BWB delivers a trio of stellar performers
Think of Rick Braun, and you think of deep grooves riding over an even deeper sub-bass. Wanna hear it? Simply play Cadillac Slim on a big stereo system! Rick’s crystal-clear trumpet intro sets the stage for nothing more than a bass guitar and a tambourine. But it’s a symphony nonetheless. Don’t resist the urge to dance – resistance could be hazardous to your health!
At this year’s Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival, Rick, Grammy® Award-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum and guitarist/vocalist Norman Brown (not without his own Grammy nods!) reunite in a whirlwind of musical passion as BWB. Each member of BWB is a star in his own right, and like so many of today’s jazz stars, Rick Braun’s family was surrounded with music. Mom played piano and banjo (an unlikely combination) and his brother took up the trumpet just in time for Rick to do the same. While attending the Eastman School of Music, Braun’s first band, Auracle, landed a two-album deal, working with Miles Davis and Teo Macero. Braun went on to add his signature sound to session tracks for such luminaries as Tom Petty, War, the late Glenn Frey, Natalie Cole, Sade, Rod Stewart and Tina Turner.
Norman Brown has collaborated with some of the best players, including Herman Jackson, bassist Alex Al, drummer Teddy Campbell, rhythm guitarist Jubu, percussionist Kevin Ricard and R&B songwriters Melvin Moore III (who happens to be his godson) and Floyd E. Bentley III from his Kansas City home town. His part of BWB’s crisp style is guaranteed to satisfy not only his longtime fans but new ones as well. The vibrancy evident in their sparkling performances reflects the pleasure each member of this power trio derives from performing for jazz-loving crowds.
Saxophonist Kirk Whalum earned a Masters of Art in religion. It’s in this spirit that he serves his community in various ways when his touring schedule allows. In addition to wowing audiences hungry for jazz with a funky twist, Kirk has a passion to educate young musicians and is currently engaged as a music professor at Visible Music College in his home town of Memphis.
Kirk is the recipient of numerous awards and acknowledgements for his musical excellence including three Dove Award nominations, an NAACP Image Award nomination and has won two Stellar Awards; gospel music’s highest honor.
BWB with Rick Braun, Kirk Whalum and Norman Brown will roar onto the stage at 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 15 in the Performing Arts Theater at Cape Henlopen High School in Lewes.
