BAAS Entertainment

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!

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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.

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

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