“AFRICA RISING” is the fifth release from noted smooth jazz sax leader ANDRE WARD on the Gallery Entertainment/Orpheus Enterprises label. The Chicago native brings together originals and remakes, each with their own distinct flavor. From the hip-hop flavored single, “Casualty Of Love” (with vocalist K’Jon), to the upbeat, brassy remake of Stevie Wonder’s “Do I Do.” Andre covers many musical palates.
Ward’s releases “Feelin’ You”, “Steppin’ Up” and “Crystal City” were all Top 10 Contemporary Jazz Albums with “Caution” going to #1 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz charts. “AFRICA RISING” will soon be joining the ranks. Andre pays tribute to the sound of Earth Wind & Fire with the tune “Secret Place” (with Chantel Hampton on vocals) and tips his hat to fellow Chicagoans the Emotions with his take on their classic “Don’t Ask My Neighbors”. With the single, “Casualty Of Love” with singer/songwriter K’Jon – “We’ve been trying to work together for some time but he had commitments to fulfill for the label. Finally, K’Jon sent over the instrumental track for ‘Casualty Of Love’ and I immediately liked it. What makes this song special is lyrically the story is about the belief of love on a positive note – which is missing in many new tunes out there now. ‘Casualty Of Love’ is about the benefits of love and how it makes life better…puts a positive spin on being a prisoner of love.
Andre now has a new single from the “AFRICA RISING” release, a remake of Sade’s “Kiss of Life” As to why taking on that 90’s classic – “Who doesn’t love Sade! Her catalog is full of wonderful gems and I wanted to give the song my own spin.”
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