Johnny Long (2)

Born: September 12, 1914

Johnny Long (1914–1972) was an American bandleader and violinist known for his sweet dance band style during the big band era. Born in Newell, North Carolina, he formed his own orchestra while attending Duke University, gaining popularity in the 1930s and 1940s. His band was distinguished by its smooth sound and emphasis on melody, producing hits like In a Shanty In Old Shanty Town, which became his signature song. Long’s group remained active for several decades, entertaining audiences with a mix of swing and traditional pop before his retirement.

Gemma Sherry

Subtle, precise, engrossing and delightful, accomplished Australian vocalist, Gemma Sherry pours her heart and soul into her music. Her interpretation of jazz standards is unique and refreshing. Since moving to the U.S. eight years ago to study music in NYC, this soul-jazz singer, songwriter & saxophonist has released a number of house music records on various European record labels and has now released 4 studio albums. Her debut album was "Songs I Love" which she recorded in England with the exquisite pianist Billy Woodman. This was followed by the released of her short play EP "Sings Bossa Nova" which got her a following in Brazil

Kalya Ramu

Born: August 14, 1993

Kalya Ramu, Canadian jazz vocalist, composer, educator, and visual artist, has carved out a distinctive presence within Toronto's vibrant jazz community. From the age of 12, Kalya found herself immersed in the world of jazz, frequenting jam sessions and touring with community big bands. Her musical journey led her to study Jazz Performance at the esteemed Humber College in Toronto. A storyteller at heart, Kalya has a remarkable ability to reinvent classic jazz tunes while infusing her original compositions with fresh, evocative narratives.

In 2019, Kalya released her debut full-length album, "Living in a Dream", generously supported by FACTOR. Shortly after this release, the title track was featured on the soundtrack of CBC show "Frankie Drake Mysteries." Her second album, "Duo" (2021), is a close collaboration with pianist and composer Ewen Farncombe. The five-track album of original material highlights their artistic synergy. In the past year Kalya released two singles with Brazilian guitarist André Valério. The first, "Algo Contigo” (2023), features the composition of Argentinian songwriter Chico Novarro, and the second “Hold Me Close” (2024) is an original composition by Ramu and Valério and features the playing of flutist Rob Christian. Currently Kalya has been working on a brand new album called Trio, coming out on November 29 2024.

1940s

By Jazz at the Philharmonic

Label: Verve Records
Released: 1971
Track listing: The Man I Love; Crazy Rhythm; After You've Gone; Blues For Norman; I Can't Get Started; Oh Lady Be Good; I Surrender Dear; J.A.T.P. Blues; Sweet Georgia Brown; I Got Rhythm; Perdido; Blues; Body And Soul; How High The Moon; Lester Leaps In; Embraceable You;