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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Gregory Burrus Productions
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260201T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260201T133000
DTSTAMP:20260427T180121
CREATED:20260115T205512Z
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SUMMARY:Blues and Blessings Presents the Dynamic Nikita White and Phil Bingham
DESCRIPTION:Get ready for a soul‑stirring Blues & Blessings as we welcome powerhouse vocalist Nikita White — A Chicago‑born jazz and blues artist whose voice carries the spirit of the church\, the swing of the bandstand\, and the fire of the blues. \n\n\n\nBlues and Blessings Presents the Dynamic Nikita White and Phil Bingham\n\n\n\nChicago‑born jazz and blues vocalist Nikita White — an artist whose voice carries the soul of the church\, the truth of the blues\, and the heartbeat of the people. Rooted in her Baptist upbringing and shaped by her time studying under jazz master Dr. Barry Harris\, Nikita brings a sound that honors tradition while speaking directly to today’s community spirit.  \n\n\n\n \n\n\nRegister on Eventbrite\n\n\nHer music is storytelling — rich\, warm\, and deeply human — the kind of sound that brings people together\, lifts burdens\, and reminds us that we’re never walking alone. On Feb 1\, she joins Mt. Zion AME for a morning where neighbors gather\, spirits rise\, and the sanctuary becomes a place of healing through song. \n\n\n\nNikita White\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Vocalist Nikita White began singing at a young age in her family’s Baptist Church on the Northwest side of Chicago. Inspired by her large musical family\, she performed with local R&B\, rock\, and blues bands before she started attending jazz jam sessions and began working with tenor saxophone great Von Freeman. In 1980 she moved to New York where she studied voice with Dr. Barry Harris’ vocal workshop\, recorded with George Braith\, and worked with a variety of notable artists including Mulgrew Miller\, Kenny Washington\, Peter Washington\, Henry Butler\, Russell Hall and Lafayette Harris. She has toured in Europe and Africa\, studied at Long Island University\, and performed freelance for many years\, including a turn as Ella Fitzgerald in Roz Nixon’s play SS Nirvana. In partnership with NYCParks – Arts\, Culture & Fun \n\n\n\nCome be part of a joyful\, community‑driven worship experience where the blues meets the blessing and every voice adds to the harmony. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Blues and Blessings: Where Spirit Meets Sound\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEyesha Marable – A dynamic cultural curator and spiritual leader\, Eyesha brings passion\, purpose\, and prophetic vision to every gathering. Her work bridges gospel truth with artistic excellence\, creating spaces where healing and creativity flourish. \n\n\n\nPhil Bingham – Renowned pianist\, conductor\, and arranger\, Phil is the musical heartbeat of Jesus and Jazz. His spirit-led compositions and performances transform every sanctuary into a stage for praise\, improvisation\, and divine inspiration. \n\n\n\nGregory Burrus – The master connector and curator behind Gregory Burrus Productions\, Gregory orchestrates this event with joy\, precision\, and deep community love. His storytelling and artist advocacy ensure that every voice is honored and every moment resonates. \n\n\n\nTogether\, these leaders have crafted events where music  becomes ministry\, and every note is a prayer. Join us for Blues and Blessings—a celebration of legacy\, liberation\, and the living Word through music and more.
URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/blues-and-blessings-presents-the-dynamic-nikita-white-and-phil-bingham/
LOCATION:Mt Zion AME Church\, 54 Church Street\, Milburn\, New Jersey\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Blues,Commnity
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Blues-and-Blessings-Nikita-White-.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260201T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260201T210000
DTSTAMP:20260427T180121
CREATED:20260102T032436Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T034610Z
UID:10002619-1769974200-1769979600@gregoryburrusproductions.com
SUMMARY:Melba Moore -Five Octaves of Glory: Tony Award–Winning Legend & Three ‑ Time Grammy Nominee Comes to SOPAC
DESCRIPTION:An Evening With Melba Moore Coming to New Jersey’s South Orange Performing Arts Center in February 2026 \n\n\n\n\n\nTony Award winning legend and three-time Grammy nominee Melba Moore will bring an evening of song to the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) on February 1st\, 2026\, at 7:30 pm ET. The venue is located at One SOPAC Way in South Orange\, NJ. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMs. Moore will be performing a range of classics\, from her years on Broadway in “Hair” and “Purlie” (the latter earning a Tony Award win)\, to the R&B/Pop hits of the 70’s and 80’s such as “You Stepped Into My Life” and “Love’s Comin’ At Cha.” \n\n\n\nJoining Ms. Moore on this evening of music is emcee Lenny Green from New York City’s WBLS-FM and opening act Jeff Redd\, known for the 90’s hit\, “You Called and Told Me.” \n\n\n\n\n\nFor more information regarding the concert\, click the link below –
URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/melba-moore-five-octaves-of-glory-tony-award-winning-legend-three-time-grammy-nominee-comes-to-sopac/
LOCATION:SOPAC – South Orange Performing Arts Center\, One SOPAC Way\, \, South Orange\, New Jersey\, 07079\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Live Music,R&b,SOPAC
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/MELBA-JEFF-LENNY-SOPAC.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260203T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260203T200000
DTSTAMP:20260427T180121
CREATED:20251214T033547Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260124T233509Z
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SUMMARY:Feb 3 2nd Annual Bradley Beach Jazz Festival 2026 Presents Marel Hidalgo Organ Trio at the Elbow Room
DESCRIPTION:Jazz Fans! We are back!!! Feel the legacy and celebrate the community. Welcome to the 2nd Annual 2026 Bradley Beach Jazz Festival produced by Bradley Beach Tourism.  Secure your tickets now\, \n\n\n\n\nSecure your tickets\n\n\n\n\nFree Weekday Performances \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFeb 3 Tuesday Elbow Room Bradley Beach\n\n\n\nThe 2nd Annual Bradley Beach Jazz Festival 2026 kicks off its February lineup with a powerful burst of rhythm and soul as the Marel Hidalgo Organ Trio takes over The Elbow Room on February 3rd. Known for their electrifying blend of Latin jazz\, funk\, and organ‑driven groove\, Marel and his trio bring a sound that’s both deeply rooted and boldly modern — the perfect spark to launch this year’s expanded festival season. Audiences can expect a night of high‑energy musicianship\, intimate club‑style vibes\, and the kind of musical chemistry that turns a winter evening into a full‑blown celebration. This is the moment where Bradley Beach’s rising jazz tradition meets world‑class artistry\, and you’ll want to be in the room when it happens. \n\n\n\nFree admission\, no cover—just pure jazz magic. Great music\, great atmosphere\, great people. Spread the word\, invite your friends\, and let’s make Bradley Beach swing! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n2026 Bradley Beach Jazz Festival \n\n\n\nThese free events kick off the 2026 Bradley Beach Jazz festival and amps excitement up for the ticketed Main Stage events on 2/6 and 2/7 at @bbesbreakers.   \n\n\n\nDive into the groove. Feel the legacy. Celebrate the community. Welcome to the 2nd Annual Bradley Beach Jazz Festival 2026 Secure your tickets now. \n\n\n\n\nSecure your tickets
URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/feb-3-2nd-annual-bradly-beach-jazz-festival-2026-presents-marel-hidalgo-organ-trio-at-the-elbow-room/
LOCATION:Elbow Room\, 416 Main St\, Bradley Beach\, NJ\, New Jersey\, 07720\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/3-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260204T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260204T210000
DTSTAMP:20260427T180121
CREATED:20251214T034819Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251214T034940Z
UID:10002601-1770228000-1770238800@gregoryburrusproductions.com
SUMMARY:Feb 4 - Stringbean Blues featuring Bernard Purdie in 2nd Annual Bradley Beach Jazz Festival 2026 at Pagano's
DESCRIPTION:Jazz Fans! We are back!!! Feel the legacy and celebrate the community.Welcome to the 2nd Annual 2026 Bradley Beach Jazz Festival produced by Bradley Beach Tourism. Secure your tickets now\, \n\n\n\n\nSecure your tickets\n\n\n\n\nFree Weekday Performances \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFeb 4\, 2025 Wednesday 6 – 9 PM Stringbean Blues featuring Bernard Purdie at Pagano’s Bradley Beach \n\n\n\nGet ready for a night where blues grit meets jazz sophistication as Stringbean Blues takes the stage with the legendary Bernard “Pretty” Purdie at Pagano’s in Bradley Beach\, NJ. Known for their soulful blend of blues\, groove\, and roots‑driven improvisation\, Stringbean Blues creates the perfect canvas for Purdie’s unmistakable rhythm and world‑renowned pocket. This rare collaboration brings together one of the most recorded drummers in history with a band celebrated for its raw energy and musical storytelling — promising an evening of deep grooves\, fiery solos\, and pure\, unfiltered musical joy. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCome experience the groove\, the swing\, and the soul as Bernard “Pretty” Purdie—the world’s most recorded drummer and a true architect of modern rhythm—brings his iconic sound to the shore. With a career spanning more than six decades and credits alongside Aretha Franklin\, Steely Dan\, James Brown\, and countless others\, Purdie’s unmistakable pocket has shaped the soundtrack of American music. On this special night in Bradley Beach\, audiences will witness the master in his element: delivering deep grooves\, razor‑sharp precision\, and that signature Purdie Shuffle that has influenced generations of drummers worldwide. This is more than a concert — it’s a living history lesson\, a celebration of soul and swing\, and a rare opportunity to feel the heartbeat of a legend up close in an intimate coastal setting. When Bernard Purdie takes the stage\, every beat tells a story\, and you’ll want to be there for every moment. \n\n\n\nFree admission\, no cover—just pure jazz magic. Great music\, great atmosphere\, great people. Spread the word\, invite your friends\, and let’s make Bradley Beach swing! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n2026 Bradley Beach Jazz Festival\n\n\n\nThese free events kick off the 2026 Bradley Beach Jazz festival and amps excitement up for the ticketed Main Stage events on 2/6 and 2/7 at @bbesbreakers.   \n\n\n\nDive into the groove. Feel the legacy. Celebrate the community. Welcome to the 2nd Annual Bradley Beach Jazz Festival 2026 Secure your tickets now. \n\n\n\n\nSecure your tickets
URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/feb-4-stringbean-blues-featuring-bernard-purdie-in-2nd-annual-bradley-beach-jazz-festival-2026-at-paganos/
LOCATION:Pagano’s Uva Restaurant\, 800 Main St\, Bradley Beach\, New Jersey\, 07720\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Bradley Beach Jazz Festival
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/4-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260205T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260205T210000
DTSTAMP:20260427T180121
CREATED:20251214T034250Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251214T034253Z
UID:10002603-1770314400-1770325200@gregoryburrusproductions.com
SUMMARY:Feb 5 - Vintage Vibe Tribe in 2nd Annual Bradley Beach Jazz Festival 2026 at D’Arcy’s Tavern
DESCRIPTION:Jazz Fans! We are back!!! Feel the legacy and celebrate the community.Welcome to the 2nd Annual 2026 Bradley Beach Jazz Festival produced by Bradley Beach Tourism. Secure your tickets now\, \n\n\n\n\nSecure your tickets\n\n\n\n\nFree Weekday Performances\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFeb 5\, 2025 Thursday 6 – 9 PM  Vintage Vibe Tribe at D’Arcy’s Tavern\n\n\n\nGet ready for a night of pure musical nostalgia as the Vintage Vibe Tribe brings their signature blend of jazz standards\, pop favorites\, and soulful grooves to D’Arcy’s Tavern in Bradley Beach\, NJ. Known for their smooth vocals\, tight rhythms\, and effortlessly cool arrangements\, Vintage Vibe Tribe takes classic songs you love and reimagines them with a fresh\, modern twist. From timeless jazz melodies to re‑styled pop hits that get the whole room singing along\, their sound bridges generations and creates a feel‑good atmosphere that keeps audiences coming back. \n\n\n\nD’Arcy’s Tavern provides the perfect backdrop for this kind of musical magic — a welcoming neighborhood spot where great music\, great people\, and great energy come together. Whether you’re a jazz lover\, a fan of retro‑inspired pop\, or simply looking for a night out filled with live music and good vibes\, this show promises to deliver. Expect warm harmonies\, standout solos\, and a setlist that moves seamlessly from smooth and sultry to upbeat and dance‑worthy. \n\n\n\nVintage Vibe Tribe doesn’t just perform songs — they create an experience. So gather your friends\, grab a drink\, and settle in for an evening where the classics shine\, the grooves hit just right\, and the music makes you feel like you’re part of something special. \n\n\n\nFree admission\, no tickets\, no cover—just pure jazz magic. – Great music\, great people\, great atmosphere Spread the word\, bring your friends\, and let’s make Bradley Beach swing! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n2026 Bradley Beach Jazz Festival\n\n\n\nThese free events kick off the 2026 Bradley Beach Jazz festival and amps excitement up for the ticketed Main Stage events on 2/6 and 2/7 at @bbesbreakers.   \n\n\n\nDive into the groove. Feel the legacy. Celebrate the community. Welcome to the 2nd Annual Bradley Beach Jazz Festival 2026 Secure your tickets now. \n\n\n\n\nSecure your tickets
URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/feb-5-vintage-vibe-tribe-in-2nd-annual-bradley-beach-jazz-festival-2026-at-darcys-tavern/
LOCATION:D’Arcy’s Tavern\, 310 Main St\, Bradley Beach\, New Jersey\, 07720\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/5-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260206T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260206T220000
DTSTAMP:20260427T180121
CREATED:20251214T034430Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T013010Z
UID:10002598-1770404400-1770415200@gregoryburrusproductions.com
SUMMARY:Feb 6 - 2nd Annual Bradley Beach Jazz Festival 2026
DESCRIPTION:Secure your tickets now: bradleybeachjazzfestival.com   \n\n\n\nThis winter the shore is alive with the sound of jazz! Join us as the town of Bradley Beach transforms into a stage for legends\, rising stars\, and community spirit. From soulful saxophones to vibrant rhythms\, this year’s festival celebrates heritage\, artistry\, and unity—right here by the ocean. Dive into the groove. Feel the legacy. Celebrate the community.  \n\n\n\nFriday Feb 6 \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nPerformances:\n\n\n\nArtists Bio  \n\n\n\nArtist Bio Saturday – The Ultimate Community Jam – Bradley Beach Jazz Festival 2026 \n\n\n\nArtist Bio Saturday Eve – Bradley Beach Jazz Festival 2026 \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nSecure your tickets
URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/feb-6-2nd-annual-bradley-beach-jazz-festival-2026/
LOCATION:Bradley Beach Elementary School\, 515 Brinley Ave\, Bradley Beach\, NJ\, 07720\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Bradley Beach Jazz Festival,Commnity,New Orleans Jazz
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/8.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260207T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260207T230000
DTSTAMP:20260427T180121
CREATED:20251214T034559Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T014448Z
UID:10002599-1770494400-1770505200@gregoryburrusproductions.com
SUMMARY:Feb 7 - 2nd Annual Bradley Beach Jazz Festival 2026
DESCRIPTION:This winter the shore is alive with the sound of jazz! Join us as the town of Bradley Beach transforms into a stage for legends\, rising stars\, and community spirit. From soulful saxophones to vibrant rhythms\, this year’s festival celebrates heritage\, artistry\, and unity—right here by the ocean. Dive into the groove. Feel the legacy. Celebrate the community.  \n\n\n\nProduced by Borough of Bradley Beach Tourism.Tickets: Two days. One pass. Endless music. All‑access Main Stage tickets for February 6–7 are just $25. \n\n\n\nPerformances: Feb 7\, 2026\n\n\n\nLearn More \n\n\n\nDelfaeyo Marsalis \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLezlie Harrison \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJohn Petrucelli \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSecure your tickets\n\n\n\n\nTickets: All-access tickets for the Main Stage weekend events on February 6th and 7th are available for just $25.00. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nAfternoon Jam\n\n\n\nFree entry
URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/feb-7-2nd-annual-bradley-beach-jazz-festival-2026/
LOCATION:Bradley Beach Elementary School\, 515 Brinley Ave\, Bradley Beach\, NJ\, 07720\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Saturday-atnbradley-besch-jazz-by-artist-.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260219T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260219T213000
DTSTAMP:20260427T180121
CREATED:20251215T012549Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T040845Z
UID:10002607-1771529400-1771536600@gregoryburrusproductions.com
SUMMARY:Rutgers IJS NJPAC Monthly Jazz Jam Session featuring James Austin Jr at Clements Place
DESCRIPTION:You are invited to come listen and or join in the jam \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us at our monthly Jazz Jam Sessions\, featuring top-flight NJ musicians directed by pianist and bandleader\, James Austin\, Jr. This series is co-presented by NJPAC’s Jazz Advisory Committee and Rutgers Institute for Jazz Studies. Immerse yourself in the relaxing sounds of jazz music that stimulate the player’s and listeners’ minds. All novice and seasoned jazz musicians and singers are welcomed to jam and improv with the professional band throughout the night. \n\n\n\nCo-Producers: Wayne Winborne\, Executive Director\, IJS and Eyesha Marable\, AVP\, Comm Engagement\, NJPAC.
URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/rutgers-ijs-njpac-monthly-jazz-jam-session-featuring-james-austin-jr-at-clements-place-3/
LOCATION:Clements Place Jazz IJS – Ruth Bader Ginsburg Building\, 15 Washington Street\, Newark\, NJ\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Clements Place Jazz
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/NJPAC-Jazz-Jam-Template.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260222T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260222T133000
DTSTAMP:20260427T180121
CREATED:20260112T054243Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260112T054246Z
UID:10002624-1771759800-1771767000@gregoryburrusproductions.com
SUMMARY:Jesus and Jazz feat Cyrus Chestnut John Lee Winard Harper & Lynette Sheard Mt Zion AME Church Milburn NJ
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a radiant morning of Jesus and Jazz\, where spirit and song rise together as the incomparable pianist Cyrus Chestnut\, Grammy‑winning producer\, bassist John Lee\, and master drummer Winard Harper fill Mount Zion AME Church with music that stirs the soul and lifts the heart. It will be a gathering of faith\, fellowship\, and sound — where sound becomes sanctuary and every rhythm opens a new door to praise. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister on Eventbrite\n\n\nSpace is limited so please let us know if we should expect you by reserving your space via eventbrite RSVP or email at mtzionamemillburn@gmail.com \n\n\n\n. \n\n\n\nJoining us\n\n\n\nCyrus Chestnut\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCyrus Chestnut is one of the most gifted and innovative jazz pianists of his generation\, celebrated for a style that seamlessly blends gospel\, classical influences\, and straight‑ahead jazz. Born in Baltimore\, Maryland in 1963\, he grew up in a deeply musical church family\, first learning piano at age seven and playing in worship services at Mount Calvary Baptist Church. This early grounding in gospel shaped the soulful\, spiritual depth that defines his sound today. \n\n\n\nA graduate of the Berklee College of Music\, Chestnut has built a remarkable career as a pianist\, composer\, and producer\, performing internationally and recording for major labels including Atlantic\, Warner Bros.\, and TelarcWikipedia. His playing has been praised for its emotional power and fearless creativity; Time magazine once wrote that Chestnut’s brilliance comes from “a willingness to abandon notes and play space”. \n\n\n\nAcross decades of acclaimed performances\, Cyrus Chestnut has become a defining voice in contemporary jazz—an artist whose music carries the warmth of gospel\, the sophistication of jazz tradition\, and the expressive freedom of a true improviser. \n\n\n\nJohn Lee\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJohn Lee is an accomplished bassist\, Grammy-winning record producer\, and audio engineer.  \n\n\n\nEarly Life and Education: \n\n\n\n\nJohn Gregory Lee was born on June 28\, 1952\, in Boston\, Massachusetts\, United States. His parents were Rev. John W. Lee\, an African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) minister\, and Harriet Holland Lee\, a career social worker.\n\n\n\nHe grew up in Greenwich\, Connecticut\, Amityville\, New York\, and Philadelphia\, Pennsylvania.\n\n\n\nJohn began learning the string bass in 1962 under the guidance of Carolyn Lush.\n\n\n\nHe attended Philadelphia’s Overbrook High School and later studied at the Philadelphia Musical Academy (now the University of the Arts) from 1970 to 1972.\n\n\n\nDuring this time\, he also performed with musicians like Carlos Garnett and Joe Henderson.\n\n\n\nIn August 1972\, John and drummer Gerry Brown relocated to Europe\, where they toured and recorded with various bands.\n\n\n\n\nCareer Highlights: \n\n\n\nAfter moving to New York City in 1974\, John Lee collaborated with artists such as Joe Henderson\, Lonnie Liston Smith\, and Norman Connors. \n\n\n\n\nHe joined Larry Coryell’s band\, The Eleventh House\, in December 1974.\n\n\n\nIn 1975\, Lee and Gerry Brown signed a recording contract with Blue Note Records and formed their own working band.\n\n\n\nLee began producing records in 1977.\n\n\n\nFrom 1982 to 1984\, he worked with jazz pianist McCoy Tyner.\n\n\n\nIn July 1984\, John Lee became Dizzy Gillespie’s bassist\, touring and recording with Dizzy’s Quintet\, Big Band\, and the Grammy-winning “United Nation Orchestra.”\n\n\n\nLee has performed in concert halls and jazz clubs across more than 100 countries worldwide.\n\n\n\nHe has also played with notable artists like Sonny Rollins\, James Moody\, Aretha Franklin\, Jimmy Heath\, Pharoah Sanders\, and many others.\n\n\n\nLee was a founding member of “The Fantasy Band” (1993-1996) alongside Chuck Loeb\, Marion Meadows\, and Dave Samuels.\n\n\n\nSince 1996\, he has been the director and bassist of the Dizzy Gillespie Alumni All-Stars\, the Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Big Band\, and the Dizzy Gillespie Afro-Cuban Experience.\n\n\n\n\nJohn Lee’s contributions to jazz music and his extensive work as a bassist\, producer\, and recording engineer have left a lasting impact on the music industry. \n\n\n\nWinard Harper\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWinard Harper is an acclaimed jazz drummer\, bandleader\, and educator whose dynamic style and deep musicality have made him one of the most respected percussion voices in modern jazz. Born in Baltimore\, Maryland in 1962\, Harper showed prodigious talent early—first discovered tapping rhythms on cans as a toddler and performing with his older brother Danny’s band by age five. winardharperjazz.com. His artistic path was set at age eleven when he heard Clifford Brown and Max Roach’s recording of “Jordu\,” a moment that awakened his lifelong devotion to jazz. \n\n\n\nHarper’s professional rise began in the early 1980s with major gigs alongside Dexter Gordon and Johnny Griffin. His career accelerated further during four formative years with Betty Carter\, whose demanding bandstand sharpened his virtuosity\, showmanship\, and musical sensitivity. From 1988 to 1993\, he co‑led the celebrated group The Harper Brothers with his brother\, trumpeter Philip Harper\, performing with a powerhouse lineup of rising jazz stars including Javon Jackson\, Justin Robinson\, Walter Blanding\, and Stephen Scott. \n\n\n\nAs a leader\, Harper has recorded multiple albums\, led acclaimed ensembles including his sextet and Jeli Posse\, and performed at major venues such as Lincoln Center. His playing is known for its explosive creativity\, mastery of global percussion traditions\, and deep commitment to the swing and bebop lineage. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nLynette Sheard\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLynette Sheard is a remarkably versatile vocalist with a stunning five‑octave range\, celebrated for her soulful command of Jazz\, R&B\, Gospel\, Soul\, and Pop. She is also an accomplished actor\, producer\, and director whose performances have been praised in The New York Times\, The Record\, and The Chronicle. The Star‑Ledger and countless fans often say that her voice “reaches deep into one’s soul and finds a soft spot.” \n\n\n\nSheard serves as a Director with the Mental Health Association in New Jersey\, where she uses the arts as a powerful tool for healing\, empowerment\, and community connection. Her commitment to service extends to her work as a founding member of The Guiding Stars\, a medical‑missions ensemble of professional performers who uplift veterans\, children\, and communities in need. Her performances have helped raise thousands of dollars for Hurricane Katrina survivors\, Haitian relief efforts\, the Red Cross\, and numerous local charities. \n\n\n\nA dynamic presence on stage\, her theater credits include principal roles in Dreamgirls\, Smokey Joe’s Café\, Ragtime\, Swing\, Aida\, and an encore performance as Lena Younger (Mama) in A Raisin in the Sun. She also serves as the primary vocalist for the Jesus & Jazz series\, where her voice brings warmth\, spirit\, and emotional depth to this celebrated worship‑and‑music experience. \n\n\n\nAs a board member of Pleasant Valley Productions\, she has helped produce a range of successful events at the Oskar Schindler Performing Arts Center (OSPAC) in West Orange\, NJ\, further demonstrating her leadership in the arts and her commitment to community enrichment. \n\n\n\n——————— \n\n\n\nEvent Free Open to All Please register and Let us know you are coming to join us.. \n\n\n\n———————————————————————————————– \n\n\n\nJesus and Jazz Sessions are held monthly on the 4th Sunday of the Month and are curated by Gregory Burrus Productions. \n\n\n\nPlease join us. \n\n\n\n ​Jesus and Jazz: Where Spirit Meets Sound\n\n\n\nPhil Bingham – Rev. Eyesha Marable – Gregory Burrus\n\n\n\n\nEyesha Marable – A dynamic cultural curator and spiritual leader\, Eyesha brings passion\, purpose\, and prophetic vision to every gathering. Her work bridges gospel truth with artistic excellence\, creating spaces where healing and creativity flourish. \n\n\n\nPhil Bingham – Renowned pianist\, conductor\, and arranger\, Phil is the musical heartbeat of Jesus and Jazz. His spirit-led compositions and performances transform every sanctuary into a stage for praise\, improvisation\, and divine inspiration. \n\n\n\nGregory Burrus – The master connector and curator behind Gregory Burrus Productions\, Gregory orchestrates this event with joy\, precision\, and deep community love. His storytelling and artist advocacy ensure that every voice is honored and every moment resonates. \n\n\n\nTogether\, these leaders have crafted an evening where jazz becomes ministry\, and every note is a prayer. Join us for Jesus and Jazz—a celebration of legacy\, liberation\, and the living Word through music.
URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/jesus-and-jazz-feat-cyrus-chestnut-john-lee-winard-harper-lynette-sheard-mt-zion-ame-church-milburn-nj/
LOCATION:Clements Place Jazz IJS – Ruth Bader Ginsburg Building\, 15 Washington Street\, Newark\, NJ\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Live Music
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