I am Blessed to be aware of and appreciate the tradition and legacy that helps me grow as a human being and gives me opportunities to share the spotlight with improvising composers, who specialize in the music commonly known as jazz. However, this word (jazz) has become just a commercial reference disconnected from the spiritual origins of the music and has led many dedicated purists to make sacrifices in order to stay true to the music.
Due to racism, the word jazz started out derogatory, yet the music stood the test of time. Knowledge of jazz theory has increased amongst students of the art, but somehow, in recent years the concept has been diluted to the extent that the word jazz and much of the music referred to as jazz no longer represents the original spirit of creativity. Today, jazz is not just about music, the word is used to describe a potpourri of any and everything, and anyone can define or categorize it anyway they want. Nevertheless, the term is popular and because jazz music is an intellectual art form, there is a certain amount of prestige associated with it, thus the National Endowment for the Arts has dubbed jazz "America's National Treasure."
I must admit that years ago I tried unsuccessfully to become part of the entertainment industry, but my dedication, integrity and respect for those associated with jazz who came before me kept me off the commercial band wagon. In essence, I realized and accepted that I wouldn't be content in that arena, so I decided to pursue music from a different perspective. Inspired spiritually and motivated by a desire for holistic enrichment, I began to focus more on seeking universal wisdom to expand my horizons and increase the potential for music with a deeper meaning to come through me. Now, as with everything else, my approach to music is guided by the natural laws and science of spontaneous creativity, and my objective is to submit to "The Creator" naturally. I sincerely hope that you enjoy listening and hear my intentions!
A few quotes from some of my favorite music artists:
"A problem is chance for you to do your best!" Duke Ellington
"Space is the Place." Sun Ra
"My father is rich and my mother is good looking and I can play the blues! I've never suffered and I don't intend to suffer." Miles Davis
"Ultimately, jazz is a music of communication. At its very core, this music affirms our belief in community, in love, and the dignity of human life. It is a wonderful gift that we have all been given. And, if we let it, jazz will teach us in ways beyond our imagination exactly who we are, where we have been and where we should be going." Wynton Marsalis