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Episode 107. Join Host Troy Saunders as he converses with the genre-bending  vocalist, saxophone player, writer, producer and entrepreneur Michael J. Thomas.

From a small town in Kentucky to riding the top slot on the Billboard Smooth Jazz Top Airplay Chart twice, Michael J. Thomas is reaching goals and setting new ones daily as an indie jazz musician. In this episode, Troy and Michael discuss his parents' love for music, especially R&B, funk and pop. Michael Jackson, Teena Marie, Stevie Wonder and Earth Wind & Fire were staples in their home. Michael tells a funny story about a childhood performance he did to the Kool and the Gang classic "Jungle Boogie" in the family living room. Hilarious! You will also hear how the saxophone was not the first instrument he wanted to play. Can you guess what was? Find out in this episode.

Michael also discussed how he wound up in Destin, Florida from Kentucky and how he managed to work with such greats as Maysa, Chieli Minucci, Trammell Starks, Carl Griffin and more.

Throughout the episode, Troy played some of Michael's most unique and well-crafted songs such as "I'll Never Love Again," "OG Bounce," " City Beat," "Sippin The Yak," and more. Plus, a song that even surprised Michael.

They also talked about ways to get one's music to the masses and how Michael is successfully utilizing his newly-learned marketing strategies and apps to do so. 

This episode is filled with great information, conversation and, of course, music from one of the rising stars in smooth jazz, Michael J. Thomas. Don't miss it!

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 106. Join host Troy Saunders as he opens his mic to chat with multi- instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, producer, businessman, musical director, and so much more, Marcus Devine.

Born in Detroit, Marcus came from a musical family. Everyone could sing. He states in this episode that his biggest musical influence is his baby brother. Marcus' mother was always pushing him to practice music. From an early age, Marcus was singing in his family church. Some of his earliest influences were gospel superstars such as Marvin Winans, The Commissioned, and John P. Kee. Find out how he went from the church to being the musical director for some of the hottest R&B acts in the business. Marcus has worked with the great Charlie Wilson, 112, Ashanti, Ginuwine, Beth, and so many more.

His mother also inspired Marcus by gifting him a variety of instruments for Christmas and birthdays. Currently he prides himself on the fact that he can play almost any instrument, but his main love is the bass guitar.

Troy and Marcus talked about the state of the music industry, and all the possibilities we have today to release music via the Internet. They also conversed about Marcus's new and inventive way that he, as well as his followers, could make money on his music releases. Tune in and hear how.

Of course we played some of Marcus' hottest releases, starting off with his 2014 single "Your Best," two smokers from his 2017 release, "In My Feelings," ending with his new money-making jam, "The Greatest Show".

Listen In and hear our full juicy conversation. It will make you laugh, sing, tap your foot, possibly put some money in your pocket, and reevaluate some things in your life. This is a good one, y'all! Don't miss it.

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 105. Join host Troy Saunders as he converses with singer, songwriter, actress of stage and screen, life coach, one of the funky divas of the legendary girl group En Vogue, and so much more, the multi-talented Rhona Bennett.

Rhona Bennett has been in the entertainment industry since the age of 11. In this episode, Rhona tells Troy how she always knew that she wanted to be a singer and how her dream became a reality. From performing around her hometown of Chicago, to landing a spot on the Mickey Mouse Club, and beyond, Rhona added her own indelible mark on everything she did.

Troy had a few surprises up his sleeve as he played a rare song by Bennett, and a clip of her and Jamie Foxx from his self-titled show, that had them both laughing and feeling nostalgic. Adding to the nostalgia, Troy and Rhona discussed her joining En Vogue, and her message to the fans who are still sore that Maxine and Dawn are not in the group.

They also conversed about Rhona's passion for helping other artists as a life coach and how that came to fruition. Through the many stories told and shared, Rhona and Troy both agreed that love is what is needed to bring us together as a society. Her latest single, "We (Is A Powerful Thing)," helped summarized this wonderful conversation full of laughter, wisdom, history, life lessons and more.

Tune in to hear this fun-filled conversation with one of the most extraordinary entertainers around, Rhona Bennett!

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 104. Join host Troy Saunders as he converses with singer, songwriter, producer and all-around beautiful spirit, Michon Young!

Michon's smooth, sultry, and inviting voice has been seducing indie soul and inspirational listeners for nearly 15 years! In this episode, Troy and Michon discuss how she started as a choir member in Pastor Marvin Winans' church. We all know Marvin Winans from the gospel superstar Winans Family. Michon tells the story on how she went from being a part of the choir, to soloist, to being handpicked by Pastor Winans to go on tour with him.

Thirteen years later, Michon has released five albums. The first an inspirational gem called "Possessing The Promise," ten songs of some of Michon's finest work. Her plan was to make this her first and last album. She just wanted to fulfill a life-long dream. They talk about what was her inspiration in continuing to record and release more music.

Troy and Michon joyfully go through her catalog, picking out some of the gems on each album. One thing each song has in common is the expression of love. Whether it's a social awareness song like "Colorless Tears," a song about an ending relationship, as in "Count It A Lesson," or the joy of finding new love, as in "Oooh," the message is always about love.

Of course, Troy highlights the latest project, "Love Is My Lane," last. They start off by sliding into first single, "Bounce Back," released this past January. Then they converse about Michon's work with the incomparable Frank McComb, before ending with the latest single, "Lovely" (Troy's favorite on the album), and "Pull," which was released as a single in the UK.

It appears that the UK audience has crowned Michon as indie soul royalty, and rightfully so. I hope through this episode many more people, not only in the UK, but here in the U.S. and worldwide, will recognized the brilliance of Michon Young.

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 103. Join Host Troy Saunders as he chats with songwriter, producer, arranger, musician, and singer, Ricky Jones.

You may remember Ricky from a previous episode where Troy conversed with him and his then-wife Shireen Crutchfield. Together they were Crutchfield Jones. Today, Ricky is a solo act and spilling his heart out on his latest album, "Crazy Sexy". They say that heartbreak makes the best music. Well, that is definitely the case in this project. Ricky's voice has never sounded better as croons, belts and serenades the listener from one emotional gem to the next.

In this episode, Ricky and Troy converse about the feelings and emotions that went into writing favorites like "Tone," "Sleeping With The Enemy," "I Love You More," "I Got It Bad," "Tell Me What's Wrong," "What A Good Woman Will Do," and more.

Ricky couldn't be more honest and sincere. You could hear his pure heart in every word during this conversation. The music and discussion will touch your soul and leave you wanting to hear more from this incredible artist.

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 102. Join Host Troy Saunders as he chats with singer, songwriter, arranger, producer, and performance artist Toy Taha!

Hailing from Philadelphia, Toy has a long list of talented family members that have roots in music. In this episode, she talks to Troy about her passion for music and its origins. They also discuss where she draws inspiration from in writing her songs, and true facts behind gems like "Collapsed," the last song on her latest album, "Eight".

Toy's latest album is called "Eight". It has garnered worldwide attention charting in the UK, Germany, Italy, France, Australia and, here in the U.S. Not only is 8 her favorite number, but she took eight years off after first releasing music to world before reemerging in 2022 with new music. Find out what other things in her musical career exist where she used the number 8.

Toy is usually shy and likes her life to stay private. But in this conversation she was willing to open up to Troy about several things that her listening audience might not know. It's a warm and genuine conversation that will have you laughing and feeling good.

Tune in and get a glimpse into one of indie soul's rising stars!

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 101. Join Host Troy Saunders as he presents Lawrence Rosenborough, a new up-and-coming artist who artistry bridges the gap between, soul, R&B, jazz, rock, blues and gospel. His voice brings to mind soul-stirring singers like CeeLo Green and D.J. Rogers, but with a style all his own.

In this episode, Troy and Lawrence cover all the songs in his new EP, "Human Relations". This EP is five songs of soulful bliss. The lyrics of each song are profound and thought provoking. No bum tracks here. From the blues/gospel tinged "Flowers," to the final song, a soulful/jazz gem "Back To Civilization," all of the songs will have you eagerly wanting more.

Lawrence talks how growing up in adverse conditions help to spawn his creativity. Lawrence speaks from his heart and soul. In this conversation you can hear the passion as he explains the premise behind each song and meaning behind the lyrics and melody.

Lawrence did not set out to be a solo artist. He wanted to be a songwriter and shop his music to other artists. While on this quest he had an epiphany that no one can express the meaning behind his songs better than he can, so why wait for someone to help him release this energy into the universe? Thus, giving birth to his EP, "Human Relations".

Please join Troy in welcoming this newcomer to the indie soul scene by listening to this podcast and supporting this unique and inspiring artist. Lawrence Rosenborough is the truth!

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 100. Join host Troy Saunders as he celebrates the BAAS Entertainment Podcast's 100th Episode and 3rd Anniversary. Hanging out for the celebration is singer, songwriter, producer, actress, professor, entrepreneur, Grammy Award winner Ledisi!

Ledisi has been a constant on the R&B and Jazz charts since 2001. Collecting several Billboard Top 10 albums and singles, 14 Grammy nominations (finally winning in 2021) and winning two Soul Train Music Awards.

In this episode, Ledisi and Troy converse about how they first met over 20 years ago and how their friendship has lasted over the years. They openly discuss topics like Ledisi's humble beginnings, working with her long-time producer Rex Rideout, her current tour and new album, and the state of R&B today. Throughout the conversation, Troy selectively plays snippet of songs off of Ledisi's new album, "Good Life".

Their love and mutual admiration for one another shines through. Troy tells the audience that "this is no casual relationship," and it is evident. Ledisi was at home as they laughed about past experiences and mutual friends. You feel like you are in the middle of something real, special and sincere.

Several artists and industry insiders give congratulatory messages to Troy and BAAS Entertainment Podcast for three years and 100 episodes in support of independent artists. Heartfelt messages from Helen Bruner and Terry Jones, Meli’sa Morgan, Gordon Chambers, Christian De Mesones, David Sosa, Jay Ross the Boss, Kevin Owens, and Grenique are all included.

This is one celebration you don't want to miss.

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 99. Kevin Owens may not be a household name, but his voice is woven into some of R&B's greatest moments. From lead singer of the group Ray, Goodman and Brown, to one of Luther Vandross' center stage background vocalists, to lending his sound to some of music's most memorable tunes like, Alicia Keys' "You Don't Know My Name," just to name a few. Join host Troy Saunders as he and Kevin take a quick stroll down Kevin's musical history.

Hailing from Manhattan, NY, 63rd Street and Amsterdam Ave, Kevin tells us about his time growing up in this close-knit neighborhood and how they banded together to help Kevin develop and expand his passion to make music. After graduating from the world-famous Performing Arts High School, Kevin decided to enter the army. Even though he signed up to be a field radio man, his love of music lead him to put together a band that became well known on many of the military bases in Germany, and eventually had him and his band as featured performers on many military shows. This lifted him to celebrity status with special privileges.

Retuning home he became immersed in NYC's vibrant music scene, quickly forming new bands and meeting some of the best in the scene, including the then behind-the-scenes vocalist, Luther Vandross. These connections led to him being ask to join the group Ray, Goodman and Brown. Kevin was the perfect fit for their artistry and a strong bond was forged.

Having known of Kevin's work and incredible vocal abilities, Luther set eyes to woo Kevin from Ray, Goodman and Brown. Luther was revamping his stage show and thought Kevin would be the perfect fit. After a lot of back and forth, the group gave Kevin their blessing to join Luther Vandross' band. The rest is history. In this episode, we talk about those wonderful times. Kevin recalls fondly how Luther took care of everyone and how no one ever had the need for anything. They were a family.

Currently, Kevin is throwing his hat back into the ring with a new song, "Hot Spot," and an upcoming album. His new musical venture is a collaborative effect between him and his children, who write, sing and arrange on many of the songs. Talk about a talented family!

This episode is full of wonderful memories and bright aspirations from a man that has lived his life sharing his ministry through music.

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 98. Join host Troy Saunders as he reintroduces our audience to the smooth soulful sounds of Devon Howard. Devon has been on the R&B music scene since the 1990s. He was originally introduced to the world as a member of the group Me 2 U. They hit the charts with songs like "Want U Back," "All Night," and "Raindrops". Since then, Devon has been in a couple of other R&B groups and has written songs for several artists. In 2008, he decided to step out on his own and released his first solo project, "D H". If you visit the BAAS Entertainment Podcast archives, you can listen to Troy's first interview with Devon as they discuss this album and its 2015 follow up, "Return To Love".

Recently, Devon released his best offering yet, "Morning Son," a collection of smooth, sultry R&B songs. In this episode, Troy and Devon focus on the making of this album and thought process behind such gems as "Your Love Is," "Wherever You Are," "Holding On," "Oh Love," and "Moving On".

Devon's mission is to share love. All of his music focuses on love. Love of self, family, friends, that special someone, etc. Troy and Devon discuss the need for more love songs in today's market and the artists they feel are bringing that type of music back, as well as some of the artist that have influenced them over the years.

Join Troy as he chats with the "Prince of Love," Devon Howard!

Listen and subscribe to the BAAS Entertainment Podcast via the BAAS Entertainment website, www.baasentertainment.com, and all podcast platforms.