"Better Than Anything" - B Laughborough & D. Wheat. "Life of the Party" - Jonathan Blair, "CollagenLips/Centerpiece" - Suzanne Cloud / Jon Hendricks & Harry (Sweets) Edison. "In the Meantime" - Jonathan Blair, as part of, The Bathrobe Session; don't ask.
Posed photos by Matteo Trisolini.
Influences
Mark Murphy, Nina Simone, Andy Bey, Roberta Flack, Shirley Horn, Cassandra Wilson, Carmen Lundy, Kate Mc Garry, Joe Williams, Kenny Rankin, Claire Martin, Chet Baker, Barry Manilow, Carol King, Johnny Hartman, Luther Vandross, Anita Wardell, Betty Carter, Jenifer Jackson, Leon Thomas, Mel Torme, Dr. Horace C. Boyer, Lambert-Hendricks & Ross, Steven Santoro, Dianne Reeves, Jimmy Scott, Vince Jones, Donny Hathaway, Mica Paris, Estelle Kokot
A warm and compelling jazz vocalist/pianist, composer/arranger whose unique interpretations of jazz standards and inspiring originals include fresh risk-embracing improvisation, effortless swing, earthy blues, seductive soul and a distinctive use of Brazilian and African rhythms. After completing the Bachelor of Science in African American Music from the University of Massachusettes, Jonathan moved to France, where he could be heard in Parisian piano bars or backing French pop star FLORENT PAGNY by night, whilst singing baritone at the American Cathedral by day. His global musical journey then took him to London , where he performed regularly on the jazz circuit and at the Royal Festival Hall. It was here that he also developed his song-writing craft and two of his originals were recorded to great acclaim by British jazz vocalist CLAIRE MARTIN. Since returning to New York, Jonathan has been performing and has almost finished his first recording.
Thanks, it's nice of you to say so and good to hear from you. Love that pic of you (dancing it looks like). Just had a listen to In The Meantime, on which you're sounding great. Hope life is going well in NYC (economic crisis notwithstanding). Over here people are gradually getting to hear about our studio (one client a week is what we want, no more, no less), Si is putting together his part of the new Degree Course he's teaching (huge task) and I am putting together a new show with another singer (Pete Atkin). It's great to be collaborating with another singer on a project - lots of harmonies and cross over musical possibilities and just good not being the bandleader. Am girding myself to start an acapella group at some point. Ever done any of that?
Hey I love that silky smooth sounding voice of yours also. I'm thinking it's best serve with an nice broccoli quiche/a fresh herbal salad/ and a glass of merlot- while ocean breezes blow in the sunset background. Food and music a great 1-2 punch
every time i hear the opening phrase.. in the meantime, well it slays me every time jo dear! ahhhh.. so nice to see you on my page sweet man :-) hope alls good there and that there is a more temperate mien all round.. love and hugs and rainbows as they pass on by xx esti
HI JONATHON, IT WOULD BE MY PLEASURE TO BE YOUR FRIEND. I LOVE YOUR VOICE AND CHOICE! YES, "I WISH I'D MET YOU" BUT AS YOU SAY "SOME OTHER TIME" I SEND MY LOVE, HASTA LUEGO MI AMIGO, CAROL---------XXXXXXXXX
Jonathan, thanks for your comment! Your voice is amazing! We do love so much your music! Hope to hear you live one day! Good luck in 2008! Best Wishes, www.brasildecara.com
Hi Jonathan We met some years ago, about 10 (how did that happen?), through Claire Martin when you were in the UK. I have sung your lovely song The Sun Was Falling From The Sky on gigs. If you've been hearing about me I guess you were hanging out with Ian Shaw and Claire when they were in NYC?
Hope all's going well. You're sounding great on your tracks. All the best
Jonathan ... you are more than welcome to come by and visit with me any time ... your intoxicating voice adds another sweet flavor to my page! I enjoy writing and especially when afforded the time ... happy to have made you smile and for sure just looking at your profile along with your magical melodies brings a smile across my face. Hoping your evening is just as mesmerizing.
