First Listen: James Saxsmo Gates reminds us that “Together We Can Make It”
(October 1, 2017) Recently, our country has been running into more turbulent times, whether it’s the extremely violent storms that have impacted parts of the South and East, ongoing political tension, or whatever happens to reach front page news headlines. When musicians join forces to raise funds for critical causes or just to deliver another dose of encouragement, the power of those positive notes can reaffirm and redirect our thoughts to what our purpose on earth should be. And that’s the case with smooth jazz saxophonist James Saxsmo Gates’ jubilant alto sax performance on “Together We Can Make” (804 Jazz). The song, which recently charted on Billboard’s Smooth Jazz Most Added, struts with a bold confidence, capped by a bouncy brass section and frosted by the sweet guitar of Freddie Fox.
First Listen: James Saxsmo Gates reminds us that “Together We Can Make It”
(October 1, 2017) Recently, our country has been running into more turbulent times, whether it’s the extremely violent storms that have impacted parts of the South and East, ongoing political tension, or whatever happens to reach front page news headlines. When musicians join forces to raise funds for critical causes or just to deliver another dose of encouragement, the power of those positive notes can reaffirm and redirect our thoughts to what our purpose on earth should be. And that’s the case with smooth jazz saxophonist James Saxsmo Gates’ jubilant alto sax performance on “Together We Can Make” (804 Jazz). The song, which recently charted on Billboard’s Smooth Jazz Most Added, struts with a bold confidence, capped by a bouncy brass section and frosted by the sweet guitar of Freddie Fox.
A veteran musician who is currently the Director of the Dr. Billy Taylor Jazz Studies program at Virginia State University, Gates is no stranger to the industry, having worked with Art Blakey, Walter Beasley and many more. But despite his obvious talents and credentials, it’s the heartfelt passion in striving for excellence in the pursuit of genuine musical art that comes through. Though this is strictly an instrumental cut, the implied message behind “Together We Can Make It” of bonding together in making a difference resounds on every level.
By Peggy Oliver