers.
Every Wednesday night is jazz night at E Savoy Lounge located at 2192 Flatbush Avenue in Brooklyn, NY.
Hosted by the Ken Bogan Trio, the music fills the beautiful atmosphere with love and excitement. From 8PM to 11PM, expect to hear some of the best jazz standards from the voice of Pastor Ken Bogan who has somewhat of a likeness of the late Frank Sinatra. But being a pastor, he also adds some Gospel jazz making patrons interested in seeing what this crooner will do next because one never knows when they enter into the big glass doors.
Like any other night, Wednesday, December 3, 2014 was a night when vocal jazz romanticizes the ears of everyone willing to listen. The Ken Bogan Trio which includes Bogan on vocals, Kim Clarke on bass and Danny Dalileo on piano cruised into musical heights of beauty.
But what made this night different was that from the stage of this cozy Brooklyn venue, Bogan used it to do his own little peaceful protest in support of the protestors making their voices heard about our judicial system.
He sang a wonderful cover of Mahalia Jackson's "On My Way" and I'd like to invite you to check out his positive message vesselled through voice and music. Here is the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHoy8gsuZSg
Sam Cooke popularized it and Rachelle Ferrelle added a taste of honey to it and made it even more beautiful, jazzy and sassy. I'm talking about the tune "You Send Me."
A nice ballad when sung as one and when turned into a swing tune, a grooving melody. Either way it is beautiful and I enjoy the listen.
It was one evening on the North side of Long Island when the band I was working with introduced me to the song. I had never sang it and barely heard it once. Crazily, the first version I'd ever listened to was Rachelle's, but they played Sam Cooke's version and asked me to sing it. You know what I did that night right? I went home, did some homework and now, it is one of my favorite songs to sing.
I love the lyrics, the attitude and that there is room to improvise over it.
The other night, I stopped by Essence Bar in Brooklyn. I had already put the idea of going there out my head because it was kind of late and I almost did not make it, but I decided to stop by for a short minute to show some birthday love to my friend and got a chance to rock on the mic with the Jimmy Hill and the Black Ivory Band. When they asked for my song selection, I chose, "You Send Me!" Glad to have found out the musicians all knew the song and were able to swing it. And so, I performed it there and had a great time doing it.
I would like to invite you to check out the complete video of my performance of the cover of "You Send Me." Here is the link:
Still remarkable to me how love like that of my parents still remain through thick and thin, seasons of growth and regardless of changes in life or imperfections. Years never seem to grow old but the two individuals grow bolder in love and continue on through life as destiny suggested. This poem is dedicated to longevity.
Forever Love
(C) By Stephanie Jeannot
Love is meant to be celebrated
especially if the romance is heaven sent
like a relationship that lasts forever;
time seems to only get sweeter
as the days go by.
So like birds of a feather you fly
on a journey of forever; two of a kind.
From sunrise to sunrise; timeless you shine
as one with love forever on your side,
as God intended.
The following is a video clip of a celebration of love. After 20 years of marriage, the wife dedicated a live performance of their wedding song, Anita Baker's Sweet Love, to her husband. Please check out the YouTube link here: http://youtu.be/YfGoaO2gqa8
I hate the cold and as fiery hot as music is to me, it definitely has the potential for warming me up. You probably didn't know this but music is my boyfriend. He treats me right and makes me feel so beautiful. You are what you attract and music is truly in its entirety the epitome of pulchritude.
So on this cold day, I decided to do the thing I loved doing the most; singing.
What a perfect day to sing the tunes of a person I started listening to when I was barely in grade school and loved all my life. I think when Whitney Houston died, I cried like a baby. She was definitely a favorite.
Today, I was inspired to practice some Whitney songs because I just recently entered into a contest sponsored by Track 1 Entertainment called "So You Think You Can Sing Contest, Tribute to Whitney" that will be held on February 11, 2014 from 9PM to Midnight at Brooklyn Night located at 497 DeKalb Avenue in Brooklyn, NY.
If other true Whitney fans are amongst those in the competition, then it is going to be a really good competition because Whitney was definitely someone to exemplify as a singer. Hopefully if you are not doing anything that night, you will make it there.
But for now, please check out Episode 3 of Rehearsal Modes of JNote: Sing Away Snow Days" featuring my cover of Whitney Houston's version of the Isley Brothers' "For the Love of You."
Thank you so much for stopping by my blog. God bless you!!!
Inspired by a writing prompt by Mama Kat; a blog post triggered by the word punched. And so here it is: a poem and a video blog post for music Monday entitled: Music Never Stops Raising My Heart Beat Premiums by Stephanie Jeannot. Basically the theme of this whole thing is out with the old and in with the new. The onld being the cover of a classic tune by the Brand New Heavies, "Never Stop." The new being the theme song by BeatlifeLI and Stephanie Jeannot, "Premium" and also, the opening slide show and video editing by Melodiaz Creations. Praying you enjoy this!
The music playing
through my B28 eyes
Is making passionate
love
to my ears and
confines
Enough to fill my cup
Right up to the top
For I’ve been
yearning for a melody
to get me to bop
It has that what you
can say
crunch to it
The one that adds
this tender
touch to it
It’s slurring and un-loose
enigma me
I’ve been punched in to
that vision of lovelies
of Fresh sixteens and
harmonies.
But first we start
with
shells and boxes
the kinds that case
divas and foxes
before we enter into
them hopeful doors
to the rhythms of the
soul
tearing up birthday
suits on all fours
Thank you for stopping by and checking out my blog post.
As I was growing up, I always saw her moving about and being her; beautiful and strong.Though we are different in so many ways, I always hoped in the back of mind to be as beautiful, strong and classy as her so that maybe my parents and the world would see good in me as they did in her.
Not only were her mannerisms influential, but so was her taste in music. She listened to such wonderful music.
I was in High School when Groove Theory had that popular song “Tell Me” blasting all over the air waves. I always liked the song.
A few years later, my sister introduced me to the music of Amel Larrieux and that is when I fell in love with her music.She is such an awesome singer.I have seen her about four times in concert and have since purchased all of her albums or singles that feature her on it.
Oddly enough, I never realized that Larrieux was the lead singer of Groove Theory until then and that is when I began listening to Groove Theory even more.Whether with the group or on her solo projects, I like the music that she breathes.Pure fire!!!
Larrieux's voice is so serene.I can listen to her music all day and never get tired.There is one song in particular that I love.“Keep Trying” was originally performed by Groove Theory back in the nineties.The lyrics are positive and motivational.I like how uplifting the message of the song is. But also, the groove is nice, the melody is cool and I like the way she sings it.I am so happy my sister put me on to her.
This has been a remarkable year.There have been both good and bad moments, but the important thing is that I survived it all and I am still here. Especially with school, singing, work and even love, I am learning to keep a more positive outlook on things,
A few days ago, I listened to this song for the first time in a long time and it made me realize that.The hardest thing to do in life is to stay on course and not give up, even and especially when things do not go my way or someone lets me down. I know God still has the upper hand.
This song says to keep trying. And since it has been on my mind, I felt like singing it.Please check out my cover of “Keep Trying.”Thank you for checking out my blog.
My first ever open mic experience was a really interesting one.
The event was held at a venue called 143 located Downtown Brooklyn on Flatbush, not too far from Juniors.
I never heard of programs of that sort where musicians were playing music behind artists who come from everywhere with a desire to share their talent. But there it was and since I was there, I decided I wanted to sing the only song I thought I knew all the words to.
I’d always been a fan of Chaka Khan. A friend asked me if there was any artist that if around I would get star struck by and my response was Chaka. She is just phenomenal. I am still surprised to have found out that this diva is 60 years old. She looks really good for her age.
I was blessed with the opportunity to see her live in concert once. I was one of the many New Yorkers who stood out in the rain on July 4th a couple of years back to see her perform live on Good Morning America at Bryant Park and it was amazing. Rain or not, I danced as if the sun had a spotlight right there on me.
One of her songs I always loved was “Sweet Thang.”And since I listened to the song so many times, I thought I knew it enough to sing it at an open mic and so, I tried to.But when I got past the second verse, I forgot the lyrics and was so embarrassed that I walked off the stage without completing the song while the band was still playing.
That was over a decade ago, but the memory of it still remains as if it were new and fresh. That’s when I decided to listen more and to also try to remember. I know the words now and lots more songs than I probably should, but that is what I like to do most; sing.
“Sweet Thang” has lyrics that are meaningful.Whether you have been in a relationship or have had a crush on someone, you might be able to relate.I appreciate the melody and the tempo is really great. It’s jazzy and funky and all of that; one of the reasons I have loved this song all these years.
Though I may not be able to do Miss Chaka’s song justice, I only want to be able to try to sing a song of such grandeur as this one. And so, here is my cover rendition of “Sweet Thang” done as part of a rehearsal with keyboardist Rodney Dixon, for an upcoming event that will be happening in Long Island, NY in about a week.
I was in the fifth grade when Mariah Carey came out and inspired the world.One song in particular that has a lot of meaning to me is “Hero.”
The words are just beautiful. It reminds me of the modern day “Greatest Love Of All.” Not only is it one of my favorite songs but it is also one that speaks life.
The message that it gives inspires minds to follow dreams and to believe in something. I have so many heroes in my life: my parents, my sisters, my teachers and professors, friends, history makers and more.Because I like to sing so much, I think it is a appropriate to start this cover series with a song to dedicate to all the heroes in my life.You inspired me to be more than just myself but a greater version of who I am and for that I am grateful.
the Fine Art Singers of
New York 
He was a native New Yorker who lived in the Corona
section of Queens, NY and one of the most significant things about this jazz
great to me was that of all the thing is life (the music, the traveling all
over the world, his family), what made his world wonderful were the children in
the neighborhood running to him and greeting him as Uncle Louis when he came
home from touring. After hearing that story at one of the many tours offered at
his home, now a museum in Corona, NY, “What A Wonderful World” became one of my
favorite tunes. 
There are so many jazz standards that can be added to a repertoire, some of which I am just discovering as I read the book "Jazz Standards" by Ted Gioia which is sort of like an A to Z guide of 
Like any other night, Wednesday, December 3, 2014 was a night when vocal jazz romanticizes the ears of everyone willing to listen. The Ken Bogan Trio which includes Bogan on vocals, Kim Clarke on bass and Danny Dalileo on piano cruised into musical heights of beauty. 
My older sister was always an inspiration to me. 
My first ever open mic experience was a really interesting one.
