COH DEI JazzinthePark program 20 : simplebooklet.com

KNOW BEFORE YOU GOSCHEDULEJazz in the Park-Huntsville is held each Sunday in September from 5-9 p.m. Headlining performances generally begin at 7:30 p.m.FREE TO ATTENDJazz in the Park-Huntsville is a free event and does not require tickets.PARKINGThere is ample parking around Big Spring Park on the street and in Garage B (entry o Fountain Circle) and Garage M (entry o Clinton Avenue). The City of Huntsville does not charge for street parking on weekends.BRING A SEATAttendees are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket from home as they will not be provided.CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIESA Children’s Zone with face-painting and bubbles will be on site Sept. 3 and Sept. 24.IN CASE OF EMERGENCYHEMSI will have personnel on site at each concert.CLEANUPGarbage cans and recycling bins will be available throughout the venue, so please help keep the park clean.RESTROOMSA large mobile restroom facility will be available to the public.GOOD EATSNearby food trucks and restaurants will have food and beverages available for purchase.SUPPORT A CAUSELocal nonproﬁts will be available at Big Spring Park during the event. Stop by and learn more!PURPLE CUPBig Spring Park is part of the Quigley Arts & Entertainment District, which means alcoholic beverages are allowed in the park if they are in the designated purple cups. Alcoholic beverages in bottles and cans are not permitted.STAY WEATHER AWAREIn case of inclement weather, Jazz in the Park-Huntsville will move to Mars Music Hall on Sept. 3 and Sept. 10. Additional rain venues are being determined and will be announced Sept. 17 and Sept. 24. Venue changes will be announced the Thursday preceding the concert. Check local media for more information.CLICK TO CHECK OUT THE 2023 ARTIST PLAYLIST!

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A multifaceted saxophonist, author and music producer, Jackiem Joyner has carved an impressive path in his nearly two-decade career. With a top-charting jazz album, multiple Billboard hits and acclaimed books, Joyner stands out as an artist who transcends genres, captivating mainstream audiences.Born in Norfolk, Virginia, Joyner displayed early creativity, acquiring a saxophone in childhood despite humble beginnings. His 2007 debut album, “Babysoul,” showcased seductive smooth jazz and launched a proliﬁc recording journey. Subsequent releases like Grammy-nominated works and the 2020 EP “Journey of Passion” underscore his enduring impact.Joyner’s live performances span over 30 countries, sharing stages with icons such as George Duke, Marcus Miller and Kirk Whalum. His diverse musical collaborations highlight his versatility and appeal.Beyond music, Joyner has made waves as an author, earning global acclaim for novels spanning urban thrillers to imaginative sci-ﬁ. Esteemed author Stephen King featured Joyner on his podcast, praising his literary contributions. His debut novel, “Zarya: Cydnus Final Hope,” received the Silver Literary Titan Book Award in 2019.As the entertainment industry evolves, he remains committed to his craft. He reﬂects, “No matter the challenges, I’ll continue playing saxophone, composing music and performing live –my lifelong passions.”Joyner exempliﬁes artistic excellence and continues to push boundaries in both music and literature, solidifying his legacy as a dynamic force in contemporary culture.HEADLINER: Jackiem Joyner jackiemjoyner.comOPENING WEEKEND NIGHT ONE: SEPT. 1, 2024 NIGHT ONE

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Je Bradshaw’s musical journey started in a North Philly church where brass bands reigned supreme. Raised in this environment, he had his ﬁrst musical encounter playing the snare drum before moving on to the baritone horn and sousaphone. In high school, a pivotal moment came when he chose to stand by the trombones, believing it was time to redeﬁne the instrument’s cool factor beyond traditional jazz.As adulthood approached, Bradshaw faced ﬁnancial obstacles that halted his college plans, leading him through various jobs until fate intervened seven years later. In 1994, he immersed himself in Philadelphia’s music scene, connecting with luminaries like James Poyser, DJ Jazzy Je and members of The Roots. This propelled him into major recording sessions with artists such as Erykah Badu, Jill Scott and Michael Jackson.His breakout moment came at popular Philadelphia venue Wilamina’s, when he unexpectedly took the lead for a band in which had been a sideman. This pivotal performance showcased his talent and determination, setting the stage for his future collaborations.One of the turning points was meeting Steve McKeever at the launch of Hidden Beach Recordings, leading to his debut album deal. Bradshaw’s vision to elevate the trombone’s role in mainstream music took shape through recordings like “Can You Come Over” and “Little One,” produced with collaborator Will Brock.In 2002, during a break from touring with Jill Scott, Bradshaw seized the opportunity to cement his place in the music industry. He conveyed to McKeever how they could redeﬁne the lead instrument perception. This marked the beginning of his inﬂuential career at Hidden Beach Recordings, where he continues to champion the trombone’s prominence in contemporary music.OPENING ACT: Je Bradshaw facebook.com/mrtrombone.jeJoe Rozum hails from Wyomissing, Pennsylvania, just outside Reading. His father – a dentist by day and a musician by night – and his mother – a nurse and homemaker – provided a supportive upbringing. Rozum graduated from Berklee College of Music in Boston; an experience he describes as a fantastic four-year journey immersed in music in one of America’s most historic cities.Since July 2020, Rozum’s single “Grease Funk” has enjoyed airplay on Smooth Jazz radio channels across the U.S., U.K., Europe, Australia, India, Panama, the Philippines and Zambia. Known for blending smooth jazz and pop, Rozum’s music ranges from soothing piano ballads to vibrant violin duets and full-band performances. Inﬂuenced by artists like Billy Joel, Elton John, Yanni and Quincy Jones, his compositions weave together elements of blues, gospel and classical themes.Between 2004 and 2012, released ﬁve original albums, showcasing his versatility as a songwriter across various genres. His work extends to composing for commercials and ﬁlm, including projects like the Valley View Casino commercial in San Diego featuring his song “Boogie Cookin’.” He has also contributed music to projects including a video featuring Bruce Lee and Jeet June Do as well as the award-winning animated ﬁlm, “The Baseball Card Shop.”Beyond music, Rozum is passionate about animals and dreams of establishing an Animal Rescue Foundation one day. He thrives on performing both intimate solo concerts and energetic shows with his band, infusing every piano performance with a motto he lives by – “Love what you do, do what you love.”PRE-OPENING ACT: JOE ROZUM | joerozum.com

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Born on Christmas Day in Detroit, Michigan, Althea Rene began her musical journey at age 4 and later studied classical music at Howard University. Balancing a career as a Wayne County Deputy Sheri during the day and jazz performances at night, she has since become a celebrated full-time artist endorsed by Altus Flutes.Inspired by her father, Dezie McCullers, an original Funk Brother of Motown, Rene has developed a distinctive creative style and earned acclaim as a leading soul-jazz ﬂutist, aectionately dubbed the “Maceo of the ﬂute” by saxophonist Najee.In 2013, Rene released “In the Flow,” featuring the title track co-written with Grammy-winning producer Michael Broening. This groundbreaking project became the ﬁrst ﬂute-led single to dominate both Billboard and Smooth Jazz charts, maintaining the number-one spot for weeks.Dedicated to mentoring women in music, Rene authored “Becoming Chocolate Barbie” in 2018, an interview-style autobiography guiding aspiring professional women. Her community contributions were recognized with the 2021 Presidential Volunteer Service Award for inspiring positive change.As co-founder of Colors & Song, a nonproﬁt arts organization, Rene conducts ﬂute masterclasses and workshops, promoting academic excellence and social justice. Her recent milestones include being the ﬁrst soul-jazz ﬂutist on the Dave Koz Jazz Cruise in 2023 and hosting the third annual Colors & Song Jazz Fest in San Antonio, Texas, featuring renowned artists.Rene’s vibrant career exempliﬁes her dedication to music, community empowerment and inspiring future generations through her artistic journey.NIGHT TWOHEADLINER: Althea Rene althearene.comOPENING WEEKEND NIGHT TWO: SEPT. 2, 2024

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Dalen Minniﬁeld, a talented saxophonist from Birmingham, discovered his deep passion for music in church during his childhood. At age 10, he began his musical journey in his elementary school band. He’s since grown into a seasoned professional saxophonist. His performances have graced both local and national stages, both solo and alongside acclaimed artists like Chandra Currelly, Brian Simpson and Chrisette Michele.Under the name D.M.O.S., Minniﬁeld has independently released original music on major streaming platforms. Beyond his captivating performances, he aims to break boundaries and inspire aspiring talents worldwide to pursue their musical passions.Minniﬁeld exempliﬁes dedication and talent, continuously expanding his musical horizons and leaving a lasting impact on audiences everywhere.OPENING ACT: Dalen Minniﬁeld bit.ly/3Wiqb74PRE-OPENING ACT: CAMERON SANKLEY | cameronsankey.comBirmingham native Cameron Sankey sees music as an ever-present force, akin to the air we breathe – constantly evolving. Inﬂuenced deeply by his father and uncle’s profound connection with music, Sankey was inspired early on by Earth, Wind, and Fire’s “Live at Velfarre” DVD, sparking his desire to turn passion into profession. Beginning his musical journey at age 3 and piano at 7, his style blends contemporary vibrancy with disciplined foundations.Throughout his career, Sankey’s shared stages with gospel artist Jonathan Nelson, R&B vocalist Anthony Hamilton and collaborated with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. He’s recorded with Regina Belle, Noel Gourdin and Fresh the Deﬁnition, and served as musical director and co-producer on albums for Micah Stampley. Recently, he produced and played alongside lifelong friend E. Tony Gaines on the single “He’s Alright,” a remake of Edwin Hawkins’ 1987 hit.Beyond music, Sankey values family, emphasizing his role as a father to ﬁve children alongside his wife, Courtney Sankey. As CEO of Playworx Music Group, he oversees a company specializing in musical services from recording to live presentations.

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Known internationally for his electrifying saxophone performances, Tampa native BK Jackson captivates audiences with his dynamic playing style and deep musical passion. He’s shared stages with renowned artists such as B.B King, Brian McKnight, Bruno Mars, Chaka Khan and many more. Notably,Jackson spent four years as part of Prince’s New Power Generation (NPG)Hornz, touring globally and performing in sold-out arenas.Beginning his musical journey at age 11, Jackson quickly gained recognition for his prodigious talent, winning accolades like the Tampa Bay Entertainer of the Year and a NAACP ACT-SO Gold Medal. At just 16, he became the youngest winner of the Capital Jazz Festival Challenge. He was also named Smooth Jazz Network’s 2019 Breakout Artist of the Year, highlighting his success in radio and live performances.Jackson’s sophomore album, “Life of the Party,” embodies his vibrant personality, blending pop, hip-hop and R&B inﬂuences with jazz sensibilities. Featuring collaborations with Trombone Shorty, Adam Hawley and others, the album has been praised for its energetic and infectious tunes. Industry icon Dave Koz has lauded Jackson as “young and fresh,” recognizing his contributions to revitalizing the genre.The album’s lead singles, “Paradise” and “Velvet Ropes,” achieved signiﬁcant success on Billboard and smooth jazz radio charts, with “Velvet Ropes” reaching the Top 20 across multiple charts. Jackson continues to redeﬁne contemporary jazz with his innovative sound and captivating performances, making waves in the music scene worldwide.WEEK TWO: SEPT. 8, 2024WEEK TWOHEADLINER: BK Jackson bkjackson.com

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Sherry Reeves’ music career and instrumental stylings have been described as remarkable, unexpected and breathtaking. Before her highly anticipated debut album released in the summer of 2014, Sherry had already captivated music fans in her hometown of Birmingham. She shared stages with top jazz artists such as Ben Tankard, Vincent Ingala, Johnathan Fritzen, Choko Aiken and Kim Waters, all within the same year.Audiences at her shows eagerly purchase her albums to relive the sounds they experienced live. Following an album’s release, Reeves often receives heartfelt emails from listeners as far away as England and Holland, praising the album’s quality – an arming testament to her dedication and skill.Reeves’ self-titled and self-released debut album showcases a diverse range of musical inﬂuences that pay homage to legendary ﬂautists who shaped her style, notably Bobbi Humphrey, Dave Valentin and Hubert Laws. Her musical journey is marked by a fusion of these inﬂuences, creating a unique and compelling sound that resonates with audiences globally.OPENING ACT: Sherry Reeves facebook.com/sherry.reeves.3950Launched with great acclaim in January 2024, N’General is a distinguished ensemble within Lee High School’s Department of Creative & Performing Arts. They have showcased their musical prowess on several stages, including Huntsville City Schools’ annual State of the Schools presentation, Women’s Expo and United Way’s Southern Regional Conference. A highlight was a memorable jam session and opening for Grammy-nominated saxophonist Najee.Founded by 2024 graduate Tyler Roberts, N’General continues to thrive under the adept leadership of Jonah Johnson. This student-led band not only entertains, but also exempliﬁes the school’s commitment to nurturing artistic talent and enriching cultural experiences within the community.PRE-OPENING ACT: N’GENERAL | facebook.com/lhsmarchingmachine

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Renowned for his electrifying guitar prowess and Billboard-charting singles like the No. 1 hit “Style and Elegance,” JJ Sansaverino has carved a niche with his fusion of Benson-meets-Santana musical ﬂair. With a career spanning ﬁve acclaimed albums and global tours, Sansaverino’s performances exude a “take no prisoners” attitude that captivates audiences night after night.A graduate of Berklee School of Music, Sansaverino’s accolades include sharing stages with icons such as Maceo Parker, Victor Bailey and Gerald Albright. His collaborations extend to reggae legend Maxi Priest, seamlessly blending smooth jazz, R&B and reggae inﬂuences into his vibrant repertoire.Notably, Sansaverino has performed for esteemed ﬁgures like Sir Paul McCartney at his 2002 wedding, underscoring his status as a sought-after musician in both mainstream and celebrity circles. His dynamic presence and virtuosity continue to redeﬁne contemporary jazz, ensuring he remains a standout ﬁgure in the global music scene.WEEK THREEWEEK THREE: SEPT. 15, 2024HEADLINER: JJ Sansaverino jjsansaverino.com

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Based in Miami, Florida, Tony & the Kings passionately perform their beloved Latin music styles. Fronted by Antonio Rivera, whose high-energy Spanglish soul embodies the essence of Miami, the band delivers an authentic and vibrant musical experience. The rhythmic backbone of bass, congas and drums meld seamlessly, creating a dynamic Latin beat that pulses through their music. Keyboards and horns interweave synchronized melodies, evoking the spirited essence of a classic live big band performance. Each member contributes to the ensemble’s rich tapestry of sound, capturing the essence of Latin music with precision and ﬂair. Tony & the Kings’ performances are a celebration of culture and music, resonating with audiences through their infectious energy and soulful interpretations of Latin rhythms. Together, they embody the spirit of musical unity and passion, bringing to life the vibrant traditions of Latin music with every note they play.OPENING ACT: Tony & The Kings bit.ly/3Ww2kSVNina Marie, originally known as Ronda Marie Blackwell, emerged as a soulful sensation at the tender age of seven and has since carved a multifaceted career in entertainment. From early roles as a praise leader to her prowess in acting, dancing, poetry, songwriting, modeling, hosting and singing, she has consistently captivated audiences with her diverse talents.With an innate ability to connect with her audience, Marie transforms each performance into an unforgettable experience. Her career highlights include sharing stages with renowned artists such as Tevin Campbell, Troop, Tracey Spencer, Patti Labelle, Sunshine Anderson and Missy Elliott. She’s collaborated with top local talents across the states of Washington, Georgia, New York and Alabama.Notably, she featured on Fat Joe’s “Loyalty” album on the track “Turn Me On.” She also contributed to the enduring R&B classic “Happily Ever After” by Case, solidifying her presence in the music industry.Marie’s mastery spans multiple genres including R&B, urban soul, pop and gospel. Her dynamic stage presence, vibrant persona and determination set her apart, ensuring she leaves a lasting impression wherever she performs.PRE-OPENING ACT: NINA MARIE | facebook.com/marie.lucas.71404

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Renowned for his electrifying guitar prowess and Billboard-charting singles like the No. 1 hit “Style and Elegance,” JJ Sansaverino has carved a niche with his fusion of Benson-meets-Santana musical ﬂair. With a career spanning ﬁve acclaimed albums and global tours, Sansaverino’s performances exude a “take no prisoners” attitude that captivates audiences night after night.A graduate of Berklee School of Music, Sansaverino’s accolades include sharing stages with icons such as Maceo Parker, Victor Bailey and Gerald Albright. His collaborations extend to reggae legend Maxi Priest, seamlessly blending smooth jazz, R&B and reggae inﬂuences into his vibrant repertoire.Notably, Sansaverino has performed for esteemed ﬁgures like Sir Paul McCartney at his 2002 wedding, underscoring his status as a sought-after musician in both mainstream and celebrity circles. His dynamic presence and virtuosity continue to redeﬁne contemporary jazz, ensuring he remains a standout ﬁgure in the global music scene.WEEK FOURWEEK FOUR: SEPT. 22, 2024HEADLINER: Marcus Anderson marcusanderson.net

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Renowned for his electrifying guitar prowess and Billboard-charting singles like the No. 1 hit “Style and Elegance,” JJ Sansaverino has carved a niche with his fusion of Benson-meets-Santana musical ﬂair. With a career spanning ﬁve acclaimed albums and global tours, Sansaverino’s performances exude a “take no prisoners” attitude that captivates audiences night after night.A graduate of Berklee School of Music, Sansaverino’s accolades include sharing stages with icons such as Maceo Parker, Victor Bailey and Gerald Albright. His collaborations extend to reggae legend Maxi Priest, seamlessly blending smooth jazz, R&B and reggae inﬂuences into his vibrant repertoire.Notably, Sansaverino has performed for esteemed ﬁgures like Sir Paul McCartney at his 2002 wedding, underscoring his status as a sought-after musician in both mainstream and celebrity circles. His dynamic presence and virtuosity continue to redeﬁne contemporary jazz, ensuring he remains a standout ﬁgure in the global music scene.WEEK FOURWEEK FOUR: SEPT. 22, 2024HEADLINER: Marcus Anderson marcusanderson.net

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OPENING ACT: Brittany Atterberry brittanyatterberry.comHailing from Manhattan, Noelette Leader is a versatile musician with roots in classical training and a gift for interpreting gospel and jazz music. Her musical journey began at the tender age of seven, and by 17, she was already captivating audiences professionally. Leader’s career boasts collaborations with gospel luminaries like The Richard Smallwood Singers and Daryl Coley, as well as the legendary jazz pianist and composer Mary Lou Williams, where she notably sang lead in Williams’ acclaimed Jazz Mass.Leader’s talent has also graced prestigious venues, including “Satch’s” Lounge owned by Tom “Satch” Sanders of the Brittany Atterberry, a rising saxophone star, is captivating audiences with her soulful melodies. Her music, rich with passion and resilience, is making waves in the industry.Atterberry, who first fell in love with music playing the clarinet at age 10, was introduced to contemporary jazz during the 90s through Cleveland’s 107.3 The Wave. Influenced by artists like Dave Koz and Kenny G, she switched to the saxophone in high school and became captivated by the tenor sax. She pursued a Music degree at Cleveland State University and began creating original compositions after graduating.In 2021, Atterberry released her debut albums, "Starting Now" and "Summer Vibez." The following year, she performed with Jazz in Pink, an all-women jazz ensemble. Her 2023 single, "Keep Smiling," has made a significant impact on U.S. radio.Beyond performing, Atterberry has used her musical talents in music therapy at Metro Health Hospital, aiding patients in the Intensive Care Unit with piano and guitar.Now, Atterberry is focused on creating music that connects with her fans and inspires women to pursue their dreams. She has performed alongside saxophonist Najee and continues to entertain audiences across the U.S.PRE-OPENING ACT: NOELETTE LEADER | bit.ly/3zTV1voBoston Celtics, where she was the featured solo act for several years – an honor reserved for the ﬁnest performers. Her rich vocal tones and emotive interpretations continue to captivate audiences, blending the spiritual depth of gospel with the improvisational ﬂair of jazz.With a career deﬁned by her soul-stirring performances and esteemed collaborations, Leader remains a cherished ﬁgure in both the gospel and jazz music communities, leaving an indelible mark on each stage she graces.

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COH DEI JazzinthePark program 20

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