BRINGING IN THE HOLIDAYS WITH JAZZ AND SHOPPING AT THE VILLAGE

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(Louisville, KY) MOLO Village is hosting Holiday Jazz & Shopping at the Village on Friday, December 9th at The Village@West Jefferson located at 1219 West Jefferson Street in Suite 204.

We invite you to this free event which will run from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Dr. Jamesetta Ferguson, President & CEO of MOLO Village says “As the Russell community continues to thrive
so does the need for shopping options. We invite you to come out and enjoy some great music while shopping
for your holiday needs with local vendors. We take pride in showcasing local entrepreneurs and we support
them any chance we get. We also invite you to checkout our brick n’ mortar businesses at The Village. When
you visit.”

Please post and/or announce our holiday event. If you would like to setup an interview, contact VIPP
communications by calling 502-341-7306 or by email at info@vippcommunications.com. If you would like to
be a vendor contact MOLO Village at 502-513-6682.

WHO: MOLO Village

WHAT: Hosting Holiday Jazz & Shopping at the Village

WHEN: Friday, December 9, 2022

WHERE: The Village @ West Jefferson, 1219 West Jefferson Street, Suite 204

TIME: 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

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TheVIPPReport: Jamey Aebersold shares his love for jazz

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Jamey Aebersold

Tucked away on a New Albany street named after his family. Jazz master Jamey Aebersold has been playing music for most of his life. I caught up with him in his studio which is covered with some 15 thousand vinyl albums, thousands of photos which he calls the Smithsonian Jazz Institute of the Midwest. He talks to me about how he was introduced to jazz.  He says “Jazz is the coming thing. When I was young, I got my driver’s license at 16. I got me a 35 dollar car.  I drove to Louisville, in westend where jazz was playing. Every club had jazz. Rock-n-roll had not been invented yet.  Country western wasn’t popular so jazz was basically everywhere. I would go to those places and listen to them.  I would wonder what was going on in their minds.

He never liked to stick to the traditional format. Aebersold says “My dad like Dixieland music. I bought some records. Yeah, I liked it but then when I heard Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, I kinda went that way.” As he hand gestured.   

He goes on to say “It was years later, I would realize that was the foundation that I needed those scales and cords and the fingering of it, so forth…because that would allow me to play what I heard in my head.  (as he hummed a tune) then add a cord to it. That’s how I got started.” 

Jamey told me that he was not a good student and the teacher actually returned his money because he just didn’t have the patience to play the standard scales and cords. In his mind, he was just copying what he saw in the music book.  He wanted to play what was in his head which we know today as improvisation.  When he got older he did receive his formal training and we talked about it.  He said, “I went to Indiana University and they didn’t have saxophone but they put me on the woodwind degree. So, I had to take lessons in oboe the flute, the basson, clarinet, and I don’t think I took saxophone lessons from anyone but the second year a guy was getting his graduate degree and they let him give me lessons. I played the first jazz recital at Indiana University which was a big deal back then 1960/61.” He talked about the audience giving his a standing ovation for that performance.   

Aebersold was very humble, knowledgeable, and full wisdom that we could of literally stayed with him all day and still would not of been able to cover everything he’s accomplished.  He  Performing in the all over the world and receiving so many accolades along the way.  From receiving the National Endowment for the Arts which is the highest honor given to jazz musicians in the U.S. to receiving the Indiana Governor’s Arts Award by Mitch Daniels. He had a table full of awards, even a letter from the White House from President Barack Obama.   

I wanted to know if he thought jazz was a lost art. He responded quickly by saying “No, no, no. I tell you why. When people play jazz they use their imagination. They are very creative and its coming from here to the fingers and that’s not going to stop.”

He says anyone can improvise. He says, “Too many don’t even try because they feel like they are not good enough”. 

I wanted to know what would be his legacy.  He says there’s to much to do now to worry about the future.  There’s still so much to do now.  He gave some good advice that he hopes more people would apply to their life and that was to be nice to people. 

To learn more about Jamey Aebersold and his Jazz Play-A-Longs, go to jazzbooks.com.  you may even see him a classroom if you attend Bellarmine, I-U, or U of L.     

Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherlene@sherleneshanklin.com or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

To see the television version of the story. Click the link provided: https://www.whas11.com/article/news/community/moments-that-matter/jamey-aebersold-new-albany-jazz-muscian-beallarmine-uofl-indiana-university-teacher-music/417-c14b168b-979e-430c-b9e6-198f5d81fe57

The VIPP Report: Celebrating the Legacy of Black Louisville with entertainment memories from the past

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Jazz at the Top Hat 2020

(Louisville, KY) Music is healing to the soul and jazz is the essence of the heart and when you combine the two, you celebrate music and its legacy.  Legacies Unlimited Inc. presents Jazz At The Top Hat Club featuring the jazz renderings of saxophonist Rick DeBow and The Palm Room Crew on Friday, January 24th at the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage, (KCAAH) located at 1701 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd formerly known as Old Walnut Street at 7:30pm.

Although members of the group CRISIS have not played as a unit for a number of years, they will come together as The Palm Room Crew for this Jazz At The Top Hat event.

We invite you to The Top Hat Club, it’s the place to be and to be seen as we celebrate the legacy of Black Louisville. Tickets are $35 for general admission.

On Saturday, January 25th, it’s “Ladies Night Out” with The Walnut Street Revue.  We take you back to the 1930’s, 40’s and 50s.  Louisville legends song stylist Tanita Gaines and showstopper Sheryl Rouse will perform.

Ken Clay, founder of Legacies Unlimited says “Its two evenings full of great music and memories.  We take you down memory lane as we remember our music legends from Louisville in particular Old Walnut with music powerhouses of today.  We will also honor an entertainer on that Saturday with the Helen Humes Jazz Legend Award.  We’ve only given the award to a handful of people over the years, but we feel the particular artist we will honor is so deserving.  We invite you both evenings as we party Old Walnut Street style.”

The award is named in honor of Helen Humes. A jazz and blues singer from Louisville, KY who was a vocalist with Count Basie’s band.  Enthusiasts and historians have documented that Humes was a vital voice in the swing-era.  Helping them shape and define the sound of vocal swing music.  The only child of a school teacher and her father was the first black attorney in the city.  In 1937, Basie asked Humes to join his band, replacing Billie Holiday. The Louisville music icon  recorded her last album in 1980 and died from cancer in 1981 at the age of 68 years old.

Tickets for The Walnut Street Revue are $50 for general admission and $60 for cabaret seating. (limited space)

Celebrating the Legacy of Black Louisville is presented by Legacies Unlimited in partnership with the KCAAH.  It is made possible through support from Christy Brown, the Owsley Brown II Family Foundation, Hardscuffle Inc., WLKY-TV and George & Mary Lee Fischer.

Tickets for the both JAZZ AT THE TOP HAT and WALNUT STREET REVUE are available at Better Days Records in Lyles Mall or at 1765 Bardstown Road. You can also purchase them online at redpintix.com.

Please announce and/or post our event to your entertainment/event calendar.  To set-up an interview, please contact VIPP Communications at  info@vippcommunications.com.

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Jazz at the TOP Hat 2020 BACK

The VIPP Report: Third Annual Lionel Hampton Jazz Project

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Remembering Music Icon and Louisville born Lionel Hampton with a concert benefiting Lincoln Foundation’s Whitney M. YOUNG Scholars Program®

Lincoln Foundation

(Louisville, KY) On Friday, August 23rd at the Kentucky Country Day, (KCD) Lincoln Foundation, in partnership with Dick Sisto, Ken Clay, and Owsley Brown III, presents the 3rd annual Lionel Hampton Jazz Project.  Talented local artists will perform in honor of jazz great Lionel Hampton.  The evening starts with a pre-concert reception at 5:30 p.m. followed by the concert at 7:00 p.m.

Proceeds from the event benefit Lincoln Foundation’s signature Whitney M. YOUNG Scholars Program®.  The purpose of the college prep program is to empower deserving youth to achieve successful graduation from high school and college.  Scholars have earned over 440 post secondary degrees since 2000.  The mission of Lincoln Foundation is to provide educational enrichment programs that develop and support youth in overcoming barriers to achievement.

The Lionel Hampton Jazz Project recognizes the contributions of Hampton and the influence he still holds in the entertainment industry. Hampton was born on April 20, 1908 in Louisville, Kentucky.  When his name is mentioned, fans and fellow musicians reference Hampton as an innovator, vibraphonist, showman and a major contributor to the world of jazz.  The Jamey Aebersold Quartet featuring Gabe Evens (piano), Tyrone Wheeler (bass) and Jonathan Higgins (drums) will open the evening.  Dick Sisto’s Vibraganic Trio featuring Kendall Carter (organ), Mike Hyman (drums) and Marlin McKay (flugelhorn) will round out the performances in tribute to Hampton.  Sisto serves as the artistic and musical director for the event.

During the course of the evening, Lincoln Foundation will also present the prestigious Spirit of Excellence Award. The award is given annually to individual(s) who exemplifies an active commitment to education, human/community service, and leadership.  The 2019 recipient is Dr. F. Bruce Williams of Bates Memorial Baptist Church.  The pastor, of one of the largest congregations in the city, works tirelessly in the church and community as a great humanitarian.  Past recipients include Steve and Amy Trager, Christina Lee Brown, Laura Douglas, Ed Hamilton, Mary Gwen Wheeler, Mayor Greg Fischer, Robert & Deborah Blair and Lonnie & the late Muhammad Ali.

Tickets for the Lionel Hampton Jazz Project are $65 and can be purchased through www.louisvilletickets.com.

For additional information, please contact Paula Campbell at 502.585.4733 ext. 203 or Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com.  Visit our website at www.lincolnfdn.org.

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vippnewlogoVIPP Communications is a full service public relations, event management and production firm headquartered in Louisville, KY with clients and/or projects all over the U.S. We can create, maintain and sustain your brand.  Our clientele range from small businesses, non-profits, corporate leaders, entertainment to current and retired professional athletes.  Contact one of our team members to see if we can assist you at info at vippcommunications dot com.  http://vippcommunications.com

 

The VIPP Report: Celebrating the Legacy of Black Louisville and the influences that still resonate in the consciousness of the community

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It’s a tradition that many automatically put on their calendars from year to year because when you attend the celebration hosted by Legacies Unlimited Inc. you walk away realizing that so many that grew up in this community made history in so many ways especially in the entertainment industry.  On January 25th & 26th, they will be remembered and celebrated for their outstanding accomplishments. It’s all about Celebrating the Legacy of Black Louisville.  It will be held at the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage, (KCAAH) located at 1701 West Muhammad Ali Blvd.

This event pays tribute to the achievements and contributions that Louisville’s African American citizens have made to Louisville, the nation and the world.

The program will consist of exhibits, workshops and two performance events.  It’s the JAZZ AT THE TOP HAT. A re-imagined night out at the Top Hat Club, Black Louisville’s most famous entertainment spot during the glory days of the 1940’s and 50’s.  This event will present jazz vocalist, Bobby J and will feature International flutist and Jazz historian Galen Abdur Razzo.                                                                                        

 The second event is The Walnut Street Revue, a live stage show reminiscent of the “chitlin circuit” performances that played in venues on Walnut Street, now Muhammad Ali Blvd., in the 1940’s & 50’ when Walnut Street was in vogue.  The revue will be hosted by WLKY’s Ann Bowdan. The evening will be filled with great music presented The Jerry Tolson Jazz Group with vocalists Alisia and Karen Chavez.

A special tribute will be paid to the late Foree Wells, a Louisville musician who played with some of the greatest blues performers in the business, which included —music legend the late B.B. King.  Wells, also founded the Walnut Street Blues Band which included his two sons and a daughter in law. The Walnut Street Rhythm & Blues Band will be in attendance that evening and will perform a special tribute in memory of their beloved father, Foree Wells.

The Opening Ceremony will take place from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm on Friday, January 25th followed by an unveiling of the exhibits.  The exhibits included in this year’s program include the following:   Two Centuries of Black Louisville …the Exhibit – A permanent exhibit of photographs from the book Two Centuries of Black Louisville —A Photographic History; Textile Designs by Louisville’s “Bag Lady” – Zephyr May Miller; and The Works of Louisville Folk Artist, Marvin Finn plus much more. 

There will be two workshops held on Saturday, January 26th.  The first one, The Legacy of Central High School from 10:00 am to 11:30 am. It’s an investigative look at the historical significance and impact that Central had on its students and the community as well. Come learn about the legacy that this educational institution created over the years through the lens of Dr. Larry Wilkins Doyle, a 1968 CHS graduate whose did his doctoral studies on the historic school.  The second workshop will be The Listening Room Workshop. It will present recordings of Louisville’s African American entertainers & musicians of the 50’s, 60’s & 70’s. These selections will be provided by the Soulful Sounds of Derbytown and presented by Ron Lewis of Mr. Wonderful Productions.

Celebrating the Legacy of Black Louisville is presented by Legacies Unlimited in partnership with the KCAAH and the University of Louisville Archives & Special Collections. It is made possible through support from the Owsley Brown II Family Foundation, WLKY-TV and George & Mary Lee Fischer.

Tickets for the both JAZZ AT THE TOP HAT and WALNUT STREET REVUE are available at Better Days Records in Lyles Mall or at 1765 Bardstown Road AND JAMBUSTERS BALLOONS & MORE at Popular Level Road. For ticket information call (502) 456-2394.

To set-up an interview, please contact Sherlene Shanklin with VIPP Communications at info at vippcommunications dot com.  If you have an entertainment/community calendar, we are requesting that you post and/or announce. 

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The VIPP Report: The Soul of Russell Arts & Cultural Festival will be held at the Heritage Center in the heart of the Russell Neighborhood

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!cid_C5A664E86DDE4FF19B737E7F6159E0FA@SherlenePC

(Louisville, KY) The Kentucky Center for African American Heritage, (KCAAH) in collaboration with the Kentucky Music Heritage Foundation presents the Soul of Russell Arts & Cultural Festival August 24th & 25th.  The Soul of Russell Arts and Cultural Festival will be two amazing nights celebrating the blues and jazz tradition in Kentucky at the Heritage Center in Louisville.

On Friday, August 24th, 2018 from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm local blues and jazz artists will perform Saluting Past Blues and Jazz Giants from Kentucky, showcasing artists: Tanita Gaines, Karan Chavis, Carla Reisert and the Midwest Creole Ensemble, will perform music remembering Mary Anne Fisher, Helen Humes, Sara Martin, Barrington “Boogie” Martin, William “Roach” Cochram, and special tribute to Bluesman Steve Ferguson.

On Saturday, August 25th from 1:00 pm to 4:00pm, the festival will take you back in history with Kentucky Music from 1840s through the 1920s.  At 1:00 pm it’s Gallery Talk: Doug Van Buren About the Exhibition by the Kentucky Music Heritage Foundation currently on display at KCAAH.  This conversation is scheduled to conclude around 2:15 pm (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes).

From 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm its From Jug Band to Blues and Jazz.  Michael L. Jones and Keith S. Clements will facilitate a presentation and discussion about the rich history of Jug Band Music the origin of Blues and Jazz in Kentucky. These two presentations are free and open to the public.

Also, on Saturday evening, August 25th from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm it’s the Soulful Sounds of Derby Town.  The evening will showcase some of Louisville’s rich talent featuring Robbie Bartlett, Marjorie Marshall, Paula Yarbrough, Ron Lewis “Mr. Wonderful” and The Villeffect Band.

This year’s mistress of ceremony for both evenings will be The Glamour Girl of Comedy Kimberly Vaughn.  The Heritage Center is located in the heart of the Russell Neighborhood at 1701 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd.  Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door and/or $35 for both nights

 If you would like to setup an interview and/or covering this year’s Soul of Russell Arts & Cultural Festival contact VIPP Communications at 502-582-7216 or by email at info@vippcommunications.com.

For additional information visit the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage at http://www.kcaah.org  Follow us on our social media platforms: Twitter @kygriot/FB @kygriot.

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The VIPP Report: 2nd Annual Lionel Hampton Tribute Concert Showcase Benefits Lincoln Foundation’s Signature Whitney M. YOUNG Scholars Program®

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LincolnFoundationLionelHampton

Lincoln Foundation, in partnership with Dick Sisto, Ken Clay, and Owsley Brown III, present the 2nd annual Lionel Hampton Tribute Concert Showcase.  The concert takes place Friday, August 17th at 7:30 pm at the Holy Trinity Clifton Campus Eifler Theatre (formerly the Clifton Center) located at 2117 Payne Street.

The fundraiser benefits Lincoln Foundation’s signature Whitney M. YOUNG Scholars Program®.  The ultimate goal of the college prep program is to empower students for successful graduation from high school and college.  Scholars have earned over 400 postsecondary degrees since 2000.  Lincoln Foundation has empowered disadvantaged youth to overcome adversity through education since its inception by Berea College over 100 years ago.  The mission of the organization is to provide educational enrichment programs that develop and support youth in overcoming barriers to achievement.

The Lionel Hampton Tribute Concert Showcase honors the late, great jazz musician and Louisville native Lionel Hampton.  Born on April 20, 1908, Hampton popularized the vibraphone and was renowned for being an innovator, actor, pianist, showman, and entertainer. Hampton received countless awards and honors which included being recognized for his outstanding work in music by two standing presidents.  Both President George H. W. Bush and President Bill Clinton honored the jazz icon.

Louisville’s own jazz legend, vibraphonist Dick Sisto, continues to keep Hampton’s legacy alive.  Sisto will serve as the artistic and musical director for the showcase.  A group of world-class artists will join Sisto including Jeremy Allen, double bass; Art Gore, drums; Walter Smith III, saxophone; Robert McCarther, vocals; and two-time Grammy Award winner, Kamau Kenyatta, piano.  Four of the artists are also renowned professors of jazz at some of the country’s preeminent schools of music.

The evening begins with the presentation of the prestigious Spirit of Excellence Award.  The award is annually given to a local individual who exemplifies an active commitment to education, human/community service, and leadership.  The 2018 recipients are Steve and Amy Trager.  Steve is the Chairman and CEO of Republic Bank, and Amy is a community leader and volunteer.  Past recipients include Christina Lee Brown, Laura Douglas, Ed Hamilton, Mary Gwen Wheeler, Mayor Greg Fischer, Robert & Deborah Blair and Lonnie & the late Muhammad Ali.

Tickets for the Lionel Hampton Tribute Showcase are $40 for general admission and $25 for students with a valid ID and can be purchased through www.louisvilletickets.com. Tickets are also available at Better Days Records East and Better Days Records West.

For additional information, please contact Paula Campbell at 502.585.4733 ext. 203 or Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com.  Visit our website at www.lincolnfdn.org.

LincolnFoundation

 

VIPP Communications is a full service public relations, event management and production firm headquartered in Louisville, KY with clients and/or projects all over the U.S. We can create, maintain and sustain your brand.  Our clientele range from small businesses, non-profits, corporate leaders, entertainment to current and retired professional athletes.  Contact one of our team members to see if we can assist you at info at vippcommunications dot com. 

 

 

The VIPP Report: Celebrating the legacy of Black Louisville linking the past to the present

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Vic & Jazz Flyer (Back)

From workshops to live entertainment and it takes place along the Old Walnut Street strip

(Louisville, KY) Legacies Unlimited in partnership with the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage, (KCAAH) & the University of Louisville Archives & Special Collections presents Celebrating the Legacy of Black Louisville on Friday, January 26th and 27th at KCAAH located at 1701 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd formerly known as Old Walnut Street.  This year’s theme is “Linking the past to the present.” 
On Friday, January 26th from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm there will be a reception and the opening of exhibits. There will be five works on exhibit: Two Centuries of Black Louisville…the Exhibit; The Expressionism of Victor Sweatt; Louisville Entertainers & Musicians Exhibit Part 1; The textile designs of “Bag Lady: Zephra May Miller and The Folk Art of Louisville’s Marvin Finn. 
From 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm KCAAH will transform into the most prominent club housed on Old Walnut Street known today as Muhammad Ali Blvd.  In the 1940’s and 50’s everyone would dress up and head down to the Top Hat Club.  Jazz would be bellowing out into the streets from some of the greatest jazz artists of their time.  So, by linking the past to the present, it’s Jazz at the Top Hall featuring vocalist/musician Gayle King and Hammond B-3 along with Kendall Carter and his quintet.  General admission is $30.00 per person. 
 On Saturday, January 27th starting at 9:00 am there will be workshops discussing the historic 2nd Baptist Church in New Albany, IN entitled Pathway to Freedom.  The free workshop takes you back in time when the church was a beacon of hope and served as a pathway to the Underground Railroad.  Following that workshop will be a jug band music session.  German & Irish immigrants along with slaves created this unique sound that left a lasting impression on music’s culture. 
At 12:00 pm, guests will get to enjoy The Listening Room.  Music from the 1950’s, 60’s & 70’s recordings from Louisville’s African American entertainers and musicians provided by the Soulful Sounds of Derbytown. 
To close out the weekend, it’s The Walnut Street Revue featuring Louisville native Vic Frierson.  It’s A Song for You: A Tribute to the Life & Music of Luther Vandross. Frierson will celebrate the life and music of Luther Vandross. The event begins at 7:30 pm with Tony Fish & Band. Hosted by WLKY-TV’s Ann Bowdan. General admission tickets are $40 per person.  You can purchase them online at http://www.louisville.com, Better Days Records in Lyles Mall and 1765 Bardstown Road.  Workshops and exhibits are free to the public.
The event is made possible due to the support of the following: The Kentucky Center for African American Heritage, Christy Brown & the Owsley Brown II Family Foundation, George & Mary Lee Fischer and WLKY-TV. 
If you would like to setup an interview with Ken Clay and/or to have one of the artist(s) to perform on your show please contact Sherlene Shanklin with VIPP Communications at 502-295-0435 or by email at info@vippcommunications.com. 

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Vic & Jazz Flyer (Front)

The VIPP Report: Jazz artists begin to arrive in Louisville to pay tribute to Lionel Hampton for his contributions in music

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derekintexas1

LOUISVILLE, KY – The Lincoln Foundation in partnership with Dick Sisto, Ken Clay, Owsley Brown III, Louisville Public Media, Owsley Brown II Family Foundation, The Kentucky Center, Mike Balter Mallets and Vandoren Saxophone Reeds proudly announces the inaugural Lionel Hampton Tribute Concert Showcase. The event will take place in the Bomhard Theater of the Kentucky Center on Saturday October 7th at 7:30 p.m.  The concert will be a live-recording.

 Dick Sisto, on vibraphone, is the artistic and music director who will lead a group of featured jazz artists who will pay tribute to jazz greats past and present.  They include Barry Ries, trumpet; Bobby Broom, guitar; Bobby Floyd, keyboards; Jim Anderson, bass; Art Gore, drums and special guest Harry Skoler, clarinet (Berklee College of Music). These experienced artists have played with jazz greats such as Lionel Hampton, Sonny Rollins, Count Basie, Benny Golson, and George Benson.

            Louisville native Lionel Hampton was born on April 20, 1908. He popularized the vibraphone and played with the Benny Goodman Quartet before becoming a successful bandleader. Hampton received honors from Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton. He performed well into his 90s before passing away in 2002.

           Mayor Greg Fischer and the city of Louisville have embraced this event and hope to honor this hometown jazz great and innovator with an official Lionel Hampton dedication day. The event will also feature a showcase of young percussion students on the vibraphone and drums.  A music scholarship will be considered for one of the participating youth.

           Tickets start at $30.00 and they are still available at the Kentucky Center Box Office.  Proceeds from the event will benefit Lincoln Foundation’s signature Whitney M. YOUNG Scholars Program®.  During the concert, a representative from Toyota Motor Manufacturing of Kentucky will make a special announcement that will impact the youth in the scholars program.

           Lincoln Foundation has empowered disadvantaged youth to overcome adversity through education since its inception by Berea College over 100 years ago. The mission of the organization is to provide educational enrichment programs that develop and support youth in overcoming barriers to achievement. Lincoln Foundation outcomes demonstrate that students can break the cycle of poverty in their families through higher education. Students are holistically developed in an educational culture that stresses academic achievement and graduation from college.  Lincoln Foundation annually serves approximately 600 students from two years of age through college with its year-round, nontraditional educational enrichment programs.

For additional information, please contact Paula Campbell at 502.585.4733 ext. 203 or Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com or visit our website at www.lincolnfdn.org.

LincolnFoundation 

The VIPP Report: Jazz fans can sit under the “twin spires” and listen to some great music this weekend

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DerbyCityJazzFestival

This weekend jazz will fill the air under the historic “twin spires” at Churchill Downs.  The 2nd Annual Derby City Jazz Festival will delight jazz enthusiast and novice alike because of the buffet of talent headed to the city.

This year’s lineup is stellar with some very familiar names in the jazz industry. Saxophonist and contemporary jazz artist Marion Meadows is on the schedule to perform Friday night. He’s worked with artists like The Temptations, Michael Bolton, the late Eartha Kitt and Brook Benton just to name a few.

Also, performing this weekend is Kayla Waters.  She’s considered a smooth jazz artist whose a pianist and sings during her performances. She’s opened for artists like Patrice Rushen, Stevie Wonder and Maysa.

Maysa is on the Derby City Jazz Festival schedule.  She will be in concert on Saturday.  If you’ve never heard of the artist.  She was originally with the British group Incognito.  This jazz-influenced R & B singer has dynamic vocals and she’s one of the must see artists when attending the festival.

So, see just with the several artists I’ve mentioned all of them have a different vibe.  You should find someone over the two days that you will simply love.  So, go out and experience the flavor of the Derby City Jazz Festival.  Gates will open at 2:00 pm. Entertainment begins on both days at 4:00 pm and will end around 12:00 am.  The concert will be held in the Paddock Area on the Plaza Stage which organizers says creates the perfect back drop.  Don’t forget to bring your own seating for the summer sun and then evening moonlight with fantastic music.

Here’s Friday’s lineup:

  • Benny J and Friends with special guest Bamm Davis
  • Urban Jazz Coalition featuring Adria Shahid
  • Lad Tizer and Karen Briggs
  • Althea Rene’ featuring Ariel O’Neal
  • Marion Meadows
  • Marcus Johnson
  • Jam Session: Chris Miskel Band

 

Saturday’s lineup:

  • Benny J and Friends with special guest Bamm Davis
  • Kayla Waters
  • Matt Marshak
  • Bob Baldwin with Urban Jazz Coalition
  • Maysa
  • Mike Phillips
  • Nick Colionne

 

Tickets start at $50 for general admission.  To purchase tickets go to www.derbycityjazzfest.com.  Follow Sherlene Shanklin on Twitter @sherlenemediapr and Facebook at @SherleneShanklinMediaPRPro for event announcements, ticket giveaways and breaking news. https://www.facebook.com/SherleneShanklinMediaPRPro/

 

 

 

The VIPP Report: Tribute event announced to honor jazz great and Louisville native Lionel Hampton

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 LincolnFoundation

LOUISVILLE, KY – The Lincoln Foundation in partnership with Dick Sisto, Ken Clay, Owsley Brown III, Louisville Public Media, Owsley Brown II Family Foundation, The Kentucky Center, Mike Balter Mallets and Vandoren Saxophone Reeds proudly announces the First, Annual Lionel Hampton Tribute Concert Showcase. The event will take place in the Bomhard Theater of the Kentucky Center on Saturday Oct. 7.

Dick Sisto, on vibraphone, is the artistic and music director who will lead a group of featured jazz artists who will pay tribute to jazz greats past and present.  They include Barry Ries, trumpet (Lionel Hampton); Bobby Broom, guitar (Sonny Rollins); Bobby Floyd, keyboards (Count Basie); Jim Anderson, bass (Benny Golson); Art Gore, drums (George Benson) and special guest Harry Skoler, clarinet (Berklee College of Music).

Louisville native Lionel Hampton was born on April 20, 1908. He popularized the vibraphone and played with the Benny Goodman Quartet before becoming a successful bandleader. Hampton received honors from Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton. He performed well into his 90s before passing away in 2002.

Mayor Greg Fischer and the city of Louisville have embraced this event and hope to honor this hometown jazz great and innovator with an official Lionel Hampton dedication day. The event will also feature a showcase of young percussion students on the vibraphone and drums.  A music scholarship will be considered for one of the participating youth.

Schedule and ticket information for the Lionel Hampton Tribute Concert Showcase will be announced later this summer. Proceeds from the event will benefit Lincoln Foundation’s signature Whitney M. YOUNG Scholars Program®.

Lincoln Foundation has empowered disadvantaged youth to overcome adversity through education since its inception by Berea College over 100 years ago. The mission of the organization is to provide educational enrichment programs that develop and support youth in overcoming barriers to achievement. Lincoln Foundation outcomes demonstrate that students can break the cycle of poverty in their families through higher education. Students are holistically developed in an educational culture that stresses academic achievement and graduation from college.  Lincoln Foundation annually serves approximately 600 students from two years of age through college with its year-round, nontraditional educational enrichment programs.

For additional information, please contact Paula Campbell at 502.585.4733 ext. 203 or Sherlene Shanklin at 502-295-0435 or sshanklin@vippcommunications.com.  Please visit our website at www.lincolnfdn.org.

 

The VIPP Report: News conference to announce an event to keep Louisville native Lionel Hampton’s music legacy alive

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LincolnFoundation

MEDIA ADVISORY

June 2, 2017

 

WHO:             Lincoln Foundation representatives and Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer

WHAT:           Details will be announced about an upcoming event that will celebrate the                           life and accomplishments of Louisville native Lionel Hampton

WHEN:           Wednesday, June 7, 2017

WHERE:         Kentucky Center, 501 W. Main Street

TIME:             11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Confirmed attendees:

Mayor Greg Fischer, Dick Sisto, Ken Clay, Larry McDonald, and a representative from the Owsley Brown II family

If you have any questions, please contact Paula Campbell with Lincoln Foundation at 502-651-1015 or Sherlene Shanklin with VIPP Communications at 502-295-0435.

 

 

The VIPP Report: Derby City Jazz Festival

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Renowned artists like Marion Meadows, Tim Cunningham and the Urban Jazz Coalition will all perform in Louisville on July 1st and 2nd at Fourth Street Live, 411 South 4th Street.

The inaugural two-day festival will be added to the event calendar for years to come as they celebrate jazz and it’s rich history in Louisville by bringing in unforgettable performances and distinctive experiences.

Jazz was originated in New Orleans during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.  The unique blend of African and slave folk songs received its influence from classical music.  It was their way of interpretation of American and European culture.  Jazz’s main influence came from hymns in the church. The harmonic style is known today by many as spirituals.

Max Maxwell, CEO of the Derby City Jazz Festival says “Louisville is a place filled with soul, culture and creativity, and we have a great legacy. Our Festival – what will be the areas signature smooth jazz festival – truly showcases what makes our city special.”  Maxwell goes on to say it’s exciting to see this idea flourish into a festival that everyone will be proud or for years to come.

Fourth Street Live is encouraging jazz lovers to come out and witness another great event that will give the Derby City a thumbs up as a destination for Smooth Jazz.

To be a part of the “Street Take Over” tickets range from $55 to $100.  You must be 21 and over to attend the festival.  There will be local and regional acts throughout the day along with food and retail vendors.  Concerts begin on both days at 6:00 p.m..   For additional information go to www.derbycityjazzfest.com.

If you have a story idea, send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com.   Follow us on Twitter @TheVIPPReport @VIPPComm.

 Derby City Jazz Festival

Friday, July 1st lineup: Tim Cunningham, Cindy Bradley, Chris Strandring, Marcus Johnson, Urban Jazz Coalition and Marion Meadows

Saturday, July 2nd lineup: Fo Mo Deep, Conya Ross, Jeff Lorber /Brian Bromberg, Jeff Bradshaw and Mike Phillips

 

 

 

The VIPP Report: Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival

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The VIPP Report:  The Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival announced their concert lineup.  Multi-Grammy award winning star Chaka Khan is scheduled to perform.  Khan’s catalog is so extensive with mega hits “Through the Fire” and “I Feel for You”.

Other artists performing will be Crystal Gayle, Toni Braxton, Chrisette Michele and Aaron Neville.

The Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival is from Thursday, January 30th through February 1st at the Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium.  For additional information visit www.jamaicajazzandblues.com.

If you have a story idea send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com.  You can also follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm.