Aaron Myers Ranked Number One Artist on Reverbnation

Washington, DC, July 19, 2016 – DC based Jazz artist Aaron Myers has garnered attention from independent music professionals across the Globe.  It was announced Tuesday July 19th, Myers is ranked the Number One artist on the Reverbnation Charts globally for all genres.  This ranking places a Jazz artist at the top of the charts for this site.

“I woke up, checked my emails, and started on my daily promotion routine when I discovered I was number one…it totally made my day and makes me want to work even harder”, Myers said when asked about the news.  Myers is the Resident artist at Mr. Henry’s Restaurant, launching pad for Roberta Flack, where he has a monthly featured show and co-hosts the Capitol Hill Jazz Jam alongside saxophonist Herb Scott.

Reverbnation is comprised of over 10.6 million music and entertainment professionals globally.  Ranking systems are based upon several factors ranging from downloads, song plays, profile views, etc.  Since 2006, Reverbnation has helped millions of emerging artists build their careers by connecting artists to venues, festivals, brands, publishers, labels and fans themselves.  Reverbnation offers emerging artists from around the world access to the global music industry.

Myers is a constant on the DC Jazz scene.  In 2015 & 2016 he was voted Best Singer by the Washington City Paper’s “Best of DC” Reader’s Poll, and was nominated for a WAMMIE (Washington Area Music Award) in 2013.   Recently, Myers organized the DC Jazz Lobby, through which local musicians have introduced legislation to preserve, protect and promote Jazz in Washington DC.  This legislation was introduced to the DC City Council Tuesday July 12th by Council Member Brianne Nadeau.  He has released 3 albums, and been very active in the local community, sitting (and having sat on) on the board of directors for Crittenton Services of Greater Washington, OASIS Dance Company & CTE Vision Inc, all service and arts organizations.  Myers also serves as Minister of Music for Covenant Baptist UCC, an open and affirming church located in Washington DC.

“I’m a country boy, raised in a sharecropping community, with people who encouraged my art the best they could, and still support and encourage me today.  After making Washington DC my home, and being embraced by this community, I hope that I can use my art to bring attention and help to those who need it the most” said Myers.  This Friday he will be hosting his annual birthday show at Mr. Henry’s at 8pm, inviting the public to come out and celebrate with him.

Aaron Myers performs a no-cover live Jazz show at the Mr. Henry’s Restaurant (601 Pennsylvania Ave SE, Washington DC.)  every fourth Friday of the month from 8:00pm to 11:00pm, and co-hosts the Capitol Hill Jazz Jam every Wednesday at the same time and location. 

My Ode to DC’s Budget Autonomy

Today, I’ve watched members of congress on C-SPAN give their opinions in regards to Budget Autonomy for Washington DC.

For those of you who do not know, not only are the residents of Washington DC (like me) not given a vote in Congress (our Delegate is not given a vote), but Washington DC is not given budget autonomy (freedom from external control or influence).

The District of Columbia wants the ability to create their budgets, implement their budgets, and do what’s best in the interests of the citizens of Washington DC.  There has even been a court order in support of that.

However, this Republican lead Congress doesn’t want to see this happen.   Delegate Norton, has passionately tried to make her voice heard through reason, rallied others to support, but still to no avail.

 

As a Jazz artist, I only know one way to express my disgust towards our Congress in regards to this issue.  Below are the lyrics to my song “Home Rule” that will be included on my upcoming album “The PRIDE” which will be released later this year.  These words describe my disappointment in some Representatives who would rather be referred to as “Master” in the Big House.

“Home Rule”

(V1)

There’s a plantation where sharecroppers toil

With sweat on their brow, and blood in the soil.

A building sits there, passing laws every day,

New people arrive, while the natives move away.

It seems unreal, but they have no autonomy,

Some call it the Capitol, but it’s home to me.

(V2)
Millionaires walk around, flooding every street

Giving sullen looks to the poor that they meet

Hired cars, shuffle the people around,

Then & Now, how it’s changed this town.

We asked for our money, they took our authority,

Some may call it Washington, but it’s home to me.

(Bridge)
Taxation without representation you’ll hear the old folks say.
The Good ole masters throw their parties, and then look the other way.
Once a year, they let us, celebrate emancipation day,
Then up to work from dawn to dusk, then home again to pray.

(V3)

To my Delegate I pass a simple note.

She tries to speak our stories in the big house, but they took away her vote.

Dollar after dollar is scrutinized, then a budget they’ll make.
Only to pass it to the authorities, and they’ll tell us what we can take.

You may ask, is this America or a special on TV.

No, it’s just our plantation, Our home, we call it DC.

 

 

 

Super Tuesday Jazzy Endorsements

Today I offer my 2016 endorsements.  As an entertainer I find it important to offer my voice and my art for activism.  In offering these endorsements, I hope you would consider these candidates when casting your ballots.

You can find these endorsements on my website => HERE

Even if you do not vote for these candidates, I only ask one thing of you, DO NOT VOTE FOR DONALD TRUMP!  His tone & rhetoric is laced with racist undertones and incites the hate filled fringe element of our society, creating an atmosphere similar to the way former Alabama Governor George Wallace did in the 1960’s.

Below you can find the links to the websites regarding these great candidates, review them, and then make sure you reach out to them if you decide to support!

Hillary Clinton (D) – President

Eleanor Holmes Norton (D) – DC Delegate

David Grosso (I) – At-Large

Yvette Alexander (D) – Ward 7

Robert White (D) – At- Large

Jazz Vocalist Aaron Myers Releases Holiday Album “Snowing in Vegas”

Washington, District of Columbia December 5 — Jazz vocalist Aaron Myers released his new holiday album “Snowing in Vegas” digitally Saturday morning.  Co-Produced along with fellow musicians Percy White and Oren Levine, the project is available now for download and streaming.

“This has been a year in the making.” Myers said. “I’m very glad to finally have this project completed in time for the holidays ”

Myers debuted music from his new album “Snowing in Vegas” November 25th on WPFW‘s show “Live at Five.”  On the show, he introduced his holiday favorite “Love all Year” a song in the vein of Darlene Love’s “Baby Please Come Home” and Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas.”   Myers will also perform music from his new holiday album live at Mr. Henry’s December 18th from 8pm – 11pm at a no cover show.

This is the second album released this year by Myers.  He released “The Lion’s Den” October 2nd, a jazz fusion project featuring both covers and originals.  Like “The Lion’s Den,” his holiday album offers familiar holiday favorites with a few originals written by him and others.  “The phrase snowing in Vegas came from a cool story told by Oren Levine and his wife” Myers said.  “After hearing the story of their unsuccessful quest to find warmer climates, and then traveling to Vegas when it actually snowed, and I started to play the melody on the piano right away!”   Levine and Myers played together for five years at the Black Fox Lounge.

Earlier this year the team released “Stand Right” an ode to the WMATA (Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority) that is also included on the holiday project.

Aaron Myers, known as the “Class Act” and currently ranked the number one Jazz artist in Globally on the Reverbnation Jazz Charts, brings his show to Mr. Henry’s the fourth Friday of every month.  Selected Best Singer in the Washington City Paper’s “Best of DC Readers Poll” for 2015, Myers has made an impression on the District by merging art with activism.  Currently he serves as Board Secretary for Crittenton Services of Greater Washington and Board Treasurer for OASIS Dance Company.  Visit his website at www.aaron2.me for more information.

Jazz Vocalist Aaron Myers at Mr. Henry’s

Washington, District of Columbia September 22 — Friday night, patrons will be entertained by Jazz Vocalist Aaron Myers at Mr Henry’s Restaurant at his monthly Fourth Friday Jazz Show.  This show will be unique as he will be celebrating the release of his new album “The Lion’s Den” that will be released digitally October 2nd.  Physical “Pre-Release” copies of the project will be available for purchase at this time.

“Working with Mr. Henry’s has been a great experience,” Myers said. “It’s good to be apart of programming that continues a long tradition of jazz and live music.”

Myers debuted music from his new album “The Lion’s Den” September 9th at Blues Alley.  To a packed house, he introduced his version of “I Can Recall,” a vocal version of Chick Corea’s “Spain” with noted soprano Aundi Marie Moore and rapper Pacman Slim.   Myers will also kick off his Friday show with a blues he’s sang for years affectionately called “Aaron”s Blues” that is also included on the project.

A staple on the DC Jazz scene, Myers brought his show to Mr. Henry’s in June after the closing of the Black Fox Lounge where he served as Resident Artist for five years.  Now Resident Artist at Mr. Henry’s, he also serves as one of hosts of the Capitol Hill Jazz Jam every Wednesday night from 8pm – 11pm which was launched by saxophonist Herb Scott.  Mr. Henry’s will be introducing a new feature to the popular Friday and Saturday night jazz shows, a reservation component that will offer a special dinner menu and preferred seating.  This added element is unique and a fresh addition to typical no cover live music shows.

“I’m an independent artist that takes great pride in his art,” Myers said. “This venue respects that and we’ve worked hard to ensure that every aspect of the show experience is elevated, from the plate to the performance!”  Mr. Henry’s has served the community since 1966, known as the launching pad for artists such as Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway.

Aaron Myers, known as the “Class Act” and currently ranked the number one Jazz artist in DC on the Reverbnation Jazz Charts, brings his show to Mr. Henry’s the fourth Friday of every month.  Selected Best Singer in the Washington City Paper’s “Best of DC Readers Poll” for 2015, Myers has currently been selected as a contender in The Blade’s Best of Gay DC Readers Poll as “Best Singer of a Band,” an honor he’s very proud of.  Through his partnerships with charities, businesses, and politics, Myers has made an impression on the District that merges art with activism.  Visit his website at www.aaron2.me for more information.

Friday Night 9/25: Mr. Henry’s Restaurant 8pm (no cover) (No Cover – any questions email aaronmyers@aaron2.me) “The Lion’s Den” will be released on iTunes/GooglePlay/Amazon October 2nd.

Jazz Vocalist Aaron Myers Releases New Album “The Lion’s Den”

Washington, District of Columbia September 16th — After months of preparation and recording, Jazz Vocalist Aaron Myers announces the release of his new album “The Lion’s Den” that will be released October 2nd.  Digital copies are already being pre-ordered on Amazon, with the option to pre-order on iTunes and GooglePlay being available within the next week.

“Completing this album has not been an easy task!” said Myers, “But the product is something I’m proud of and displays the true collaboration between genres.”  “The Lion’s Den” offers everything from the song “Black Lives Matter” dedicated to the activists of today to a touching tribute to his grandmother Velma Sanders on the last track of the album.

Myers took a path that many independent artists are taking, he supported this project through the Crowdfunding site GoFundMe.  Crowdfunding is the practice of raising small amounts of money from large numbers of people, typically via the internet.  “I was told not to bother trying to crowdfund for a Jazz album because there was not enough support for the genre, so the pressure was really on!”  Exceeding his goal of $3500, Myers used the money to help complete his project at House Studio DC. House Studio engineer Jake “Vicious” Grotticelli stated, “Aaron Myers is an enigmatic entertainer.  From his writing, to his singing, to his playing and arranging, Aaron really took this project somewhere special.  It is an amazing project, and I was honored to be involved in a small piece.  It’s the kind of album where you will hear something new and great each time you listen.”

“Most people try to stay in their lane either musically, financially, personally, whatever it is.  That’s their comfort zone.” said Percy White, bassist on the project.  “When I asked Aaron about venturing out of his lane, he said you don’t have to stay in your lane when you own the road.  I believe he will own whatever road he goes down.  He is my friend and I will be right there with him…enjoying the ride whether he owns the road or is simply passing through.”  Myers honed is craft in the church growing up in Goodlow, Texas, a town of only 312 people at the time.  He took his love for music with him as he entered the Army and then on to Los Angeles, where he started working in entertainment.

Teaming up with other area musicians, Myers reached across genre boundaries tagging noted soprano Aundi Marie Moore and rapper Pacman Slim to join him for his rendition of “I Can Recall” or “Spain” known instrumentally by others.  “The Album is an experience waiting to happen from beginning to end” said Pacman Slim.  “Aaron Myers is a fantastic artist and it’s truly an honor to be apart of this project” said Moore.  Washington’s own Herb Scott, noted Saxophonist and founder of the Capitol Hill Jazz Jam whose featured on the project stated, “Aaron’s music is deeply rooted in the soulful gospel tradition that is the backbone of jazz and that’s why I like working with him.  He’s so warm and inviting, just like his music.

“When you’re working with musicians you like, fun is only the beginning.  Anything else that follows is pure magic” stated Myers.  “The Lion’s Den” is set to be released digitally October 2nd on iTunes, Amazon, GooglePlay and other music streaming sites.  Physical copies will be available in locations specified by his website.

Aaron Myers, known as the “Class Act,” is a native Texan who relocated to DC 7 years ago, and has made DC his home now serving as the Resident Artist at the legendary Mr. Henry’s and Minister of Music at Covenant Baptist UCC. Through his partnerships with charities, businesses, and politics, Myers has made an impression on the District that merges art with activism.  Visit his website at www.aaron2.me for more information.

“The Lion’s Den” releases 10/2: Mr. Henry’s 9/25 8pm No Cover w/ pre-release CD’s available.

Aaron Myers’ “The Lion’s Den” Album Pre-Release at Blues Alley

Aaron Myers at Blues Alley. Taken by Darwyn Dave

Wednesday September 9th will find audiences crowding into Blues Alley for the return of local Jazz Artist Aaron Myers.  Patrons will be given the first chance to hear music from his new album “The Lion’s Den” and also be the first to purchase hard copies of project that is set to be released October 2nd.

“This album has a lot of creative, fun, jazz & fusion on it,” Myers said. “it’s been a rough year for me, all of my pain and joy is in the music!”

Myers has been been working at House Studio DC finishing his project “The Lion’s Den” which displays his talent as a composer, arranger, pianist and vocalist as he collaborates with opera singers, rappers, and many local jazz musicians.  Wednesday’s show will offer live collaborations and also unique arrangements that span from Jazz, Soul, R&B, to Broadway and Funk.

Since June, Myers has served as the resident artist at Mr. Henry’s on Capitol Hill, first home of Roberta Flack, and introduced such stars as Donny Hathaway and Luther Vandros.  As Resident Artist, Myers has a featured show at the venue the Fourth Friday of ever month and serves as one of the hosts for The Capitol Hill Jazz Jam.

“Last year we sold out the venue,” Myers said. “And I hope I have the opportunity to display my art to a love filled audience!”  Teamed with stellar musicians such as: Bassist Tarus Mateen, Pianist Dave Kane, Saxaphonist Herb Scott, and Drummer Tyler Leaks, audiences can expect the musicianship to be superb.

Aaron Myers, known as the “Class Act,” is a native Texan who relocated to DC 7 years ago, and has made it his home. Through his partnerships with charities, businesses, and politics, Myers has made an impression on the District that merges art with activism.  Visit his website at www.aaron2.me for more information.

Aaron Myers Returns to Mr. Henry’s

Aaron Myers in House Studio DC captured by Darwyn Dave

Washington, District of Columbia August 26 — Friday night, Mr Henry’s Restaurant will play host to Resident Artist Aaron Myers  as he brings in his jazz band for his monthly fourth Friday Jazz Show.  For over 5 years, Myers has brought either a weekly or monthly show to the greater Washington DC area, filled with jazz, comedy, and guest artists who entertain to a packed house.   His show has quickly become a crowd favorite in the Eastern Market/ Capitol Hill area.

“I’m pumped and ready to get in front of an audience,” Myers said. “I do not think you’ll meet anyone who loves their job more than I do!”

Myers has been been working at House Studio DC finishing his project “The Lion’s Den” which will display his talent as a composer, arranger, pianist and vocalist as he collaborates with opera singers, rappers, and many local jazz musicians.  Friday’s show starts at 8pm and goes to 11pm and will celebrate the completion of his project, announcing the official release date of the project, and private performances to support the project.

As resident artist, Myers also serves as one of the hosts for the Capitol Hill Jazz Jam every Wednesday night from 8pm – 11pm, the only Jazz Jam in SE Washington DC, started by saxophonist Herb Scott.  Mr. Henry’s, known as the original musical home of Roberta Flack, also seeing other early musical acts such as Donny Hathaway, is proving once again, to be a home for musicians and music lovers alike, boasting music programming with local jazz and bluegrass musicians.  The Capitol Hill Jazz Jam has added an educational component asking those who attend the Jazz Jam to bring school supplies so it can be dispersed to local DC schools.

“Last month we broke all the records, financially and attendance,” Myers said. “I hope we continue to break more records, especially as I present the upcoming album release and tour dates!”  Over 120 people packed into Mr. Henry’s last month for Aaron Myers’ show, and the establishment now encourages patrons to arrive early to secure seating.

Aaron Myers, known as the “Class Act,” is a native Texan who has decided to make Washington DC his home. Through his partnerships with charities, businesses, and politics, Myers has made an impression on the District that merges art with activism.  Visit his website at www.aaron2.me.

Aaron Myers Crowdfunds for Jazz Album

Aaron Myers at Mr. Henry’s. Photo by Darwyn Dave

If you were to ask Aaron Myers what he’s doing on any given weekend, more than likely you’ll get the response “Working” followed by a slight grin.  As one of DC’s many jazz musicians, Myers has been fortunate to consistently secure two “Artists Residences” that has kept him quite busy over the last six years.  For five and over 140 shows of those years, you would find him at the now defunct Black Fox Lounge in the Dupont Circle neighborhood.  Now, you can find him weekly with the Capitol Hill Jazz Jam and every Fourth Friday for his featured show at Mr. Henry’s, the legendary Capitol Hill establishment that launch Roberta Flack.

As announced at his last show, Myers is joining the ranks of many other national musicians and crowdfunding his new project “The Lion’s Den” that he hopes can be recorded and submitted by this year’s Grammy Deadline of August 26th.  Crowdfunding is the practice of raising money for a venture by asking large numbers for small amounts.  “My last album was recorded in New York City in one day.” said Myers, “the band was exhausted, the product made it to the Grammy Ballot and was nominated for the Wammie.”  The Wammies is the awards hosted by the Washington Area Music Association.

Voted Best Singer in the Washington City Paper’s “Best of DC” Readers Poll, Myers is hoping his fan base, and those who love good music, will lend their support.  “There’s are a lot of jazz supporters out there, I only hope they pay attention to my campaign and lend their support.  This project will be a good one, trust me!”

A native Texan, Myers is a Military Veteran, and has experienced entertainment from coast to coast, starting in comedy at the world famous Comedy Store in Hollywood, to now being a regular staple on the music scene here in Washington DC.  Myers operates as a full time independent artist, also serving as the Minister of Music at Covenant Baptist UCC, a progressive church often on the forefront of social justice issues. These issues are not foreign to Myers, as he also serves on the board of directors for Crittenton Services of Greater Washington and The OASIS Dance Collective.  “I believe in using my art for Activism” Myers stated, “I’ve even written a song about the “Black Lives Matter” movement”

The Grammy Deadline is August 26th and Myers is confident DC and his fan base will carry him over the threshold, and his submission will be on time.  To donate towards his cause go to gofund.me/6e2arbp94.

Jazz Artist Celebrates with the Community

Vocalist Aaron Myers captured by Darwyn Dave

Washington, District of Columbia July 21 — The Jazz Community will gather on and off stage to celebrate with entertainer Aaron Myers as he brings in his birthday through music and pool-side fun. Rumors are rampant that other local entertainers, club owners, politicians, and a host of other notables will be in attendance.  Starting with a music filled night of Jazz at Mr. Henry’s Restaurant and then a Poolside Bash at Vida Fitness U Street Penthouse, confirmations are reaching capacity for both venues.

“There’s no better way to bring people together than with music and birthdays ,” Myers said. “Celebrating music and life will be theme of this weekend.”

Myers, now Resident Artist at the legendary Mr. Henry’s Restaurant, is known for his jazz concerts, comedy, and activism. Over the last 6 years, Myers has introduced jazz to audiences through his intimate jazz shows, his radio program “The Exchange” and through his charitable efforts.

There will be champagne, great performances, and a great pool over the two day birthday experience. To those who are accustomed to these events, Myers will bring an element of fun over the weekend that will be memorable.

“This Birthday is special to me,” Myers said. “I’m announcing the upcoming release of my new album!”  Myers also shared another reason the opening festivities hold a certain sentiment.  “For the first time, my Friday night show at Mr. Henry’s will be streamed through a platform that will allow people to view the show from their home computers and mobile devices.  This will be the first show my 98 year old Grandmother will be able to see.  Due to her health, she has never seen my jazz shows.”

Recently, Myers has added “Writer” & “Film-Producer” to his list of accomplishments. Although the projects are in production, the film, reportedly a documentary about DC Taxi Drivers, has garnered a lot of buzz in the DC community. In addition to this documentary, Myers is also shopping around new the feature film script “Paths at Sunset” while finishing up work on TV Pilot “Half Note.”

“Producing a film is not for the faint at heart,” Myers said with a grin. “Deadlines, can make you or break you, but they do help you stay true to yourself about seeing these projects through to completion.”

Aaron Myers, known as the “Class Act,” is a native Texan who has decided to make Washington DC his home. Through his partnerships with charities, business, and politics, Myers has made an impression on the District that merges art with activism.  Visit his website at www.aaron2.me.

Friday Night 7/24: Mr. Henry’s Restaurant 8pm (no cover) // Saturday 7/25:  (7pm – Midnight) Vida Fitness U Street (No Cover RSVP to aaronmyers@aaron2.me)