Inside MusiCast

When Brian Bromberg got his real break as a jazz bassist at the age of nineteen, he had already been playing professionally for six years. Yeah, that would make him thirteen when he started playing gigs at jazz clubs and events in Tuscon, Arizona. But, it was Bill Evans' bassist who connected him with the jazz legend Stan Getz, who was shopping for a touring bassist at the time. And with one phone call from Stan, he had the gig. Today, as a seasoned bassist, Brian Bromberg has been described as one of the best 100 bassists in the 20th century. This is due to his remarkable proficiency as a technician, player and composer. Brian is a true jazz bassist. Hes also a contemporary smooth jazz artist that has turned the ear of music lovers and audiophiles that see his true passion and dedication to his craft. On his latest solo release, he invited heavy-hitter friends such as Lee Ritenour, Kirk Whalum, Jeff Lorber, Boney James, Rick Braun, George Duke, and Vinnie Colaiuta to contribute their talents to this truly hybrid jazz recording called 'Downright Upright'. Its a remarkable project and we highly recommend this album. Inside MusiCast welcomes Brian Bromberg.

As a two-time Grammy Award winning member of Bela Fleck & the Flecktones, saxophonist/composer Jeff Coffin has traveled the world leaving his mark as one of todays most talented musicians. He has shared the stage with not only the Flecktones, but also with an amazingly diverse list of musicians, such as The Dave Matthews Band, Branford Marsalis, McCoy Tyner, Van Morrison, Lynyrd Skynard, The Wailers, Baaba Maal, J.D. Souther, Vinnie Colaiuta, and Indian guitarist Prasanna. Talk about diversity! On a personal level, Jeff is constantly reaching for the unique, both compositionally and also in playing technique. You see, Jeff is also well known for occasionally playing alto and tenor saxes simultaneously, creating double-impact performances that leave audiences breathless. His collaborations are just as interesting and unique. Hes a current member of the Mondo Trio with keyboardist Jeff Babko and drummer Vinnie Colaiuta, and also plays in the Jeff Babko Trio. Both eclectic bands seem to reach new heights in musical composition and experimentation. In the midst of it all, Jeff even performs in his own band, the Jeff Coffin Mu'tet, which takes its name from the word mutation, a descriptor that Jeff often uses to describe the ever-changing nature of music. By the way, his much anticipated 2007 solo record is soon to be released. Were glad to welcome Yamaha and Vandoren Performing Artist Jeff Coffin to Inside Musicast.

Robert Lamm's voice is one of the most recognizable voices in the world of music. As an original member of the Grammy Award winning band Chicago, his lead vocal and keyboard skills remain key to the Chicago sound that has endured 40 years, and is still going strong. They are one of the most successful touring bands, having toured last year with Earth, Wind, & Fire, and are currently on tour with America. This only means that the market for their sound has become not only younger, but also hungrier for their music. As a skilled songwriter Robert has penned Chicago classics such as Beginnings, "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is, 25 or 6 to 4, and Saturday In The Park. While still extremely committed to the band, Robert is still discovering new horizons as a solo artist when it comes to his own music. From his highly acclaimed solo release Subtlety & Passion to Leap of Faith, he has something to say and isnt about to let the music stop talking. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Robert Lamm - a true Classic in the music world.

Jeff Babko is one of the busiest and most sought after keyboard/piano players in the music business today. Although his name might not be a household word, its likely youve heard his music. Or, better yet, youve probably seen him playing in the band on JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE, every weeknight on ABC. Apart from his weeknight TV gig, Jeff is also one of the most talented jazz keyboardists on the scene, having toured with George Duke, James Taylor, Julio Iglesias, and has recorded with Larry Carlton, super drummer Simon Phillips, and most recently, Steve Lukather. He has three solo and collaboration albums to his credit and has currently released a new project with his new jazz band, MONDO TRIO, featuring Jeff Coffin and Vinnie Colaiuta, and himself. Hes definitely busycreating great music. Inside MusiCast welcomes Jeff Babko.

You'll recognize the last name. And youre right. Crosby Loggins is the son of singer/songwriter Kenny Loggins. Enough said, because apart from the obvious familial resemblance and a genetic gift for melody, this is not a simple story of a son following in his father's footsteps. Hes paving his own road through the creation of his very own style of music. Interestingly, he didnt see music as something he had to do. Lets just say that music found him. He started writing his own songs by the age of eight and later honed his skills at Colorado University and the Los Angeles Music Academy. He then began searching for something that he already had. But, it took him a few years to realize it and is happily heading straight into the family business. Hes an amazingly fresh artist who has something to say. And, it clearly comes through in his music. Inside MusiCast is happy to welcome Crosby Loggins.

When you mention the name Chicago, people roll out the mental red carpet and pay homage to one of the most influential rock bands ever. And, after 40 years of delivering classic hits, their momentum and influence still remains strong with their recent 2006 release of Chicago XXX. If youre familiar with the bands music, then youre familiar with Jason Scheff, one of Chicagos lead vocalists and bass player for the past 21 years. Over the years, Jasons talent has helped Chicago deliver some of the most played and loved music around the world. His writing skills have also contributed to hits such as 'Will You Still Love Me', 'Youre Not Alone', and 'What Kind of Man Would I Be.' But dont think that Jason is only Chicago deep. He comes from deep musical roots, as his father was Elvis perennial bassist for years. Amazing where a musical heritage can take you. Inside MusiCast welcomes one of Chicagos best Jason Scheff.

A perennial classic producer and session musician, our guest really needs no introduction, or at least one paragraph doesnt do his career justice. We will say that he is the first producer in recording history to have number one records in three separate decade - the 70s, 80s, and 90s. In 1980, he was nominated for 10 Grammy Awards, three of which he won for his work on Christopher Cross debut album, 'Sailing.' In the 80s he was nominated twice for producer of the year. In 1991 he was nominated for album of the year for Amy Grants 'Heart in Motion' and in 1994 he even produced the soundtrack album for the Summer Olympic Games. Hes still in demand as a producer, but is now spending more time discovering new talent. Over his lengthy and successful career, hes worked with names such as: Bela Fleck, Rod Stewart, Steely Dan, Michael Bolton, Whitney Houston, Willie Nelson, Reba, Roberta Flack, Alison Krauss, and a recent Inside MusiCast guest, David Pack. Inside MusiCast welcomes a true classic Michael Omartian.

In case you havent heard, Mike Porcaro, Totos bassist, has sustained a hand injury that is going to leave him sidelined for the bands upcoming tour of Europe, and possibly for more dates this summer in North America. Our prayers and well-wishes go out to Mike for a speedy recovery. But as they say in the biz, the show must go on. So Toto has turned to long-time friend and super musician Lee Sklar to take Mikes place for the upcoming tour. So, Inside MusiCast is taking this opportunity to spend a few minutes with Lee to chat about his new role with the band and what to expect in the coming months when Toto hits the road.

Making it in the music business requires lots of talent, perseverance, and luck. This is especially important if you are a young musician. For Chicago-born bassist Tommy Sims, it was his sheer, soulful talent that unlocked the door of opportunity. His first big break came at the age of 23 when Bruce Springsteen, who had heard of Tommys talent, called and asked if he would come jam with the band. One day turned to three, and finally, he was asked to join the group. After his education with Springsteen, Sims gained the respect of the music industry as a premier songwriter. He co-penned the smash hit 'Change the World' for Eric Clapton and Babyface, which won the prestigious 'Song of the Year' and 'Record of the Year' Grammys in 1997. His writing, producing and skill as a musician have brought him to work with a variety of soul, country, gospel, funk and rock artists. Heres a short list: Bonnie Raitt, Kenny Loggins, Joan Osbourne, Newsboys, the Neville Brothers, Michael McDonald, Michael W. Smith, Trisha Yearwood, Amy Grant, and the list continues. Join us as we delve into the life and music of one of Nashvilles most talented artists. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Tommy Sims.

Our guest has been blessed with one of the most distinctive voices in the music industry. His stand-out lead-vocals for the rock group Ambrosia have left impressionable hits in our minds over the years such as, 'Biggest Part Of Me', 'How Much I Feel', 'Holding On To Yesterday', and 'Youre The Only Woman.' Over his hit-packed career, he has continued to write and produce for diverse artists such as Brian McKnight, Michael McDonald, Natalie Cole, Patti LaBelle, Brian Setzer, Andre Crouch, Take 6, Bruce Hornsby, Chick Corea, Trisha Yearwood, Linda Ronstadt and others. Recently, he released his long-awaited new solo album, 'The Secret Of Movin On' on Concord/Peak records, highlighting vocal collaborations with Journey frontman Steve Perry, Hearts Nancy Wilson, the Eagles Timothy B. Schmidt, and Dewey Bunell of America. Its a definite must get album. Were glad to welcome David Pack, our first guest of the new year, to Inside MusiCast.