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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 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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