Aaron Myers: Endorsements for DC 2018 Elections

As an entertainer, I do my best to advocate for my audiences both on stage and off.  While I try to provide good music and entertainment, I try to also stay abreast of what is going on in our community, and those leaders who listen and offer solutions.

This is the first time my endorsement includes all incumbents, something that I usually try not to do.  But in this case, I’ve looked over the opposition and the track records of those who are currently in office…and I proudly stand by these people.  After this election, if these people do a poor job, I will endorse others in the next election, but I stand confident that these individuals are what’s needed for DC right now.

Before getting to my endorsements, I would like to share my disappointment in WAMU 88.5FM discontinuing it’s Saturday Night Jazz series.  The announcement came as a blow to many people who listen to Jazz, but moreover to those who professionally play, produce, and work in the Jazz genre.  There is a petition => https://www.change.org/p/wamu-radio-save-hot-jazz-saturday-night     to save the lineup, that I encourage all to sign.  However, if WAMU does not support Jazz, please consider supporting a station that does, like WPFW.  They are a member supported station focusing on Jazz & Justice, please give them your support here => http://wpfwfm.org/radio/support-us/donate

Today, June 6th, I endorse:

Brianne Nadeau for Ward 1 Council Seat

Over the last few years, I’ve had the task of reaching out to the council for various reasons.  When it came to Jazz Preservation, Brianne did not hesitate to help draft the legislation and present it to the council.  Whenever I’ve emailed her office (or her directly) before the end of the day I’ve received a response, and often times, help or understanding of how to proceed.  She happens to be my council member, and I can attest to walking to the store or driving by a cookout, and seeing her present within our neighborhood.  As of late, she’s paved the way for many mothers who now can hold office on the council, and not feel restricted, bringing the Wilson Building into the 21st century.  I proudly endorse her.

Anita Bonds for At Large Council Seat

The first time I went to Anita Bonds’ office, not only was I helped, but I was reassured that DC had a council member who cared in the Wilson Building.   Ones staff is a reflection of the member, and I’ve watched on many occasions her staff not stop until an answer (whether good or bad) was discovered.  When discussing Women’s issues, or the issues on aging, I’ve seen a genuine care.  Personally, knowing that someone saw the plight of LGBTQ homeless youth, and decided to ensure legislation would tackle shelters and interagency coordination to tackle the issue, means a lot.  I’ve seen first hand how this has helped many people including artist housing needs, something that she’s advocated for and is often overlooked.   I proudly endorse her.

Phil Mendelson – Council Chair

During budget season…council-members hide (to a degree).  Every email, phone call, and office “drop-by” usually is attached with a budget request…that is urgent!  Naturally, walking from their office to the elevator becomes more brisk, or to their car, or while they’re in the supermarket even.  Phil Mendelson doesn’t run…nor does he blow smoke, which is something that I appreciate more than anything.  Someone who is well aware of what the budget needs are of the city, and is open to discussing solutions, and realistic timelines…is a breath of fresh air.  Chairing the council isn’t an easy job, and it takes someone who will not run from you, or feed you a load of bs…you need someone who will be real with you, and earnestly advocate for you where they can.  Although this sounds simple enough and easy enough, it doesn’t always happen…but Phil Mendelson makes it happen.  I proudly endorse him.

Muriel Bowser – Mayor

As a creative, I have seen DC become a destination for creatives.  Whether it’s in the arts or food or IT, people have noticed that DC is a place where creatives can make a way for themselves, and I believe Muriel Bowser is helping to shape that vision for the District.  From the Amazon Bid, to Made in DC, to 202Creates, this Mayor has said that she wants DC to be on the map in all aspects of the creative space, and this is something I can support wholeheartedly.  With this endorsement, I encourage Mayor Bowser to expand her focus to artist housing and city assistance towards creative entrepreneurship.  I’ve met with her staff, presented my concerns and solutions, and I actively see them implemented in a way that it benefits the creative community and the city as a whole.  I proudly endorse her.

VOTE NO on Initiative #77

Under the current system, the tip credit guarantees that servers and bartenders receive the minimum wage but enables tipped employees to earn well above the minimum wage,typically somewhere between $20-40 an hour. Initiative 77 would eliminate the tip credit and upend this system, harming servers and bartenders across the District.  Visit www.saveourtips.com for more information.

DC Celebrates International Jazz Day with the DC Jazz Leadership & Service Awards

 

Washington, DC, April 25, 2017 –  The DC Jazz Lobby, a subset of the Capitol Hill Jazz Foundation, will celebrate International Jazz Day, Sunday April 30th, by honoring 6 individuals with a program held at Busboys and Poets, Takoma location, from 6pm – 8pm.  The DC Jazz Leadership & Service Awards will annually recognize individuals within the DC jazz Community who have worked to promote, support, and uplift members of the DC Jazz scene.

“Establishing an event that not only recognizes individuals that have worked to further the reach of Jazz in our community, but to help promote Jazz Appreciation Month and International Jazz Day is essential”, said Aaron Myers, organizer with the DC Jazz Lobby and board chairman of the Capitol Hill Jazz Foundation.  “With DC playing such a pivotal role in Jazz, I feel this is very appropriate.”

Jazz Appreciation Month was created in 2001 by John Edward Hasse, PhD, curator of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.  Last year, DC City Council-member Laruby May introduced a resolution recognizing DC’s involvement in Jazz as well as the influence of Women in Jazz.  This year, a resolution was introduced by Council-member Robert White recognizing Jazz Appreciation Month, International Jazz Day while also recognizing the 100th birthday of Ella Fitzgerald.  “I introduced the Jazz Appreciation Month and International Jazz Day Ceremonial Recognition Resolution of 2017 to recognize the local musicians who have made great contributions to the art form.” said At-Large Council-member Robert White.   “It’s important to acknowledge the impact music and the arts have on our communities and on the molding of our young people.”

In November 2011, the United Nations Educational, Scientific Organization (UNESCO) officially designated April 30th as International Jazz Day in order to highlight jazz and its diplomatic role of uniting people in all corners of the Globe.  Last year, Washington DC was the host city for International Jazz Day with over 100 artists attending an event at the White House hosted by former President, Barack Obama.  With the creation of the DC Jazz Leadership & Service Awards, DC will annually have an annual set event that will be added to the roster of International Jazz Day activities worldwide.

This year, honorees will include: Nasar Abadey, Judith Korey, Dick Smith, Ellen Williams Carter, Dave Yarobough, and Sandra Butler Truesdale, with a ceremonial resolution being presented by Council-member Robert White. “I want to thank the DC Jazz Lobby and it founding members, as I am truly honored and privileged to receive this recognition at this point in my life.” said drummer and educator Nasar Abadey, who is a staple on the Jazz scene and mentor to many musicians.   “It also gives me great pleasure to share this acknowledgement with such a stellar group of Jazz Musicians, Aficionados and Activists who celebrate the legacy of this great music.  This commendation also coincides with my 70th Birthday this year, and 50+ years of paying tribute to this exceptional American Art form, as a professional performing artist.”

Over the last year, there has been an up tic in activism from members of the creative community in DC as performers and presenters work with the District Government to ensure spaces remain open and that contributions from creatives are included in the creative economy.  Both last year and this year, legislation has been introduced to address and remedy concerns identified by these efforts.

“The DC Jazz Community owes a great deal of gratitude to these awardees for their service.” said Herbert Scott, Jazz saxophonist and Executive Director of the Capitol Hill Jazz Foundation.  “This event demonstrates the storied legacy of the men and women that are working to keep the DC Jazz Scene vibrant.”

 

 (DC Jazz Leadership & Service Awards/ Sunday April 30th / 6pm – 8pm / Busboys and Poets – Takoma is located at 235 Carrol St NW, Washington, DC 20012.  This event is free admission and open to the public.)

Dear Mr. Trump: DC Arts Community Speaks Out #REformanceArt

 

 

 

This press release went out on Monday (12/5) as a response to the election of President-Elect Donald Trump.

DC Arts Community Sends Message to Donald Trump

 

Washington, DC, December 5, 2016 – DC based Jazz artists and presenters gathered to video a message to President-Elect Donald Trump this past Wednesday and Thursday, releasing the video online Saturday, December 3rd.  Organized as “REformanceArt,” these artists outlined their love for their city, and what expectations they have for the President-Elect.  Fifteen local artists met at Studio202 on Rhode Island Ave, NE, and the result is an open letter, that many are calling brave, chilling, and tone appropriate.

“I gave myself forty-eight hours to wrap my head around the election,” Aaron Myers, a local Jazz vocalist and activist said when asked about the project.  “After those forty-eight hours were up, I decided to look at what I could do to not only encourage my audience, but to also protect them.  After speaking with saxophonist Herb Scott, I thought that there was no reason for us sit idly by hoping for the best, but to be actively engaged with our local and federal officials to protect my rights, the rights of my fellow musicians, and the rights of our audience members.”

The group that came together at Busboys and Poets, just two days after the election, and discussed a unifying direction. “After the election results, I felt empty.  I felt as if all I had worked for as an artists promoting social change was lost. Pointless; until I got together with some DC artists one morning and let me tell you, REformanceArt was the answer,”said Mark Meadows, who starred this past season in “Jelly’s Last Jam” at Signature Theater.

At this initial meeting, the name “REformanceArt” was adopted.  The meaning is simple; artists who “Perform to Reform” with the goal of using their platforms to not only entertain, but to also empower audiences.  “Artists exist, and are to be heard!” said Emcee Dior Ashley Brown, a long-time DC arts activist.  “We are the creative economy, we are innovators, and leaders of society, infrastructure, influence, we add to, and balance society.”  This tone can be felt by many of the artists who have grown increasingly irritated by not feeling heard in recent months with the closing of many venues many musicians relied on for work, practice, and even shelter.  Now with the looming WMATA safe track, and early closures, many service industry workers fear their jobs (which are apart of the creative economy) are in jeopardy.

“We are looking to take our influence not only to the streets of DC, but to the halls of congress, and into the strategy rooms of upcoming elections.  It is our goal to form a PAC, and use the creativity we have on stage, to aid candidates that share our ideals elected into office.” said Myers.  The organization has been in communication with the offices of Democratic leaders Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid, along with Andre Carson.  “We reached out to both sides of the isle for guidance, and to have our voice heard,” Myers continued, “however, we’ve only heard back from the Democratic leaders so far.”

One concerning change expected with the new administration is the change of intentionality inclusion of the arts, and artists at the White House, and the plight of many in the creative economy when crafting strategy.  Programs like the Affordable Care Act, if abolished, could leave many entrepreneurs, artists, and small businesses without coverage.  “I would like to see President Elect Trump improve on the wonderful things our current President has done with highlighting what critical role creatives play in our society, and how valuable the Arts are for all human beings.” said saxophonist Herb Scott.

REformanceArt will be having its’ launch event Friday, December 9 from 6pm – 9pm, hosted at the home of David Weiner. 21 Gessford Court S.E. Washington DC 20003 along with the Capitol Hill Jazz Jam & DC Jazz Lobby. 

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. 

The Lion’s Den & Liner Notes

The Lion’s Den

Can be found:

Itunes

GooglePlay

CdBaby

Amazon

The “Lion’s Den” was released in 2015

Pre-Production was done at R Street Studios (Holly Bayhnumn engineer) in Washington, DC

Production was done at House Studio DC (Jake Grotticelli engineer) in Hyattsville, MD

Mastering – Kyle Murdock

Spain:

Arranged: Aaron Myers

Song by: Chick Corea / Al Jarreau 

 

So, who takes a jazz standard by the great Chick Corea, and puts a 21st century spin on it including: Opera, Jazz & Rap?  This dude!  We’ve taken Spain and incorporated the original Spanish language from the Concerto de Aranjuez sung by Aundi Marie Moore (who blew everyone away in the studio), combined it with the lyrics from Al Jarreau sung by Aaron Myers, adding the realness of rap by Pacman Slim, bringing the whole story together.  

Tyler Leak (Drums)

Dave Kane (piano)

Percy White (Bass)

Aundi Marie Moore (Soprano Vocals)

Pacman Slim (Rapper)

Aaron Myers (Voice)

Herb Scott (Saxaphone)

Aaron’s Blues

Composed & Arranged by Aaron Myers

 

This blues came by accident.  For years when I sang at the Black Fox Lounge, I was asked to sing a blues to open up my shows (mostly for sound check purposes).  After a while, I developed some consistent lyrics that stuck.  After a few years, my pianist (Oren Levine) suggested I go ahead and record it before someone else did…so here it is!  My blues or “Aaron’s Blues.”

Aaron Myers (Vocals)

Ollie Wright (Piano)

Percy White (Drums)

Warren G. Crudup (Drums)

Herb Scott (Alto Saxaphone)

Lionel Lyles (Tenor Saxaphone)

Almost Like Being in Love

Composed By: Frederick Loewe 

Lyrics by: Alan Jay Lerner

Arranged By Aaron Myers

I first heard Sammy Davis Jr. sing this song and fell in love.  Then year after year, I heard other legendary singers add their spin to this song.  I attempted to sing this song at one of my shows, and to my surprise I could see many people moving their lips to the song…I wasn’t alone, it was their favorite too.  On this project, I decided to add my interpretation, with a  mixture of Jazz & Soul.

Aaron Myers (Vocals)

Lionel Lyles (Tenor Sax)

Ollie Wright (Piano)

Waren G. Crudup (Drums)

Percy White (Bass)

One More Minute

Written/Arrange by Aaron Myers

This song was written about how I would imagine the situation would go if I were about to leave a significant other.  How I would imagine I would feel during that process, one more minute, one last time.  After living through these words, I must agree that my assumption was true, but it surpasses just intimate relations with others…but with many close friends and family members..we all want one more minute, before we have to say goodbye.  That is, if the love is true.

Aaron Myers (Vocals)

Lionel Lyles (Tenor Sax)

Ollie Wright (Piano)

Waren G. Crudup (Drums)

Percy White (Bass)

Percy’s Intro

Aaron Myers & Percy White

 

I‘ve known Percy for years now, he knows my deepest darkest secrets, and if I decide to run for President, he’d have to be my Vice-President so that my secrets will stay safe.  This is not our first rodeo!

Why I Sing the Blues

Written /Arranged by Percy White

 

This is ONLY A SONG as stated by Percy.  I will not profess the same for me.

 

Aaron Myers (Vocals)

Ollie Wright (Piano)

Waren G. Crudup (Drums)

Percy White (Bass)

The Conversation

Aaron Myers & Geneva Renee

Geneva has a voice as I’ve described it, “when Disney met God!”  We’re both Leo’s and at times, we get into a mess of trouble together, but we make such good music together as well.   This conversation is a conversation we’ve had many times…on both sides.  One day we’ll find “THAT” special someone.  I’m sure her Prince will come soon!

Strong Confident Woman

Written by Aaron Myers & Geneva Renee

Arranged by Aaron Myers

This song was inspired by one of the strongest girls I’d ever met in College.  “MK” (for short) stood her ground, stuck to her morals, and did not take any crap from the college boys (or men).  She befriended me, and did not hesitate to call me on my crap when I needed it, but also with her beautiful voice, offered me a shoulder to cry on at times, but believed in me.  MK…you’ll always have my heart!

 

Geneva Renee (Vocals)

Herb Scott (Alto Sax)

Ollie Wright (Piano)

Tyler Leak (Drums)

Percy White (Bass)

Black Lives Matter

Written & Arranged by Aaron Myers

 

This song is very simple.  BLACK LIVES MATTER!  I’m BLACK and BEAUTIFUL.  I was born Black and will die BLACK.  It is my hope that my life and death will not be determined BECAUSE of my color by society, but by my creator, in which according to some documents, I (and other Black people) have the right to LIVE.  It is my goal to DIE of NATURAL CAUSES…and not by the result of a bullet, strangle hold, or altercation with law enforcement of any kind.   #BlackLivesMatter   

Aaron Myers (Vocals)

Pacman Slim (Rapper)

Herb Scott (Alto Sax)

Lionel Lyles (Tenor Sax)

Ollie Wright (Piano)

Tyler Leak (Drums)

Percy White (Bass)

 

Dedication

Aaron Myers

Marvin Dunaway (Haywood) was and will always remain a friend.  I do not believe death ends friendship.  He took me in as a friend and was a true friend.  Also a Leo, he had spice, and had some of the best comeback lines I’ve ever heard.  One of my only friends who didn’t drink, but didn’t need it to have a great time.  To my knowledge, he didn’t have any enemies.  A gentle soul, and a great example of what a man should be,

 

Winter Ray

Written & Arranged by Aaron Myers

 

Winter Ray was written as I sat at my piano and watched the snow fall.  I tried to capture my feelings of loving the snow, but hating the cold.  Of loving the snow, but missing my family and the warmth of Texas.  Of loving the snow, but worried about those who could not actually be indoors in a safe space.  Of loving the snow, and still worried about those sliding across the ice in their cars.  Winter Ray is the first instrumental I’ve written and I was able to witness how the notes were interpreted by others.   

Dave Kane (Piano)

Tyler Leak (Drums)

Percy White (Bass)

Herb Scott (Alto Sax)

Lionel Lyles (Tenor Sax)

O How I Love Jesus

Written By: Fredrick Whitfield

Arranged by Aaron Myers

This song I dedicated to my Grandmother Velma Sanders.  She was in my first audience, and listened to me play this song on her upright piano for more hours than I could mention and she never complained.  She was a soul that possessed so much light, could ease the tension of any moment with a smile, and could make you feel safe with a simple embrace.  Because she was, I am.

Aaron Myers (Vocals & Piano)

————————

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.