Interview - Flashing Back and Recapping Ife Basim’s Women's History Month Celebrations (Part 1)

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Sunday, February 27, 2022

9 years ago, Ife Basim (Joy Topping-Mann) started a Women's History Month Celebration because she felt that the accomplishments of many local women go unnoticed. Ife feels that bringing attention to these everyday heroes, applauding them for their excellence and recognizing them now helps build the bonds of sisterhood. By staying true to the mission, the annual WHM event has become a vehicle that encourages and helps women unite, share their gifts, talents, accomplishments and the event also motivates the young and old to share their gifts with the world. 

Also in today's environment, we figure why not applaud these local important figures while they can still appreciate it. Recent events like the worldwide pandemic clearly pointed out the need to use time wisely and appreciate each other even more.  We are all still adjusting to our “new normal” world and true to form WHM switched from all in-person in 2019, to all online in 2020 and now in 2021 our new normal is a hybrid approach for 2022. The message and objective has not changed, which is to get the word out that we have all made it this far through the many challenges of the pandemic and we are still here. Ife Basim’s WHM platform is now in it’s 9th year and these events continue to grow our spirit. 

Today, in Part 1, we take a look back over the years and understand the WHM spirit as we prepare for WHM2022.  We talk with the founder and gain a first-hand view of WHM's past and a little bit about its future.  Take a listen.

Gregory Burrus Productions Interviewer, Lynette Sheard, Singer Interviews Founder Ife Basim on the History of Women's History Month Celebrations.

Through the Years of Ife Basim’s Women’s History Month Events

Reflecting upon the 9 years of WHM events, we discuss the highlights of the first 8 years, view the beautiful poster artwork, and who performed, with links to all the fun we had.     

2014

1st Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year 2014 

Date: March 7, 2014

Theme: "Women in Jazz"

Featured vocalists: Jackie Jones and Cynthia Holiday 

Special Tribute: Amira Baraka, Yvette Glover, Denise McCoy, Barbara Kukla, wrote The Encyclopedia of Newark Jazz and Dorthaan Kirk, NEA Jazz Master and Newark's First Lady of Jazz.

Live Music: Girl Talk Jam Session

View more — a taste of 2014: https://www.gregoryburrusaroundtown.com/Ife-Basim-Masterpieces/20140303-1st-Annual-Womens-History-Month-Celebration/ 

2015

2nd Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year: 2015 

Date: March 13, 2015

Theme: “Weaving the Stories of Women's Lives”

Featured Vocalists: Joy Elaine and Jacque Harmon Johnson 

Special Tributes: Kathy L. Spivey, Inez McClendon, Jaklyn DeVore

And Gwen Moten, ED, Mayor's Office of Arts, Cultural Development and Tourism 

Live Music: Brandon McCune, Vince Ector, Calvin Jones

View more — a taste of 2015: 20150303 2nd Annual Womens History Month - Gregory Burrus Around Town

2016

3rd Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year: 2016 

The Date: March 11, 2016

Theme:  "Her Story"

Featured Vocalists Joy Elaine, Patricia Walton, Joy F Brown, PJ Parker, Phyllis Blandford and and Omisanye Karade 

Special: Vendors and After Party

View more — a taste of 2016: https://www.gregoryburrusaroundtown.com/Ife-Basim-Masterpieces/2016-3rd-Annual-Womens-History-Month-Her-Story/ 

2017

4th Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year: 2017

Date: March 31, 2017

Theme: "Protect Your Peace"

Featured Vocalists: Phyllis Blandford, Lynette Sheard, Patricia Walton, Jackie Gilliam, Dana F. Hawkins 

Special: Vendors  

Live Music:  Brianne Ford, Kim Clarke, Whisper McCray, Sheryl Bailey, Debra Kreisberg

View more — a taste of 2017: https://www.gregoryburrusaroundtown.com/Ife-Basim-Masterpieces/20170331-4th-Annual-Womens-History-Month-Celebration 

2018

5th Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year: 2018

Date: March 30, 2018

Theme:  "I'm Every Woman"

Featured Vocalists Joy Elaine, Patricia Walton, Joy F Brown, PJ Parker, Phyllis Blandford and and Omisanye Karade 

Special Acts:  "I'm Every Woman" program ad booklet, a donation to Sierra House, a safe haven for at-risk youth and young adult women and Sierra House representative Marcia Dash, beautiful balloon stilettos by the Balloon Lady Jacqueline Harmon Johnson, Dwight West and Anthony Avent, James (A-Natural) tribute song, “Diaspora to African American,” Gregory Burrus Around Town for your fabulous photography, support, wisdom, direction, promotions, Ami Brabson of "Phenomenal Women” & Dr. Stephanie D. Burroughs Inspirational Speaker/Trainer/Business & Thought Therapy Coach, artist Cathleen McCoy Bristol, and Nettie Forman. Hosted by Norman Mann.

Live Music: MPACK Music Clarence Conover, Brett Caulder, Joe Scarpetto, PatriciaWalton 

View more — a taste of 2018: 2018 5th-Annual-Womens-History-Month-Celebration - Gregory Burrus Around Town

2019

6th Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year: 2019

Date: March 1, 2019

Theme:  "Representation Matters"

Featured Vocalist: Daria Jones

Special Activities:  Hosted by Celeste Bateman, Casual Wear and Islamic designs by Shadiyah Cobbertt-Hutchinson, "Women Who Matter" were acknowledged for their outstanding achievements, dramatic reading of an original play, "Storms Weathered".... written by Ife Basim, supported victims of domestic abuse, "Women Who Batter."

Live Music: Daria Jones Band

View more — a taste of 2019: https://www.gregoryburrusaroundtown.com/Ife-Basim-Masterpieces/20190301-6th-Annual-Womens-History-Month-Ife-Basim 

2020

7th Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year: 2020

Date: March 1, 2020

Theme: "Living Life on Purpose"

Featured Vocalists: Sheba Jordan

Special: The 7th Annual Women's History Month Celebration (WHM2020) was dedicated to the memory of the unforgettable Yvette Glover. Skits on Mental Health Awareness were performed by the 'Mental Health Players' directed by Lynette Sheard. Mental Health Players: Lynette Sheard, Yvette Glover, Joy Elaine, Phyliis Blandford, Patricia Walton, Jacquelyn Harmond Johnson, Zakiyyah Zaimah, Omisanya Karade. 

Live Music: Clarence Conover, Eddie Belton, Norman Mann, Larry Greenberg, sitting in James Gibbs and guitar player.

Also, a special tribute to a woman who exemplifies Living Life on Purpose.

View more — a taste of 2020: https://www.gregoryburrusaroundtown.com/Ife-Basim-Masterpieces/20200306-7th-Annual-Womens-History-Month 

2021 

8th Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year: 2021

Date: March 26, 2021

Theme: “Refresh in Progress" (COVID-19 pandemic, live-streamed)

Featured Vocalists: Joy Topping Man, Zakiyyah Zaimah, Phlyllis  Blanford and Patricia Walton

Special Performers: Comedian Tonya Agosto, Author Phyllis Vivens Hudson, ED readings from her book of recovery “Flying on Broken Wings”

Live Music: Pianist Brandon McCune

You can re-watch the “Refresh in Progress” show on:

Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ifebasimproductions
Web at http://ifebasim.tv

View more — a taste of 2021: https://www.gregoryburrusaroundtown.com/Ife-Basim-Masterpieces/WHM2021-8th-Annual-Womens-History-Month-Celebration 

Coming soon: 2022 9th Annual Women's History Month Celebration

We hope you come join us Friday, March 4th and have some fun with us.

9th Annual Women's History Month Celebration

Year: 2022

Date: March 4, 2022

Theme:  “Just Us. Just Music”

Featured Vocalists: Joy Mann, Patricia Walton, Phyllis Blandford and and Omisanye Karade 

Special Venue:  Cricket Club Entertainment Complex

Live Music: Caylen Bryant, Iyonna Herbert, Lee Odom, Kate Cosco

Meet Your Producer: Joy Topping-Mann (aka Ife Basim)

Support Us GoFundme: http://ifebasimmasterpieces.com

Stay tuned right here for Part 2 as we review the March 4th WHM2022. Our coverage will provide details on the performers, the new venue, the Cricket Club Entertainment Complex, which we are very excited about, more quotes from the founder, and everything that happens. Check back right here: https://www.jerseyindie.com/ji-blogger-gregory-burrus

About the Author Gregory Burrus

Gregory Burrus is a local live music ambassador, producer, promoter, event planner, and community partner. Gregory Burrus combines his extensive corporate business and technology expertise with his love of live music and being a strong community advocate. 

I love writing about it all. My mission is to help community groups, live music bands, and local nonprofits, reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying the day-to-day process of life. 

https://www.jerseyindie.com/ji-blogger-gregory-burrus  
https://patch.com/users/gregburrus 

Patrick Hilaire’s LIGHT [+SOUND] Photography Exhibition at SOPAC (RECAP)

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Saturday, February 26, 2022

Encountering photographs and artwork directly — as opposed to viewing online or in a book — is important and enriching. An exhibition invites visitors to slow down and to experience work as the artist/photographer and curator intended. When one is viewing this South Orange Performing Arts Center Black History Month exhibition and are viewing the photography of local photographer Patrick Hilaire, your first impression or instinctive reaction might be like many others, “Wow he captured all of ‘this’ within one click of the camera.”  Yes, some amazing shots were on display at the Patrick Hilaire LIGHT [+SOUND] Photography Exhibition. As explained in an earlier post, Patrick has a detailed preparation process, and these shots clearly demonstrate that Patrick, when working on site, is working within the moment. 

About the Patrick Hilaire’s LIGHT [+SOUND] Photography Exhibition

“The exhibition showcases 25 stunning black-and-white portraits of Jazz musicians. Every portrait in this exhibition tells its own story,” says curator, Jeremy Moss. The Haitian-born self-taught photographer’s ability to capture compelling musical moments by renowned artists has brought Hilaire widespread acclaim. “Musical events are the intersection where the rhythm of the performer and photographer get to meet,” says Hilaire. “It’s really moments that I try to capture, and those moments only happen once.”

Artist Reception: Motivation Behind His Photography

Patrick Hilaire talks about the motivation behind the photography.

During this reception’s artist talk, Patrick took the time to explain more of the motives and feelings behind his shooting process. Patrick discussed the musicians and their impact upon his process, which is more than just the shot. He also reflected on their commitment to the music and their history.

Take a listen.

You can also learn more here in a prior Jersey Indie post - Celebrate Black History Month with Patrick Hilaire. 

Musicians Performance    

John Lee and Friends perform at Patrick Hilaire’s LIGHT [+SOUND] Photography Exhibition.

During the exhibition, jazz could be heard across the exhibition floors. The mellow swinging sounds were waffling through the air. Folks actually were able to listen to the music, view the photos, and actually see one of the artists photographed in the gallery exhibition playing the music. A pretty cool move. The musicians performing also have an extensive musical history across the industry, which their bios reflect, and it makes the photography process even sweeter. Check them out. 

Bassist John Lee — A Grammy-winning recording engineer/producer, has performed as bassist with legendary Dizzy Gillespie for 10 years and with other luminaries such as Aretha Franklin, Paquito D'Rivera, Max Roach, Sonny Rollins, McCoy Tyner, James Moody, Jimmy Heath, Joe Henderson, Larry Coryell, Gregory Hines, Claudio Roditi, Arturo Sandoval amongst many others. John Lee runs from Dizzy Gillespie to Aretha Franklin and into the stars of today. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Lee_(bassist))

Drummer Gerry Brown — Was Stevie Wonder's drummer for 14 years, helped create the legendary world-famous jazz tune "School Days'' with his friend Stanley Clark, is an ex-member of Chick Corea's iconic world renown tune "Return To Forever", performed with Kool and the Gang, and is currently touring with Diana Ross. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gerry_Brown_(drummer))

Pianist Alex Collins — A New York City-based pianist, composer, arranger and vibraphonist, made his debut at the Tanglewood Jazz Festival with the Brandon Wright Quartet, has performed with Ronnie Burrage, Micelle Coltrane, Big Funk, Gerry Gibbs, Karl Latham, John Lee, Lonnie Plaxico, Lenny White, and the Dizzy Gillespie All-Stars amongst many others. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-collins-9ba56b4)

It made for some beautiful music, and you can read more about the musicians here on JerseyIndie — https://bit.ly/jazzyNightswJoh...

Patrons and Visitor Feedback 

Swinging with John Lee and Friends.

The music portion of the night was enjoyed tremendously. Here are a few comments from reception attendees:

Patrick’s black and white photography was aesthetically sexy.  He captured the passion of the musician behind the drums and the commitment of the hornist on the Asbury Park boardwalk. And the smooth sounds of jazz were just the right compliment for the night. — CC M

Had a marvelous time with great music and wonderful photography. 

It was a wonderful event and the photo exhibition will remain up, so come by and you won’t be disappointed! — Linda C.

Fantastic! Patrick Hilaire is my favorite photographer. — Charlie A 

Continue Celebrating Patrick Hilaire Photography 

Exhibition promotion and other shots not on display. 

While this exhibition ends on Feb. 28th in The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery at SOPAC, we hope you get to see it. 

We also advise you to continue to view even more Patrick Hilaire photography. You can stay up to date here on his IG, @l1stener. If you like what you see at the exhibition, know that his art will be available for purchase as these will be museum-quality archival pigment prints on Bright White Velvet 100% rag paper.  

About the Author Gregory Burrus

Photo Credit: Patrick Hilaire

Gregory Burrus is a local live music producer, promoter who captures, and records live music performances, community events and private engagements. Gregory also loves to write and blog about the art and entertainment scene across New Jersey and New York. 

My mission is to help artists, live music bands, community groups, and local nonprofits reach their goals and accomplish their mission while thoroughly enjoying the day-to-day process of life.  

Learn more at:

https://www.jerseyindie.com/ji-blogger-gregory-burrus

http://gregoryburrusproductions.com
http://24hoursofmusicjamboree.com
https://patch.com/users/gregburrus  

Banding Together to Address Aging Out of Foster Care, Homelessness and Negative Mental Health

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Tuesday, February 15, 2022

Sleep Out: Montclair 2022 Community Edition

The Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. is creatively reacting to the new normal by joining together with Covenant House New Jersey for the third year in a row. For a second year this discussion on Homelessness, Aging Out of Foster Care and Mental Health issues was produced by Gregory Burrus Productions with the Mental Health Association in New Jersey, Inc.  The Sleep Out Montclair 2022 Community Edition will be held this year on March 4th, 2022.  This ongoing commitment by the Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. is sorely needed because Covenant House has been finding homeless youth sleeping under bridges, abandoned buildings, or riding the trains. And as you can imagine in our new normal, the Pandemic has only made the situation worse.

Voices of Youth Count

This need for support and resolution of this issue was emphasized in this nationwide report, the Voices of Youth Count (VoYC) initiative:

“Voices of Youth Count is an innovative, national policy research initiative designed to link evidence and action by capturing the experiences of runaway, unaccompanied homeless and unstably housed youth, more clearly defining the size of the population and scope of the issue, and driving compelling knowledge into the hands of the broad national community dedicated to ending youth homelessness.”

This groundbreaking report on youth homelessness in the United States by Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago was conducted over the course of a full year rather than a single night, making it the most comprehensive research to date on youth homelessness in the U.S. Here’s some of the facts:

• More than 3.5 million young adults ages 18 to 25 experience a form of homelessness in the course of a year — that’s 1 of every 10 young adults.

• At least 700,000 adolescent minors ages 13 to 17 experience a form of homelessness in the course of a year — that’s 1 of every 30 adolescent minors.

• In total, at least 4.2 million young people experience a form of homelessness in a given year, from couch surfing to living on the streets.

• Youth homelessness affects urban and rural youth at similar levels.

You can read more about this situation here: https://voicesofyouthcount.org.

New Jersey Point-in-Time Count of the Homeless Report

Thinking of your own children, friends and neighbors, these are some very scary numbers because they reflect some very real people. Looking at the New Jersey 2020 Point-in-Time Count of the Homeless along with the 2020 Annual Homeless Assessment Report revealed this information: 

• There are 9,663 homeless men, women, and children across the state of New Jersey.

• There were 1,743 persons, in 1,601 households, who were identified as chronically homeless.

• There were 1,786 persons who were unsheltered.

Discussion on Homelessness, Aging Out of Foster Care and Mental Health 

Making it real and bringing it all the way home is the Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. (JLMN), The Mental Health Association in New Jersey and Covenant House New Jersey. Together they have come together in this very important talk to bring additional awareness to Youth Homelessness, Aging Out of Foster Care and associated Mental Health Issues right here in New Jersey. Click to listen: 

As you can hear, the Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. have shown they are committed again to helping address this situation by participating in this year’s Sleep Out fundraiser. For the 2nd year in a row, the COVID-19 pandemic has required us all to get creative and alter our plans to meet this very necessary fundraising campaign.  

SLEEP OUT — JOIN THE MOVEMENT March 4th 

We hope you listen to the video, understand the need and Sleep Outside for one night so New Jersey youth facing homelessness don’t have to. Please listen to the discussion, understand the need and, if you can, join us. Learn more here and here: https://bit.ly/SleepOutwithHC 

About the Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. (JLMN) 

According to the JLMN website:

“The JLMN is a supportive, amazing organization of women whose mission is to promote voluntarism, develop the potential of women and improve the community through trained volunteers […] We are actively involved in supporting Foster Care initiatives and Human Trafficking legislation because we understand that our future depends on the flourishing of our communities’ children. “

JLMN is creating better communities for a better future.

“The JLMN strives to promote the safety and well-being of the children in the Montclair-Newark area.”

Learn more about the Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. and their current programs here: www.jlmn.org. 

About Covenant House New Jersey (CHNJ) 

According to the Covenant House New Jersey (CHNJ) website:

“Covenant House New Jersey (CHNJ) provides sanctuary and support for youth ages 18-21 facing homelessness or human trafficking. We have seven locations across the state: Atlantic City, Newark, Jersey City, Camden, and Asbury Park, and specialized care in Montclair and Elizabeth. Across New Jersey, we are the New Jersey Human Traffic Provider of services to all Human Trafficking survivors and victims.  At CHNJ’s Montclair-based program, Nancy’s House, young people with special mental health needs who are facing homelessness can get the attention they require.  We serve about 4,585 youth annually, and all our services are free.”

For more information about the Sleep Out, visit https://bit.ly/SleepOutwithHC.

About the Writer Gregory Burrus

Gregory Burrus is a Passionate Community Advocate, Reporter, and Writer about local events In and Around Northern NJ, showcasing, photographing, videotaping events and happenings as they occur around town while living life every day to the fullest. 

My mission is to help community groups, live music bands and local nonprofits reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying life every day.

John Lee and Friends Keeping Jazz Alive Since Dizzy Gillespie and More at South Valley BBQ and Lounge

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Monday, February 14, 2022

In today's series of Keeping Jazz Alive, we talk about a venue that has had jazz performances on a regular basis for years, and then due to Pandemic plus the venue was sold, jazz has been missing for way too long.  Well, SuzyQue’s is gone, and it's time to see if we can keep jazz alive at South Valley BBQ and Lounge. I say, let’s do it!!

John Lee and Friends at South Valley BBQ and Bar, formerly SuzyQue’s.

We’ll also review some Jazz Masters that have been performing there and are all about Keeping Jazz Alive. These musicians are notable not only because they play jazz music but because it has also become their life's journey. They have, in some cases, played with and had their careers moved forward by past jazz masters. Some of these musicians we have been listening to have been entrusted to keep the jazz legacy alive and they do so every day. Their journey in life is learning, teaching, and performing their original compositions but also the jazz music that has passed down through the generations. Today we tell this Keep Jazz Alive Story through the venue that has a wonderful history of jazz events, but first it’s about the musicians who have performed here and will again in upcoming performances, which is what it's all about. 

John Lee — Musician

Bassist, Grammy-winning record producer and audio engineer.

John Lee on Bass with Aretha Franklin. John Lee with 2019 Grammy. (Images: Matters Magazine)

Most folks around here don't know that the unassuming friendly bass player leaning on the window playing the smooth bass as the jazz flows has an incredible musical legacy. As a recent Maplewood Matters Magazine article, “From Dizzy Gillespie to Aretha Franklin, John Lee is a South Orange Jazz All-Star”, stated:

“John Lee won a Grammy in 2019 for the ‘Best Latin Jazz / Jazz Album’ as the recording engineer, producer, and mixer for “Jazz Batá 2” by Cuban pianist Chucho Valdés.” 

Around Dizzy Gillespie

John Lee with Dizzy Gillespie. (Images: Matters Magazine)

If you don’t know, John Birks "Dizzy" Gillespie is remembered by both critics and fans alike as one of the greatest jazz trumpeters of all time.  John Lee was Dizzy Gillespie's bassist for 10 years, from 1984 through 1993. He performed and recorded in the trumpet master's various bands, including the Dizzy Gillespie Quintet, Dizzy Gillespie Big Band, and Dizzy's Grammy Award-winning United Nation Orchestra.

Around the World

John Lee has performed on over 50 albums and performed with the likes of Paquito D’Rivera, Max Roach, Sonny Rollins, McCoy Tyner, James Moody, Jimmy Heath, Joe Henderson, Larry Coryell, Gregory Hines, Claudio Roditi, Arturo Sandoval, Joachim Kühn, Philip Catherine, Gerry Brown and the aforementioned Legendary Dizzy Gillespie, etc. 

Dizzy Gillespie Bands. (Image: dizzygillespie.org)

At the request of Dizzy’s family, John was asked to create an ongoing tribute to the great man and his music—and the concept for the Dizzy Gillespie All-Stars was born. John is the bassist and Director of the Dizzy Gillespie All-Stars, Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Big Band, and the Dizzy Gillespie Afro-Cuban Experience. The cast of musicians is an incredible list of great performers. These cats play some incredible music all around the world and are first-hand keeping jazz alive. (Read more at dizzygillespie.org.)

Around South Orange 

Artist Kevin O'Connell's "Giant Steps.” Read more on Gregory Burrus’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/19gFgMtOLv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

John Lee supports, arranges, and organizes jazz events around the world, including the spectacular Giants of Jazz Concert at the South Orange Performing Arts Center. The Giants of Jazz Concert is an annual event that includes 70 fabulous worldwide musicians. John’s event was honored and captured in Artist Kevin O'Connell's "Giant Steps" giant mural in South Orange, NJ.

As the Grammy Award-winning record producer, audio engineer, and bass player who has produced over 100 recordings, John has a worldwide reach when it comes to the music business. When he performs, the band is always top-notch and you never know who might show up, as John always invites widely respected friends from all over the world to join in at our very local venue. Here’s a few upcoming friends that will perform with him in the upcoming performance:

John Lee’s Friends

Gerry Brown — Master Drummer

Gerry Brown.

Gerry Brown began playing the drums at the age of five, and since 2000 he has been the drummer for Diana Ross. Gerry is a ”Jazz drummer who has featured with bassists Stanley Clarke and John Lee and is an ex-member of Chick Corea's Return To Forever.” (Read more here.)

His musical journey started with fellow schoolmate, Stanley Clarke, who introduced Gerry as a "Master Drummer" and the "first musician I ever played with!" Gerry, along with Stanley, crafted the revolutionary “School Days” recording which continues to inspire drummers and bassists worldwide.

Gerry Brown with Stanley Clarke at Newport Jazz Festival. Watch the video here.

His long list of accomplishments has landed him on stages and recording studios with George Benson, Marcus Miller, Lionel Ritchie, John Lee, Sonny Fortune, Alfonso Johnson and Phillip Bailey. He also has worked with the NDR Big Band, Brothers Johnson, Roberta Flack, Joe Sample, Slide Hampton, Tom Harrell, Larry Coryell, Dave Samuels, Chuck Loeb and Chick Corea.

Gerry Brown has performed at numerous SRO events worldwide and also holds the distinction of holding the drum chair for the legendary Stevie Wonder for 14 years.

Stevie Wonder/Gerry Brown Duet

His versatility is obviously well known in the industry as has also toured with Diana Ross, Jeffrey Osborne, plus others, and he still performs with some of the top musicians of today. 

Gerry, formerly of Los Angeles, CA is lucky for us now residing in South Orange, NJ and continues to be a driving force in the industry. His first instructional drum video "R&B Drumming With Gerry Brown" was released to critical acclaim by numerous music publications. Gerry's insight as an educator and performer has established him as a sought after clinician for Yamaha Drums, Zildjian Cymbals & Drumsticks, and Evans Drumheads.

Steve Carrington — Saxophone

According to SOPAC’s website: “Born in East Baltimore, Maryland, Steve Carrington began playing the saxophone at age seven. After attending the Baltimore School for the Arts and Frederick Douglass High School (whose alumni include Cab Calloway), Carrington was awarded a scholarship to the Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he studied with saxophonist Bill Pierce. His early influences were John Coltrane, Charlie Parker, Grover Washington Jr., Hank Mobley, Dexter Gordon, and Freddie Hubbard.”

Steve Carrington on sax with John Lee Jazz on a Sunday afternoon at 100 Blanchard in South Orange, NJ.

“[In] New York, Steve sat in and performed with the likes of the late Elvin Jones, Joey DeFrancesco, Jeff “Tain” Watts, Wynton Marsalis, Wessel “Warmdaddy” Anderson, Eric Lewis (ELEW) and Chick Corea. He is close friends with his mentor Kenny Garrett. In a symbolic passing of the torch, Kenny gifted Steve with a saxophone in 2012. Long distances don’t prevent these two from sharing impromptu jam sessions via FaceTime, even when Kenny is on the road! […] In addition, Carrington has played with Charles Mingus, Dizzy Gillespie, Roy Hargrove, Milt Hinton, Frank Wess and Jimmy Heath, among many others.” (Read more here.)

“Just keep that big beautiful smile and that big beautiful sound.” – Chick Corea

“Steve’s music and robust sound demands that you take a listen.” – Kenny Garrett.

As leader of his quartet, Carrington has opened for Abbey Lincoln, Lionel Hampton, Stanley Turrentine, and Milt Hinton. He has been performing with Kool and the Gang. Currently, he is a member of Greg Bandy’s band, the Valery Ponomarev Big Band, and Cyrus Chestnut’s African Reflections band. Carrington’s recordings include his debut album A Caring Tone (2014) and Mind Traveler (2019). He is also on the faculty of the Jazz Mentoring Program at the Eubie Blake Cultural Center in Baltimore.

Alex Collins — Composer/Arranger/Pianist

Alex Collins is a New York City-based pianist, composer, arranger and vibraphonist. Alex made his debut at the Tanglewood Jazz Festival with the Brandon Wright Quartet in 2010.

Alex is a graduate of the Manhattan School of Music (M.M. Jazz Composition) and earned his undergraduate degree from the Eastman School of Music (B.M. Jazz Studies and Contemporary Media (Piano)).

He received the Wynton Kelly Jazz Foundation Award for Jazz Achievement (2003) and participated in the prestigious Betty Carter's Jazz Ahead program (2006).

Aside from leading his own trio, Alex has performed in the bands of Ronnie Burrage, Micelle Coltrane, Big Funk, Gerry Gibbs, Karl Latham, John Lee, Lonnie Plaxico, Lenny White, and the Dizzy Gillespie All-Stars. Alex has performed at prolific venues across the city, such as the Blue Note, The Plaza Hotel, Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola at Lincoln Center, Fat Cat and Smalls Jazz Club, just to name a few!

As you can see, it's an all-star cast, the jazz will be extraordinary, and now on to the venue that John Lee used to hang out in pre-Covid days and hopefully will again on a regular basis, once again. 

South Valley BBQ and Bar — West Orange, NJ

The former SuzyQue’s, if you haven't heard, is under new ownership and is now a Black-owned restaurant. John Lee and Friends had a regular Jazz Night that we captured periodically on Facebook. As time progressed, things changed, and then COVID came along and stopped everything. 

Well, SuzyQue’s now the new South Valley BBQ and Bar and the new owners are looking forward to creating a wonderful and warm environment for all patrons to enjoy live music. Their first very visible modification was a newly remodeled Blue Room for events.

With an upgraded menu and an outside seating area, there’s still lots of free parking, and they currently have Karaoke nights, DJ spinning nights, football watch nights and more. Of course, we would love to add a Jazzy Night, and we would love for Jazz Fans to come on out.

Jazzy Nights 

Let's work together at keeping jazz alive right here in West Orange, NJ. 

Jazzy Nights Music with John Lee and Friends is coming to South Valley BBQ and Lounge, 34 S Valley Rd, West Orange, NJ 07052. 

Live swinging jazz “like you like it.”

John Lee — Bass
Alex Collins — Keys
Gerry Brown — Drums
Steve Carrington — Sax

Please join us for 2 Sets - 8-9:15 PM and 9:45-11 PM 

Limit Seating. To make reservations in advance, call (973) 736-7899.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnleeandfriends

Hope to see you at South Valley BBQ and Bar on Feb. 18th and beyond.  

About the Author 

Gregory Burrus books bands, produces, promotes, captures, and records live music events along with various other community and private activities.

I love writing about it all. My mission is to help community groups, live music bands, and local nonprofits, reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying the day-to-day process of life. 

https://www.jerseyindie.com/ji-blogger-gregory-burrus 

https://patch.com/users/gregburrus 

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Celebrate Black History Month at SOPAC with Patrick Hilaire’s LIGHT [+SOUND] Photography Exhibition

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Wednesday, February 2, 2022

Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Also known as African American History Month, the event grew out of “Negro History Week,” the brainchild of noted historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans. Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating Black history. You can read more about The Man Behind Black History Month. 

Black History Month 2022 Health and Wellness

For Black History Month 2022, the theme is Black Health and Wellness, and in a recent recap article “2021 Live Music Year In Review” I opined about the health and mental benefits of the art of live music:

“For listeners, a live music concert is a pleasurable social event that is among the most visceral and memorable forms of musical engagement. It's the same for musicians, with the added note that for many it’s not a side business, it’s their lifeblood and the thing that keeps them alive. With that in mind, we all pushed on through the year making music and great memories.” 

After seeing the absence of music and art during this COVID pandemic and the slow recovery we are all going through, there is no doubt that Art and Music have a major effect on helping us feel better, recover, survive, and even thrive during the current state of the world. 

Photo Credit: Clements Place Jazz by Patrick Hilaire Photography

Exposure to art and music along with participation in creative activities creates positive brain changes. That's according to a new report from the Global Council on Brain Health (GCBH), an AARP-founded working group of scientists, health care professionals and other experts. Their latest report, “Music on Our Minds,” highlights research showing music's positive effect on emotional well-being, including improving mood, decreasing anxiety, and managing stress. There is creativity in making the music and there’s creativity spawned from listening to music. In an upcoming event, we will encounter exceptional creativity from a preeminent photographer who listens to the sounds and is inspired by the light. 

Photographer Patrick Hilaire 

"I am excited about the upcoming Light and Sound Exhibition at the beautiful SOPAC Gallery. This show gives me a chance to share and explore the deeper elements of my passion when it comes to understanding the intersection of sound and light in any live music performance. There's beauty in the moment and capturing it ‘just right’ amongst all else that is going on during a live performance is a challenge that I enjoy."  — Patrick Hilaire

Around the Jersey NYC area there are many live music performances and, of course, numerous photographers. One notable local photographer that stands out from the pack is the professional photographer known as @l1stener or Patrick Hilaire. Over time, Patrick has compiled a remarkable collection of photographs of live music performances, the musicians, and the environments associated with the Greater New Jersey and New York live music scene. One of the things we notice is that whether he’s at a live music performance, a wedding, or he’s strolling down the street, he’s keenly aware of the details beyond what we normally see. While we see the daily activities of life moving around us, Patrick sees the details in one leaf amongst the leaves blowing in the wind, the formation of the icicles occurring on the side mirror of a car and, yes, while we listen to the music he sees the lights emanating from the sound.

Patrick is also known for capturing not just the music and the musicians, and if you stare in one direction too long, you may find yourself captured by Patrick. And the funny part is folks who say “No, not me,” end up loving his images of them. Since we get to hang out and be around him at times, we get to see firsthand his working process and how it unfolds. Sometimes he shows up, grabs a beverage, turns his hat around backwards, pulls out his camera, and starts shooting and the results are like this gorgeous one of our buddy Boz, RIP, 2020.

Jazz Advocate Lee “Boz” May by Patrick Patrick Hilaire Photography

At other times, he shows up, eyes the environment, sets up all his equipment, pulls out his camera or cameras, adjusts the settings, turns his hat around and starts the shooting session. What we don’t see is that he believes, in preparation before the event, spending time getting to know his subjects and his environment. He thinks about posing and positioning of his subjects and then deliberately chooses camera settings that ensure the final result will look fantastic. Sometimes the preparation is all done in the blink of an eye, yet it’s all very professionally done.  

From the archives Patrick Hilaire Photography. 

The results speak for themselves as Patrick sees the light and more, in addition to the sound that comes from the musicians. If you've been in the presence of Patrick at any of our events, you can tell he sees more than we do, so we are very happy to see an exhibition of his work being put on display at the beautiful South Orange Performing Arts Center. 

LIGHT [+SOUND] Exhibition

The South Orange Performing Arts Center describes this wonderful event about the photography of Patrick Hilaire as follows: 

“His life’s work has focused on capturing the relationship between images and sound. Known as the man behind the camera at many Jazz happenings, Hilaire has been a staple in the local music scene for years. Hilaire has photographed performers from SOPAC’s Jazz & Blues in the Loft series as well as the Dizzy Gillespie All Star Band at the Blue Note in New York City. Hilaire has exhibited at several galleries, was featured at the South by South Orange Festival, and shot performances at the John Coltrane International Jazz & Blues Festival as well as the South Mountain International Blues Festival.”

The Haitian-born self-taught photographer’s ability to capture compelling musical moments by great artists has brought him widespread acclaim. “Musical events are the intersection where the rhythm of the performer and photographer get to meet,” he says. A Jazz lover since childhood, Hilarie was first moved by the genre when his older brother Max Hilaire, also a noted photographer, brought home Herbie Mann's “The Glory of Love.”

Add to the above, Patrick has captured and documented numerous Jazz events at clubs and jazz venues all over Northern NJ and New York City, from Morristown’s Shanghai Jazz to Jersey City’s Brightside Tavern and Moore's Lounge. In between, you will see his beautiful captures from West Orange’s South Valley BBQ and Bar, South Orange Summer Saturdays Stages, Jazz On Sloan at the South Orange Gazebo, Papillon 25, The Fox and Falcon, Montclair’s DLV Lounge, Newark's Clements Place Jazz 973, NJPAC and, of course, SOPAC’s most prestigious Giants of Jazz Program. In New York, he’s covered just about every jazz venue, from North Harlem’s SMOKEs to the Village Vanguard, Blue Note, Small's, and Birdland in Southern Manhattan, along with venues in Brooklyn. 

South Orange Performing Arts Center and The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery 

According to the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) website:

“SOPAC is an accessible cultural destination located in the heart of downtown South Orange that presents world-class artists in an intimate and welcoming environment […] Through visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment, SOPAC has become a cultural centerpiece for the region, an economic driver for the community and a catalyst for artistic opportunity.

The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery at SOPAC showcases a wide range of artists bringing contemporary art to a broader audience […] With the support of the Gallery’s Art Advisory Committee, art exhibitions are selected according to the vision of the Curator, Jeremy Moss. Exhibition themes, artist selection, even placement of artwork is meant to lead visitors through the Gallery exhibition while telling a story, instigating questions and provoking conversations […]

The Gallery is located on the second and third floors of SOPAC. It hosts 4-5 art exhibits a year.”

Admission to the Gallery is free. Visit www.SOPACnow.org/gallery.

Light [+Sound]  Exhibition Details

Celebrate Black History Month with the photography of local notable, Patrick Hilaire. 

On Display: Showcasing Patrick Hilaire’s stunning black-and-white portraits of Jazz musicians.

Where: The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery at SOPAC 

When:  February 1 – 28, 2022 

Hours:  Monday-Saturday, Noon – 6 PM.

Admission: Free

Reception: Thursday, February 17, 5 – 8 PM, plus live jazz music.

The art will be available for purchase, as these will be museum-quality archival pigment prints on Bright White Velvet 100% rag paper.

Learn more: https://www.sopacnow.org/events/light-sound-reception/

About the Curator Jeremy Moss 

Curator Jeremy Moss. Photo by Kevin Coughlin.

Having studied photography and graphic art in the U.K., Jeremy Moss’s journey to the artist of today has been a combination of fine art shows and editorial assignments. His photographic, fine art limited editions have been shown throughout the greater New York metropolitan region in solo shows, juried fine art shows, and group shows. His work is held in both private and corporate collections, domestic and international. Jeremy is also a painter and mosaic artist. His paintings are mostly abstract textural pieces that have a definite relationship with his fine art photography. 

In 2016, the South Orange Performing Arts Center appointed Jeremy as the curator for the Herb & Milly Iris Gallery. He is an experienced and visionary arts non-profit leader with over 19 years in arts and arts management, skilled at building exceptional teams focused on collaboration and results. He was brought on board to oversee the strategic direction of the gallery, as well as bring new exhibits to the South Orange landmark that reflect the mission of the Herb & Milly Iris Gallery — to encourage emerging artists and to bring contemporary art to a broader audience.

Jeremy is a native of Leicester, England and currently resides in Orange, New Jersey.

About the Author Gregory Burrus

Gregory Burrus is a local live music producer, promoter who captures, and records live music performances, community events and private engagements. Gregory also loves to write and blog about the art and entertainment scene across New Jersey and New York, 

My mission is to help artists, live music bands, community groups, and local nonprofits reach their goals and accomplish their mission while thoroughly enjoying the day-to-day process of life.  

Learn more at: 

http://gregoryburrusproductions.com
http://24hoursofmusicjamboree.com
https://patch.com/users/gregburrus