African Americans have contributed much to today’s musical landscape. Both genres of Gospel and Jazz have allowed African Americans to express their faith and passion through two different improvisational styles of music. Both genres will be on display on Thursday, February 16, 2012 at the famed jazz supper club, Blues Alley, as Inspirational Singer Robert E. Person takes to the stage making his debut at the Washington, D.C. venue. Person will be performing songs from his repertoire, many penned by African American composers. The artist plans to introduce new material as well. Humbled at the opportunity, Robert will be performing at the same venue that artists such as Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Nancy Wilson, Dizzy Gillespie, and Ramsey Lewis have played. The live concert will be hosted by WEAA’s Marcellus “Bassman” Shepard. Tickets are available for the evening’s two shows, 8PM and 10PM, at www.bluesalley.com.
Joining Person will be the Allyn Johnson Trio. Called “The King of D.C. Jazz Piano” by The Washington City Paper, Allyn Johnson and his exceptionally talented group will be on display on February 16th. The Director of Jazz Studies at University of The District of Columbia, Johnson is a renowned jazz musician and the producer of Robert’s latest release, Soul Sanctuary. The project’s lead single, “Someday We’ll All Be Free”, has catapulted the artist to impressive chart placements and national recognition. An award-winning vocalist who has been seen on The WORD Network and at the festivities during the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Dedication, Robert is a rising star in the world of Gospel music.
Many in Gospel and Jazz have been raving about the singer. Bob Baldwin, GRAMMY Nominated Jazz Artist and Radio Host says, “Robert E. Person is a new, true, soulful and heartfelt artist on the horizon and deserves your attention!” Harold Rayford, Pastor & Stellar Award-winning Gospel Jazz Saxophonist says, “There aren’t any singers out there today that could even imitate this guy. Honestly, his vocal style and class are only surpassed by the humility and discipline he exhibits in his songs.” Bob Marovich of TheBlackGospelBlog.com says, “Robert E. Person is from Washington, DC but his voice is as big as Texas. His robust style – part gospel singer, part jazz balladeer – can be heard on his third CD, Soul Sanctuary, an indie project with major label personality.” More information about Robert E. Person can be found at www.RobertEPerson.com.
