BEVERLY HILLS, CA. (Concord Records) - Shakespeare said, "If music be the food of love, play on." So, what better way to show your appreciation for someone special this holiday season than with the gift of song? Here are a few choice and cost-effective ideas from Concord Records to fill a holiday stocking.
"Genius Loves Company" is the chart-topping, final recording from music legend Ray Charles. The CD, which has already sold over half-a-million copies worldwide, features twelve newly recorded duets with an array of world-class artists, from Natalie Cole, Elton John, and Norah Jones to B.B. King, Gladys Knight and Van Morrison. "Genius Loves Company" stands as a remarkable recording in a remarkable career. It's a must have for any music collection.
"SCORES-Songs from Copacabana and Harmony" is the 43rd recording from Barry Manilow. Long-involved as a songwriter for musical theater, this CD features Manilow's personal renditions of songs he wrote as a labor of love for two of his musical properties, Copacabana and Harmony. "Getting to record these songs I love so dearly is truly an honor for me," says Manilow. "The joy of the songs from Copacabana will surely entertain listeners and put smiles on faces, and the songs from Harmony are some of my proudest achievements." Bring a smile to the face of a loved one this year with the latest hit from this singing-songwriting sensation.
Peter Cincotti's career trajectory has been nothing short of amazing, filled with superlatives and comparisons to some of the greatest singers of our time, from Frank Sinatra to Nat "King" Cole. With a voice steeped in emotion and a talent for making pop and jazz standards sound new again, this 21-year-old can put you "On The Moon" with that special someone this holiday season. Watch out for his infectious twists on "I Love Paris," "St. Louis Blues," and "Some Kind of Wonderful."
In the 1960s, Quincy Jones assembled a crack team of musicians to create an ultra-cool and ultra-funky soundtrack for the NBC sitcom "The Bill Cosby Show." Jones essentially left the tape recorder running during loose and informal jams. After years of sitting forgotten in the vault, these sessions are now available on "Quincy Jones and Bill Cosby: The Original Jam Sessions." Featuring such great artists as Monty Alexander, Ray Brown and Jimmy Smith, this funk collection is the perfect way to spread some holiday cheer.
"Playboy Jazz: In A Smooth Groove" is the perfect companion for any smooth jazz fan who wants to kick back, relax and escape from the chaos of the holidays. What distinguishes this special 2-CD set is its enviable line-up of artists that have defined the genre. From Boney James, The Rippingtons, and Regina Belle to George Benson, Dave Koz, and Kenny G, it's the ultimate collection of smooth jazz classics. "In A Smooth Groove" is smooth and sexy enough to be on Playboy!
