Kaylene Peoples Breaks Barriers in Jazz, Publishing, and Representation: A Cover Story That Goes Beyond the Page

Kaylene Peoples: LA Lifestyle Magazine Issue 6

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 2025
By First Take PR Staff

Award-winning composer, jazz vocalist, flutist, and publishing powerhouse Kaylene Peoples was recently featured as the cover story for LA Lifestyle Magazine, where she opened up in a candid and powerful Q&A. Now republished on her official blog in its restored, original editorial format, the article captures the full scope of Peoples’ creative empire and her unwavering mission to transform the entertainment publishing landscape.

Peoples is the founder of KL Publishing Group, which boasts five cutting-edge magazines: AGENDA, Schmooze Jazz, Jazz Influencers, Virtuoso Bass, and The Performing Artist. These platforms, each with their own niche and cultural lens, were created with one goal in mind: to provide space for stories that mainstream publishing continues to overlook.

“I believe that every artist deserves a platform, regardless of their commercial success or mainstream visibility,” she says. “I know what it feels like to be overlooked or underestimated, and I want to use my platforms to change that narrative.”

The cover story dives into Kaylene’s publishing journey—from pioneering full-bleed magazines on Amazon’s restrictive platform in 2014, to designing entire editorial layouts that rival major legacy brands. But beyond the publishing accolades, the article highlights the challenges she has faced as a woman in jazz, including discrimination, double standards, and being dismissed even when headlining her own shows.

“Being a woman in jazz has meant facing double standards and occasional outright discrimination,” she shares. “I’ve had to fight to be heard, both on stage and in the boardroom.”

In the interview, Peoples also discusses her growing legacy as a composer and performer. With credits that include collaborating with Bunny Brunel, Hubert Laws, Larry Dunn, and more, her musical influence is far-reaching and genre-defying.

Currently, she’s gearing up to release two new albums—Romantic Bossa-Nova 2 and Doppelganger, a spy jazz/lounge project with hints of fusion—and she’s also producing content for television and film, including the limited series Inside A Life and the feature thriller Accidental Squatter, both starring Chase Masterson (Star Trek: DS9).

The feature closes with a message to young and aspiring creatives—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds:

“Do your homework. Learn as much from experts as you can. Expect criticism—it’s part of the process. Expect failure—that’s how we improve. And once you’ve arrived… don’t let anyone tell you it can’t be done.”


📌 Read the full cover story on Kaylene Peoples’ official blog:

https://kaylenepeoples.com/breaking-boundaries-kaylene-peoples-on-music-publishing-creative-legacy/


For press inquiries, media features, or speaking engagements:
📧 contact@firsttakepr.com
🌐 www.firsttakepr.com

2024 Olympia Arts Awards: Client Event Photos

2024 Olympia Arts Awards

The 2024 Olympia Arts Awards, held on November 10 in Los Angeles, celebrated five standout clients from First Take PR for their extraordinary contributions to music, film, and journalism. The prestigious event brought together over 90 honorees and industry leaders, with Sherman Alford beautifully documenting the evening.

Kaylene Peoples earned dual honors for her groundbreaking neoclassical release Vampire Odyssey and her innovative multi-genre music career. Jazz legend Bunny Brunel was recognized for his pioneering influence in the jazz fusion movement and mastery of bass. Actor Ali Saam, celebrated for his role in Argo, received acclaim for his authenticity and contributions to international cinema. Kevin Foster was honored for his screenwriting achievements, including his work on Monogamy, blending humor and emotional depth. Journalist Sheryl Aronson received recognition for her decades-long dedication to capturing creativity in the arts.

Each recipient was presented with a medal and official certificates signed by the California State Assembly and State Treasurer, symbolizing their lasting impact on the arts. First Take PR, celebrating 18 years, continues its legacy of championing innovators who push creative boundaries and inspire audiences.

We’d like to extend a special thank you to Author and Ambassador of Peace Rosalyn Kahn!

Read the News Release: https://firsttakepr.com/2024/11/10/first-take-pr-marks-clients-historic-victories-at-olympia-arts-awards/

 

Virtuoso Bass Issue 3: “Putting the Bass Up Front” Stars the Legendary Stanley Clarke on the Cover

Virtuoso Bass Issue 3 with Stanley Clarke on the Cover

Editor At Large Bunny Brunel features Stanley Clarke, Brian Auger, Wayne Shorter, Meshell Ndegeocello, Scott Ambush, Hiromi, The Gibson Bass Book, & jazz fusion pioneers!

Los Angeles, CA (PRUnderground) February 13th, 2024

Virtuoso Bass magazine proudly presents the highly anticipated Issue 3, an immersive journey into the world of bass and jazz fusion. With a rich array of exclusive interviews, in-depth profiles, and insightful commentary, this issue is a must-read for bass enthusiasts everywhere. The cover story of Issue 3 shines the spotlight on multi-Grammy-winner Stanley Clarke, an iconic figure in the world of bass. Through an exclusive interview, Clarke shares intimate insights into his illustrious career and early years, offering a glimpse into his incredible contributions to music and his role as a trailblazer who helped elevate the bass to the forefront of the industry. Renowned bassist Bunny Brunel, Editor at Large, presents Clarke’s captivating narrative alongside a stunning lifestyle editorial photographed by Ash Gupta.

In addition to the cover story, Issue 3 features an array of exclusive interviews and profiles, including bassist Scott Ambush, who reflects on his 30-year journey with Spyro Gyra and his passion as a luthier and designer of bass accessories. Grammy-nominated Brian Auger shares fascinating anecdotes about his career and interactions with jazz legends like Jimmy Smith, while Greg Boraman of Soul Bank Records provides insights into the label’s outstanding artists and recent releases.

The issue also profiles Meshell Ndegeocello, the German-born bass marvel known for her innovative compositions and activism. A spotlight on Ndegeocello’s latest CD, The Omnichord Real Book, highlights her prolific journey as a bassist, composer, singer, and activist. Readers can dive into the world of bass history with an interview featuring Rob Van Den Broek, author of The Gibson Bass Book: An Illustrated Tribute, shedding light on the vision behind the comprehensive “almanac” of Gibson basses. Issue 3 also pays tribute to the late Wayne Shorter, exploring his groundbreaking influence in jazz fusion and classical music.

Furthermore, Issue 3 includes CD reviews, such as the latest release from Hiromi, SonicWonderland, which features fretless player Hadrien Feraud with the Sonicwonder Quartet. The review praises Hiromi’s venture into drastic changes of tempo and musical styles, alongside consistent and organic sonic backdrops.

The magazine also features a review of the CD release concert “Bass Ball 2,” showcasing performances by Bunny Brunel, Stanley Clarke, Kyle Eastwood, Armand Sabal-Lecco, Larry Dunn, and Kaylene Peoples. Additionally, The Jazz Fusion (thejazzfusion.com) introduces a new radio chart for the underserved genre of “jazz rock.”  As we delve into what spurred the early jazz fusion movement, we review the following albums:  Miles Davis: In A Silent Way (1969), Mahavishnu Orchestra with John McLaughlin: The Inner Mounting Flame (1971), and the eponymous Herbie Hancock Head Hunters (1973).

Don’t miss out on the unparalleled insights and engrossing articles featured in Virtuoso Bass Issue 3, curated by Editor At Large Bunny Brunel whose mission is to put a spotlight on exceptional bassists, furthering the evolution of this increasingly popular instrument!

Virtuoso Bass magazine extends its gratitude to advertisers and sponsors, including LaBella Strings.  Visit virtuosobass.com to learn more about this exciting new issue, published by KL Publishing Group.

 About Virtuoso Bass

VIRTUOSO BASS Magazine, headed by Bunny Brunel is the ultimate destination for bass enthusiasts, featuring in-depth interviews, captivating profiles, and insightful commentary on the world of bass and jazz fusion. Each issue showcases legendary bassists, rising stars, and iconic albums, providing readers with a comprehensive look into the rich landscape of bass music. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for the art of bass, Virtuoso Bass Magazine continues to inspire and educate bass players around the globe.