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Episode 127. Raquel Rodriguez is a multifaceted artist from Los Angeles who has made a name for herself by continually pushing her creative boundaries and navigating the music industry on her own terms. Raised in LA, Raquel was always recognized for her talent, often being labeled "the singer," yet her artistry goes far beyond that. As a singer, producer, songwriter, and performer, she blends her diverse talents to create a sound that is uniquely her own.

At the heart of Raquel's work is a commitment to authenticity. She thrives on blending personal experiences with broader societal narratives, offering a fresh perspective on womanhood, self-worth, and independence. Deeply passionate about creating art that resonates personally while challenging stereotypes, her music is an honest reflection of who she is - a fusion of soulful vocals, live instrumentation, and modern production that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Known for her soulful vocals, innovative production, and magnetic stage presence, Raquel crafts music that is as heartfelt as it is groovy.

Throughout her career, Raquel has stayed true to her vision and sound. Her breakout studio release, The 310, inspired by her LA roots, features the hit single Mile High, which garnered over 5 million streams and solidified her presence in the R&B scene. In 2021, she followed up with Sweet Side, her independently released debut album that showcased exciting collaborations with the likes of MXXWLL, Matt Johnson (Jamiroquai), and Amber Navran (Moonchild). With over 25 million streams, Sweet Side continues to resonate with fans worldwide, becoming a staple on playlists across the globe.

In October 2024, Raquel released her most personal work yet, Housewife, a project that challenges traditional stereotypes of womanhood and draws parallels between the overlooked labor of housewives and independent artists alike. The album fuses her love for music with her newfound passion for cooking, including a collection of her favorite recipes. Collaborating with familiar producers and songwriters like SammyB, Jess Best, Nigel Hall, Amber Navran, and Dux, along with new contributors like Misha, Housewife blends live musicianship with modern electronic elements, further refining her distinct sound.

Beyond her projects, Raquel’s journey as an independent artist is a testament to her perseverance and dedication. She works tirelessly to bring her vision to life, whether in her home studio or in the kitchen, nurturing connections with her community. Raquel believes in defining success on her own terms - embracing balance, creativity, and joy in both her personal and professional life. With a growing fanbase and an independent team that competes with the best of them, Raquel continues to prove that real fulfillment comes from authenticity. Her artistry, much like her life, is a celebration of individuality, resilience, and the freedom to forge your own path.

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 126. Matthew Shell is a versatile multi-instrumentalist, producer, engineer, and educator specializing in genres spanning from smooth jazz and relaxing instrumentals to R&B and soul.

Shell's production, mixing, and engineering credits include Selina Gomez, Philip Lawrence from Bruno Mars' team, Gerald Albright, Paul Jackson Jr., Kenny McNeil, Kenny Wesley, Substantial, Ghen, Molly Moore, Lana Lubany, Collin Brooks, Tiffany Alvord, Carolyn Malachi, Marcus Johnson, DJ Flexx, Greg Adams, Jeff Lorber, and platinum-selling band O.A.R., among others.

Matthew's work on his own albums and for various artists have been featured numerous times on TV, radio, and in press articles, including three times on the Billboard Top 10 charts, twice featured on GRAMMY.com, and multiple times featured on FOX 5 News DC, WPGC 95.5, WTOP, WPFW 89.3, Trish Hennessey's Hybrid Jazz Radio, The Tony Kornheiser Show, and on The Maggie Linton Show on Sirius XM.

In this episode Troy and Matthew discuss how he became such a versatile and unique artist. Matthews sound is eclectic. He is a master at everything that he does from his fiery guitar playing to his knack for bringing the best musicians together from all over the world to help craft one of his gems. 

Even as a child Matthew dreamt big. In this episode Matthew tells of a story on how he planned to make a song Beethoven even better. Matt has the uncanny ability to think out of the box. Mixing genres to together and never shying away from something different. In his songs you can hear bits for Afro Beats, R&B, Jazz, Latin, Turkish, Japanese, House, India, American Indian music and so much more. He is truly a musician of the world.

What is so great about this episode is that Matt didn't shy away from getting in-depth about what went into making some of his most iconic songs. They conversed about songs that he did at the start of his career like his remake of Michael Jackson's "Rock With You" featuring extraordinary vocals of "Kenny Wesley" and "Latin Funk" with Marcus Johnson. Other songs featured are "1.99" where Matthew showcases his incredible guitar playing and Trey Eley plays the hell out of the flute. "Cherry Blossoms in Spring" featuring the GRAMMY Award-winning musician Masa Takumi. They also premiered a new song entitled "Layers" by Naika, a new Haitian artist that is about to take the world by storm; re imagined by Matt. Of course, the episode would not be complete without highlighting some of the gems of on his new album, "FM3 Every Morning," such as "Whispers In The Distance" and "Maui Sunset 3.0".

If you are looking for something new, relaxing and uplifting, you should check this episode out.

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Episode 125. David Sylvester started his musical career as a toddler long before he knew what music notes, beats, and tempos meant. He'd become quite skilled at lyrical content creating and tapping into heartfelt emotions through music in his youth.

He was heavily influenced by car rides with his mom where he would sing along as she listened to the great Otis Clay, Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, Johnny Taylor, and other R&B and soul artists. At the early age of 14 he began his professional musical career as a church musician at a COGIC church in Louisiana. When you hear his voice, you can hear how he illuminates the raspy sounds of blues legends Bobby "Blue" Bland and Al Green, who also started as gospel singers.

David released his first full industry standard project in April 2024 entitled SOUL OF THE SOUTH. It features hit singles such as "Too Blessed," "In My Arms," "My Apology," and "Back in Town," which friends, fans, and family members shared all over social media. But it was his single "Lonely Hearts" that has gained the momentum to establish a solid reputation in the soul blues industry.

When asked why should a new fan be interested in his music, Sylvester replied "It's an honest expression of raw emotion, completely original, and soulful. It also has somewhat of a vintage feel," This comment rings true.

When you listen to his music you will hear the vintage sounds resembling the great Otis Redding partnered with the sultry vocal rasp that is often compared to artists such as John Legend, Lyfe Jennings, and Anthony Hamilton. A small focus group said that the artist is a person who tends to overthink things seeking perfectionism, but levels that compassion with a huge heart. David can often be heard stating that. He is an old soul with an intense desire to spread love and positive energy everywhere my likeness is represented.

Expect the release of more original music and some powerful heartfelt live and electrifying performances as this shining star continues to bring great music to soulful ears across the world. A voice that is unique with lyrics coming from a perspective that is not commonly expressed and a nostalgic presence.

If you love warm heartfelt music that is pure and soulful, don't miss this episode. The conversation was warm and sincere. You really get to know the man behind the music. Tunes included in this episode are "Lonely Hearts," "In My Arms," "Thinking About You," "Spirits," " Run Back To Me," and Troy's favorite, "Let You Go".

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Episode 124. In December 2005, Antonio "TONIO" McGaha completed his first project entitled "LOVE" as singer, songwriter, and vocal arranger. He released two singles in 2008, "Love is What We Need" and "Growth & Stability". Both feature Antonio's honest and authentic lyrics paired with his passionate vocals. These releases gained him a nomination for the Youth Gospel Choice Award for Best Male Artist and, in that same year, he took home the prestigious award from the creators of the Gospel Choice Awards.

TONIO believes in the power of authentic musical expression and writes to inspire everyone. In 2016, Tonio released "Addicted," which made its way to jazz stations and playlist all over the globe.

A myriad of influences color his songwriting and vocal stylings. A true student of music, Tonio derives inspiration from soul music and R&B's foremost talents. You can taste delicious hints of supreme artists like Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway, and Marvin Gaye in Tonio's music.

The founder of E.L.C.T. Entertainment, Tonio, carries out his personal mission of "Creating and providing art that is visually and musically stimulating, educational, empowering, and positively inspiring!" The world has just begun to see the fruits of this phenomenal visionary. TONIO is life-changing and timeless.

His EPs include "Love, Life, Loyalty Vol. I, Vol II, Vol. III," "The Rebirth Season 1" and, now, "The Rebirth Season 2".

"The Rebirth Season 2" is a musical exploration of the human experience, highlighting the complexities of relationships. The album captures both the joys and sorrows of life, reminding listeners of the resilience needed to navigate its ups and downs.

Key themes include:

Wins and Losses: Reflects the highs and lows of life, emphasizing resilience.

Joy and Pain: Combines soulful melodies with poignant lyrics, embracing the duality of emotions.

Self-Discovery and Healing: Encourages introspection and personal growth.

The album showcases McGaha's evolution as an artist, featuring a variety of sounds that highlight his versatility. "The Rebirth Season 2" invites listeners on a journey of renewal and inspiration.

OUT NOW! Troy welcomes this incredible man of soul to the BAAS Entertainment podcast. Listen, like and share!

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Episode 123. Join host Troy Saunders as he chats the vocal powerhouse singer, writer and arranger Jacci McGhee!

Best known for her belted-out duet with Keith Sweat on the hit song of the 1980s, “Make It Last Forever,” Jacci has returned from a self-admitted dark place to her passion and gift of singing. Actually, Jacci began her reappearance on the music scene in 2015 with step-out vocals alongside Dominique, on DJ Jay Salter’s international EDM hit, "Angel of Mine" (Soul Remix). Once the song took off on the streaming sites, momentum began to build. It continued to escalate with the booking of a modeling job through a chance encounter at a local New York coffee house. "The owner of a gourmet popcorn line approached me and asked me if I would do a print ad for him in a food magazine," she said. "It became my first modeling job." Afterward, she was a bitten by the acting bug, co-starring in a short film on teen suicide with Marc John Jefferies, the actor best known for film and TV productions "Power," "Get Rich or Die Tryin’," and "Losing Isaiah," to name a few.

McGhee's music career was spawned by her duet with Sweat and lead vocals on Salt-N-Pepa's hit, "Expression." Immediately afterward, she was signed to MCA, now Geffen Records, releasing a Top 10 R&B single, "It Hurts Me." With corporate shake-ups, she got lost in the fray, but bounced back as the successor to Sandra St. Victor, taking over as lead vocalist for urban alternative band The Family Stand on their "Connected" album.

Following the dissolution of the band, she steered her vocal talents to opportunities to sing jingles for ad campaigns while raising a family. Her reconnection with DJ Jay Salter resulted in the 2017 Christmas pop single, “Every Day Is A Holiday."

In 2017, the New York native used her vocal and comedic chops to host R&B live showcases in Charlotte, NC, and Philadelphia, and later worked alongside Talent the comedian in collaborative routines.

However, family took priority. Upon her return to New York, the mother of three took a hiatus from music to immediately step into the role of caregiver for her fourteen-year-old daughter, Madison, who was diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes.

A woman of great faith, Jacci said it was a spiritual experience that encouraged her to return to singing. "The Most High touched my spirit and told me to move forward and sing again," she said. That decision resulted in a return collaboration with a friend and former producer, DECLARE. Together, they composed the new single, "If This World Were Mine," with an accompanying video directed by her son, Kamrin, a filmmaker and graduate of the arts from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Her daughter also makes a cameo.

In 2022, Jacci released "Riches of the World," a high-octane cautionary pop record with an equally electric music video, in addition to a remix with legendary hip-hop artist Chubb Rock the following year.

In the summer of 2023, the re-release of the expanded edition of Jacci McGhee's 1992 self-titled debut album hit all streaming platforms. Jacci's 2023 single "Time and Time" would also go on to chart highly on the UK Amazon charts.

A year later, in the summer of 2024, Jacci debuted her latest single, "Slow Down," produced by Father MC, with music composed by Rockwilder. Her latest single, "No More," produced by Producer Declare, is set to release November 8th. This single paves the way for her forthcoming EP, "Jacci's Closet," releasing January 2025.

"I've got butterflies in my stomach because it's all new to me. But it just feels like it's my time and I'm ready." - Jacci McGhee

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 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!

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 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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