Kwame Binea Shakedown’s self-titled debut EP OUT NOW!

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New York, NY - ...Harlem-based roots rock songwriter/singer Kwame Binea, who fronts the Kwame Binea Shakedown, has announced the worldwide digital release of the group's debut and self-titled EP on Tuesday, July 17, 2015 via CDbaby.com and all their major digital distribution partners including  iTunes and Amazon.com.

"Kwame Binea Shakedown" features four tracks including the group's first single

 "Let Go" (released in early April), their most recent single, "Hang On" (released in mid-June) and  "Little Lady" and "Waiting," which have never been released. Musically, the EP showcases Binea's "roots rock" lineage, which is a fusion of rhythmic rock n' roll, ample dosages of infectious funk, silky soul, screaming blues and just a smidgeon of reggae and funk.

All the songs were written and produced by Binea and guitarist Justin Wilcox for Binea's indie imprint, Pelopos Entertainment Group. The EP was co-produced by Jerry Ramos and the Shakedown Band. The Shakedown band comprises; Binea on lead vocals, guitarist's Justin Wilcox and Art Vanterpool, drummer Medley Shabazz, bassist Phil Bass, Daron Wright on keyboards, Kengo Yamada and Michael Quigley on saxophone, Brian Varneke on trumpet and guest background vocalist's Dietrice Bolden and Jindai Joseph. The EP was recorded at SST Studios, Kaleidscope Studios and Mercury Studios, all located in New Jersey.

Binea and Wilcox have been intermittingly writing, recording and performing the songs over the past several years. "We've always viewed ourselves primarily as a live band" explained Kwame. "As writers, we're fueled by how our fans and audiences react to our songs. We take that energy and feedback  back into the studio and do our best to channel it into the songs we decide to record. This EP means a lot to us because it's driven by all the love and positivity our fans keep  giving us. It's our way of expressing  our appreciation and thanks for all their inspiration and support," he added.

Binea, grew up splitting time in West London (his birth place) and in his native origins, Ghana. He later moved to Cherry Hill, NJ as a teenager where he started to unearth his artistic aspirations as a burgeoning songwriter/singer/guitarist. While in college he teamed up with  guitarist/vocalist Justin Wilcox as a  duo, which became the nucleus that spawned the rock/funk  collective Kwame Shakedown in Harlem, NY (2011). Over the past several years they have built a legion of loyal fans performing at most of the city's most noted music venues including Joe's Pub, Arlene Grocery, Rockwood Music Hall and Brooklyn Bowl, to name just a few.

For more information go to: www.kwamebineashakedown.com

Ann Wilson Of Heart Announces Solo Mini Tour "The Ann Wilson Thing"

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LOS ANGELES, CA—July 13, 2015—Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Ann Wilson is embarking on her first solo mini U.S. tour this fall. Ann’s musical gifts are legendary. Her voice is considered to be among the best ever, with its vast range, amazing power and sheer musicality.  Ever since Dreamboat Annie, Ann has been performing with her equally talented sister, Nancy Wilson, as Heart, thrilling hundreds of thousands of concert fans annually.  Now it is time for Ann to do something she’s always dreamed of, and stretch out as a singer performing songs that are not in the heart-shaped box. With several dates across the nation, Ann Wilson is excited to bring to her fans her new side project, THE ANN WILSON THING, a "passion project" where admirers will receive an exclusive performance of solo material and select songs that she holds in high regard from other artists and writers.  The unique selection of live songs, and perhaps a couple of Heart classics, will offer her supporters a truly special experience. Some of the shows will have a guest performer sit in for a song.  Alison Krauss will be part of the Nashville show.

“I am excited to bring the fans my renditions of some songs that I have always loved,” states Wilson.  “This tour will allow me to play smaller venues and push my vocal boundaries.”

As a songwriter and lyricist, Ann Wilson has created a truly impressive body of work (“Crazy on You,” “Barracuda,” “Magic Man,” “Dog & Butterfly,” “Straight On”, “Even it Up,” “Mistral Wind,” and many, many more).  However, her greatest gift, and first “calling” is singing and with this intimate tour, she prepares to blow away her fans with up, close and personal, raw performances of blues and rock songs. The Ann Wilson Thing won’t replace Heart but it will be a new experience for existing Heart fans, as well as for new fans who will love these songs.

The first shows will all take place later this fall, with additional dates to be announced shortly.  Both shows in Annapolis sold out within minutes. 

The Ann Wilson Thing Tour Dates:

Sept 21 – Solana Beach, CA – Belly Up

Oct 7 – New York, NY – City Winery

Oct 9 & 10 – Annapolis, MD – Rams Head on Stage (SOLD OUT)

Oct 12 & 13 – Vienna, VA – The Barns at Wolf Trap

Oct 15 – Nashville, TN – City Winery

For more information about Ann Wilson, please visit http://www.heart-music.com/theannwilsonthing.html follow @AnnHeartMusic on Twitter, @AnnHeartMusic on Instagram and like "Ann Wilson" on Facebook. 

Singer-Songwriter-Pianist Shauna Burns Releases New Single “Hazel” - Out Now!

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(Los Angeles, CA) Like a hug from a loved one or a warm summer breeze wrapping around you, singer-songwriter-pianist Shauna Burns’ new single “Hazel” out July 10^th is both comforting and rejuvenating.  Fans loyal and new alike will love the direction Burns takes them with her Celtic piano driven sound.

A story of joyous realization that someone brings fulfillment to your life, “Hazel” begins with Burns’ signature sweeping keyboard style and a driving drum rhythm. It gradually blossoms with the addition of intense harmonies and spectral echoes of the phrase “maybe you saved me.” With a firm resolution, Burns ends singing “maybe it was me.”

“Hazel has been in my back pocket for some time... waiting for the right moment. Hazel is about new beginnings and meeting that someone who brings out your best side… maybe it was the combination of both of you that created magic,” Shauna states.

Burns releases her new single as a celebration of the 10 Year Anniversary of Every Thought, her debut album.  While still continuing with the theme of female independence, strength, and freedom from her 2013 album Violet, Burns uses “Hazel” as a touchstone to her unique style with a new message of possibility along with her soothing voice, available July 10^th!

Shauna Burns is a Las Vegas based singer-songwriter who blends ethereal vocals and sweeping piano runs who has won over audiences across the United States with her Celtic infused style.

Follow Shauna Burns:

http://shaunaburns.com

https://www.facebook.com/shaunaburnsmusic

https://twitter.com/shaunaburns
https://www.youtube.com/user/shaunaburns

Big Band Jazz Collective Sasha’s Bloc Release New Single “Feels Like Jazz” Featuring Grammy Nominated Artist Jane Monheit Out Now

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(Los Angeles, CA) Los Angeles based jazz collective Sasha’s Bloc are releasing their latest single “Feels Like Jazz” off their latest CD release Heart on Fire, featuring the incomparable Grammy nominated singer Jane Monheit providing her signature sultry vocals.

A blend of contemporary and traditional 1920’s jazz, band leader Alex Gershman and Sasha’s Bloc will transport you back in time to the feel good times of the roaring ‘20s in this new single with its simple, conversational verses, polished production and standout solos from trumpeter Kye Palmer and guitarist Steve Cotter capturing the styles and excitement of the past.

“Feels Like Jazz” by Sasha’s Bloc earns it place on your iPod by being what it intends to be: simple jazz fun.” –Gig Band

           

“Feels Like Jazz” is set for release on July 7^th with an accompanying music video – exclusive footage from the band’s Heart on Fire release party shot in Los Angeles at Herb Alpert’s Vibrato Jazz Club.

Sasha’s Bloc is an amalgam of varied artists, nationalities and experiences, all fueled by bassist and songwriter Alex Gershman to deliver a sound that is consistently big, boisterous, and full of spirit.

With a big-band sound that recalls the vibe of New Orleans’ Preservation Hall Jazz Band infused with the blues, a hint of Gypsy Jazz, contemporary jazz and swing, Sasha’s Bloc have been playing to sold out shows across Southern California for the past two years and have developed a loyal following across the country.

Watch the “Feels Like Jazz” music video on YouTube

Follow Sasha’s Bloc:

http://www.sashasbloc.com

http://www.facebook.com/sashasbloc

http://www.youtube.com/sachasbloc

LEGENDARY SINGER-SONGWRITER AND PRODUCER BUNNY SIGLER RELEASES NEW SINGLE “BUTTERMILK AND CORNBREAD” FEATURING INSTANT FUNK OUT NOW

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REMIX PRODUCED BY JOE GALLAGHER, SAINT MAN, BUNNY SIGLER, AND INSTANT FUNK

(Los Angeles, CA) Four-time Grammy winning producer-singer-songwriter Bunny Sigler releases his second single, “Buttermilk and Cornbread” from the brand new, critically acclaimed album Bundino. The prolific songwriter who produced the “Philly Sound” intrigues his audience once again by showcasing his classic R&B sound going back to his roots with the funky, stand-out track as his follow-up on the R&B driven album featuring disco band, Instant Funk.

Complete with soulful ballads honing in a contemporary sound, Sigler pushes his vocals on this upbeat and lighthearted tune. “Buttermilk and Cornbread,” Bunny describes is a “blues track that reminisces of southern cooking and sweet country memories.” Sizzling with that down south sound, “Buttermilk and Cornbread” has a catchy chorus and a sensory smorgasbord of lyrics.

This feel good song recalls relaxing times and nostalgic jam sessions – uninhibited sing-alongs with friends that seem endless. The six minute song’s highlight is the unexpected trumpet solo that cuts in between at the halfway mark and the blend of unison backup vocals.

Backed by longtime collaborators, Instant Funk, the band has teamed up once again with Sigler. Currently in the studio working on new material, they’re ready to hit the road again and bring their live performances worldwide.

“…Sigler has no problem with shaking things up, and he demonstrates his comfort with envelope pushing through Bundino.”  –Soul Tracks

Along with the original mix of “Buttermilk and Cornbread,” Bunny will also release a special remix version of the song – an upbeat rendition of the standout single produced by Joe Gallagher, Bunny Sigler, Instant Funk, and Saint Man. The remix will have listeners wanting more and radio hosts playing the track on repeat. A music video to accompany the single featuring Instant Funk will also be released in July.

RISING SUPER STAR RACHEL LONDON DROPS NEW CONTEMPORARY POP HIT “RUNNIN” NOW AVAILABLE ON ITUNES

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Singer-songwriter Rachel London has dropped the essential summer pop anthem with “Runnin.” Distributed by Sony, produced by Mike Gonsolin and co-written by Nick Nittoli, “Runnin,” will have your pulse racing with its polished unapologetic lyricism and big beats. 

Ready to take the pop world by storm, London’s new single is a complete 180 from her previous releases. A dance-heavy, dark, and mature pop song, “Runnin” is both catchy and relatable.

With her powerful vocals, London honestly belts out the whirlwind that is new love and the trials and tribulations of relationships. Listeners are in for the emotional roller coaster ride with perfectly timed unpredictable drops and peaks of aural excellence. 

“Start me with a kiss, There’s no stopping this, There’s no stopping this, I can’t get enough … This song is about exploring boundaries, not scorning yourself for desiring passion, figuring out how to let go of "right" and "wrong" as well as communicating that vulnerability is strength. “

"Runnin is a beautiful mix of light and darkness, like a yin and yang making it a perfect representation of Rachel," states co-writer Nick Nittoli.

London is carving out a spot for herself in the music industry and will hope to excite fans with her upcoming EP due out this fall and a brand new music video for “Runnin,” which will be out in July. Both soulful and raw lyricism coupled with contemporary pop sounds, London takes inspiration from growing up on Alanis Morissette and Madonna. 

Stream“Runnin”on Soundcloud

Watch the “Runnin” Lyric Video on VEVO

Purchase “Runnin” on iTunes

Follow Rachel London:

facebook.com/rachellondonmusic

twitter.com/xorachellondon

instagram.com/xorachellondon

youtube.com/RachelLondonVEVO

C’NKY SIWELA DEBUT SINGLE “DISTANT CRY” IS OUT NOW!

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South Africa based, Electro/Pop singer, C’nky Siwela has announced the digital release of his debut single “Distant Cry” for June 19, 2015 via iTunes. Siwela has been garnering considerable buzz in South Africa; in 2014 he won the award for Best Afro-Pop Artist at the SACRA Awards following the release of his album, Reminiscent of the Sounds. With his new single and upcoming album, Another Side of Me on; C’nky is ready to further broaden his market into the United States.

“Distant Cry” (featuring rapper/producer Louis M. Songz), displays C’nky’s versatile musical concept by blending a contemporary mix of jazz influenced flute melodies, along with his soulful vocals into a House/Pop composition. This inspiring track intends to motivate people who are suffering from any struggles during their journey to reach their ultimate goals. “Distant Cry” reminds listeners to show love and respect to one another in order for everyone to reach their greatest achievements in life. The song has already received more than 19,000 listens on SoundCloud. 

“Distant Cry’ is lyrically inspirational, courageous and friendly which is combined with a nice electronic groove. I identify my music as an original style fused with a traditional South African vibe. It is meant to be fun and energetic that can make anyone lighten up,” says C’nky Siwela.

C’nky Siwela is not only a South African house/pop singer but, also a well renowned flautist. If you do not see C’nky singing or playing the flute live at a music conference or awards ceremony (in Joannesburg, South Africa), he may be at any of the following institutions; Tsa Lapeng Music Initiative, C’nky Siwela Flute Institute (CSFI) and Hammanskraal Joyful Sounds, where he serves as the Artistic and Educational director. The objective of CSFI is to provide young classically trained flautists (in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Northwest and Limpopo Province) the opportunity to strengthen the role of flautists in South African Jazz.

For more information please visit the C’nky Siwela official website at  http://www.cnkysiwela.com

 or the official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cnky-Siwela/407801019284715?fref=ts.

Tim Shelton pays tribute to songwriting hero with "Jackson Browne Revisited," his post-NewFound Road solo debut on Dry Lightning Records!

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Tim Shelton Pays Tribute to Songwriting Hero with Jackson Browne Revisited,

His Post-NewFound Road Solo Debut on Dry Lightning Records

Renowned gospel and bluegrass artist expands musical palette with 12-track release

DAYTON, Ohio — There’s hardly a recording artist on the planet who hasn’t done at least a few cover tunes in homage to major influences. But releasing an entire album covering Jackson Browne’s most iconic classics? If you’re gonna try that, you’d better bring it. Fortunately, Tim Shelton does exactly that on Jackson Browne Revisited, his new release on Dry Lightning Records.

Shelton, who guided the band NewFound Road from gospel to bluegrass and beyond, has left that chapter behind to pursue his other musical passions, including his love for Browne and similar songwriters. Hints of what was to come appeared on NewFound Road’s 2011 album, Live at the Down Home, on which they covered Browne’s “These Days” and songs by Tom T. Hall, Bill Withers, Dave Loggins and other icons. But on Jackson Browne Revisited, he concentrates on his biggest influence.

“Jackson Browne is one the best songwriters and musicians of our day,” says Shelton. “His music, especially the songs from the ‘70s, just speaks to my soul.”

Co-producing with Paul Kolderie (Radiohead, Warren Zevon, Hole, the Pixies), Ohio native Shelton wraps his rich vocals around 12 Browne classics, including “Doctor My Eyes” and “Somebody’s Baby.” Their arrangements impeccably capture the spirit of the beloved California folk rocker’s beautifully crafted work, while going far beyond mere re-creations of the originals.

They recorded at the Monastery Studio, owned by Ric Hordinski, co-founder of renowned Ohio band Over the Rhine. Contributors include Josh Shilling on piano and harmonies, vocalists Sonya Isaacs (the Isaacs) and Shawn Lane (Doyle Lawson, Ricky Scaggs, Blue Highway), Grammy-winning flatpicking guitarist Clay Hess (Ricky Skaggs), bassist Dave LaBruyere (John Mayer, Vigilantes of Love) and Cincinnati-based drummer Josh Seurkamp.

“I knew that I wanted to get a great band and keep it as live sounding as possible,” Shelton notes. Tracking live in the studio, they created a sonic document that breathes new life into Browne’s work, revisiting songs from his self-titled 1972 debut to 1983’s I’m Alive. They include “Take It Easy,” the Browne/Glenn Frey composition that became the Eagles’ first hit before Browne recorded it on 1973’s For Everyman. “Fountain of Sorrow” and the title tune from 1974’s Late for the Sky are here, along with two tracks from 1977’s Running on Empty — one of which, “The Road,” is the only track not actually written or co-written by Browne; it’s credited to his friend Danny O’Keefe. The closer is one of Browne’s most revered, and timeless composition: “The Pretender.”

“What I'm most proud of with this record is we were able to keep emotion in these songs, even though they're not mine,” Shelton says. “I can relate to these lyrics. Hopefully, others will dig it too.”

Jackson Browne Revisited track list

1. Doctor My Eyes

2. Love Needs A Heart

3. The Road

4. Late For The Sky

5. Something Fine

6. Fountain Of Sorrow

7. Somebody’s Baby

8. Take This Rain

9. Call It A Loan

10. Take It Easy

11. My Opening Farewell

12. The Pretender

Tour dates
June 27 – Rudyfest, Grayson, Ky. (NewFound Road reunion show)

July 9 – Beachland Park, Cleveland, Ohio

July 11 – George Rogers Clark Park, Springfield, Ohio (with Clay Hess)

Aug. 1 – Everett’s Music Barn, Suwannee, Ga.

Aug. 13 – Katherine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, Old Saybrook, Conn.

Sept. 18 – Poppy Mountain Festival, Morehead, Ky. (NewFound Road reunion show)

Follow Tim Shelton
timsheltonmusic.net
facebook.com/timsheltonmusic

twitter.com/TimSheltonMusic

instagram.com/timsheltonmusic