After a two-year tour in Europe, North Africa,the Caribbean and Alaska,I'm finally going to perform down in this part of the U.S. during the "largest-ever simultaneous live acoustic music event," hosted by the Gap. In case you haven't heard, the Gap is celebrating 40 years of heritage in jeans and music.
All of you in the ATL grab up your family, friends and coworkers and come on out for this in-store. I'll be performing an intimate acoustic set of select songs from my debut album, Masterpiece, as well as hits I've written for other artists, and a few surprises.I'll also be speaking with fans and autographing copies of Masterpiece.
I guess by now you've heard about mySoul Power!campaign. If you’ve been reading the papers or watching TV, you know that right now it’s all about the love and people pulling together.So, in keeping with that theme, I’m asking all of my fans to join me in Soul Power!, my music program empowermentcampaign.
With all the talk about cutting back and buckling down, it’s obvious that special programs will take a hard hit.I want my fans to join me in showing our power and empowering others. So, if you don’t already own a copy of MASTERPIECE please click on any of the links below, between now and October 31st and download “For The People,”“Money Don’t Mean A Thing,” and/or “Heart Of A Soldier.”
I will donate a portion of the proceeds from your downloads to 3 music-related organizations, one in New York City, my hometown, a national organization that spreads the wealth, and an international organization to show our love worldwide.My management and I are currently considering several organizations.If you know of an organization that deserves our support, please feel free to send your suggestions for consideration to fanmail@jphoenixmusic.com, with “Soul Power!” in the subject line.We will let you know next month which organizations we’ve chosen.The goal is BIG so ask your family members, friends and colleagues to join us in the Soul Power! effort.It’s a small investment that can make a big difference.
Where In The World Is J. Phoenix……Today I’m chillin' and preparing for a few days in Turkey and Greece.
"Nowadays, there is something commendable to be said about R&B that doesn't feature lyrics dripping with sex and vulgarities. Masterpiece is a gem in the sense that it brings back the old school vibe of our culture's Motown days while still maintaining a firm foothold in the present.
"Sweet sweet freedom/ Everybody's on the same road/ No matter what your color/ Rich or poor…" goes the lulling chorus of "Sweet Freedom," a fitting representative for the tone that is pertinent throughout J. Phoenix's debut effort. With a title like "Money Don't Mean a Thing," another of the album's tracks could have easily been a forgettable filler piece, but J. Phoenix's smooth, sultry vocals give it the credibility it deserves. Not one syllable is neglected; nor is any sentiment understated. J. Phoenix sings with such passion and conviction that it would be difficult not to be transported.
Masterpiece isn't revolutionary in its theme, so don't invest in it if you're more into hip, progressive music. However, the album exudes talent, and it is with much hope that J. Phoenix will repave the forgotten path for other R&B artists to regard their craft with the care that he has." --Charissa Che The Pace Press
Where In The World Is J. Phoenix……Today I’m in Tunisia. Later in the week I will be Spain, France and Italy.
I Was Hyped…….and ready to tell you all about the great review Masterpiece received, when I learned of Isaac Hayes’ death.So we’ll get to the review later.Obviously I was nowhere to be found when Hot Buttered Soul hit the streets; but when singing found me, I found the album and was blown away.While the cover was striking and impressive, it was Isaac's music and arrangements that held my attention most and led me to keep my ears tuned to his body of work.His contribution to soul music is huge. I remember my manager telling me he was the first artist she had ever seen in person whose performance surpassed what was on the vinyl. Not being in the States to celebrate his career and life with other artists saddens me.However, due to technology and the vision of David Nathan, of Soulmusic.com I was able to join Dionne Warwick, The O’Jays, and others in paying tribute to our legendary Academy Award winner.Please take a moment to check out the site and read some of the great things said about Isaac Hayes.
What’s Up With Masterpiece…….It’s obvious that RondaGholston at 4DaSoul.com is feeling the album.Here’s some of what she has to say.
“Get ready to make a quick dash to your local to purchase what should have been the most sought out album of ’07. Emerging singer/songwriter J. Phoenix has delivered to us his independently released, debut album, Masterpiece. Listening to the album in its entirety, I would have to say that J. Phoenix shouldn’t be looked over any longer. Masterpiece is a beautifully written album that combines different sounds of soul, R&B with touches of jazz and a hint of classical…? That’s right! Each track, he is able to deliver to us heartfelt yet truthful lyrics that one can only feel connected to…… This debut album will clearly have people buzzing and raving about J. Phoenix and the musical talent this man possesses. Every track delivers a message of hope, love, and empowerment, while listening to beautiful vocals that we can only attempt to mimic…… The title of the album, clearly speaks for it’s self.”
You may read the review in its entirety at 4DaSoul.com.
Where In The World Is J. Phoenix……Today I’m in Naples, and I'll be spending the weekend in Venice.
Thanks for coming on the ride and let’s continue the conversation…….
