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Eric Gales
Born and raised in Memphis, Blues guitar phenom Eric Gales learned to play at age four from his older brothers (Eugene and Manuel), imitating the upside-down, left-handed style that had been the hallmark of his grandfather Dempsey Garrett, Sr., a musician who jammed with Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf. Gales won his first blues contest at 11, and soon signed with Elektra to issue his 1991 debut LP. Subsequent releases included Picture of a Thousand Faces (1993) and Left Hand Band (1995). In 2001, Gales released his debut album for MCA, That’s What I Am, followed up by Crystal Vision (2006), Psychedelic Underground (2007), The Story of My Life (2008), Layin’ Down the Blues (2009), Relentless (2010), Transformation (2011) and the all-instrumental Ghost Notes (2013), all from Blues Bureau Records. He moved to the Cleopatra label in 2014, issuing Good for Sumthin'. A Night on the Sunset Strip, a live audio and video package, was released in 2016. Gales' deeply personal Middle of the Road, released on the Provogue/Mascot label in 2017, also featured Gary Clark, Jr., Lance Lopez, teen guitar virtuoso Christone "Kingfish" Ingram and others. Middle of the Road became his first album to appear on the Billboard Blues chart. He followed it in February 2019 with Bookends. Gales is regarded as the guitarists’ favorite guitarist, with fans including Carlos Santana, Dave Navarro (Jane’s Addiction, Red Hot Chili Peppers), Mark Tremonti (Alter Bridge), Tony Rombola (Godsmack), Tosin Abasi (Animals as Leaders) and Joe Bonamassa, who called Gales “one of the best, if not the best guitar player in the world.” |
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Frank McComb
Often compared to musical greats Donny Hathaway and Stevie Wonder, Frank McComb is a celebrated jazz/soul singer, musician, and producer who has collaborated with a variety of renowned recording artists, including Prince, Chaka Khan, Will Smith, Najee, Branford Marsalis, George Duke, Frankie Beverly and Maze, Phyllis Hyman, Gamble and Huff, Patrice Rushen, Lalah Hathaway, Fred Hammond, John P. Kee and more. McComb began his career in 1983 when an aunt began teaching him the piano at the family church. Though he did attend a school for the performing arts in the mid-'80s, he found more recognition playing Cleveland nightclubs with seasoned musicians. By 1988, McComb was in high school fronting his own trio. Soon after, he was invited to join Atlantic Records male R&B singing group The Rude Boys. While touring with the group, McComb met Jeff Townes of seminal rap duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince who invited him to record and tour with the group. He moved to Philadelphia and was introduced to legendary songwriting duo Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, where he has eventually put on payroll as a musician. |
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McComb signed to the MoJazz label in 1992 and collaborated with Branford Marsalis on his jazz-rap fusion project Buckshot LeFonque (1994). His solo album Love Stories was released by Columbia in 2000.
In 2002, McComb joined forces with producer Steve Harvey and began working on The Truth for Expansion Records, released in Europe in 2003. McComb self-released Straight From The Vault in 2004. In addition to releasing and distributing the disc himself, McComb wrote, produced, programmed and sang every note on this collection of mid- and uptempo smooth soul/jazz vocal numbers, including "Still Has a Hold On Me" and "The Things That You Do." Straight From the Vault was voted top album of 2005 in the SoulTracks Readers Choice Awards.
The 1995 Bootleg (2006) featured long-buried MoJazz recordings, including “So Lovely,” “Somebody Like You" and “More Than Friends.” Later that year, McComb released A Tribute to the Masters, an all-instrumental disc filled with homages to piano greats ranging from Patrice Rushen to Ramsey Lewis to George Duke. In 2007, he recorded Live In Atlanta, a CD/DVD released in two parts.
Through his entire body of work, McComb has shown an uncanny ability to create music with incredible intimacy that intensely connects with listeners.
In 2002, McComb joined forces with producer Steve Harvey and began working on The Truth for Expansion Records, released in Europe in 2003. McComb self-released Straight From The Vault in 2004. In addition to releasing and distributing the disc himself, McComb wrote, produced, programmed and sang every note on this collection of mid- and uptempo smooth soul/jazz vocal numbers, including "Still Has a Hold On Me" and "The Things That You Do." Straight From the Vault was voted top album of 2005 in the SoulTracks Readers Choice Awards.
The 1995 Bootleg (2006) featured long-buried MoJazz recordings, including “So Lovely,” “Somebody Like You" and “More Than Friends.” Later that year, McComb released A Tribute to the Masters, an all-instrumental disc filled with homages to piano greats ranging from Patrice Rushen to Ramsey Lewis to George Duke. In 2007, he recorded Live In Atlanta, a CD/DVD released in two parts.
Through his entire body of work, McComb has shown an uncanny ability to create music with incredible intimacy that intensely connects with listeners.
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Chick Rodgers
“Small in stature, Rodgers possesses a big voice.” That’s how one critic described the award-winning Melvia “Chick” Rodgers-Williams. Born in 1958 to Reverend Melvin Rogers and Virginia Oliver-Rogers, she’s the oldest of four children and began her singing career at an early age in church. She was voted “Most Talented Female” of her Melrose High School class (1979). Even with her gospel background, her real breakthrough came overseas in 1979, where she performed in front of thousands of military personnel in a USO tour that lasted through 1986. In 1989, Rodgers was discovered by a local Chicago club owner who offered her a consistent slot on the stage. Today, with Chicago as her home base, she performs across the continental U.S. and around the world, sharing the stage with Patti Labelle, Bernie Mac, the late Koko Taylor. She’s also performed at Blues festivals across the globe. |
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She released Essentially Yours – produced by Koko Taylor - in 2008 and had roles in many musicals, including A Tribute to Phyllis Hyman, Georgia Tom: The Thomas Dorsey Story, Wives, Crowns, Black Nativity and Those Sensational Soulful 60’s.
A critic once wrote, “It’s a wonder the brick masons aren’t called in after a Chick Rodgers performance, because she shakes the foundation of the building.” This powerful songstress has received a number of accolades, including Chicago’s Queen of Soul award.
Her humble beginnings keep her grounded and will forever be heard through her bold and powerful voice that lifts audiences from their seats and leaves them dancing in the aisles.
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Gwen Turner
This gifted singer, motivational speaker and recording artist is best known as a gospel solo artist with lots of energy, a booming voice and fantastic purple hair. In her travels throughout the country, she has – along with her choir – collaborated and performed with many gospel greats including, Kirk Franklin, Marvin Winans, Dottie Peoples and others. Prior to becoming a recording artist, Turner co-founded the first high school choir in the city, which sparked high school gospel choirs across the city and state. This led to gospel music being inserted into the All West & All State choir competitions. Turner is featured on three of the six CD’s recorded by the group she co-founded, Billy Rivers and the Angelic Voices of Faith. Not only has she given her talent to the gospel arena, but she has also sung background and lead with several local R & B artists in the Memphis area. Having a heart for victims of domestic violence (and being a survivor herself), Turner celebrated the 40th anniversary of her gospel singing career by providing financial assistance to nonprofit agencies assisting those transitioning into safe housing. |
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Omar
The musical history of British soul pioneer Omar is renowned – the Lyefook family has musical talent embedded deep in their DNA, Omar’s father Byron worked as a studio musician and drummer with Bob Marley, Horace Andy and The Rolling Stones. His younger brother, the Grammy-winning producer, remixer and DJ professionally known as Scratch Professor, has been making jaws drop since the age of 13, stunning the crowd at the 1988 DMC UK Finals with his turntable skills. And Samia Lye-Fook (Omar’s sister) is a renowned vocalist in her own right and a BRIT School alumna. Born in 1968 in London, Omar was raised in Canterbury and considered a gifted and prolific musical prodigy. He learned his craft classically, playing the trumpet, piano, bass guitar and percussion, was principal percussionist for the Kent Youth Orchestra and later graduated from the Guildhall School of Music. In 1985, Omar released his first single – “Mr. Postman” – on his father’s Kongo label. Soon after, he released his first album, which contained the track that changed everything... “There’s Nothing Like This”. The album, which was re-issued by Gilles Peterson on his Talkin’ Loud imprint in 1991, established Omar as a standout and unique artist, with ‘There’s Nothing Like This” skyrocketing up the charts. The follow up Music, a vastly more orchestral and organic affair, highlighted Omar’s maturing as a composer, arranger and vocalist. Aside from the memorable title song, standout tracks included “Get To Know You Better” and the brilliant duet with his new Freestyle Records label mate Carleen Anderson, “Who Chooses The Seasons”. |
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Raheem DeVaughn
Although some have compared his smooth vocals to the likes of music legends such as D’Angelo and Donny Hathaway, all while having the swag of a modern-day Marvin Gaye, Raheem DeVaughn has carved out his own place amongst R&B royalty as the “Love King” of the Neo-Soul universe. DeVaughn’s impressive career has been a living testimony to the benefits of dedication and commitment. Now entering his third decade at the top of the industry, his raw talent has led his loyal fan base on an incredible musical journey ever since his soulful voice found the ears of the masses on his debut album, The Love Experience in 2005. DeVaughn followed up the initial success of his debut album with Love Behind the Melody (2008). The album, which featured classic hits such as the Grammy-nominated “Woman” and “Customer,” was one of the most critically acclaimed albums of the year and launched DeVaughn into superstardom – reaching #1 on the Top 10 R&B/Hip-Hop albums chart and peaking at #5 on the US Billboard 200 chart. Love Behind the Melody also yielded two BET Award wins as well as two Grammy nominations. Since then, the self-proclaimed “R&B hippie neo soul rock star” has produced other gold standard albums, including the critically acclaimed The Love & War Masterpiece (2010), which earned a Grammy Nomination for Best R&B Album in 2011. |
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In 2013, he had his first release as an independent artist, A Place Called Loveland, which garnered notable singles “Love Connection” and “Maker of Love” in collaboration with Boney James. In 2015, DeVaughn returned with the well-received Love Sex Passion album, which featured fan favorites and chart-topping singles such as “Queen,” “Temperatures Rising” and “All I Know (My Heart).”
Still going stronger than ever, the gifted singer/songwriter has been in high demand – releasing Decade of a Love King (2018) with the Top 5 single “Don’t Come Easy” and The Love Reunion (2019) with the Top 10 single “Just Right”. DeVaughn landed at #7 on the Top 10 Most Played Urban AC Artists for 2019, ranking as the #1 male Independent Urban AC Artist of The Year, according to Mediabase. He was also nominated for Outstanding Male Artist at the NAACP Image Awards in 2019.
In 2020, DeVaughn joined SRG/ILS Group as the new Director of A&R. The state of civil and social unrest that was exasperated during the global pandemic inspired DeVaughn to respond. He has always shared the sentiment that music must reflect the times. Therefore, he collaborated with notable producer collective The Colleagues to present his 8th studio release titled, What A Time To Be In Love. The lead single – “Marvin Used to Say” – honors the vision of one of his musical influences and those fighting for social equality.
In 2014, DeVaughn founded The LoveLife Foundation, which is dedicated to improving lives through social, educational and wellness development. DeVaughn believes in – and fights for – causes dealing with issues related to women’s rights, domestic violence prevention, education and HIV/AIDS awareness. DeVaughn collaborated with legendary rappers, Darryl McDaniels aka DMC of Run DMC and Doug E. Fresh on the song “Behind The Mask” as part of the Hip Hop Public Health initiative to encourage the use of masks to stop the spread of Covid-19..
Undeniable talent. Selfless Service. Unconditional Love. DeVaughn believes that music is a vibration to elevate the consciousness of the listener. As he operates from a place of authenticity, DeVaughn is and will continue to be an inspiration to people across the globe.
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Cherisse
The voice of Soul…like we remember it. A gifted vocalist, dedicated activist and inspired songwriter, Cherisse’s music career transcends genres. It spans from R&B to Gospel, from Jazz to Opera, fusing all of her creative skills to produce the sultry soul style that is conveyed in her warm, rich alto tone. Cherisse independently released both recorded works, Moans (2003) and Soul Journey (2008) building a solid Chicago fan base which has grown nationally and in international markets including South Africa, London and Tokyo. Cherrise has shared the stage with some of the music industry’s icons, including The Roots, Erykah Badu, Kim Burrell, India.Arie, Gordon Chambers, Gregory Porter, Mary Mary, Eric Roberson and more. |
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DJ Jazzy Jeff
Since 1985, DJ Jazzy Jeff has wowed us with his flawless turntable skills, innovative production and musical versatility. With the success of DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince, his acclaimed production company A Touch of Jazz, a DMC Championship and multiple Grammy and American Music Awards wins and nominations, DJ Jazzy Jeff proves time and again that he’ll always be a force to be reckoned with. In 2015, he founded the PLAYLIST Retreat, an invitation-only event that brings artists together to inspire, motivate and fuel collaboration. Pre-COVID, DJ Jazzy Jeff performed all over the globe and chronicled his travels in his Vinyl Destination web series. Due to the global pandemic, h moved the party, literally, in-house with his signature livestreams Magnificent Friday Nights, Magnificent Lunch Break and Magnificent House Party. |
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LeAndria Johnson
Gospel singer Le'Andria Johnson's journey to a recording career may feel more like he plot for a made-for-TV movie; she overcame obstacles, hardships and personal disasters to make it to the top. Born in 1983, Johnson was a twice-divorced single mother of three when she fell on hard times, losing her home to foreclosure the day before a friend convinced her to drive to New Orleans in a borrowed car to audition for the cable show Sunday Best in 2010. The daughter of a preacher, Johnson had sung in front of her father's congregations since she was a toddler, but she had hardly considered a professional career as a gospel singer. She arrived at the TV audition shortly before she was supposed to go on, sporting flip flops and the clothes she drove there in. Despite these unfavorable circumstances, she managed to wow the judges enough to be selected to perform in the show’s third season, which she went on to win decisively. Besides taking home a new car and a cash prize, she also netted a recording deal through the show's newly formed Sunday Best imprint under the Music World Gospel label umbrella. |
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Her debut seven-song EP, The Awakening of Le'Andria Johnson, was released in 2011, followed by a second seven-song EP, The Evolution of Le'Andria Johnson, in 2012. The two were combined later that year to make a full album, The Awakening of Le'Andria Johnson Deluxe. A second full-length release, the live The Experience, also appeared in 2012.
During 2015, she appeared on the Oxygen reality TV series Preachers of Atlanta, a spin-off of their hit show Preachers of L.A. She returned with her second album, Bigger Than Me, two years later. Her single "I Shall Leap Into My Destiny" topped Billboard's Gospel chart in 2011. In 2012, she won a Grammy for Best Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Performance, becoming the first Sunday Best contestant to take home a Grammy.
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Callie Day
Calesta “Callie” Day is an educator, artist, vocalist and vocal instructor. She is multi-talented and gifted woman of God, with a range of vocal abilities. Her anointed style, production and spiritual perception has established her as one of the most dynamic and compelling talents. She is a soloist/performer with the American Spiritual Ensemble, and her vocal rendition of Moses Hogan’s “Hear My Prayer” went viral and made her an instant internet phenomenon. With Day’s recent release of her first album titled Hear My Prayer on Amazon, Google Plan, Apple Music and iTunes stores, she has placed #9 and #24 on the Billboard Magazine’s Gospel and Classical music charts. Day holds an Associate of Arts in Voice Performance from Sinclair University, Master of Arts degree in Education with a Music Concentration from the University of Dayton. She is a current candidate for the Master of Fine Arts and Doctor of Music degrees in Voice Performance at the University of Kentucky. |
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Opal Staples
Opal Staples is a force of nature. With a presence that commands any stage, Staples could never be classified as average. As a premiere singer, she has garnered industry-wide acclaim by showcasing her flawless voice for The Oprah Winfrey Show, McDonald’s, and Verizon just to name a few. Her discography includes work with award-winning artists R. Kelly, Ramsey Lewis, Lupe Fiasco, Stevie Wonder and Seal. Staples has also graced the theater stage, starring in such performances as Dreamgirls, Hoodoo Love, The Jackie Wilson Story and a host of other blockbuster plays. She has toured with the top orchestra companies in the country and her accomplishments go on and on. More than anything Staples has achieved, her heart for people serves the gift she has been given, and her graceful spirit makes her a joy to work and a pleasure to watch perform. |
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Pamela Armour & The Memphis Shop
Pamela Armour & The Memphis Shop has been a mainstay and creative force behind one of Memphis’ original musical genres. With her highly successful, critically acclaimed debut album Middle of a Miracle, Armour has been recognized by the industry’s top critics and music executives. The group has continued expanding their borders with television appearances on The Stellar Awards and Bobby Jones Gospel, all earmarked by awards and nominations that include Soul Train’s Lady of Soul Awards for Gospel Artist of the Year, GMWA Excellence Award for Choir of the Year and recently Rhythm of Gospel for Traditional Choir of the Year. |
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DJ CHUUUCH
Born in Memphis, TN, Tauris Cortez Turner spent his early childhood playing and singing in his church choir and continued pursuing music through participating in marching bands in high school and college. Under the stage name DJ Chuuuch, he has performed at churches, special events and major venues throughout the Mid-South, and has quickly become one of the area’s most sought-after entertainers. |
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DJ Quietstorm
An entertainment fixture in the Tri-State area, this talented performer specializes in wedding receptions, parties, corporate events, school functions, family/class reunions, charity events, block parties and more. He provides a fun and entertaining atmosphere while staying true to his mission to promote, preserve and perpetuate his brand of music while giving back to the community and having a little fun along the way. |
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