by Jane Lambert

From Bossa Nova Vibes to Smooth Jazz Bliss in Marla Lewis New Single “Te Quiero A Ti”

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New Jersey born artist Marla Lewis has had a remarkable career as a singer, songwriter, and educator.

Her brand new, original single “Te Quiero a Ti”, offered in both Spanish and English renditions, radiates an enchanting groove and ambience.

Marla’s impeccable vocals, reminiscent of the finest bossa nova melodies, is accompanied by a sophisticated arrangement. With elements such as flute, piano, acoustic bass, electric guitar, drums, and lush backing vocals, the song allows Marla’s voice to shine.

Originally, Marla had written a really beautiful tune, but could not come up with lyrics to her liking so she asked her friend Dave Kinnoin to write them. Loving what he came up with, the song was recorded on Marla’s first “Songbook” album. As she had always wanted to have it translated into Spanish, it was not until a few more years that she met Melissa Sanley who was able to use the same instrumental tracks as the previous recording:

“My life was touched by a real life angel — that’s the best way to describe it! I signed up for a Peer Networking program offered by the Grammy organization (I’m a voting member), and they paired me with Melissa Sanley. Talk about Divine intervention! A superb singer, songwriter, recording artist — she speaks four languages, and now she is my voice teacher!

But I digress — I played her a song from my first Songbook album to see if she liked it enough to translate it into Spanish. It had some Spanish words in the lyrics that were written by Dave Kinnoin (I wrote the melody). She told me the title was not correct Spanish! OMG! She changed it to “Te Quiero a Ti,” translated the lyrics, coached me on every line, created the cover art, sang backup vocals, and made the lyric video!”

In essence, the song is warm, very romantic and has a vulnerable vibe too. The powerful and simple message is – New Love, for everyone!

Taking inspiration from an eclectic array of musical influences including Ella Fitzgerald, big band, folk music from around the world, The Beatles, Laura Nyro, Carole King, James Taylor, Michael Franks, and Phoebe Snow, Marla has made her mark with music that involves different styles and genres.

For 25 years, Marla worked as an elementary school teacher, a role which ignited her passion for writing songs that are both educational and entertaining for children. This led to significant achievements, notably her song “Leap of Faith”, co-written with Nancy Schimmel, which was featured on the Grammy-winning children’s album “All About Bullies … Big and Small” in 2011.

Her dedication to children’s music is also evident in her award winning albums “I Love to Talk to Plants” (2009) and “We All Laugh in the Same Language” (2007). Produced by the renowned Bob Stander, both of these albums have earned prestigious awards such as the Parent’s Choice Gold and NAPPA Gold. Marla’s songs have also received First Prize and Finalist honors in various national and international competitions.

Marla’s career took a new direction with her venture into smooth jazz and American standards; with her first album in this genre, “Songbook”, this was a significant shift and was met with critical acclaim. Produced by two-time Grammy award winning producer / engineer Bob Stander, “Songbook” features 14 original tracks that critics have described as “pure bliss.”

Building on this success, Marla released Songbook Volume 2 (SBV2), which further explores smooth jazz, cabaret, and American standards. This album, also produced by Bob Stander, comprises six original tracks showcasing Marla’s vocal talents alongside an accomplished ensemble: Mike Ricchuiti on piano, Teddy Kumpel on electric guitar, Rob Jost on acoustic bass, Matt Miller on drums, Erik Lawrence on sax, Daniel Sadownick on percussion, and Adam Minkoff and Gabby Scherba on backing vocals influenced by the Manhattan Transfer. The album’s first single, “Enchantée,” has achieved remarkable success, reaching #1 on the World Indie Charts and #2 on the Euro Indie Charts.

Her latest single, “Te Quiero a Ti,” is a fantastic song rich in musical influences as well as vibrant passion. Listen to “Te Quiero a Ti” on Spotify now!

Find out more about Marla Lewis on her Website.

Follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Stream music on Spotify, Soundcloud, and YouTube Music.

06.06.24

by Jane Lambert

CeCe Teneal Delights A Global Audience with the Release of Her New Single “Try”

CeCe Teneal hails from the small town of Osteen, just outside Orlando, and she has become a global musical sensation!

Her soulful, funky original songs have touched hearts worldwide, captivating audiences across six continents. She’s had the chance to share the stage with music legends and has built a devoted following that spans generations.

At first, CeCe never saw herself as a performer. But she embraced her natural talent and rich musical heritage, moving from local venues to performing arts centers and entertaining onboard luxury cruise ships around the world.

Her new single, “Try,” is filled with nostalgia and hope, reflecting on cherished moments and shared laughter, and reminding us of a love that once was:

“ ‘Try’ is a testament to my musical evolution, and I hope it touches the hearts of my audience, especially those in the LGBTQ+ and other marginalized communities,” CeCe says. The song mixes vibes of 90’s R&B with the soul of the 70’s.

“Try” is the lead single from CeCe’s upcoming album, “Side B,” set to release on August 23, 2024.

Fans can expect a deeply personal and soulful exploration of love, and self-discovery, with CeCe’s signature blend of funk, R&B, and soul in every track. This album is especially significant to the LGBTQ+ and marginalized communities who see CeCe as both ally and an icon.

CeCe has performed with music greats like Buddy Guy, Joe Cocker, Johnny Lang, Betty Wright, Cameo, Robert Randolph & the Family Band, Jazmine Sullivan, Fantasia, Maze & Frankie Beverly, and B.B. King. Her tribute to the great Aretha Franklin has achieved a devoted following with fans coming to see CeCe sing in her unique style.

CeCe has been nominated for four Independent Music Awards, winning Best Gospel Song, Best R&B Album, and Best Soul/Funk/Fusion Song. She was named Orlando’s Best Live Band, received the Orlando Music Trailblazer Award, and headlined the halftime show at the Citrus Bowl. September 22, 2022, was even declared CeCe Teneal Day in Orlando and Orange County!

With her powerful vocals and ability to connect deeply with audiences, CeCe Teneal is a true force in soul and funk, leaving a lasting impact on listeners worldwide.

Keep up to date with CeCe on her Website and social media Facebook , TikTok and Instagram

Listen to her music on Spotify , Apple Music , SoundCloud and YouTube Music.

06.04.24

by Jane Lambert

Composer Steven Chesne Releases New Album “Descendants (in 79 languages)” – an Album Celebrating Unity and Interconnectedness for the Modern Age

In a world fraught with division and conflict, Steven Chesne’s new album, ‘Descendants (in 79 Languages)’ offers a refreshing reminder of our shared humanity.

Set to release worldwide on July 19, 2024, “Descendants” (on Brahmasong Records) is an eclectic concept album.

Bringing together World-Beat, Electronica, New Age, and Neo-Classic styles, the core message of “Descendants” is encapsulated in the phrase “We are the descendants,” which is presented in 79 languages, including French, Portuguese, Igbo, Khmer, Xhosa, Korean and Ukrainian.

This ambitious project took Chesne four years to complete—a journey that involved meticulous translation work, unique musical compositions that interweave the 79 languages, and global collaboration with vocalists. The first year was spent obtaining accurate translations from native speakers and crafting melodies for each phrase. Another year was dedicated to recording sessions with vocalists from diverse locales such as Madagascar, Albania, Kenya, and the Netherlands. The remaining two years focused on composing additional tracks and refining the production aspects.

Chesne says, “While there are countless things that various people and cultures disagree about, even to the point of violence, one thing that all of us accept in common is the fact that we all descend from a common source, whatever that may be.”

The lyrics are simple: “We are the descendants,” which function as the unifying building blocks of the songs. The music has an otherworldly beauty, sometimes joyous, other times deep and profound, exploring an eclectic diversity of world beats and contemporary experimentation, without becoming fully ensconced in any style. It excites the soul and nourishes the spirit, honoring cultural heritage worldwide and presenting it in a modern context.

An impressive lineup of artists is featured, including Platinum recording artist rapper Fredo Bang, Uyanga Bold (vocalist in Disney’s “Mulan” and Marvel’s “Spiderman”), Christina Hals (vocalist in Disney’s “Frozen 1&2” and “League of Legends”), Chhom Nimol (lead singer of “Peter Gabriel presents Dengue Fever”), members of the Los Angeles Master Chorale, and two-time Grammy award-winning vocalist Hila Plitmann. These fantastic collaborations bring a rich, authentic sound to the album.

It feels like Disney’s “It’s A Small World” but for the modern age. Descendants (in 79 languages) is a sophisticated, complex, contemporary work that takes the listener on a journey through sounds as unique as they are captivating.

Steven Chesne’s music career spans more than three decades. From scoring prime-time network shows to creating “Sapient: A Cantata of Peace,” Chesne has an extraordinary talent and dedication to fostering unity through music.

The upcoming album “Descendants (in 79 languages)” promises to fascinate listeners worldwide, starting July 19th, 2024.

Check out the album’s video tour here and discover more about Steven Chesne at www.chezworks.com.

06.04.24

by Jane Lambert

George Collins Brings Upbeat and Joyful Vibes with his New Single “Saving the Best for Last”

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George Collins has recently released his latest single, “Saving the Best for Last”!

This is the last single written for his second EP “Songs for Grown Ups” which is scheduled to hit the airwaves this summer.

Radiating positivity and a lively vibe, “Saving the Best for Last” wraps up the album’s themes with a hopeful twist. It reflects on the passage of time and the shift into a new chapter of life, where past lessons pave the way for a fulfilling and joyful future.

“I knew I wanted to end this collection with a positive, upbeat, exuberant anthem. For this song, I was inspired by the works of George Harrison, Bruce Springsteen, Van Morrison and Neil Diamond. The song summarises the themes explored in the previous tracks of the EP and reaches the hopeful conclusion that, As I continue getting older and enter into a new phase of existence, I can bring all the lessons I have learned to bear to create a fulfilling and joyful later stage of life.”

Collins shares, “I’ve always believed that, regardless of age, my best days and work are yet to come – and this song is my way of expressing that belief. It’s a counterbalance to “Stop the Sun”, urging listeners to leave regrets behind and embrace life to the fullest within the constraints of being human.“

What sets this track apart is its infectious energy, packed with catchy hooks and a nod to 70s-style modulation that adds a surprising twist to the lyrics – a rare find in today’s music scene.

Inspired by Edward Said’s reflections on “Late Style,” the album delves deep into the theme of creativity flourishing in later years. By drawing parallels between legends like Springsteen and Harrison and timeless figures such as Bach, Yeats, Matisse, and Picasso, Collins celebrates the richness of experience and wisdom that comes with age. It is the idea that these iconic artists have a message that can serve as model for us all.

The horn arrangements on the track were crafted by Canadian musician Lou Pomanti, known for his work with Michael Buble. Pomanti’s touch added a special dimension to the song.

Production, mixing, and mastering of “Saving the Best for Last” took place at Sundown Sessions Studio in Nashville, Tennessee with Collins recording his lead vocals at a studio in Prague, and engineering by Derek Saxenmeyer of ENEM Productions.

Connect with George Collins:

Website, // Facebook // Instagram // Spotify

05.23.24

by Jane Lambert

Faint Halos Releases Enchanting New Single “Skyline Hill”

Paul Hashemi, the frontman of Faint Halos, has released his new single “Skyline Hill.”

This is the second single from his forthcoming album I Can See a Million Lights, due out in August 2024.

This track beautifully captures the tranquility of a summer evening at the Mann Center for the Performing Arts in Philadelphia, and reflects Hashemi’s inspiration drawn from the city’s unique blend of intimate locales and expansive views.

During his time at the Mann Center, Hashemi observed the city from a distance, gaining a fresh perspective. He remarked on how Philadelphia’s small, familiar places contrast with the vast, unified view seen from afar, which inspired the song’s lyrics.

“Skyline Hill” features a deliberately simple arrangement with acoustic and electric guitars, keys, bass, drums, and vocals. Lead guitar, played with an eBow, highlights Hashemi’s innovation, using a “fluttering” technique to create a unique sound.

This technique involved playing a trill with his left hand while manipulating the eBow to control volume, a process that required extensive experimentation and multiple takes to perfect.

“Skyline Hill” was recorded, produced, and mixed in Hashemi’s home studio in Berwyn, PA, with additional vocal recordings in North Carolina. As one of the first pieces written for the new album, it stands out with its airy, minimalist arrangement and haunting guitar melodies.

Paul Hashemi’s musical journey spans classical training, touring with rock bands in the ’90s, followed by a hiatus to focus on career and family.

The pandemic really reignited his creativity, leading to the formation of Faint Halos and the creation of I Can See a Million Lights. This debut album delves into introspective themes with poignant lyrics and dynamic arrangements, marking an exciting new chapter.

Connect with Faint Halos: Website // Facebook // Instagram // Spotify // Soundcloud // YouTube Music

05.23.24

by Jane Lambert

Galactic Monk Releases Ethereal Pop Anthem “Secretly Admire”

Galactic Monk has released his ethereal new single, “Secretly Admire,” out now!

The track invites listeners to embrace self-love and overcome insecurities, delivering a powerful message wrapped in an ethereal pop sound with hints of Tropical House.

“The inspiration for writing and recording this song stems from my anticipation of a relationship with my Twin Flame. My intuition tells me we will have a fiery relationship supported by the divine. This song is a manifestation of the reality I want to create. As a writer and artist with roots in Hip-Hop, exploring singing vocals was a new venture for me,” says Galactic Monk.

He adds, “Recording, mixing, and mastering the track myself was crucial in achieving the ethereal and upbeat energy I envisioned.”

The story behind “Secretly Admire” is one of true perseverance. After prioritizing his mental health with a leave of absence from work in 2015, Galactic Monk rebuilt his recording studio from scratch in 2022.

“Secretly Admire” is the first song completed in his newly equipped studio, symbolizing a return to his creative roots.

Accompanying the single is a new lyric video. Galactic Monk plans to release one song each month until the full album is unveiled. The aim is to empower listeners to step into their authentic power and shine unapologetically, blending ethereal pop, catchy beats, and lyrical magic.

Galactic Monk has dedicated himself to an unwavering pursuit of self-mastery, honing his skills in recording, mixing, mastering, writing, and producing to develop a unique sound.

Starting as a recording engineer, he wrote and recorded his songs during studio downtime, creating each track as a vessel for powerful mantras, affirmations, and manifestations.

At the heart of his art is a profound commitment to his “Star Mission” – a crusade to save planet Earth and activate enlightenment in all who encounter his work. Galactic Monk’s music is a vehicle for transformation, awakening dormant potentials and unlocking inherent power within each listener.

In an increasingly disconnected world, Galactic Monk stands out as a beacon of hope, showcasing art’s transformative power and the human spirit’s limitless potential.

When not in the studio, he shares daily doses of motivational wisdom on social media platforms and plots world-changing initiatives with fellow truth seekers.

Keep up with Galactic Monk here:

Website / X / Spotify / YouTube Music