Bunny Brunel, Stanley Clarke, Kyle Eastwood, & Armand Sabal-Lecco Take Center Stage for an Unforgettable Night of Bass!

Bunny Brunel & Friends "Bass Ball 2" CD Release Concert

On January 19, 2024, legendary bassist Bunny Brunel headlined at the Catalina Jazz Club for his “Bass Ball 2” CD release concert. The packed event featured iconic bassists Stanley Clarke, Kyle Eastwood, and Armand Sabal-Lecco, with performances by Larry Dunn and Kaylene Peoples. The night showcased bass virtuosity, surprise collaborations, and a captivating mix of jazz, blues, and Bossa-nova. Hosted by Kevin Foster and opened by Pat Prescott, the event received high praise and an unforgettable evening for all.

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. – Jan. 27, 2024 – First Take PR

(All Photos by Sheryl Aronson)

Bunny Brunel & Friends "Bass Ball 2" CD Release Concert at Catal — Host Kevin Foster

Bunny Brunel & Friends “Bass Ball 2” made its way to the Catalina Jazz Club on Sunset Blvd. for a once-in-a-lifetime night of music. Never have these four players (Bunny Brunel, Stanley Clarke, Armand Sabal-Lecco, & Kyle Eastwood) graced the same stage during a performance . . . and the audience was thrilled to be there to witness it. This night was filled with great collaborations with a variety of styles and techniques. Bunny Brunel and Stanley Clarke who are both known for their tenure with Chick Corea were pivotal in bringing the bass upfront. Pioneers of the jazz-fusion bass movement, Brunel & Clarke helped pave the way for future bass players to carve their own niche in the industry. The performances that evening was epic. Several attendees remarked how distinctive each bass player’s sound was. One guest remarked, “You could close your eyes and know who was playing.”

Larry Dunn, the original keyboardist for Earth, Wind & Fire, added to the musical feast with his playing, bringing his sound filled with nostalgia, and adding something extra to the show. Dunn’s performance was nothing short of brilliant.

And Kaylene Peoples, a vocalist and flutist, charmed the audience with her command of the stage, bringing another flavor entirely. As Peoples jokingly expressed before she performed, “I’m the treble amongst all this bass!”

The engaged audience was mesmerized by each performer. There was something very unique about this unexpected lineup. The personnel, featuring Mahesh Balasooriya on keys, Monette Marino on percussion, and DeCarlos “Hulk” Davis on drums, showcased a fusion of talent.

To kick off the show, TV Writer/Comedian (Monogamy) Kevin Foster warmed up the audience as anticipation brewed. He brought to the stage Pat Prescott, a popular radio host, expressed how important jazz and supporting live music is today.

Then bassists Bunny Brunel, Stanley Clarke, and Kyle Eastwood set the tone with the infectious grooves of “G-Blues,” setting the crowd’s anticipation for a night of musical grandeur. The spotlight remained firmly on the bass instrument, providing an innovative palette for musical expression. Larry Dunn joined Bunny Brunel and Stanley Clarke for a captivating performance of “Changing,” which is slated as the first single from “Bass Ball 2” and showcased Dunn’s keyboard virtuosity. The dynamic duo of Stanley Clarke and Armand Sabal-Lecco then captivated the audience with a masterful interpretation of “La Caucion.”

Kaylene Peoples brought a touch of Romantic Bossa-Nova to the mix with her rendition of “Girl from Ipanema,” accompanied by Bunny Brunel on bass.

Kaylene Peoples performs “Spain” with Kyle Eastwood and Bunny Brunel

The climax of the night was the “Bass Jam,” where the four legendary bass players exhibited their technical prowess, melodic sensibility, and dynamic camaraderie on the electric bass.

Honoring the iconic Chick Corea, Kaylene Peoples returned to perform a flute solo on Corea’s “Spain.” The grand finale featured Larry Dunn rejoining Stanley Clarke, Bunny Brunel, Kyle Eastwood, and Kaylene Peoples for a jazzy rendition of “That’s the Way of the World.”

-by-Sheryl-Aronson — (L-R) Larry Dunn, Kaylene Peoples, Armand Sabal-Lecco, Monette Marino, DeCarlos Hulk Davis

Attendees praised “Bass Ball 2” and its legendary cast, with one remarking, “Tonight was the most beautiful jazz concert I have ever attended. Congratulations. True beauty is holy,” said Terran Steinhart, an Attorney at Law. Journalist A. Scott Galloway added, “Truly an unforgettable evening of heartfelt joy, camaraderie, and low-end love.” The enthusiastic crowd on January 19th included notables like fashion designer Kevan Hall, “Monogamy” Actress Chrystee Pharris, bass player Talmadge Hawkins, and Howard Johnson of “So Fine” fame. The event drew in a diverse audience, including Grammy-winning Phillip Aphillyated Guillory and the Executive Board of the Tuskegee Airman Scholarship Foundation.

Bass Ball 2, the brainchild of Bunny Brunel, follows the groundbreaking release of BASS BALL in 2017, the first-ever CD exclusively showcasing bass players. Co-produced by Stanley Clarke, the collaboration marked a historic moment for bass enthusiasts, thrusting the instrument into the forefront of musical expression. BASS BALL 2, released in 2023, features a stellar lineup, including Kyle Eastwood, Federico Malaman, Stanley Clarke, Armand Sabal-Lecco, Sekou Bunch, Josquin des Pres, Dominique di Piazza, and special guests Patrice Rushen, Larry Dunn, Kaylene Peoples, Virgil Donati, John Wackerman, Steve Ferrone, and countless other notable musicians. For more information about “Bass Ball 2” and the complete lineup, visit bunnybrunel.com/music.

The concert was proudly supported by the promotional teams at First Take PR, Concerts.cafe, and Music Magique Promotions, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Wounded Warriors Project.

(All Photos by Sheryl Aronson)

December 8, 2023February 13, 2024

Odyssey Towards the Light Book Launch with performer Kaylene Peoples, Host Cindy Marinangel, & Moderated by Laura Cathcart Robbins

Levy Lee Simon's "Odyssey Towards the Light" Book 1 Launch

Embark on a captivating journey with Levy Lee Simon’s much-anticipated memoir, Odyssey Towards the Light: Book 1. Join us for an unforgettable evening at the book launch and signing, happening on Friday, December 8th, 2023, at 7 PM in the heart of Hollywood, at Greenway Court Theatre – 544 N. Fairfax Avenue. Admission is free! Levy Lee Simon’s memoir is a riveting odyssey that unfolds from the vibrant streets of Harlem to the hallowed halls of HBCUs, the dazzling lights of NYC Theatre, and the wild escapades of the Roaring 80s. Brace yourself for tales of Party Nights and Drug-filled Days in the 90s, a journey marked by rises, falls, and more theatre magic. And mind you, this is just Part One!

Hosted by actress Cindy Marinangel, moderated by NY Times Best-Selling author and the creative force behind the popular podcast “The Only One in the Room” Laura Cathcart Robbins. Special Guest Michael Camacho, and joining the celebration is special guest jazz & Bossa-nova recording artist Kaylene Peoples who will enchant the audience with her “Romantic Bossa-Nova,” accompanied by the legendary Grammy-nominated bassist Bunny Brunel, guitarist Joe Calderon, and percussionist Christian Moraga.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a literary, conversational and musical event. Books will be available for purchase at the event, so you can take home a piece of this evening of Levy’s journey, and have your copy signed by the author himself. Immerse yourself in the Odyssey Towards the Light. Admission is free, but the experience is priceless. See you there!

A little about Odyssey Towards the Light: Book 1

“A riveting story about Levy Lee Simon, a multi-award-winning playwright, actor, and now novelist as he recounts his life, growing up during his formative years in Harlem during a period when racial diversity was nonexistent and tolerance had no place in a cruel society. Living in New York with the inspirations from Malcom X, Martin Luther King, Muhammad Ali, and countless other influential Black leaders of that time, Levy Lee overcomes adversity, was a star athlete, and mesmerizes audiences as a lead actor on stage, ultimately authoring highly acclaimed plays. We laugh, we cry, party with him, experiment with him, and we root for him. Inside this memoir, Activist Levy Lee’s life is inspiring and an incredible read.” – KL Publishing Group

#levyleesimon #odysseytowardsthelight #memoir #klpublishinggroup #firsttakepr #lauracathcartrobbins #ashgupta838 #bunnybrunel #kaylenepeoples #romanticbossanova #booklaunch, #bunnybrunel, #joecalderonguitar #christianmoragapercussion

January 10, 2022September 28, 2023

Agenda Magazine Introduces Lita Cline as the Face of Their Paper Doll-Themed Issue, Styled by Ty-Ron Mayes and Photographed by Udo Spreitzenbarth.

AGENDA’s Editor in Chief Kaylene Peoples teams up with celebrity stylist Ty-Ron Mayes (Fashion Whisperer) and Photographer Udo Spreitzenbarth for this eye-popping New Years issue, featuring model Lita Cline, wearing the hats of Anat Fritz! Also featured are designers Victor (Vivi) Bellaish, Shai Shalom, Kobi Halperin; and the backstories of the paper dolls BrookLynn and the new collectible, Couture Paper Dolls by Glenna Gaffney.

January 10, 2022, Los Angeles, CA

Agenda, the multicultural fashion and lifestyle magazine, does it again with another packed issue. Inside the 147 pages includes viscerally beautiful photography by Udo Spreitzenbarth in the Queen’s Gambit-themed fashion editorial titled “Queen of the Night,” styled by Agenda’s Fashion Whisperer Ty-Ron Mayes. The unique beauty of Lita Cline is captured wonderfully as she models the crocheted hats from designer Anat Fritz. Fritz’s crocheted collection had long been in luxury boutiques and department stores throughout Europe well before the costume designer for Queen’s Gambit used her green hat to “. . . crown Anya Taylor-Joy’s head in that pivotal scene.”

Kaylene Peoples, AGENDA Magazine's Fashion Whisperer Ty-Ron-Mayes — AGENDA Magazine’s Fashion Whisperer Ty-Ron-Mayes

Ty-Ron Mayes styled the shoot with designs & accessories from Calvin Klein, Rachel Zoe, Marc Jacobs, DKNY; and cosmetics by L’Oréal. Lita Cline’s eyes were made bigger than life with L’Oréal’s Infallible Eye Liner and Air Volume Mega Mascara. Ty-Ron Mayes also served as the editor on the shoot and did hair and makeup via Paper Faces, using Derma Blend Cosmetics.

Lita Cline - Queen of the Night in Agenda Magazine — Cover Model Lita Cline stars in “The Queen of the Night” editorial, photographed by Udo Spreitzenbarth and styled by Ty-Ron Mayes

Agenda’s January 2022 Issue #17, titled Couture Paper Dolls features Designer/illustrator Renaldo Barnette (by Black Design Collective), the creator of BrookLynn Paper Doll and comic book.

As a young child, Renaldo read every fashion publication he could get his hands on, but as early as he can remember, his first love was comic books and comic strips. As he pored through Millie The Model, Patsy & Hedy, Katy Keene, Betty & Veronica; Brenda Starr, Mary Perkins, Friday Foster, and Winnie Winkle, he was amazed by the illustrations. He credits these comics for showing him how to draw fashion. And in the case of Millie The Model and Winnie Winkle, he discovered that fashion was a real business.

Renaldo Barnette of BrookLynn Paper Dolls is featured in Issue 17 of Agenda Magazine

“I always wanted to see a comic book about a Black fashion model. I remember seeing Millie the Model’s friend Jill in 1966. She was one of the first Black characters in the Marvel Universe. And she was a Black fashion model from England. When I saw model Gayle O’Neil [in the mid-late 80s], I thought she looked like a doll, thinking she could be like a comic book. I had been toying with that idea for decades, and ten years ago, I gave her the name ‘BrookLynn’.”

“I am a recent collector of paper dolls. When I first moved to New York I had one paper doll book and the other a paper doll set. I had two published through Western. One was a bridal paper doll set, like a box set, and the other one was called Rock Stars. Those were two freelance jobs that my friend, the late great Bob Rausch, got me when I was in between jobs back in the late 80s.

Barnette talks about his favorite concept for his first BrookLynn Paper Doll book:

“It’s the makeover concept of how this plain school girl can be made over, like the way Audrey Hepburn was made over in Funny Face or Sabrina. Or the way Bette Davis was made over in Now Voyager. I don’t care about the height or size, if you find clothes, a great hairdo, and nice makeup, it can turn an ordinary person into the best-looking person they can be. And I’ve always liked that. It’s not just about being pretty, it’s about looking better.” —Agenda, Renaldo Barnette – Designer, Illustrator, & Creator of the BrookLynn Paper Dolls and Comics @itsallaboutbrookLynn

Artist Glenna Gaffney has created a new style of paper doll that she calls “Couture Paper Dolls.” Her collection ranges from “Fly Mom,” her Mewsick line with Prince/ Michael Jackson Inspired to her latest collection spurred by the 2021 MET Gala. What’s different about these dolls? They are not the traditional paper doll. Housed in a shadowbox, these dolls are dressed in Swarovsky crystals, sequin, feathers with intense bejeweling and meticulous hand-crafting right down to the hair, which is deceptively made from paper bags. Gaffney crafts her dolls to be one of a kind, and they are definitely couture-like. Each doll comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, and no two dolls are identical. Here she talks about one of her Couture Paper Dolls

Glenna Gaffney’s Couture Paper Dolls is featured in Issue 17 of Agenda Magazine

“Emerald Faye –Inspired by the girl who appreciates a long gown, dressing up elegantly and going to a social event. She strolls into her event with Swarovski crystal “blinging,” long hair flowing, making a gem of an entrance. The clothing is designed by Isaac Pineda. My desire is to work with different designers. I love collaborations, and Isaac Pineda is my first CPD collaboration. Isaac created the pattern and selected the fabric. I incorporated his vision with mine . . . and Emerald Faye was birthed from this process.” Agenda, Couture Paper Dolls by Glenna Gaffney – A Fashionable Collectible for the ‘Grown Up’ Little Girl! (couturepaperdolls.com)

Kaylene Peoples AGENDA Editor in Chief and Fashion Talk Journalist — Kaylene Peoples, AGENDA Magazine Editor in Chief and Fashion Talk Journalist

In the column, Fashion Talk, Kaylene Peoples does a historical retrospective of the history of the paper doll . . .

“One of the first instances of a doll made of paper was a Jumping Jack or a Pantin, where it originated in France in the 1700s. These dolls wore the high fashion of that time with only one outfit. So no changing the clothes. Like puppets or marionettes, they were created originally to mock the rich. At the end of the 1700s, fashion companies in Europe, particularly Paris, saw a huge opportunity to advertise their fashion through paper dolls, which started the practice of changing these dolls’ outfits. During this period, there were major advancements in printing technology, making mass production of these “newer” paper dolls accessible to more people at an affordable cost.

Peoples continues…

I am a grown woman, but I guess I will always have inside me that little girl who loves to play with dolls. As a Barbie collector, I have a new (micro) collection of paper dolls, and I want to explore more vintage paper dolls and cutouts. I discovered there are countless books with paper dolls available today that are very recent publications with fashion throughout history: First Ladies with Michelle Obama, Jackie Kennedy, Nancy Reagan; famous designers from Christian Dior to Valentino; Royal Brides from Meghan Markle to Kate The Duchess of Sussex; dancers, iconic celebrities, even torch singers. There were not as many superhero paper dolls as I had expected, but they do exist, mostly as collectibles . . . and trading paper doll cutout comics is a really big thing I learned. Comic Cons and various conventions around the world are where one can find these rare vestiges.”—Agenda, The Evolving Paper Doll, Proving that Everything Comes Back in Style

Highlights from Kornit Fashion Week LA 2021 #KornitDigital

Kobi Halperin:

Born and raised in Israel, Kobi studied and received his B.F.A from Shenkar College of Engineering and Design. Upon graduating, Kobi moved to New York where he became the Executive Creative Director at Elie Tahari for 13 years and the Executive Creative Director at Kenneth Cole Productions for 3 years. Inspired by his Eastern European roots and heritage, Kobi’s collections are marked by a warm feeling and handcrafted touch and workmanship that create a distinguished yet welcoming style aimed at “elevating the everyday”.

Shai Shalom:

A graduate of the Shenkar College of Engineering and Design, Shalom’s apparel is marked by meticulous tailoring and a keen eye for combining bright colors and materials. His designs cross a wide range of fine knitwear, sophisticated, slim-cut suits, cropped trousers and modern boat jackets.

Victor VIVI Bellaish:

The inspiration of the collection was tropical birds, mainly the Hoopoe, Israel’s national bird. Bellaish is fascinated by the bird’s feathers as a design element: the shape and structure composing a spectacular visual performance, which, accompanied by the silhouette, provides a feeling of uplifting flight. The collection stems from his journey researching textile history. Spirits of feminine strength and liberation beat at the heart of the collection, which is the product of a unique collaboration of the designer with Kornit Digital, which specializes in developing and creating systems for textile digital print.

Agenda magazine (agendamag.com) has been telling the story behind the story since 2004, continuing that dialog in its 17th year. And after 7½ years in print, the luxury magazine continues to publish coffee table keepsakes with engaging content and breathtaking photography. The January 2022-Issue #17, “Couture Paper Dolls,” is a 147-page glossy, and is available digitally and in print worldwide. Agenda is a KL Publishing Group publication. Visit agendamag.com/shop for more information. Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

August 25, 2021September 28, 2023

Kaylene Peoples Romantic Bossa-Nova Is Breathtaking and a Must See Musical Feast!

During these uncertain times and the unpredictability of opening and closing of concert venues, in between a bit of calm was a concert to be remembered with heartfelt romantic music, equipped with LA’s top musicians. Leading the way was the dynamic Kaylene Peoples with her show titled “Romantic Bossa-Nova” – a breathtaking concert that has found its way into the hearts of serious Bossa-nova enthusiasts on July 17, 2021. For starters, guest performer Larry Dunn, a 7-time Grammy-winning artist and original member/songwriter/keyboardist (formerly) of Earth Wind & Fire opened with a gripping performance of his composition “Runnin’.”

(Gallery Photos by Alex Kluft Photography)

Kaylene Peoples Romantic Bossa-Nova at Catalina Jazz Club — Larry Dunn Performs “Runnin'”

Bunny Brunel (who became famous from his nine-year stint with Chick Corea), the 2-time Grammy-nominated bassist performed on fretless and (his BBEUB) upright bass; and probably wore the most hats that evening (at the Catalina Jazz Club) as musical director. The French-born American sang in Brazilian Portuguese and soloed on his fretless bass on Kaylene Peoples’s intriguing arrangement of “Aguas de Março” (Waters of March) from her Romantic Bossa-Nova 2020 release. With Chad Wackerman (Frank Zappa) on drums and Grammy-nominated Dennis Hamm (Thundercat) on the 9-foot grand piano at the revered Catalina Jazz Club, the musical score was beyond dynamic. Joined by Guitarist Joe Calderon (Dianne Reeves) and percussionist Jon Brooks (Macy Gray), the performers laid the foundation for an evening of “soulful” Bossa-nova, as described by Levy Lee Simon, who was in attendance that night.

Kaylene Peoples Singing (Photo: Sheryl Aronson, SasaPhotos.com)

“I am a big fan of Bossa-nova, and it was my first time seeing Kaylene Peoples perform her show; I was blown away by it. Her voice magically elevated and took me on a ride to another place and time. I don’t know many artists—male or female—that can sing and play the flute equally well. And to top it off, the show is so damn s**y. Peoples exudes sensuality with every move, with every sound, with every note. Kaylene’s band with Bunny Brunel and guest artist Larry Dunn is exceptional. I had a great time—I believe a great time was had by all.” –Levy Lee Simon, Multi-Award Winning Writer/Actor/Director/Producer

Photo: Alex Kluft (Dennis Hamm & Larry Dunn — Dennis Hamm & Larry Dunn (Photo: Alex Kluft )

There have been many incarnations of Bossa-nova since the style took off in America with “Desafinado” from Stan Getz and Charlie Byrd’s Jazz Samba in 1962; Dave Brubeck Quartet in January 1962, recording “Vento Fresco” from Bossa Nova USA; and Herbie Mann’s “One Note Samba” from his Brazil, Bossa Nova & Blues in late 1961 or early ’62. (Referenced from Jazz.FM 91 “How Brazil’s Bossa-nova Became All the Rage in ‘60s America,” by Marc Myers.) What Kaylene Peoples brings to the genre is a mix of American soulful tradition, jazz improvisation, and instrumental virtuosity, making “Romantic Bossa-nova” an original embodiment of the style. Kaylene’s love for music started as a child as she learned to solo on the flute while her father, who was a self-taught musician, would play the blues on the piano.

Kaylene Peoples on Flute (Photo: Alex Kluft)

“I always love to talk about how I got started improvising. Sometimes my dad and I would be up at 3am just jamming, playing my flute until my mom would cut it off! I was just a kid. I had to get up in the morning and go to school! Those are fond memories for me. I thank my dad for pushing me. I loved it! And to this day, I incorporate my flute in my compositions and my performances.”—Kaylene Peoples

These early musical experiences inspired Kaylene to compose and arrange music. She went on to study composition with Academy Award-winners Walter Scharf, David Raksin, and Henry Mancini. She’s written symphonies, a ballet, and countless string arrangements throughout her career. This education comes through as a recording artist and can be heard in her jazz albums off of her Boogsey Music label: All Jazzed Up! (2005), The Meaning of Christmas (2013), My Man (2015), Carol of the Bells (2017), and Romantic Bossa-Nova (2020).

Chad Wackerman (Drums), Jon Brooks (Percussion), Nina Harris (BG Vocals), Joe Calderon (Guitar), Larry Dunn (Guest Artist) (Photo: Sheryl Aronson, SasaPhotos.com)

“Music speaks to our souls. I can change a scene or change a MOOD. Creating something from nothing, and watching how it affects others is what moves me. Whether it is a standalone composition or a new arrangement on a well-loved song, I love to watch people’s faces when they hear my compositions and arrangements. And countless people have told me that they were blessed by my music. Those testimonies are what moves me the most!” Formidable Women’s Magazine, “Kaylene Peoples – The Renaissance Woman” Interview by Jules Lavallee

Kaylene Peoples Romantic Bossa-Nova was inspired by a private concert that featured singer/actress Chase Masterson (Star Trek: Deep Space 9, Leeta) with guest performer Dave Pell (Saxophonist & Founder of West Coast Jazz). Sadly only a few months after that first “Romantic Bossa-Nova” show, Dave Pell passed away. Kaylene Peoples in collaboration with Chase Masterson, and co-composer Bunny Brunel wrote “Dave Pell-Just for Fun.” The song is featured on the Romantic Bossa-Nova CD. So what can one expect from Peoples’s show: “So Nice” and “Spain” off of My Man CD; “Once I Loved,” “How Insensitive,” “One Note Samba,” and “Girl from Ipanema” from All Jazzed Up! Then from Romantic Bossa-Nova, “Berimbau,” “Telephone Song,” “Agua de Beber,” “Corcovado,” “Waters of March,” “Bésame Mucho,” and “Dindi.” Every Kaylene Peoples concert comes with an element of mystique. Whether it’s a surprise giveaway, or a heart-to-heart with an audience member during a set, or maybe even a surprise celebrity guest performer.

Designer Kevan Hall, Luisa Dunn, and Larry Dunn (Photo: Sheryl Aronson, SasaPhotos.com)

“I was so very blessed to sit in on a couple of songs during this beautiful concert with the extremely talented and beautiful Kaylene whose vocals and flute performance was off the chain, which also featured my buddy, world-renowned bassist Bunny Brunel, along with the other unbelievably top notch musicians! It was truly an honor playing with these extremely talented “peoples”, no pun intended! And I am such a lover of Brazilian music, at any rate, all I can say is I had a ball and y’all should’ve been there!” – Larry Dunn

“I enjoyed this concert immensely. The ambiance and atmosphere was so relaxing, and seeing happy faces, it was so nice to get out and hear some real live music. The performance was wonderful and dreamy, and being of Latin decent, it was so refreshing to hear the hypnotic Brazilian rhythms. Kaylene’s vocals AND flute interpretations were awesome. Both original compositions and classics are so beautiful. I have the CD, and I love it; it was so wonderful to hear it live. And Bunny Brunel—everybody knows him as a bass giant; so many were surprised to hear him sing. What a treat. And Larry Dunn always brings some fire by playing those beautiful melodic solos. All the band members were on point and beyond! Great concert. So glad I was there.” Luisa Dunn, Vocalist/Producer/Composer, and Award-Winning Recording Artist

Kaylene Peoples will be performing “Romantic Bossa-Nova” with opening performer Gary Stockdale on Sunday, September 26, 2021, at 8:00 pm at Feinstein’s at Vitello’s, located at 4349 Tujunga Ave., Studio City, CA, 91604.

For Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kaylene-peoples-romantic-bossa-nova-tickets-166528171243

“I like to keep people guessing. I’ll change up my material and even introduce a new flavor to the set. I just love observing the reactions of the audience. And as long as those beautiful souls are smiling and dancing in their seats, I’m happy. With my next Romantic Bossa-Nova concert, there just might be a surprise guest performance. You’ll just have to buy a ticket to find out!” –Kaylene Peoples, Multi-Award Winning Recording Artist & Producer

About Kaylene Peoples: L.A. Music Awards-winning Producer Kaylene’s first jazz CD All Jazzed Up! (2005) made a splash across the nation when her single “Do You Remember” was played across the country. The single climbed to the top of the independent charts (AC40/NMW! Top 100 Chart/FMQB & ACQB! and Indie 100 chart). Her 2015 release, My Man, blew up the airwaves and impressed concertgoers. Her song “Giant Steps” is an (Akademia) award-winner, featuring Hubert Laws, Bunny Brunel, and Bobby Lyle. And her CD Romantic Bossa-Nova (2020) is a smash hit amongst Bossa-nova fans. This former model and two-time State Beauty Pageant winner boast a rare 5-octave vocal range, is a multi-instrumentalist, and is a composer/arranger/conductor. Kaylene’s soloing instrument of choice is the flute. In honor of her father, she incorporates it heavily into her music. Peoples has performed/recorded with Bunny Brunel, Bobby Lyle, Hubert Laws, Stanley Clarke, Patrice Rushen, Jeff Goldblum, Larry Dunn, and others. Kaylene Peoples continues to blow her audiences away with her incredible vocal performances and equally impressive instrumental virtuosity! Visit: https://www.kaylenepeoples.com

The Romantic Bossa-Nova CD: Romantic Bossa-Nova is a breathtaking musical performance with a uniquely heart-warming interpretation of Bossa-nova at its best. Antonio Carlos Jobim, Cole Porter, Norman Gimbel, Vinicius de Moraes, and others with the songs “Night & Day,” “Corcovado,” “Waters of March,” “Dindi,” “Berimbau,” “Besame Mucho,” and more sung in Portuguese, English, and French by award-winning recording artist/producer/musician Kaylene Peoples. The CD features internationally acclaimed and 2-time Grammy-nominated bassist Bunny Brunel with a special treat on “Waters of March” (Aguas de Marços), where Bunny sings a duet in Brazilian Portuguese with Kaylene, and Bunny plays a “mean” Brazilian rhythm guitar the entire album while soloing and grooving on fretless and upright bass in the traditional Latin style! Since the first Romantic Bossa-Nova concert in 2016, Kaylene Peoples has been performing this show and touching the hearts of romantics, leading up to the release of the album in 2020. Romantic Bossa-Nova is touted as the most romantic show in town, and growing in popularity with every performance!

September 19, 2018September 28, 2023

Schmoozejazz.com: The Premier Place to Come for Smooth Jazz News

Schmoozejazz.com (Schmooze Jazz Magazine) is the newest addition to KL Publishing Group. The online magazine caters to the smooth jazz genre, putting a spotlight on contemporary jazz festivals, bands, solo artists, and CD and concert reviews. Also there is a journalistic side to the magazine. The Editor’s Corner with Kaylene Peoples (Agenda Editor-in-Chief) features engaging, researched articles and artist profiles related to the genre.

Schmooze Jazz Editor's Corner — Featured Image for The Editor’s Corner Article by Kaylene Peoples “From Contemporary to Smooth: When Did it Change?” (Photo: Jon Tyson)

Still in Beta, Schmoozejazz.com will soon be offering a frontend login section on the website, encouraging freelance writers to contribute smooth jazz-related content. This includes press releases, announcements, and and advertisements. The new platform also offers advertising and sponsored posts. PR, artist managers, and agents are encouraged to use the “Professional” tools offered on Schmoozejazz.com.

Jeff Lorber Fusion at Jazz in the Vines 2018

The website gives the genre of smooth jazz a broader journalistic platform, as well as a place to find legitimate news and authentic contributions to this ever-growing genre of music!

Visit: Schmoozejazz.com | Facebook Group | Instagram | Twitter

July 18, 2018September 28, 2023

Beyond the Playlist with JHammondC: 2nd Interview with Kaylene Peoples

Kaylene-peoples-beyond-the-playlist-podcast

I am joined once again by the delightful and talented Kaylene Peoples. She talks about her new album, her magazine, and we talk about our shared involvement in The Artemis Film Festival, Bella Composers, and more!

Original Source: http://beyondtheplaylist.libsyn.com/beyond-the-playlist-with-jhammondc-kaylene-peoples-0

November 10, 2017September 28, 2023

AGENDA October 2017 and Marc Mennigmann – The Hands Project

Marc Mennigmann | hands-project.de | November 10, 2017

Online Mention:

“When I was at the Warwick Bass Camp 2016 I met Kaylene Peoples, a recording artist and Editor in Chief of Fashion & Lifestyle Magazine AGENDA. We did a nice interview which was released in the first monthly print issue of the Magazine, October 2017. Here is the complete interview.” Marc Mennigmann, The Hands Project

“HANDS” BY MARC MENNIGMANN

From the magazine:

THERE’S TRUTH IN BLACK & WHITE

Interviewed by Kaylene Peoples | Responses by Marc Mennigmann

Photographer Marc Mennigmann from Isalon, Germany, documents in the rare medium of black and white film. He uses a Leica Mononchrom, which is not only a complex camera, but is known for its rich optics that cater to alternative mediums in photography. Mennigmann chooses to spend his time capturing his subjects in their rawest form, bringing out their essence and exposing a vintage grittiness only seen in rare instances today with the explosion of digital color photography. A purist in the deepest sense, he has started a project called HANDS. Marc has spent hours photographing the hands of famous musicians around the world, and the simplicity of a black and white photograph does his subjects the most justice.

(This article includes the hands of Bunny Brunel)

Please read more from the original source: http://hands-project.de/2017/11/10/hands-featured-agenda-fashion-lifestyle-magazine/

October 13, 2017September 28, 2023

Bunny Brunel & Cab to Perform at the Back Bay Bistro in Newport Beach on Saturday, October 17, 2017

Saturday, October 14, 2017, Bunny Brunel will be performing with his band CAB and preparing a special entree for the evening. most people only know Bunny as a world famous musician, not a gourmet chef, well-versed in French cuisine. But he graduated from l’Ecole Hôtelière de Nice and even served royalty before he became the internationally famous Bunny Brunel, the bass player. On Agenda magazine is a video of Bunny demonstrating his culinary skills as he prepares “Chicken a la Creme.”

The details for Saturday’s event are as follows:

Back Bay Bistro Welcomes Legendary Musician and French Gourmet Chef Bunny Brunel, for an evening of jazz and a dinner inspired by the South of France.

The dinner concert will feature an all-star band of highly acclaimed jazz performers, Bunny’s signature seafood main course with a curated wine pairing, and the panoramic view of the Newport Beach Back Bay.

6:00pm: Doors | 7:30pm: Show

PURCHASE TICKETS

Enjoy a 3-Course Dinner featuring Bunny’s Signature Dish – Dinner Package $75 Includes Reserved Floor Seating
Starter – Choice of
Pumpkin Spice Soup with Crème Fraiche or
Bistro Salad with Mixed Greens, Candied Pecans, Dried Cranberries, Feta, and Champagne Vinaigrette

Entrée – Choice of
Bunny Brunel Gambas À L’armoricaine
Jumbo Shrimp Sautéed in a Tomato Cognac Sauce served over Ratatouille

Coffee Crusted Prime New York
Served with Fresh Baby Arugula, Heirloom Tomatoes and Pointe Reyes Bleu Cheese

Polenta Portobello Stack
Pan Seared Vegan Polenta, Portobello Mushrooms, and Heirloom Tomato Stacks over Grilled Vegetables

Dessert – Choice of
Pumpkin Spice Crème Brûlée or
Chocolate Molten Cake

Bar seating: $20
Floor seating: $30
VIP Package: $50
(VIP includes signed CD by Bunny Brunel, band meet & greet and photo opportunity)

Note: Two Drink Minimum per person, unless dinner reservation made. Dinner reservations guarantee priority seating, in front of general admission seating and with priority stage viewing. Ticket prices do not include cost of dinner.

Read the news release: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2017/10/prweb14801552.htm

July 11, 2017September 28, 2023

Chase Masterson to Host “Revolution” July 16, 2017 at Vitello’s

Chase-Masterson-bullying-coalition-fundraiser

“REVOLUTION: A Benefit for the POP CULTURE HERO COALITION”

Musical Director DAVID SCOTT COHEN on piano, AL GARCIA on bass and TOM BOWE on drums

SUNDAY, JULY 16 at 8pm at UPSTAIRS AT VITELLO’S (Formerly “The E Spot Lounge”)

REVOLUTION: A BENEFIT FOR THE POP CULTURE HERO COALITION

Hosted by CHASE MASTERSON

Featuring KEITH BORDEN, JUSTIN CHARLES COWDEN & LEXI MARMAN COWDEN, KAYLENE PEOPLES, PATRICIA WHITEMAN, and new additions KIRSTEN HOLLY SMITH (from the hit show Forever Dusty), MANDY KEMP, and MARY PAT BOWE. (Unfortunately Dion Khan is unavailable for this performance.)

Directed by CLIFFORD BELL www.cabarabia.com

Musical Director DAVID SCOTT COHEN on piano, AL GARCIA on bass and TOM BOWE on drums

FOR TICKETS: www.popculturehero.org/tickets

FOR MORE INFO:

https://www.facebook.com/events/1878406985744240/

April 13, 2017September 28, 2023

“Real” Jazz and the Inspiration Behind “Kaylene Peoples – Standards & Stories from the Great American Songbook”

Kaylene-Peoples-StandardStories-April2-2017-6-21

By Sean McKenzie | The Indie Hotspot | April 11, 2017

“I wanted to let people know more about some of these well-known songs, many of which have evolved into jazz standards. Every song has a backstory. I also thought it would be a good way to introduce real jazz to a young audience, too. I really think that was accomplished with this recent private concert,” states Kaylene Peoples

kaylene-peoples-stories-and-standards-the-great-american-songbook — Kaylene Peoples performs at “Kaylene Peoples – Standards & Stories from the Great American Songbook,” April 2, 2017 (Photo: Robert Fisher)

Kaylene Peoples does a lot of things. She has been called a renaissance woman more than once in the press and her musical disciplines are varied. These disciplines range from jazz, classical, and even pop. Since her release of her first jazz album All Jazzed Up!, Kaylene has embraced “real” jazz with a bear hug. Kaylene released her second jazz masterpiece titled My Man, and with that she invited legends Hubert Laws, Bunny Brunel, and Bobby Lyle to guest perform, seeming to further make her point . . . “It’s all about the ‘real’ jazz.” Between these two albums, the performances and new arrangements of songs from the Great American Songbook have been the theme with the exception of “Run Away with Me,” “My only Crime,” and the song that charted independently back in 2005 “Do You Remember?” . . . her three originals that could easily be mistaken for standards off of All Jazzed Up!

host-chase-masterson-at-kaylene-peoples-stories-and-standards-the-great-american-songbook — Host Chase Masterson performs at “Kaylene Peoples – Standards & Stories from the Great American Songbook,” April 2, 2017 (Photo: Robert Fisher)

Ultimately, Kaylene started a private Facebook group just for real jazz lovers.Back in 2012, she created the Indie Hotspot Jazz Series to bring more ‘real’ jazz to Los Angeles on a regular basis. And it’s not so hard to understand why her live performances consist of only ‘real’ jazz. What is real jazz? The term defines when the medium became popular in the United States. Many songs that were featured in classic Old Hollywood films by a well-known group of composers and performed by popular singers of the time. This practice continued for almost a century now, but has broken up into many different styles of jazz.

bunny-brunel-at-standards-standards-the-great-american-songbook — Bunny Brunel performs at “Kaylene Peoples – Standards & Stories from the Great American Songbook,” April 2, 2017 (Photo: Robert Fisher)

Jazz is defined as an improvisational discipline, where the instrumentalists use modal jazz changes as their guide. Classic vocal jazz consisted of jazz chords with subtle to extreme vocal improvisation, sometimes incorporating scatting. Standards & Stories from the Great American Songbook was a concept Kaylene Peoples had to marry standards with real jazz. [Footnote: Today we have a genre called smooth jazz, which is often confused with real jazz. The theory of the two genres are very different, yet they both have their own unique appeal. And sometimes these two genres cross over into the other genre’s style.]

Larry-Dunn-Luisa-Dunn-at-Kaylene-Peoples-Standard-Stories-April2-2017 — Larry Dunn and Luisa Dunn attend “Kaylene Peoples – Standards & Stories from the Great American Songbook” April 2, 2017 (Photo: Robert Fisher)

Kaylene Peoples Standards and Stories from the Great American Songbook premiered April 2nd, 2017 at the Mouse House Studio in Altadena, the third private concert put on by The Indie Hotspot. It was an intimate setting with an impressive lineup: Kaylene Peoples (vocals/flute), Bunny Brunel (acoustic bass), Mahesh Balasooriya (grand piano), and Bryan Cabrera (drums). Chase Masterson narrated and sang three Peggy Lee standards. Using a traditional trio and old-fashion storytelling, the audience was captivated by the stories and performances by this mega-talented ensemble.

Continue reading ““Real” Jazz and the Inspiration Behind “Kaylene Peoples – Standards & Stories from the Great American Songbook””