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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250731T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250731T200000
DTSTAMP:20260427T061945
CREATED:20250325T052318Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250723T114404Z
UID:10002370-1753984800-1753992000@gregoryburrusproductions.com
SUMMARY:2025 Cranford Summer Sounds featuring Forget The Whale
DESCRIPTION:Cranford Summer Sounds featuring Forget The Whale\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nForget the Whale is a dynamic and eclectic band based in Jersey City\, New Jersey. Known for their genre-blending style\, they incorporate elements of rock\, blues\, alternative\, R&B\, country\, funk\, and even nu-metal into their music. This unique mix creates a “witches’ brew” of sounds that keeps their audience guessing and engaged. \n\n\n\n\n\nThe band features Alishia Taiping on lead vocals and bass\, Dan Pieraccini on bass\, keys\, and vocals\, Peter Durning on guitar and harmonica\, and AJ Zienowicz on drums and vocals. They also occasionally include brass instruments\, adding even more depth to their sound. Forget the Whale has performed at various notable venues across New Jersey and New York\, such as The Bitter End\, Crossroads\, and Downtown Cranford Performances are celebrated for their unpredictability and energy\, making them a must-see act.
URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/2025-cranford-summer-sounds-featuring-forget-the-whale/
LOCATION:Downtown Cranford Clock\, N Union Ave\, Cranford\, NJ 07016\, Cranford\, New Jersey\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Commnity,Live Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/forget-the-Whale-2022.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250802T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250802T210000
DTSTAMP:20260427T061945
CREATED:20250320T204927Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250801T174708Z
UID:10002381-1754163000-1754168400@gregoryburrusproductions.com
SUMMARY:Morris Museum - Back Deck Presents Richard Baratta Dave Stryker Abraham Burton Bill O'Connell Michael Goetz Paul Rossman Carrol Scott
DESCRIPTION:The Band: Richard Baratta Drums\, Dave Stryker Guitar\, Abraham Burton Sax\, Bill O’Connell Keys\, Michael Goetz Bass\, Paul Rossman Percussion & Carrol Scott Vocals\n\n\n\nClick for Tickets: https://morrismuseum.org/outdoor-concerts-on-the-back-deck \n\n\n\nRichard Baratta \n\n\n\n\n\nRichard Baratta is a Grammy-nominated jazz drummer and a successful movie producer. He began his musical journey at a young age\, focusing on jazz and performing with various artists in the 1970s and 1980s. However\, in 1984\, he transitioned to a career in film production\, working on over 50 movies\, including notable titles like Joker\, The Irishman\, Dr. Strange\, and The Wolf of Wall Street. \n\n\n\nDespite his success in the film industry\, Baratta returned to his musical roots in 2016 and has since been actively performing and recording jazz music. His recent albums\, such as Music in Film: The Reel Deal and Off the Charts\, blend his love for jazz with his cinematic background\, featuring fresh takes on movie-based compositions and jazz classics. \n\n\n\nBaratta’s dual career showcases his versatility and passion for both music and film. \n\n\n\nIn the meantime take a listen and come join us\n\n\n\nHAMPTON JAZZ FEST ——  WGBO RICHARD BARATTA  \n\n\n\nCheck out this fantastic Band \n\n\n\nDAVE STRYKER\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDave Stryker is one of the most distinctive voices in jazz guitar today. With over 35 albums as a leader and a career spanning decades\, Stryker has captivated audiences worldwide with his soulful tone\, inventive compositions\, and dynamic performances. He first gained national attention as a sideman with organist Jack McDuff and legendary saxophonist Stanley Turrentine\, with whom he toured extensively from 1986 to 1995. \n\n\n\nA prolific recording artist\, Stryker’s recent albums—including Prime\, As We Are\, and Stryker with Strings Goes to the Movies—have topped the JazzWeek charts and earned critical acclaim from DownBeat and JazzTimes. His celebrated “Eight Track” series reimagines classic pop tunes through a jazz lens\, showcasing his versatility and deep groove. \n\n\n\nBeyond the stage\, Stryker is a dedicated educator\, serving on the jazz faculties of Rutgers University\, Montclair State University\, and William Paterson University. Whether leading his organ trio\, collaborating with jazz greats\, or mentoring the next generation\, Dave Stryker continues to shape the sound of modern jazz with passion and authenticity. \n\n\n\nABRAHAM BURTON\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbraham Burton is a powerhouse saxophonist and educator whose fiery sound and commanding stage presence have made him a standout figure in contemporary jazz for over three decades. Born and raised in Greenwich Village\, Burton studied under the legendary Jackie McLean at the Hartt School of Music\, where he earned his degree with honors. He later received his master’s from Rutgers University\, where he now serves on the jazz faculty. \n\n\n\nBurton launched his career with the iconic drummer Arthur Taylor\, touring internationally and recording acclaimed albums like Mr. A.T. and Live at the Village Vanguard. He went on to lead his own dynamic ensembles\, including the Abraham Burton Quartet and Forbidden Fruit\, performing at major festivals such as North Sea Jazz\, JVC\, and Pori. His discography as a leader includes Closest to the Sun\, The Magician\, and Cause and Effect\, all praised for their intensity and artistry. \n\n\n\nA longtime member of the Mingus Big Band\, Burton has also collaborated with jazz luminaries including Roy Hargrove\, Jimmy Smith\, Louis Hayes\, and Christian McBride. Now based near Morristown\, NJ\, he continues to inspire audiences and students alike with his deep musicality\, fearless improvisation\, and dedication to the jazz tradition. \n\n\n\nBILL O”CONNELL\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBill O’Connell is a Grammy-nominated pianist\, composer\, and arranger whose bold fusion of jazz and Afro-Caribbean rhythms has made him a cornerstone of the Latin jazz scene. A New York native and Oberlin Conservatory alum\, O’Connell has performed with legends like Mongo Santamaria\, Dave Valentin\, and Sonny Rollins. His lyrical touch and rhythmic firepower have earned him four SESAC “Jazz Writer of the Year” awards and widespread critical acclaim. \n\n\n\nAs the pianist and arranger for the Richard Baratta Gotham City Latin Jazz Septet\, O’Connell brings his signature flair and deep musicality to the ensemble’s high-energy performances. His arrangement of “Chopsticks” for Baratta’s Music in Film: The Reel Deal earned a Grammy nomination\, highlighting his ability to reimagine classics with sophistication and swing. Whether on stage or in the studio\, O’Connell’s artistry continues to elevate every project he touches. \n\n\n\nMICHAEL GOETZ\n\n\n\nMICHAEL GOETZ\n\n\n\nMichael Goetz is a seasoned bassist whose versatility\, deep groove\, and impeccable musicianship have made him a sought-after figure on the New York jazz and Latin scenes since the mid-1980s. With a career spanning live performance\, studio recording\, and Broadway orchestras\, Goetz has collaborated with a wide array of top-tier artists including Bill O’Connell\, Vincent Herring\, Paul Bollenback\, Dave Stryker\, and Doug Munro. \n\n\n\nHis discography includes work on Grammy-nominated albums such as Music in Film: The Reel Deal with the Richard Baratta Gotham City Latin Jazz Septet\, as well as acclaimed releases like A Very Gypsy Christmas and The Harry Warren Songbook. Goetz’s bass lines have anchored tribute albums for Vitamin Records\, spanning genres from Pink Floyd to Celine Dion\, and he’s contributed to film scores by Ryuichi Sakamoto and Elmer Bernstein. \n\n\n\nWhether laying down a Latin groove\, swinging through bebop\, or supporting a Broadway pit orchestra\, Michael Goetz brings depth\, precision\, and soul to every note. \n\n\n\nPAUL ROSSMAN\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPaul Rossman doesn’t just play percussion—he paints with rhythm. A fixture in the New York jazz and Latin scenes\, Rossman has spent decades weaving his vibrant\, polyrhythmic voice into the fabric of countless ensembles. His hands have danced across congas\, timbales\, and shakers in settings as varied as smoky jazz clubs\, grand concert halls\, and Grammy-nominated studio sessions.You’ve heard him on Richard Baratta’s Music in Film: The Reel Deal\, where his solo on the track “Chopsticks” pulses with both elegance and fire. You’ve felt his groove alongside jazz titans like Vincent Herring\, Eric Alexander\, and John Patitucci. And when the music calls for a global heartbeat\, Rossman answers—drawing from his studies with percussion legends Frank Colón\, Bobby Sanabria\, and Norman Headman to infuse every note with authenticity and soul. \n\n\n\nBut Paul isn’t just a sideman—he’s a storyteller. Whether anchoring a Latin jazz septet or adding sparkle to a cinematic arrangement\, he listens deeply\, responds intuitively\, and elevates the moment. His playing is never about flash—it’s about feel. It’s about knowing when to drive and when to dance\, when to whisper and when to roar. \n\n\n\nIn a world that often rushes past the details\, Paul Rossman reminds us that rhythm is not just time—it’s texture\, tension\, and truth. \n\n\n\nVOCALIST CARROLL SCOTT\n\n\n\nVeteran singer-actor-musician Carroll W. Scott began his musical sojourn in the South Bronx singing and playing clarinet from the age of 10. As a young adult\, Carroll played saxophone and sang in pop and jazz groups\, sharing stage venues with percussionist Ray Barretto and guitarist Kenny Burrell. \n\n\n\nHe performed on Broadway and at Lincoln Center\, Madison Square Garden and Carnegie Hall. Carroll was understudy to Clifton Davis in the Broadway play “Two Gentlemen of Verona”. His vocal collaborations include McCoy Tyner’s “Inner Voices”\, Pharoah Sanders’\, “Rejoice” and Idris Muhammad’s\, “You Ain’t No Friend of Mine”. \n\n\n\nCarroll completed national and international tours with Tony Williams and the Platters and toured Italy and China as a featured singer and soloist with the Brooklyn Interdenominational Choir. Carroll performed with renowned French pianist Pierre Christophe at the Hotel d’Aubusson in Paris\, France. Carroll was invited to sing with the Ken Fowser quintet at The Django jazz club\, NYC. Most recently\, Carroll is featured on Richard Baratta’s Grammy nominated CD\, “Music in Film:The Reel Deal”. \n\n\n\nCarroll majored in clarinet and saxophone performance and minored in drama\, receiving a B.S. in music from New York University. He also achieved a M.S. in Special Education from Adelphi University and a Professional Diploma in school administration and supervision from Long Island University.  \n\n\n\nJoin us \n\n\n\nThe Back Deck Returns!\n\n\n\nEntering its sixth year\, the popular Back Deck concert series returns with a robust season of performances featuring big international names and regional superstars in jazz\, classical\, and genres in-between. Under the direction of Producer Gregory Burrus\, the 2025 season promises a dynamic variety of memorable concerts under the stars. Patrons are invited to bring chairs\, set up picnics\, and enjoy the sunset for this special program. \n\n\n\nSince launching in July 2020\, The Back Deck has presented over 72 performances of critically acclaimed artists\, welcomed more than 11\,000 patrons\, and received critical praise from local and national media. The series has presented established artists and rising stars with several ensembles going on to receive national acclaim. Now an established part of the regional cultural landscape\, the Museum’s elevated parking deck has become known for elegant tailgates and world-class music each summer. \n\n\n\nClick here for details Morris Museum Back Deck Concerts  \n\n\n\nTickets go on sale April 14 (for museum members) and April 21 (general public).
URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/morris-museum-back-deck-presents-richard-baratta/
LOCATION:Morris Museum\, 6 Normandy Heights Rd\, Morristown\, New Jersey\, 07960\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Richard-Baratta-Drums.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250803T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250803T180000
DTSTAMP:20260427T061946
CREATED:20250725T233407Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250725T235950Z
UID:10002490-1754233200-1754244000@gregoryburrusproductions.com
SUMMARY:Lynette Sheard featuring the Glenn Merrit Quartet in Sunday Gazebo Jazz at Springfield Ave Gazebo\, Maplewood NJ
DESCRIPTION:August 3rd\, the Springfield Avenue Gazebo will come alive with the powerhouse vocals and magnetic presence of Lynette Sheard\, a Newark-born jazz vocalist\, actress\, and mental health advocate whose performances are as soul-stirring as they are unforgettable. \n\n\n\nSheard is known for her five-octave range\, perfect pitch\, and emotionally resonant delivery that spans jazz\, blues\, gospel\, and soul. Her stage credits include principal roles in Dream Girls\, Ragtime\, and Avenue Q\, and she’s been honored in the Encyclopedia of Newark Jazz. But what truly sets her apart is her ability to connect deeply with audiences\, blending music with storytelling and emotional wellness. \n\n\n\nAt the August 3rd concert\, expect a set filled with jazz standards\, heartfelt ballads\, and empowering moments that reflect her dual artistry and advocacy. Whether she’s belting out “Stormy Monday” or inviting the crowd to scream out their stress\, Sheard transforms every performance into a healing celebration of community and self-expression \n\n\n\n\n\nSunday Gazebo Jazz Series \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSunday Gazebo Jazz SeriesOur beloved annual jazz tradition returns August 3 & August 10! \n\n\n\nJoin us at 1668 Springfield Ave\, Maplewood\, NJ for smooth jazz under the gazebo\, shaded seating\, and good vibes.🍴 Plus\, enjoy delicious eats from a wonderful local food truck!🪑 Bring a chair\, bring a friend\, and soak up the sounds of summer. \n\n\n\nPresented by Gregory Burrus Productions & Springfield Avenue Partnership with support from FinlayandGage  & NJPAC Community Engagement \n\n\n\nArtist Info: \n\n\n\nLynette Sheard is a powerhouse performer and advocate whose talents span music\, theater\, and mental health education. \n\n\n\nHere’s what makes her remarkable: \n\n\n\n\nVocal Virtuosity: Sheard boasts a five-octave range and perfect pitch\, performing jazz\, blues\, gospel\, soul\, R&B\, and pop. Critics have called her voice “soul-reaching” and “rafter-shaking”.\n\n\n\nTheatrical Force: She’s starred in principal roles in productions like Dream Girls\, Smokey Joe’s Café\, Ragtime\, Aida\, and Avenue Q3.\n\n\n\nMental Health Advocate: As Director of the NJ Mental Health Players\, she leads interactive programs that educate communities about emotional wellness. She’s certified in Mental Health First Aid and suicide prevention training.\n\n\n\nCommunity Connector: Sheard blends art and advocacy\, often performing in events that highlight the healing power of music—like the recent Jazz and Joy: Mind Over Music event produced by Gregory Burrus Productions.\n\n\n\nAccolades & Legacy: She’s been featured in The Encyclopedia of Newark Jazz\, received national awards for innovation in programming\, and was the undefeated West Orange Idol for 15 years.\n\n\n\n\nShe’s not just a performer—she’s a movement. \n\n\n\nGlenn Merritt\, pianist for the Meant To Be Jazz Band\, is a seasoned musician whose style blends classical training with soulful jazz improvisation. \n\n\n\nOriginally from New York City\, Glenn began his musical journey as a child and has since cultivated a rich\, expressive sound. He studied classical piano and music theory at the Manhattan School of Music and was mentored by the late Morris Nanton of the famed Morris Nanton Trio—a relationship that deeply shaped his lush chord voicings and tasteful phrasing. \n\n\n\nBefore settling into jazz piano\, Glenn played percussion in Willie Sossa’s salsa band and electric bass in various R&B groups\, giving him a rhythmic versatility that shines through in his playing. His performances with Meant To Be are marked by swinging standards\, elegant improvisation\, and a deep connection with his fellow musicians\, including Alan Hayes (bass). \n\n\n\nWhether he’s interpreting “Autumn Leaves” or navigating the complexities of “Giant Steps\,” Glenn brings warmth\, precision\, and a sense of storytelling to every note.  \n\n\n\nJohn DuBose – Saxophone Soul from North Jersey \n\n\n\nWhen the groove demands heart\, flair\, and fire\, John DuBose answers with his sax. A standout in New Jersey’s live music circuit\, John’s horn sings with a rich blend of funk\, jazz\, and R&B\, weaving smooth melodies with punchy rhythmic flair. \n\n\n\nWhether trading licks in the MPACK Band alongside vocalists like Patricia Walton and Tanaa Dean\, or anchoring spontaneous jams that get crowds moving\, DuBose brings a seasoned\, expressive tone that lights up every stage. He’s not just playing the notes—he’s telling a story\, rooted in soul and shaped by community. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nAlan Hayes – The Groove Anchor of Meant To Be Jazz Band \n\n\n\nWith every pluck of the string\, Alan Hayes brings the foundation\, the flow\, and the finesse to Meant To Be Jazz Band. His bass isn’t just background—it’s the heartbeat\, guiding melodies and grounding improvisations with a warm\, steady pulse that audiences feel in their soul. \n\n\n\nA trusted collaborator within New Jersey’s jazz scene\, Alan’s style blends traditional swing with modern subtlety. Whether supporting Glenn Merritt’s lyrical piano lines\, Pete Omelio’s tight rhythms\, or John Higgins’ bright trumpet tones\, Alan locks in the band’s dynamic sound with quiet authority and magnetic rhythm.  \n\n\n\nScott “Phunky B” Jordan LIVE – August 3rd @ Springfield Avenue Gazebo! Get ready for grooves that grab you by the soul. \n\n\n\nOn August 3rd\, the Springfield Avenue Gazebo welcomes Scott “Phunky B” Jordan\, a drummer whose beats are as bold as his mantra: “Music IZ Who I AM\, IT’S WHAT I DO.” Known for locking into funk\, soul\, and jazz rhythms with precision and fire\, Scott turns each set into a percussive celebration of self-expression and community pulse. \n\n\n\nHis style—raw\, rhythmic\, and joyfully unfiltered—pairs seamlessly with the vocal brilliance of Lynette Sheard\, making this double-feature a can’t-miss evening of healing\, high-energy music.
URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/lynette-sheard-featuring-the-glenn-merrit-quartet-in-sunday-gazebo-jazz-at-springfield-ave-gazebo-maplewood-nj/
LOCATION:Springfield Avenue Gazebo\, 1662 Springfield Ave\, Maplewood\, New Jersey\, 07040\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Gazebo Jazz,Jazz,Live Music,MAPSO,RnB,Smooth Jazz,SOMAPSO,Sunday Jazz
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/1_20250725_185700_0000.jpg
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