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Listening Loft : HOTPICKS

3rd Force - Lifeforce
3rd Force
LifeforceBaja/TSR Records

With the release of their second smooth jazz infused world music project for Baja/TSR, the duo of multi-instrumentalists, composers and producers William Aura and Craig Dobbin - collectively renowned as 3rd Force - immerse more deeply than ever in what they call "the extraordinary alchemy that happens when diverse minds come together" in the spirit of soul connections, sonic explorations and expanding global consciousness. 

LIFEFORCE is the celebration of just over 30 years since introducing their fascinating fusion aesthetic via the self-titled debut - and eight years since the last recording GLOBAL FORCE - the duo complements their vibe with featured guitarists Nils, Brian Hughes and Lawson Rollins, in addition to top global musicians Aura worked with in his time as Archivist/Asian Program Coordinator for the non-profit Playing for Change Foundation.

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Michael Storm Baskins - Here in my Arms cover
Michael 'Storm' Baskins
Here In My ArmsStorm Baskins Music

Skillful, soulful jazz drumming was in Michael "Storm" Baskins' DNA from the start, influenced by his father, who kept time behind Sonny Rollins and Aretha Franklin. Post bop drum legend Elvin Jones once gave him sound advice: "Listen to feel. Feel to listen." With that kind of inspiration, it was only a matter of time before Baskins made his mark on contemporary jazz with a mix of traditional jazz, gospel jazz and urban vibing that fuels his 2024 album COOL IS BACK. Showcasing his skills as a composer and producer, his follow-up single "Here in My Arms" is a gorgeously rendered, keyboard and sax driven vocal ballad sharing the sweetness of Smooth Jazz romance at its most loving, passionate, protective and devoted.

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BIG POPPI - Let It Flow
BIG POPPI
Let It FlowAlexander Entertainment

The title of one of Big Poppi's advance singles, "Touch My Soul," perfectly captures what the emerging Smooth Jazz visionary does to listener's ears and hearts on his album collection LET IT FLOW! The silky and seductive, infectiously grooving, often deliciously funky debut highlights the artist's talents as a compelling composer/songwriter. Uniquely, Michael Alexander - who was given his "Big Poppi" nickname by his granddaughter - does not play on the album, but rather serves as Executive Producer for a set of songs produced by the late Lew Laing, Jr., who also happens to play keyboards. The project features an ensemble of top genre musicians and includes non-stop unexpected pleasures from a rotating variety of lead melodic instruments, including keys, saxophone, bass and flugelhorn as well as the sensual vocals of Shayla Dunn. The industry is about to watch the "Evolution" of this smooth creator, as he rolls out this first radio single to broadcasters and playlisters alike! 

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Marshall Charloff - C-BREEZE
Marshall Charloff
C-BreezeMarshall Arts Records

Marshall Charloff's "C‑Breeze" is a lush, fully self‑realized smooth jazz escape, crafted with the precision and musicality of an artist who truly does it all. As a one‑man studio force, Charloff performs and produces every element, shaping the track into a fluid, sun‑lit sound painting where groove sets the pace and melody leads with effortless charm. From the forthcoming album NEXT, this new single carries the sophistication listeners expect from a composer and multi‑instrumentalist whose career spans work with legends, global touring, and acclaimed jazz releases including recent chart-topping single, "X-Centric" featuring sax superstar Gerald Albright. Yet "C‑Breeze" feels refreshingly intimate - a relaxed, melodic drift that showcases Charloff's instinct for texture, balance, and emotional clarity. It's smooth jazz at its most inviting: warm, polished, and irresistibly easy to sink into.

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Mike Di Lorenzo - Modern Times
Mike Di Lorenzo
Modern TimesKeep The Groove

Celebrating two decades as a boundary‑pushing keyboardist and sonic architect, NY/NJ‑based Mike Di Lorenzo turns up the heat with his irresistibly smooth, super‑funky album MODERN TIMES. A master of blending jazz sophistication with dance‑floor grooves, Di Lorenzo expands his palette on the ultra‑groovy new single “Ooh, Aha,” a silky, head‑nodding standout showcasing his flair for sensual rhythm and melodic charm. His creative chemistry with powerhouse vocalists Anna Moore and Sonna Rele underscores his vision and relevance, while saxophonist Frank Elmo fuels the album’s dynamic edge. Across the project, Di Lorenzo conjures swirling atmospheres, fashion‑forward textures, and thumping beats that define his next‑level artistry.

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Wayne Gutshall - Julieta cover
Wayne Gutshall
JulietaSpicy Music Llc

Hailed by SmoothJazz.com Global Founder Sandy Shore as "a modern master of the saxophone," Wayne Gutshall boasts the unique distinction of having five #1 singles on the platform's weekly Listener Chart. Continuing the balmy romantic Latin music vibes, he created on recent collaborative tracks with Steve Oliver and Rob Zinn, the Miami-based composer/musician hits another delicious and mesmerizing home run with "Julieta." The lyrical, easy swaying bolero was written while sitting at a piano in the lobby of a hotel on the island of Curacao some years back, when he was on tour with Grammy-winning Cuban pop star Willy Chirino. Interestingly, while his nearly 1 Million and counting streamed on Spotify hit "Spanish Love" was inspired by his wife, this tune is not so much about a woman but rather about the relaxed and reflective mindset discovered on island time.

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Incognito - Music. Magic. Ironic. cover
Incognito
Music. Magic. Ironic.Splash Blue

Still going strong and as funked out, soul-drenched and danceable as ever 45+ years into their Great British Adventure! Guitarist and contemporary R&B/acid jazz visionary Bluey Maunick and his powerhouse collective Incognito, is a sonically innovative gift that keeps on giving to Smooth Jazz - which makes Christmas Day the perfect drop date for their 20th studio album (and first double vinyl release) MUSIC.MAGIC.IRONIC! The intriguing album title is rooted in Bluey's childhood in Mauritius, growing up listening to the organic sounds of local musicians, which inspired weary people to dance and spin around joyfully. Seeing this sudden change at the young age of 5, led him to ironically confuse the word "magic" for "music" - and he's dedicated his life to bringing magic to his music for decades. In addition to all manner of rhythmic intensities and inventive production intricacies, this 17-track collection is a showcase for an impressive group of lead vocalists, including Maysa, Joy Rose, Tony Momrelle, Natalie Duncan, Imaani, Cleo Reign Stewart and Zebulon Ellis!

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Jackiem Joyner - Every Part Of Me cover
Jackiem Joyner
Every Part Of MeShanachie Ent

Jackiem Joyner's EVERY PART OF ME marks a bold and deeply personal new chapter for the chart‑topping saxophonist. His Shanachie Entertainment debut showcases ten original compositions that blend Jazz, R&B, Soul, Blues, Funk, and Pop with the effortless fluidity that has defined his career. What sets this album apart is its emotional transparency. Joyner channels themes of fatherhood, resilience, and renewal, crafting melodies that feel both intimate and expansive. His tone is as gorgeous as ever, but the storytelling is richer, shaped by life changes and hard‑won clarity. EVERY PART OF ME isn't just a musical statement-it's Joyner stepping fully into the light, offering listeners a moving portrait of an artist unafraid to reveal his heart.

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Rei Narita - Snow That Longs to Melt cover
Rei Narita
Snow That Longs to MeltStudio Luna Azul

Japanese pianist, composer, and producer Rei Narita, a leading figure in Asian Smooth Jazz and founder of the Studio Luna Azul and Key Rei Jazz recording labels, has long been celebrated for his "Kirei" aesthetic, a style rooted in beauty, clarity, and emotional resonance. His latest track, "Snow That Longs to Melt," pushes boldly beyond genre borders. Driven by an EDM/Trance foundation, the piece surges forward with powerful synths while a crystal-clear, ice-like piano floats above, evoking vast winter landscapes. The dramatic contrast between relentless electronic energy and delicate, frozen-glass piano creates a soundscape that feels frosty, beautiful, and unstoppable. Among global Smooth Jazz releases, this single stands as one of the most striking and adventurous EDM-infused tracks to date.

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Fred Robertson - Sweet As It Comes cover
Fred Robertson
Sweet As It ComesWeberworks Entertainment Group

Under the guidance of versatile contemporary jazz mega-producer Jeff Weber, and after a dozen years of live performances, Jamaican-born saxophonist Fred Robertson makes his impactful, emotionally charged entry into Smooth Jazz with a cool twist on "Sweet As It Comes" - an early 90's R&B hit for singer Nikita. While the original was praised for its contemporary spin on the classic Motown sound, Robertson's passionate rendition showcases his classic style romantic balladeering, driven by a potent sense of soul urgency. With a sound anchored in gospel, reggae, jazz, R&B and Caribbean influences, there's a lot to look forward to on Robertson's upcoming debut EP, LIFE IS A GAME. His passion for inspiring and uplifting extends to his company Educe876 AI, which uses technology, creativity and innovation to push developmental boundaries.

 

 

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Lawson Rollins - Next Steps
Lawson Rollins
Next StepsInfinita Records/BajaTSR

Lawson Rollins’ NEXT STEPS is a bold and exhilarating leap forward from one of today’s most distinctive guitar voices. Celebrated for his globe-spanning virtuosity, Rollins blends classical finesse, jazz sophistication, and world music fire into one of his most expansive works to date. The radiant first single, “Sunset Glow,” composed and produced by Rollins and featuring multi-instrumentalist Stephen Duros, shines with warmth and effortless virtuosity. “Bach to Brazil” transforms a Bach sarabande into a lively samba-tango hybrid, while the title track embraces classic jazz colors with saxophonist Gary Meek and Grammy winner Mads Tolling. Supported by an exceptional ensemble, Rollins opens an exciting new chapter with imagination and fearless artistry.

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Smooth Jazz Alley - Believe cover
Smooth Jazz Alley
BelieveInnervision Records

Smooth Jazz Alley’s new single “Believe” is a heartfelt, uplifting standout from their forthcoming album REFLECTIONS. Born during one of the most difficult seasons of Marco Montoya’s life, the track transforms an early Reggaeton idea into a soulful Smooth Jazz statement of hope and perseverance. Montoya’s expressive piano and synth work set the emotional foundation, while chart-topper Steve Oliver lends his warm guitar along with SJA's Otoe Mori’s graceful sax lines, elevating the song’s message of faith through adversity. Produced by Montoya and bandmate Kevin Lewis, “Believe” continues the project's upward trajectory, following millions of streams and multiple chart successes. It’s an inspiring, beautifully crafted reminder to keep believing when it matters most.

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Lindsey Webster - Music in Me
Lindsey Webster
Music In MeShanachie Ent

Lindsey Webster’s latest album, Music In Me, cements her reign as the undisputed queen of Smooth/Contemporary Jazz. With a star-studded lineup including Anthony Hamilton, Stokley, Isaiah Sharkey, and Kevon Harrold, Webster’s sultry vocals shine through every track. Standouts like her romantic duet with Hamilton, “Best In Me,” the reimagined “Two Hearts” with Stokley and the leading title track, “Music In Me,” showcase her artistry at a new level. As SoulTracks.com puts it, “If Carole King and Sade had a kid, she would be Lindsey Webster.” BBC Radio raves the album “…blows everything out of the water.” Boasting four consecutive #1 smooth jazz radio hits, Webster’s new release is both a testament to her talent and a treat for jazz enthusiasts!

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D.S. Wilson - Gates Of Eden cover
D.S. Wilson
Gates Of EdenBig Splash Music, LLC

Busting into the new year with a brand-new single on the heels of a long string of radio and streaming hits and full album release (METAMORPHOSIS), saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist D.S. Wilson presents the "Gates Of Eden"! A fashion-forward tune produced by Gold and Platinum producer Jeff Caruthers and featuring extraordinary woodwind player, Andrew Neu on flute! An upbeat, positive groove delivering hope and promise with Wilson performing his bright sax work and Neu showcasing his sophisticated and soulful flute artistry offering a beautiful collaboration. The "Gates Of Eden" are swinging wide open... Come on in! 

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Listening Loft : MUST HAVES

Jill Butler - Joyride
Jill Butler
JoyrideJill Butler

It’s listed as a “Fun Fact” on her bio, but when you listen to multi-talented, genre-busting (blues, jazz, pop soul) pianist, vocalist and composer/producer Jill Butler’s aptly titled, wildly and adventurous debut JOYRIDE, you’ll know it’s truly her ongoing mission – devoting 100% of her time to uplifting the soul and uniting hearts through music. She brings her fiery and frolicsome, homegrown Louisiana lightning to a slate featuring both shimmering, percussive piano driven originals (including tributes to her professional musician parents and regional legend Carol Fran) and fanciful twists on classics by Stevie Wonder, The Beatles, Charlie Chaplain and New Orleans great Allen Toussaint. While ensembling with a cadre of Louisiana Music Hall of Famers, Butler also spins fascinating flute, vibes and organ sounds on her synth.  

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Bob Coate - Power Surge
Bob Coate
Power SurgeBobCoate.com

Worlds away from the laid-back chill vibes of his earlier singles, former IT expert Bob Coate has found a much more engaging, fresh, funked-out high energy flow since joining forces in 2024 with producers Peet Ferencz (Peet Project) and Smoothjazz.com founder Sandy Shore, as well as Peet Project's fiery former sax man Peter Herold. Keeping his melodic and improvisational keyboard magic front and center, Coate follows the team's global smooth jazz hits "Love Like That" and "Forward Flow" (#1 on the Top 100 Smooth Jazz charts in Spain and Latin America) with the equally spirited and rambunctious "Power Surge," which lives up to its name with swagger, heartfelt power and simmering organ flavors under the main melody line. It's the perfect fall pick-me-up! 

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Nathan and Noah East - Father Son
Nathan and Noah East
Father SonEastern Star

On FATHER SON, Nathan and Noah East create a rare musical dialogue that feels both instinctive and deeply emotional, blending generational artistry into one seamless voice. Their natural chemistry sets the tone, while an extraordinary lineup of guests elevates the album into a true all-star celebration. Eric Clapton, Jack Lee, Billy Valentine, Hubert Laws, Greg Phillinganes, Merry Clayton, and Seiko Matsuda each bring their own signature touch, adding color, soul, and dimension without ever overshadowing the Easts’ unmistakable groove. The result is a warm, dynamic, and beautifully crafted project that honors legacy, spotlights family connection, and showcases world-class musicianship at every turn.

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Jeff Logan - Symphony cover
Jeff Logan
SymphonyFire & Ice Entertainment

Jeff Logan’s new album SYMPHONY unfolds like a melodic opus, showcasing the multi‑instrumentalist’s expansive artistry as a producer, arranger, poet, and visionary creator. The project reflects Logan’s signature 4M philosophy — Melody, Message, Music for a Movement — weaving Smooth Jazz with shades of Neo‑Soul, R&B, Gospel, and Spoken Word. Its first single, “The Soft Kiss,” is a laid‑back instant classic that highlights his fluid touch and emotional depth. Fresh off global success with INDIGO and collaborations with Grammy winner Paul Brown, Logan continues to refine his craft while building an ever‑growing catalog through his Fire & Ice Network, with more standout releases planned for 2026.
 

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Dee Lucas - No Strings Attached cover
Dee Lucas
No Strings AttachedODL Music

The title of veteran soprano sax virtuoso Dee Lucas' last two albums tells his remarkable creative story - first a commitment to making exciting, urban-flavored Smooth Jazz with no restrictions on NO BOUNDARIES, and then an emphatic celebration of his 20 fruitful, radio hit filled years as a four-time chart topping recording artist on TWENTY. Forging ahead, he keeps the theme of sharing music without limitations - and his freewheeling, elegant soul-funk vibes hoppin' - on his latest single "No Strings Attached." The track offers a soul-fired blend of spirited thumping grooves and sweetly lyrical, ultra-melodic and adventurous playing. Lucas is also an innovator on the business side, starting his career with his own label, Mo' Better Recordings, and in 2017 launching ODL Music, which allows him to steer his career with vision.

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Michael Mani - Triangles
Michael Mani
TrianglesBaja/TSR Records

In addition to his elegant, fancifully melodic and improvisational playing style, multi-faceted composer, pianist, arranger and producer Michael Mani brings an impressively diverse background to his emergence in Smooth Jazz with his consistently 
delightful debut album TRIANGLES. Launching his career working with pop superstars at Narada Michael Walden’s Tarpan Studios, Mani won a Best Rock Instrumental Performance Grammy for a tune on Santana’s classic Supernatural album, has developed artists like Tori Kelly and Becky G and runs the popular independent L.A. based studio The JAM. With dynamic contributions by Nils, Mike Parlett and Tony Saunders, the album finds the keyboardist strutting his stuff while shining bold spotlights on his passions for light funk, seductive ballads, breezy topicality, and exotic Brazilian vibes.
 

 

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James Morgan Jazz - Wes Coast Smooth cover
James Morgan Jazz
Wes Coast SmoothJMJ Records

San Diego’s James Morgan Jazz delivers a playful, irresistible nod to Wes Montgomery with their sun‑soaked new single
“Wes Coast Smooth.” Crafted with unmistakable California ease, the track spotlights Morgan’s fluid, expressive guitar
tone as it glides over the lush keys of Chase Pado, Nathan Brown’s deep‑pocket bass, and Tres Hodgens’ dynamic rhythms.
As the band’s third and most anticipated release—following the success of “Live Love” and “Frequency of Love”—the single
captures the warm, melodic charm that defines their signature West Coast sound. Mixed and mastered by Peet Ferencz (Peet
Project) alongside SmoothJazz.com founder Sandy Shore, “Wes Coast Smooth” arrives with polish, personality, and pure
coastal groove.
 

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Sunnie Paxson - Chance Acquaintance
Sunnie Paxson
Chance AcquaintanceMADCatfish Music

Inspired early on by Herbie Hancock, Ramsey Lewis and Chick Corea, keyboardist/composer Sunnie Paxson is a fascinating, multi-faceted talent whose resume and discography include both straight ahead and Smooth Jazz and work with everyone from Larry Carlton, Maysa and Pamela Williams to Michael Paulo and Eric Darius. Once again, after releasing the straight-ahead album BOHEMIAN SUN on Stanley Clarke's Roxboro Entertainment label, she has collaborated with the legendary bassist on her latest Smooth Jazz single, the high spirited, soulfully swaggering "Chance Acquaintance." A grand showcase for her keyboard wizardry in conjunction with the artistry of Clarke, Sekou Bunch and Paul Jackson, Jr. among others, it's an artfully melodic, rhythmically tight expression of the reality that some of the most important people in our lives enter through pure, unscripted chance.

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Jim Richter - Dream Dance
Jim Richter
Dream DanceJamesland Music Management, LLC

There are some excellent reasons to call this classically trained pianist, multi-instrumentalist and composer "Mr. Kool." While leading his popular 8-piece horn ensemble, The Kool Breeze Band, the Georgia native's 2020 breakthrough single "Mr. Kool" has racked up 3.7M+ streams on Spotify. Beyond its joyful infectiousness and stellar playing, the 'koolest' part of Jim Richter's latest album DREAM DANCE is its adventurous approach to Smooth Jazz that makes the classically trained pianist just as likely to dazzle us with his spritely ivory skills as he is to regale us with his sparkling Fender Rhodes energy, crackling lead guitar and dynamic horn arrangements. With nods to the legends, Bob James, Dave Grusin and Pat Metheny, we're excited that this multi-genre, multi-instrumentalist has delivered a truly in-the-pocket album designed just for contemporary jazz lovers!

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Paolo Rustichelli - Elise Dance
Paolo Rustichelli
Elise DanceNext Age Music

Renowned Italian composer Paolo Rustichelli follows his dreams… Literally! The synth music pioneer awoke from a lucid dream where he was playing music with Ludwig van Beethoven and immediately began creating a fusion between an original modern dance jam and one of Beethoven's most well-known pieces, "Für Elise." The result is "Elise Dance," a fun-filled, jazzy tune that bridges the classical 1770s with the disco era of the 1970s! That's the stuff that dreams are made of and that's why this visionary has been performing with icons the likes of Miles Davis and Carlos Santana for decades! From maestro to maestro, this is a one-man band production featuring Paolo on all instruments, production and arrangement!

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Kim Scott - Hide and Seek cover
Kim Scott
Hide and SeekInnervision Records

Three-time #1 Billboard Smooth Jazz charting flute virtuoso Kim Scott heads full steam ahead into 2026 with a track whose title perfectly captures the slyly cool, mystical fluttery on her playful new single, "Hide & Seek." A longtime member of Gail Jhonson's Jazz in Pink collective, Scott spreads her wings with equal splashes of romantic charm and playful whimsy, along with tender moments of contemplative soul. Though her performance of the memorable melody more than lives up to the Smooth Jazz Ride's assessment of her "Pied Piper-like allure and magic style," it's her soaring improvisational excitement that reflects the deeper aspects of her artistry and classical training.

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Will Sumner - Rivers cover
Will Sumner
RiversGuitar One Records

When veteran composer and multi-instrumentalist Will Sumner released his debut album TROPIC ZONE 45 years ago, he lived in Minnesota and worked with everyone from Prince, Yanni and The Peterson Family. Decades later as a popular Smooth Jazz artist, he followed a handful of electric guitar focused beach themed albums with two recent collections paying heartfelt homage to his mom, his longtime family home of Carlsbad, CA and an alfalfa farm in Apple Valley once owned by his grandmother. Sumner's latest collection RIVERS rolls along breezily on a colorful, ultra-melodic mix of his jazz, funk and rock sensibilities, balancing exciting electric soul with warm, laid-back acoustic grace. Its many stylistic twists and turns make it feel like the Smooth Jazz equivalent of one of the symphonies he's written throughout his career.

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Jayson Tipp - Bridgetown cover
Jayson Tipp
BridgetownMind in Overdrive

Jayson Tipp's new single "Bridgetown" is a vibrant reimagining of a beloved Under The Lake classic, showcasing the seasoned composer's evolution while honoring three decades of contemporary jazz excellence. Tipp's signature "rough jazz" sensibility-shaped by influences like Bob James, Pat Metheny, and Jeff Lorber-shines through his expressive keyboard work. Joined by guitarist Joel Del Rosario, bassist Roberto Vally, and drummer Gorden Campbell, the track delivers a sleek, modern groove anchored by impeccable musicianship. Following the success of his 2025 string of singles, Tipp's refreshed take on "Bridgetown" continues his streak of standout releases, blending nostalgia with renewed creative energy. It's a smooth, melodic reminder of Tipp's enduring artistry and his remarkable journey from bandleader to solo innovator.

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Ultrablue - Storm cover
Ultrablue
StormSRS Records

Ultrablue surges into 2026 with their electrifying new single “Storm,” a dynamic follow‑up to the band’s rising chart momentum since rebooting in 2023. After landing the #19 Smooth Jazz Single of 2025 with “Girl With the Sunflower Tattoo” on the SmoothJazz.com TOP 100 Annual Chart, Ultrablue elevates their sound once again. Produced by Jeffrey Caruthers and mastered by Euge Groove, “Storm” delivers a sleek, high‑energy fusion of rhythm and melody, driven by standout performances from Lenny Castro, Roberto Vally, Gordon Campbell, David Mann, as well as band‑founder, songwriter, and pianist John Smatla. Confident and compelling, “Storm” is poised to make a major impact.

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Tom Zygmont - Lumina Way
Tom Zygmont
Lumina WayNeckbone Music

With the release of his stylistically eclectic, alternately lyrical, explosively grooving and exotic star-studded debut album LUMINA WAY, veteran drummer Tom Zygmont caps a multi-faceted four-and-a-half decade career that includes hundreds of performances with musical icons (among them, Chuck Mangione, Johnny Mathis and Spencer Davis) and 24 years in product development at Remo Drums. Though there's plenty of hooky, urban-vibing smoothness, the collection also includes more intense and adventurous, boundary busting contemporary jazz and world music. Reflecting his deep studio resume, Zygmont works with a stellar array of L.A. greats, including guitarist/producer Terry Wollman, guitarist Jennifer Batten, percussionists Leon Mobley, Luis Conte and MB Gordy, bassist Abraham Laboriel, Sr., trumpeter/flugelhornist Wayne Bergeron, renowned saxophonist Brandon Fields and harmonica virtuoso Tollak Ollestad. It's an extraordinary, multi-faceted and brilliantly performed jam!

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Listening Loft : ESSENTIALS

496 West - Heights cover
496 West
HeightsCharlie Wilson / Bmrw Promotions

From the album HEIGHTS, the newest Smooth Jazz single from 496 West, is a beautifully reflective piece that blends melodic warmth with the band's signature polish. Led by a lyrical guitar and supported by a gentle, sophisticated saxophone, "Horizons" captures the quiet power of looking forward-of sensing possibility just beyond view. As with all 496 West recordings, the musicianship is refined and deeply expressive, shaped by a group known for its dynamic live performances and its ability to move effortlessly between jazz, soul, and contemporary groove. At its heart, "Horizons" is also a story of brotherhood, marking a creative reunion between Charlie and Kevin Wilson after years on separate paths. The result is intimate, mature, and unmistakably 496 West-music rooted in connection, experience, and emotional depth.

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Darryl Alexander - Morning Calls
Darryl Alexander
Morning CallsDap Entertainment

Darryl Alexander’s new album MORNING CALLS is a warm, inviting collection that highlights his refined touch as a composer, producer, and multi‑instrumentalist. Known for a career that’s reached millions through major TV networks and in‑flight programming, he brings that same seasoned musicality to this project. Guest performances from Jackiem Joyner and Jeff Kashiwa add expressive depth, with their contributions blending seamlessly into Alexander’s rhythmic flow. Advance singles like “Rise Up” and “Seen It Before” have already made chart impact, reflecting the album’s broad appeal. Thoughtful, uplifting, and beautifully crafted, MORNING CALLS reaffirms Alexander’s place as a quietly powerful voice in contemporary instrumental music.

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Carlos Cannon - Boo'd Up
Carlos Cannon
Boo'd UpCannon Productions, LLC

Chicago saxophonist, vocalist, and master entertainer Carlos Cannon returns with a soulful, feel‑good jam on his latest single “Boo’d Up.” Blending the warmth of R&B with the sophistication of Smooth Jazz, Cannon delivers a silky, melodic, high‑energy performance that spotlights his signature tone and undeniable charisma. A seasoned artist who has shared stages with legends from George Duke to Queen Latifah, he channels that depth of experience into a track that feels both contemporary and timeless. “Boo’d Up” grooves with dance‑ready, polished production and Cannon’s effortless phrasing — no surprise it’s already generating thousands of engagements. A smooth, catchy standout, this one lingers long after the last note.

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Allen Carman Project - Jo/y Jam
The Allen Carman Project
Joy JamAllen Carman Music

In addition to capturing the jubilant high spirits of the Allen Carman Project's latest blast of dazzling, horn-fired elegant funk, the title of their single "Joy Jam" perfectly reflects the consistent feel-good vibes, punchy grooves, masterful musicianship and colorful camaraderie of the ensemble's music since its 2019 debut album CARMANOLOGY. In celebration of their enduring Tampa, FL roots, the core trio of Carman (who snags a poppin' bass solo), Grammy nominated keyboardist Philippe Saisse (who also wrote, orchestrated and co-produced) and percussionist/co-producer Gumbi Ortiz invited top musicians to participate, including prominently featured saxman Kenny Anderson.

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Demetrice Everett - Night Life
Demetrice Everett
Night LifeDemetrice Everett

Demetrice “Meat” Everett steps into the spotlight with his vibrant new single “Night Life,” showcasing the versatility and musical fire that have made him a first‑call drummer across genres. Known as “Meatdadrummer,” Everett brings the same dynamic energy heard on stages with Dave Koz, Marcus Anderson, ZZ Ward, Mumufresh, and many more. His extensive touring and recording experience fuels “Night Life” with seasoned groove, sharp musicianship, and undeniable charisma. Following his 2017 debut Life and ahead of a new album in 2026, Meat delivers a sleek, engaging track that highlights his artistry and sets the tone for an exciting new chapter.

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Louie Fitzgerald - Sleek cover
Louie Fitzgerald
SleekStratophonix Records

Louie Fitzgerald’s new EP SLEEK lives up to its name, delivering a refined blend of Smooth Jazz, soulful R&B, and elevated Gospel textures shaped by his world‑class multi‑instrumental mastery. Known as the architect of “Mood Jazz,” Fitzgerald channels decades of global touring, studio excellence, and academic rigor into a sound that feels both luxurious and deeply human. From laid‑back, late‑night grooves to vibrant, funk‑infused moments, SLEEK showcases his command of piano, drums, bass, and production with effortless fluidity. Recorded in his newly upgraded 2026 studio, the EP reflects a polished, high‑fidelity aesthetic that resonates with fans of Brian Culbertson, George Duke, Jeff Lorber, and Joe Sample—an inspired, soulful statement from a seasoned artist at the height of his craft.

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Barbara Fowler - Soulful Reflections Volume II
Barbara Fowler
Soulful Reflections Volume IICDS Records

Four decades after hitting #1 on the Billboard Dance Chart as lead singer of the trio Sinnamon, Barbara Fowler (known artistically as simply "B") - who has shared stages with everyone from Luther Vandross to Kim Waters - is still hypnotizing and grooving as a versatile, soulful and swinging jazz/R&B song stylist. On her latest EP SOULFUL REFLECTIONS VOL II, the long-anticipated sequel to the Chris "Big Dog" Davis produced Volume 1, she pays passionate homage to legends Roberta Flack and Billie Holiday with spirited re-imaginings of two classics and a snappy rendition of a Great American Songbook classic amidst a batch of silky romantic originals.

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William Green - Choose to Love cover
William Green
Choose to LoveMagic Dream Records

William Green’s uplifting new radio single “Choose To Love” spotlights the celebrated Atlanta‑based musician’s soulful
vocals for the first time on his latest album GOOD TO GO. A seasoned composer, producer, and keyboard master with over
40 years of artistry, Green delivers a timely message of unity in a divided world. Featuring smooth jazz saxophonist Dee
Lucas, the track blends contemporary jazz, R&B, and gospel warmth, reminding listeners that love is a conscious
choice. With six self‑produced albums, a sold‑out 40th‑anniversary celebration, and a global performance history, Green
continues to embody musical integrity and timeless expression. “Choose To Love” is a resonant, heartfelt standout poised
to inspire audiences across generations.
 

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Michael C. Lewis - Quiet Fire
Michael C. Lewis
Quiet FireCybervision Entertainment

With his 2016 cover of Earth, Wind & Fire's "Reasons" featuring saxophonist Walter Beasley, esteemed soul and jazz trumpeter Michael C. Lewis achieved an extraordinary streaming number for a Smooth Jazz artist - now 8.9M and counting! Going stronger than ever seven years after his last album INTIMATE JOURNEY, the multi-talented musician - who's worked with countless soul and jazz legends throughout his career - dazzles anew on QUIET FIRE, a smoldering and rhythmically varied set blending smoky ballads, edgy and atmospheric mid-tempo magic, trippy lo-fi vibes and his throbbing and soaring twist on a Steve Miller classic.

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Tony Lindsay - The Gift Of Love (radio edit)
Tony Lindsay
The Gift Of LoveLindseed Music

Tony Lindsay delivers a soulful, heartfelt gem with “The Gift of Love,” a radiant new single that showcases the Grammy-winning vocalist at his most expressive and sincere. Built on warm, elegant musicianship, and Lindsay’s unmistakable velvet tone, the track unfolds as a celebration of love’s power to heal, uplift, and connect. His phrasing is effortless, his delivery intimate, and the production smooth yet emotionally charged, creating the perfect backdrop for a message rooted in gratitude and devotion. With its blend of classic R&B soulfulness and contemporary Smooth Jazz polish, “The Gift of Love” stands as one of Lindsay’s most moving and beautifully crafted performances.

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Vincent Moore - The Mellow Cool Fusion (remix)
Vincent Moore
The Mellow Cool Fusion Bigvmproductions

The Mellow Cool Fusion captures Vincent Moore's lifelong musical evolution through a warm, jazz‑infused lens. The EP blends smooth piano lines, soulful grooves, and subtle R&B textures, creating a soundscape that feels both polished and deeply personal. Moore's classical roots and early experiences in Brooklyn's vibrant music programs surface in the project's expressive harmonies and thoughtful phrasing, while his years of songwriting and production give each track a clean, intentional finish. The music flows with an easy confidence, revealing layered details on repeat listens. The Mellow Cool Fusion stands as a reflective, inviting portrait of an artist whose journey resonates clearly in every note.

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Herb Partlow - City Lights cover
Herb Partlow
City LightsSuperb Muzic

Though multi-instrumentalist Herb Partlow's latest super-sophisticated, cosmopolitan minded single "City Lights" fits perfectly in the Smooth Jazz genre, it's cool cinematic aesthetic, seductive sense of atmosphere, breezy rhythms and dazzling interplay between piano and trumpet could also be thought of as Nu Jazz, fusion or cool jazz - all part of the artist's vision to create "jazz music for a new generation." The track is a laid back, impressionistic portrait of a multi-faceted modern metropolis where ambitious energy bubbles beneath a serene night skyline. It features Partlow's splendid keyboards, piano, bass and drums intertwined with textured brass and both bright and muted trumpet lines.

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Nelson Rangell - The Road Home
Nelson Rangell
The Road HomeRangell Music

Closing in on 40 years as a core Contemporary/Smooth Jazz artist, R&B influenced saxophonist and virtuoso flutist, Nelson Rangell has enjoyed an extraordinary journey that has included recording with everyone from The Rippingtons, Chuck Loeb and Patti Austin to Tom Browne and Special EFX. It's not surprising then, that, as with his latest single "The Road Home," the energy of many of his tunes invoke a dynamic sense of travel and optimistic forward motion. Spotlighting his robust, deeply emotional alto, the track soars with excitement and optimism, with a coolly surprising, introspective break in the middle to contemplate what comes next.

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Nick Stefanacci - Right Here Right Now
Nick Stefanacci
Right Here Right NowSweet Lion Music

Nick Stefanacci follows the heat of his dynamic album EN FUEGO with a seductive new collection, RIGHT HERE RIGHT NOW, showcasing his gift for melody, mood, and masterful saxophone expression. He digs deep once again, crafting melodic counterpoint, evolving textures, and sensual hooks that highlight both his emotional depth and technical precision. Influences from Quincy Jones and Maceo Parker surface in the project’s bold arrangements and contemporary edge, as Stefanacci continues to push the boundaries of Smooth Jazz. Jazz Weekly praises the album’s organic, live-concert feel, noting how naturally his improvisational ideas unfold. RIGHT HERE RIGHT NOW stands as one of the artist's most expressive and refined works to date.

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Byron Thomas - Under Construction
Byron “Morfingarz” Thomas
Under Construction Byron Thomas

Riffing on the title of Byron Thomas' consistently splendid, wildly engaging debut album, the veteran composer/keyboardist may feel he's still UNDER CONSTRUCTION, but Smooth Jazz fans will immediately welcome him as a fully realized visionary artist, committed to picture perfect urban vibing melodies, poppin' improvisations, exquisite balladry and R&B crossover collabs with vocalists C. Lafaye and Dierdre Gaddis. Cleverly nicknamed "morfingarz," his richly textured emerging solo artistry is an outgrowth of his many years as an MD for musicals and his home church in Montgomery, AL. The educator and clinician is also a touring keyboardist with gospel great Tramaine Hawkins.

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R.L. Walker - Real Love cover
R.L. Walker
Real LoveR.L. Walker

A powerful asset to Smooth Jazz since his debut album MANY FACETS in 2013, Air Force Veteran R.L. Walker creates a fascinating array of styles and moods on REAL LOVE, his first EP after six full length projects. Over the course of four tracks, he serves up a refined collection capturing the artist's smooth, soulful style. Timeless, expressive jazz… Complementing his own seductive, slow burning sax balladry with a cherished George Howard classic. Changing things up dramatically, Walker also includes a high-octane, vibraphone-enhanced gem from an early 90s album by the classic (and still active) jazz fusion collective Steps Ahead.

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Tony Whitfield - Pleasure Sensitive 2 - 30th Anniversary Edition
Tony Whitfield
New York HustleOASA RECORDS

In 2002, veteran composer and five string bassist and OASA Records President, Tony Whitfield paid tribute to the enduring spirit of the people of NYC in the wake of the 9/11 attacks by arranging and producing "New York Hustle" an electrifying, soul and jazz-fired revamp of Van McCoy's Grammy winning disco classic "The Hustle." Featuring Whitfield's potent bass grooves as well as the Grammy Award Winning Jerry Hey Horn Section and guitar work of the late Hiram Bullock, "New York Hustle - 9/11 Tribute" (Instrumental) is being re-released to honor the victims on the 24th anniversary, and works an evergreen magic that gives us the freedom to celebrate life even in the wake of the worst tragedy. Mr. Whitfield is also fulfilling a personal request from the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin and conducting a SILENT AUCTION of her Rare Rehearsal Tape.

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