Schmooze Jazz Magazine Returns with Exclusive Insights, Dynamic Interviews, and the Legendary Bobby Lyle

Schmooze Jazz Cover Issue 2

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, Los Angeles, CA

Schmooze Jazz magazine’s second issue promises an immersive experience for music enthusiasts, featuring captivating content ranging from exclusive interviews with legendary pianist Bobby Lyle to deep dives into the lives of contemporary jazz icons like Spyro Gyra and Paula Atherton. With comprehensive coverage of Southern California’s dynamic jazz scene, insightful retrospectives, and reviews of notable CD releases, the magazine offers a rich exploration of modern jazz culture. Don’t miss out on this compelling journey into this broader jazz spectrum.

Headlining this edition is Bobby Lyle, whose innovative approach to music continues to inspire generations. In an exclusive interview, Lyle shares his thoughts on composition and arranging, offering a glimpse into his diverse sources of inspiration. With a career marked by creativity and versatility, Lyle’s impact on the jazz scene remains unparalleled. Notably, photographer Ash Gupta’s images grace the cover and lifestyle editorial, capturing Bobby Lyle’s essence. Lyle’s commentary underscores the magazine’s commitment to exploring jazz’s diverse landscape and evolution. As Lyle aptly puts it, “I’ve always had a problem with so-called jazz critics who get this picture in their mind of what jazz is supposed to be . . . as jazz has evolved, it has borrowed from more and more sources.”

Offering a rich array of content, early in the magazine is a compelling interview with Jay Beckinstein of Spyro Gyra, a band whose extensive discography spans decades and continues to captivate audiences. Schmooze Jazz reflects on their remarkable legacy, praising their ability to traverse musical genres and eras while maintaining a distinctive sound.  Spyro Gyra’s profound impact on contemporary jazz is undeniable, making their interview an early highlight. Join us in celebrating Spyro Gyra’s 50th anniversary.

This issue presents exclusive interviews with Billboard-charting artists such as Eric Darius, Kim Scott, Paula Atherton, and Terry Wollman. The issue also features a retrospective on Astrud Gilberto, penned by Schmooze Jazz‘s Executive Editor and Jazz/Bossa-nova artist Kaylene Peoples. Notably, percussionist Pete Escovedo, father of Sheila E, enlightens readers about his successful career. Moreover, pianist Myron McKinley discusses his evolution as Earth, Wind & Fire’s musical director and his recent album Sound Alchemist.

Further enriching the publication is a comprehensive overview of Southern California’s exciting jazz scene, with live concerts, festivals, and more, meticulously curated by event editor Sheryl Aronson. Aronson also interviews Oxnard Jazz Festival’s Chuck Dennis who shares his inspiration for the rapidly emerging annual event.  The magazine also reviews notable CD releases, including Euphoria by Keiko Matsui, Innocence by Kenny G, The Drop by Jeff Lorber Fusion, Heartwood by Lawson Rollins; Black Classical Music by Yussef Dayes, and Just In The Moment by Justin-Lee Schultz. Additionally, contributing writer/photographer Michael Adam Cohen shares insights from the “Dave Koz & Friends at Sea” experience. Vocalist Rebecca Jade and her new CD is highlighted in the issue, adding further depth to its coverage.

ABOUT:

Schmooze Jazz magazine stands at the forefront of contemporary jazz exploration, offering an engaging platform dedicated to the vibrancy of modern jazz and its diverse intersections with other musical genres. With a keen focus on insight and exploration, Schmooze Jazz magazine provides readers with an in-depth look into the stories behind the music, featuring exclusive interviews with established legends and emerging talents alike. Beyond its commitment to spotlighting the big names in contemporary jazz, Schmooze Jazz magazine celebrates the rich diversity of voices and styles shaping the genre today. From smooth jazz to fusion, Latin influences to electronic experimentation, each issue invites readers to discover new sounds and expand their musical horizons. Expertly curated reviews, insightful commentary, and a comprehensive overview of the global jazz scene further distinguish Schmooze Jazz Magazine as an essential guide for navigating contemporary/crossover jazz. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Schmooze Jazz magazine welcomes you to join the conversation, explore new sounds, and immerse yourself in their dynamic world. Schmooze Jazz is your essential guide to contemporary jazz and crossover Genres!  Visit schmoozejazz.com! Schmooze Jazz is a KL Publishing Group publication.

Contact:
First Take PR
Email: sean@firsttakepr.com
Phone: 213-576-9946

“Bobby Lyle: Jazz in All Its Flavors” for Cinqo de Mayo Weekend!

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In the Minneapolis area: Don’t miss this two-day extravaganza of powerful music for Cinco de Mayo Weekend! Friday, May 5th and Saturday, May 6th at Crooners Supper Club featuring multi-award-winning and #1 Billboard charting artist Bobby Lyle!

Day 1

On Friday, May 5th, 2023, at 7:30pm. Pianist/keyboardist Bobby Lyle who is is a multi-award-winning and #1 Billboard charting artist will be performing at Crooners Supper Club in Minneapolis, MN at 7:30pm! In his show “Bobby Lyle Sextet: Contemporary Jazz Night,” Lyle is joined by Brian Kendrick (Drums), Tony Axtell (Bass), Jimmy Steffen (Keyboards), Ronny Loew (Saxes), and Joe Elliott (Guitar). Bobby’s Billboard chart topping single “Nujazzy” will be featured.

Day 2

In the Minneapolis area: Don’t miss this powerful music on May 6th, 2023, at Crooners Supper Club featuring multi-award-winning and #1 Billboard charting artist Bobby Lyle who presents an evening of solo piano, offering “Traditional and impressionistic Solo Piano” featuring special guests Kenni Holmen on sax and Ollie Lyle on bass. Show starts at 4pm.

  • Dinner and cocktail seating and service begins 1 hour before showtimes.

For tickets, Visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/bobby-lyle-jazz-in-all-its-flavors-2048159?aff=odclrlmctfte

 

Legendary Pianist Bobby Returns to Herb Alpert’s Vibrato Grill & Jazz!

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Bobby Lyle burst onto the music scene with his epic release “The Genie” and has since continued to shatter records and mesmerize audiences with his world-class performances as a legendary pianist and organist. His talents have earned him numerous chart-topping albums, including his record-breaking #1 Billboard successful CD “Ivory Flow”. Lyle’s music is a unique blend of soulful melodies, intricate harmonies, and infectious grooves that have earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
In addition to his successful solo career, Lyle has also collaborated with some of the biggest names in jazz and R&B, including Al Jarreau, Anita Baker, Bette Midler, and George Benson. His talents have led him to perform at some of the world’s most prestigious venues.
On April 25th, 2023, Bobby Lyle is set to take the stage at Vibrato Grill & Jazz, one of Los Angeles’ premier live music venues. Fans can expect a night of unforgettable music as Lyle showcases his impeccable musicianship and electrifying energy. With a career spanning over four decades and a reputation as one of the most dynamic and versatile musicians of his generation, Bobby Lyle continues to push the boundaries of jazz and R&B music.
Lineup: Bobby Lyle (Piano), Bill Steinway (Keyboards), Tony Pulizzi (Guitar); Brandon Fields (Sax), Hussain Jiffrey (Bass), and Tony Moore (Drums)
Address: Herb Alpert’s Vibrato Grill & Jazz, 2930 Beverly Glen Circle, Los Angeles, CA 90077
Doors Open at 6PM
Reservation: (310) 474-9400

Bobby Lyle’s Single “Nujazzy” on Sirius XM Watercolors!

Bobby Lyle Nujazzy
“Nujazzy” by Bobby Lyle features the dynamic rhythm section of bassist Nathan East and drummer Vinnie Colaiuta playing this mid tempo groove track. John Calderon is on guitar.  This recent single release is still going for radio adds and can be heard currently on Sirius XM radio, Watercolors.
“Nujazzy” is an upbeat track with a catchy melody and a seductive groove anchored by bassist Nathan East and drummer Vinnie Colaiuta. Guitarist John Calderone (who trades licks with Bobby halfway through) and percussionist Tony Axtell round out the rhythm section. – This is an amazing song and looks like it will make a serious mark on the charts!
(Just a side note, Bobby Lyle’s first single release “Living in the Flow” remained #1 on the billboard charts all of 2021!)

Bobby Lyle’s “Living In the Flow” Is #1 on Billboard!

From the moment “Living in the Flow” dropped in April 2021, the smooth jazz single climbed from #25 to #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 Smooth Singles chart after 19 weeks. Fans and new listeners love the tune, which steps outside of the traditional smooth jazz genre, mesmerizing with its  subtle virtuosity and brilliant compositions and arrangements by the legendary keyboardist/organist bobby Lyle. But what was lurking and consistently climbing on the Smooth Jazz Recurrent chart was the single, “Living in the Flow,”  which literally has been living quite comfortably on Billboard for over five weeks at the coveted #1 position.

“We are so proud of Bobby Lyle and his single “Living in the Flow.” He is a legend and deserves this #1 spot on Billboard Smooth Jazz Recurrent chart.  Every bit of music he has ever put out, ranging from THE GENIE right up to IVORY FLOW  has been topnotch, created and composed with staying power.  Congratulations to the Emmy-nominated/Hall of Fame Inductee Bobby Lyle on incredible achievement.” – The First Take PR Team

To see the current chart standing: https://bobbylylethegenie.com/news-classic/

Bobby Lyle on “Living in the Flow”

“This tune was chosen as the first radio single because of the front and center piano melodies and the airwaves-friendly groove laid down by bassist Nate Phillips and drummer Jay Williams. Kerry Wilkens gave me superb guitar work on this one. As far as inspiration, I love to observe the flow of life, whether it’s children on a playground, people bustling through a busy airport, birds and squirrels in the park, or me just silently driving through the countryside. This song seems to reflect all that.” – Schmooze Jazz Magazine

Purchase IVORY FLOW or just the single “Living in the Flow,” visit The Genie Record Store!

#firsttakepr #bobbylylethegenie #livingintheflow #kaylenepeoples #seanmckenzie

 

Bobby Lyle’s Single “Living in the Flow” Enters Billboard at #25 for Smooth Jazz National Airplay Off His New CD IVORY FLOW.

Legendary pianist/organist Bobby Lyle has returned to the recorded music scene in serious smooth and contemporary mode with his new single “Living in the Flow.” The tight rhythm section provides the perfect radio-friendly backdrop for Lyle’s signature piano melodies. This tune is only 1of 11 tracks that comprise a complete album. The CD, Ivory Flow: Bobby Lyle and Friends, features some of the genre’s biggest names.

With 16 album releases, Bobby Lyle does a slam-dunk with his newest CD titled Ivory Flow, featuring Lyle on all keyboards and an all-star lineup of guest artists. The single, “Living in the Flow,” entered Billboard at #25 and features bassist Nate Phillips, guitarist Kerry Wilkens, trumpeter Vincent Gross, and drummer Jay Williams. And the list of musicians on the entire album includes heavy hitters in the world of contemporary and traditional jazz, including Stanley Clarke, Rick Braun, Brian Bromberg, Gerald Albright, Kirk Whalum, Najee Rashad; Marcus Miller, Everette Harp, Paul Jackson Jr., Vinnie Colaiuta, and John Patitucci, and others.

Bobby Lyle's Lineup
Bobby Lyle and his A-Star Lineup

“I am truly excited to get this new album out there,” said Lyle while relaxing at home.  Mainly because it’s sort of a reunion album in that I was able to send out files to friends who appeared on my albums in the past, are stars in their own right with their own discographies, but were all completely dedicated to making the songs come to life.  So don’t be surprised as you go through it to suddenly hear a Gerald Albright or a Marcus Miller or a Rick Braun, just to name a few. Working at home primarily was something new for me, but I love the relaxed, no-clock pressure environment; and sending out files is the way we have to do it nowadays, because of the pandemic and everyone living in different cities.  The trick is to make it sound and feel like we were all in the studio hittin’ together. And I can happily say I think we achieved that.” – Bobby Lyle

Bobby Lyle is known as a serious jazz pianist and has crossed genres spanning his career. He set a precedent as a jazz-fusion wonder with The Genie (1977) to contemporary jazz, r&b, and his blues-inspired The Way I Feel (2013), where he pays tribute to Jimmy Smith and Wes Montgomery while showing his chops on the Hammond B3 organ. Eight years later and three years in the making, “Living in the Flow” bursts on the scene, letting the genie out of his lamp.

“‘Living in the Flow’ was chosen as the first radio single because of the front and center piano melodies, and the airwaves-friendly groove laid down by bassist Nate Phillips and drummer Jay Williams. Kerry Wilkens gave me superb guitar work on this one. I love to observe the flow of life, whether it’s children on a playground, people bustling through a busy airport, birds and squirrels in the park, or me just silently driving through the countryside. This song seems to reflect all of that. The inspiration for this Ivory Flow Project was two-fold. First, it had been at least six years since I had put out any new product. And secondly, my writing (which had never stopped) had created quite a backlog of songs. Add to this the constant inquiries from my fans about when was something new coming and you can see the boiling point that was finally reached. When I told myself “it’s time for you to get busy in that studio. I rolled up my sleeves and never looked back. More than two years later, here is Ivory Flow ready for the marketplace.” – Bobby Lyle Interview, Schmoozejazz.com

 

TRACK LIST FOR IVORY FLOW—BOBBY LYLE & FRIENDS

1.) “Living In The Flow” Featuring Kerry Wilkens Guitar, Vincent Gross Trumpet, Nate Phillips Bass, and Jay Williams drums (Listen)

2.) Feel the Heat Featuring Najee Rashad Flute, Stanley Clarke Bass, Sonny Emory Drums, and Lenny Castro Percussion

3.) “In A Sentimental Mood” (by Duke Ellington) Featuring Tatiana Mayfield Vocals, Rick Braun Trumpet, and Brian Bromberg Bass

4.) “Hello Maceo” Featuring Gerald Albright and Kirk Whalum Saxes, Najee Rashad Flute, Marcus Miller Bass, Andre Hayward Trombone

5.) “Where Are You” Featuring Everette Harp saxophone and Tatiana Mayfield Vocals

6.) “What Kind of World” Featuring Kyle Turner & Ken Mondshine Saxes, Jon Calderon Guitar, Tatiana Mayfield & Andre Venson Vocals.

7.) “Spirit Song” Featuring Kirk Whalum Sax, Andre Hayward Trombone, Paul Jackson, Jr. Guitar

8.) “Tommy’s Song” Featuring Najee Rashad Soprano Sax, and Billy Kilson Drums

9.) “Nujazzy” Featuring John Calderon Guitar, Nathan East Bass, and Vinnie Colaiuta Drums 10.) “Cleo’s Waltz” Featuring Marion Meadows Soprano Sax, John Patitucci Bass, and Mark Simmons Drums

11.) “Indigo Nights” Bobby Lyle all Keyboards.

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“Being shut in by the pandemic has given artists something we previously never seemed to have enough of: TIME! People have chosen to use it in different ways, but it has been an opportunity for me to go deeper into my artistry: Playing, composing, and teaching. I have reconnected with some of my classical books and that has opened up new musical avenues. But most importantly, I was able to focus on finishing Ivory Flow. I can’t call it a comeback album because I never stopped performing and being active in music. Let’s say I’m re-emerging as a recording entity with this project. It contains 11 tracks, 10 of them originals, plus Duke Ellington’s “In A Sentimental Mood” sung beautifully by Tatiana Mayfield. It is also a reunion project of sorts in that I sent out tracks to guys who have participated on my previous recordings. Most are solo artists in their own right with their own discographies. They all came through in spectacular fashion.” – Bobby Lyle, Schmoozejazz.com

Bobby Lyle has had many achievements, such as getting to #1 on the Billboard Jazz Album chart with The Journey in 1991. The Atlantic release contained the song “Viva Mandela,” which celebrated Nelson Mandela’s release from prison. Lyle recounts his performance of “Viva Mandela” with Nelson Mandela in the audience beaming as he watched him perform the song. Additional highlights include Lyle’s first record deal with Capitol Jazz, touring, recording sessions, and most of all The Genie, his first project under his own name and the album that put him on the map.

When Capitol Records disbanded its entire jazz division, Lyle began musical directing for Phyliss Hyman, Bette Midler, Al Jarreau, and Anita Baker. All were stylistically different, creating a training ground for becoming a great accompanist, regardless of who the artist is. Al Jarreau took him on his first tour in Europe and the culmination of that tour is documented on the DVD Al Jarreau-Live In London. Bobby Lyle also toured with Bette Midler throughout America. That experience earned him an Emmy.

“One of the most versatile keyboardists on the music scene, Lyle is an established composer, bandleader, producer/arranger, musical director, music publisher, jazz educator, recording artist, and world class live performer. Audiences everywhere continue to be mesmerized by Lyle’s melodic compositions and dazzling piano technique.” — Allaboutjazz.com

ABOUT BOBBY LYLE:

Bobby Lyle was inducted in the Black Music Awards (BMA) Hall of Fame in Houston, Texas, on November 8, 2020. He has toured with George Benson then became musical director for singers Phyllis Hyman, Bette Midler (with whom he received an Emmy nomination for musical direction after her HBO special Diva Las Vegas in 1999), Al Jarreau, and Anita Baker. After a live audition for Atlantic Records, he signed a deal, recording six albums in nine years then followed three albums on independent labels: Joyful and Straight and Smooth for Three Keys; and Hands On for the Heads Up label. In 2013, Lyle created the label New Warrior Music to go with his Genie Productions company and he produced and released a tribute to his Hammond B-3 idol Jimmy Smith called The Way I Feel. He also maintained his career as a jazz piano instructor and practitioner of master classes in colleges and High schools. A return to the contemporary/smooth genre he helped to pioneer the single “Living In The Flow,” which is blowing up the airwaves. Best known for his epic album, The Genie, Lyle continues to perform regularly, playing piano and organ with his band, as a featured artist, and as a solo pianist.  After 15 album releases, he has done it again from the New Warrior Music label with the release with Ivory Flow!

Visit Bobbylylethegenie.com and The Genie Record Store the purchase Ivory Flow.

Bobby Lyle and Band Reviewed in Hollywood 360: Long beach Jazz Fest 2017

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August 17, 2017 | Sheryl Aronson | The Hollywood 360

on the Main Stage were the veteran musicians of Ndugu Chancler, drummer, Bobby Lyle, keys, Alphonso Johnson, bass and Craig T. Copper, guitar.  They were joined later by the vocalists, Bridgette Bryant, Will Wheaton and Sangindiva Shannon plus other backup singers. 

This hour of music energized the audience with the strong, heavy chops of Chancler, Lyle, Johnson and Cooper.  Each one of these musicians have been at their craft for over 30 years.  Ndugu Chancler has played with Miles Davis, Frank Sinatra, Herbie Hancock, and Weather Report.  He has Gold and Platinum albums as well as Grammy Awards.  On the drums that afternoon, he roared with superlative rhythm. Alphonso Johnson has played with Weather Report, Sergio Mendes, the Grateful Dead and now teaches at Cal Arts and USC.  His bass playing flowed and bounced with graceful plucking.  Craig T. Cooper on guitar has played with Barry Manilow, The O’Jays and the Crusaders.  He brandished the guitar strings with flavorful soulful chops.  

Read Original Source: http://thehollywood360.com/day-ii-of-the-30th-annual-long-beach-jazz-festival/

(Featured Photo of Bobby Lyle at the 30th Annual Long Beach Jazz Festival by Sheryl Aronson)

Interview with Bobby Lyle at the 30th Annual Long Beach Jazz Festival

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(Featured Photo of Bobby Lyle by Sheryl Aronson)

By Sheryl Aronson | August 15, 2017 | Arting Around – Agenda Magazine

Bobby Lyle presented a powerful presence on the keys during his set with Ndugu Chancler, Alphonso Johnson, and Craig T. Cooper at the 30th Annual Long Beach Jazz Festival on Saturday, August 12, 2017.  One could see the joy and passion on Lyle’s face during performance.  He tickled the ivory of the electric keyboard, then switched over to the acoustic piano and maintaining a masterful technique on both.

A veteran of the music industry for 40 years, Bobby Lyle has amassed a prolific discography of jazz music.  He has traveled all over the world performing musical directing for legends Bette Midler, Al Jarreau, Anita Baker, and more.  He now heads his own ensembles and plans to head up his own jazz series in Houston titled Bobby Lyle Presents.

I caught up with Bobby Lyle backstage of the Long Beach Jazz Festival just after his performance.

Read more at the Original Source: http://www.agendamag.com/blog-post/arting-around-interview-bobby-lyle-30th-annual-long-beach-jazz-festival/

Bobby Lyle to Perform at the 30th Annual Long Beach Jazz Fest

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On Saturday, August 12, 2017, Emmy-nominated keyboardist Bobby Lyle will be performing at 2:30 pm at the Long Beach Jazz Festival, along with Ndugu Chancler on drums, Alphonso Johnson on bass, Craig T. Cooper on guitar, and vocals by Bridgette Bryant.

“We have a great show in store you. See ya there!” -Bobby Lyle

long-beach-jazz-fest-2017-bobby-lyleFor over 2 decades, the #LBJazzFest has been a trailblazer consistently refining the essence of a premier jazz festival beyond celebrated artists and mellow ambience. The Long Beach Jazz Festival experience is more     than music, mingling, munching and marveling at merchandise. Attendees will enjoy marina breezes and a beautiful lagoon and park setting. The Vendor Pavilion offers a variety of freshly prepared foods and beverages plus unique clothing, art and accessories. A 2nd stage in the Pavilion features experts sharing knowledge about health and well-being—valuable information for creating healthy awareness of body, mind and soul. When the health speakers are not on stage, diverse musical groups provide listening entertainment.

See original source: http://longbeachjazzfestival.com/news/the-30th-annual-long-beach-jazz-festival-press-release/

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Bobby Lyle (Image Courtesy of First Take PR)

SATURDAY, AUGUST 12, 2017
Boney James
Will Downing
Nathan East
Eric Darius
30 Years of Long Beach Jazz
Featuring: Ndugu Chancler, Bobby Lyle, Craig T. Cooper, Alphonso Johnson, Bridgette Bryant
Jazz In P!nk

For more information: http://longbeachjazzfestival.com/line-up/

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Bridgette Bryant

 

 

 

 

 

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Craig T. Cooper

 

Alphonso-Johnson
Alphonso Johnson
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Ndugu Chancler (Photo: First Take PR)

Unplugged Again! Bobby Lyle With Billy Peterson in the Dunsmore Room, October 24

jazzpolice.com | Oct 22, 2016

“…a veteran keyboardist who has always infused his funky rhythm and jazz with a touch of elegance and improvisational spirit.”–  Jonathan Widran (All Music Guide)

Back by popular demand! Former resident of the Twin Cities, keyboard prodigy-turned music director and bandleader Bobby Lyle will again join old friend, bassist Billy Peterson, in an all acoustic evening in the Dunsmore Room at Crooners Lounge on October 24 with sets at 7 and 9 pm. The duo sold out two nights in the Dunsmore Room last May. Lyle will now make magic on the venue’s new Steinway D piano.

Bobby Lyle was born in Memphis, moving north to Minneapolis with his family. He started piano lessons under his mother’s tutelage at age six, noting that “growing up in a climate where you had six months of winter every year provided lots of practice time.”  Influenced primarily by Oscar Peterson, Ahmad Jamal, Bill Evans, Erroll Garner, and Art Tatum, Bobby was burning up pianos and Hammond B3s as early as age 13, soon gigging in Twin Cities clubs that couldn’t yet serve him. Enrolled at Macalester College for two years where he studied piano, Bobby eventually quit college and went on the road with Red Holt and Eldee Young. Bobby soon coming to the attention of Jimi Hendrix, with whom he worked a short time before Hendrix’ death. His family moved to LA and Lyle toured for a while with Sly and the Family Stone, then Ronnie Laws. After making a few recordings for Capitol, Lyle joined forces with George Benson, later touring with and serving as Music Director for Al Jarreau, Bette Midler, and Anita Baker. From the late 80s to mid 90s, Lyle made six recordings for Atlantic, still touring with his own bands and with Bette Midler.

Three decades into a prolific career as composer, arranger, bandleader, and recording artist of fusion as well as straight-ahead, Lyle released Straight and Smooth (Three Keys) in 2004 as an overt declaration of his dual keyboard personality. And with this release, Bobby became the first artist to ever chart on both the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Chart and the Straight Ahead Jazz Chart. Staying on the smooth side for his next recording, Bobby’s Hands On (2006) was described by All About Jazz as “a mix of charming, laid-back, romantic and danceable grooves.”

Relocating to Houston, in 2013 Bobby released his first Hammond B-3 organ CD, The Way I Feel—a tribute to the late, great Jimmy Smith and guitarist Wes Montgomery on his own label (New Warrior Music). In 2014 Lyle, in association with smooth jazz radio personality Guy Michaels, launched Houston’s first ever TV Jazz Show called The J-Spot. These days Bobby continues touring, arranging and composing, as well as teaching at the Houston Summer Jazz Workshop and as a touring clinician and private instructor.

From Minnesota’s “First Family of Music,” bassist Billy Peterson sang in commercials with sister Linda at age 9 and played bass and drums in his father’s ensembles while in junior high. He played in a variety of combos and big bands throughout his high school years, including a summer tour with the Righteous Brothers and a stint with the Lawrence Welk All-Stars. After graduation, Billy played three years with Billy Wallace (Clifford Brown’s pianist) and co-founded the band Natural Life with saxman Bob Rockwell. He has recorded with Leo Kottke and performed or recorded with BB King, Johnny Smith, Lenny Breau, and the late Les Paul. Due to tour commitments, he passed on an invitation to join the Bill Evans Trio (Marc Johnson’s good fortune!). In 1975, he appeared on Bob Dylan’s acclaimed Blood on the Tracks, and a few years later began a long-standing collaboration with Ben Sidran, which led to his 20+ year association with the Steve Miller Band. Billy continues to tour with Bob Rockwell in Europe and nationally with the Dave King Trio, and appears in the Twin Cities with The Peterson Family, How Birds Work, and other ensembles.

The Dunsmore Room is located in Crooners Lounge at 6161 Highway 65 NE, just north of I-694 and about 20 minutes northeast of downtown Minneapolis. Reservations highly recommended atwww.croonersloungemn.com.

Original Source: http://jazzpolice.com/archives/3029