Showing posts with label Narada Michael Walden. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Narada Michael Walden. Show all posts

10/05/2022

DAN ASHLEY Releases New Cover Single “YOU’RE A FRIEND OF MINE” Together with Original Co-Writer and Grammy Winner NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN

San Francisco, CA – Accomplished singer DAN ASHLEY brings a distinctive voice and his unique life experience to the Bay Area music scene with his exceptional blend of Americana and rock and roll. Following the release of his full-length album Out There in 2021, DAN ASHLEY is excited to present his new single “YOU’RE A FRIEND OF MINE,” a duet with the legendary Grammy-award winning NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN (Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin, Sting, George Michael) on October 21, 2022. Narada originally co-wrote the song with Jeffrey Cohen for Clarence Clemons and Jackson Browne, and both the song and music video featuring actress Daryl Hannah were a huge hit in 1985.

NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN recently brought the song to DAN ASHLEY thinking he would be a natural fit for an updated version of the material and recorded this new single with him at his own Tarpan Studios. As with the original version, Narada recorded drums and vocals for the track, and appears with Dan in the official music video. All proceeds from the single will be split between the NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN FOUNDATION and Dan Ashley’s own ROCK THE CASA FOUNDATION. “I’m very proud of my friendship and brotherhood with Dan 'Dash' Ashley!” says Narada. “I love Dan, he’s a great human being which inspired me to record this smash song as a new duet for the Narada Michael Walden Foundation and the Rock the CASA Foundation for kids!”

“YOU’RE A FRIEND OF MINE” also features Jackson Allen (guitar), Angeline Saris (bass), Katie Walden and Nate Soulsanger (backing vocals), and Dave Ellis (saxophone). Videographer Tommy Merry shot an official music video on the same day they recorded the track at Tarpan Studios, which also features Katie Walden and her twin sister Kelly Walden along with Dan and Narada. “Narada is one of my dearest friends and an incredibly warm-hearted and talented artist and producer,” says Dan. “I’m deeply grateful for our friendship over the past many years and I’m honored to record this amazing song with him to benefit not only Rock the CASA, but the Narada Michael Walden Foundation.”

As a vocalist, DAN ASHLEY has led his highly acclaimed band for many years, headlining notable venues and opening for such great artists as REO Speedwagon, Rick Springfield, Cheap Trick, Eddie Money, Patti LaBelle, Melissa Etheridge and more. He has also shared the stage with many other consummate performers over the years including Dionne Warwick, Neal Schon (Journey), Brad Gillis (Night Ranger), and multiple Grammy winner Narada Michael Walden, among many others. Dan is regularly asked to perform the National Anthem at a variety of events, including for the NBA, MLB, NCAA, and NHL, and also recently performed alongside headliner Night Ranger in Reno, NV, and Foghat at the Ojai Nest Fest Veterans Benefit in Ventura, CA!

With the release of his remarkable album Out There in October 2021, DAN ASHLEY shared in the joy, heartbreak, love, and loss that are part of our common humanity. From upbeat and driving rockers to gentle ballads, all with a classic Americana and rock music sensibility, listeners will find a variety of songs on the album. Backed by a group of extraordinary musicians who have played and toured with an impressive list of major artists, Out There is the result of a powerful collaboration with his long-time friend, music producer, and writing partner Bill Bentley. Also contributing to the release were well respected musicians such as internationally acclaimed soul artist Cornell “CC” Carter and longtime Y&T drummer Mike Vanderhule.

DAN ASHLEY has been around music and passionate about it his entire life, starting as a child with guitar and piano lessons, and then singing in the junior choir at his church in North Carolina. Always the storyteller, Dan Ashley is also a journalist and news anchor for ABC7 – KGO Bay Area TV, and in his 35 years on television he has reported on a wide range of issues and events that affect our lives. Dan has covered stories all over the Bay Area, the country, and the world, and has received many industry awards including the prestigious DuPont Columbia Award, two Edward R. Murrow Awards for excellence in journalism, and numerous Emmy Awards for Best Newscast and Individual Reporting.

Dan Ashley also created the non-profit Rock the CASA Foundation to raise money through an annual concert to benefit the CASA organization and other charities, and over the years the event has featured several internationally known bands and artists. Listen for his single “Redbud Road” from Out There on Highway 1 Radio!

To order or stream the new single “YOU’RE A FRIEND OF MINE” please visit: https://lnk.to/DanAndNarada

For more information about DAN ASHLEY and his new single please visit: www.danashleymusic.com

To order or stream DAN ASHLEY music on Bandcamp please visit: https://danashley.bandcamp.com

For Press and Interview inquiries please contact Billy James of Glass Onyon PR: (828) 350-8158 or glassonyonpr@gmail.com

For Digital Marketing please contact Jerome Forney of Independent Distribution Collective: jerome@independentdistro.com

4/17/2018

Multicultural European Singer-Songwriter EMILY JOHNSON Releases Her Debut EP OPEN YOUR HEART Produced By NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN


“She has an extraordinary voice, superb.” - John Mclaughlin

San Rafael, CA - Sometimes known as “The Lady of Heart,” EMILY JOHNSON is a Bulgarian-born Nigerian singer, songwriter, and composer. Having performed around the world for many years, she is releasing OPEN YOUR HEART, her debut EP, on May 11, 2018, with the help of Tarpan Records in the United States. This EP was produced by NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN and features 4 original songs.

EMILY JOHNSON was born in Sofia, Bulgaria, at a time when the country was still under the influence of the Soviet Union. Her mother is Bulgarian and her father Nigerian, a mix which made her quite different from the other children in her own neighborhood and even her own country. Different by color, but also different in her heightened sensitivity which is expressed so wonderfully in her music.

“Open your heart,” EMILY JOHNSON sings on her soon to be released debut EP of the same name. To her this statement is more than words; it is a way of life. On this release of original songs, she creates her art with something beyond passion, giving herself to her audience with a great generosity, energy, and sincerity. Emily brings others together to ignore prejudices, erase borders, and overcome difficulties. She shares with them a simple pleasure which is to SING!

Emily has been fortunate to work with some music industry greats, including the incredible guitarist John McLaughlin who invited her on stage for an emotional performance of “Redemption Song.” Another is the world famous, Grammy Award-winning American producer NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN (Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin), who graciously opened the doors of his Tarpan Studios to produce OPEN YOUR HEART.

Ever since John McLaughlin discovered EMILY JOHNSON on stage on the Côte d'Azur, the Mahavishnu Orchestra founder has consistently praised her as an artist he already considers “a star.” Emily would certainly reply that she also owes much of her success to his friendship and support. John McLaughlin says, “If one day EMILY JOHNSON is on the top of the charts, it will be because of her talent. She has an extraordinary voice, superb. She has it all! An inner and outer beauty. She can sing everything.”

Emily appreciates this immense compliment coming from an artist with such a career. “He is more than a musician; John McLaughlin is a Legend and a great friend and I am so blessed to know him!” she says. They have performed together several times both live and in the studio. Their relationship is more than beautiful; it is strong, sincere and much more than words.

Even better, John invited EMILY JOHNSON to cross the Atlantic to join NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN, the former Mahavishnu Orchestra drummer who became one of Billboard Magazine’s Top Ten Producers of all time. “John has opened up new horizons for me,” says Emily. “He is not only a friend but also my Light.” “The Light,” as she sings on the track from OPEN YOUR HEART that she wrote and dedicated to him.

OPEN YOUR HEART features some amazing performances, with NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN playing many instruments and featuring performances by Chris “Heist” Walden (Keyboards/Electronic Drums, “Open Your Heart”), Jim Reitzel (Guitar, “Open Your Heart”), and Cornell “CC” Carter and Deedee Simon (Back-up Vocals, “The Light” and “Open Your Heart”). The song “I’m Blessed” features Rapper G-Dub. OPEN YOUR HEART was recorded at Tarpan Studios by Jim Reitzel and mixed by Dave Frasier.

Today this beautiful story continues with new collaborations on both sides of the Atlantic and with the release of her first project, simply titled OPEN YOUR HEART. An obvious choice, isn't it?

For more information about OPEN YOUR HEART or live EMILY JOHNSON performances please visit her website: www.emilyjohnsonofficial.com

To Pre-Order OPEN YOUR HEART on Digital Platforms worldwide please visit: http://radi.al/EmilyJohnsonOYH

To see the video for the title song “OPEN YOUR HEART” please visit:


For Press and Interview inquiries, please contact Billy James of Glass Onyon PR: glassonyonpr@gmail.com or (828) 350-8158

Multicultural European Singer-Songwriter EMILY JOHNSON Releases Her Debut EP OPEN YOUR HEART Produced By NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN


“She has an extraordinary voice, superb.” - John Mclaughlin

San Rafael, CA - Sometimes known as “The Lady of Heart,” EMILY JOHNSON is a Bulgarian-born Nigerian singer, songwriter, and composer. Having performed around the world for many years, she is releasing OPEN YOUR HEART, her debut EP, on May 11, 2018, with the help of Tarpan Records in the United States. This EP was produced by NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN and features 4 original songs.

EMILY JOHNSON was born in Sofia, Bulgaria, at a time when the country was still under the influence of the Soviet Union. Her mother is Bulgarian and her father Nigerian, a mix which made her quite different from the other children in her own neighborhood and even her own country. Different by color, but also different in her heightened sensitivity which is expressed so wonderfully in her music.

“Open your heart,” EMILY JOHNSON sings on her soon to be released debut EP of the same name. To her this statement is more than words; it is a way of life. On this release of original songs, she creates her art with something beyond passion, giving herself to her audience with a great generosity, energy, and sincerity. Emily brings others together to ignore prejudices, erase borders, and overcome difficulties. She shares with them a simple pleasure which is to SING!

Emily has been fortunate to work with some music industry greats, including the incredible guitarist John McLaughlin who invited her on stage for an emotional performance of “Redemption Song.” Another is the world famous, Grammy Award-winning American producer NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN (Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin), who graciously opened the doors of his Tarpan Studios to produce OPEN YOUR HEART.

Ever since John McLaughlin discovered EMILY JOHNSON on stage on the Côte d'Azur, the Mahavishnu Orchestra founder has consistently praised her as an artist he already considers “a star.” Emily would certainly reply that she also owes much of her success to his friendship and support. John McLaughlin says, “If one day EMILY JOHNSON is on the top of the charts, it will be because of her talent. She has an extraordinary voice, superb. She has it all! An inner and outer beauty. She can sing everything.”

Emily appreciates this immense compliment coming from an artist with such a career. “He is more than a musician; John McLaughlin is a Legend and a great friend and I am so blessed to know him!” she says. They have performed together several times both live and in the studio. Their relationship is more than beautiful; it is strong, sincere and much more than words.

Even better, John invited EMILY JOHNSON to cross the Atlantic to join NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN, the former Mahavishnu Orchestra drummer who became one of Billboard Magazine’s Top Ten Producers of all time. “John has opened up new horizons for me,” says Emily. “He is not only a friend but also my Light.” “The Light,” as she sings on the track from OPEN YOUR HEART that she wrote and dedicated to him.

OPEN YOUR HEART features some amazing performances, with NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN playing many instruments and featuring performances by Chris “Heist” Walden (Keyboards/Electronic Drums, “Open Your Heart”), Jim Reitzel (Guitar, “Open Your Heart”), and Cornell “CC” Carter and Deedee Simon (Back-up Vocals, “The Light” and “Open Your Heart”). The song “I’m Blessed” features Rapper G-DubOPEN YOUR HEART was recorded at Tarpan Studios by Jim Reitzel and mixed by Dave Frasier.

Today this beautiful story continues with new collaborations on both sides of the Atlantic and with the release of her first project, simply titled OPEN YOUR HEART. An obvious choice, isn't it?

For more information about OPEN YOUR HEART or live EMILY JOHNSON performances please visit her website: www.emilyjohnsonofficial.com

To Pre-Order OPEN YOUR HEART on Digital Platforms worldwide please visit: http://radi.al/EmilyJohnsonOYH

To see the video for the title song “OPEN YOUR HEART” please visit:


For Press and Interview inquiries, please contact Billy James of Glass Onyon PR: glassonyonpr@gmail.com or (828) 350-8158

8/16/2017

Superstar Drummer & Songwriter CINDY BLACKMAN SANTANA to Release New Summer Single "FUN, PARTY, SPLASH" Feat. CARLOS SANTANA & Produced by NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN


Marin County, CA – The past few months have been a blur for CINDY BLACKMAN SANTANA, who is currently touring and performing with her husband Carlos Santana, is featured as a vocalist, drummer, and songwriter on “Power of Peace,” the new Santana/Isley Brothers collaboration, and has been busy touring with her own band and recording tracks in the studio with the legendary producer NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN. Together through Walden's Tarpan Records label they will release the new single “FUN, PARTY, SPLASH” featuring Carlos Santana on all digital platforms on August 25, 2017.

CINDY BLACKMAN SANTANA is a virtuoso drummer whose artistry spans the realms of jazz and rock. As a bandleader and as a musician, Cindy is a sound innovator with a passion for pushing creative boundaries and exploring movement and change. She is as known for the nuances and colors she brings to her beats and fills as she is for the sheer power of her soulful playing. “Some drummers act, some react. Some keep time, others create it. CINDY BLACKMAN SANTANA is among the few who can,” writes Mike Zwerin of the International Herald Tribune.
 
Among a handful of the most innovative, original and influential artists of our time, NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN'S stature as an authentic musical renaissance man is a matter of record. Producing hits for Artists as diverse as Aretha Franklin (including the platinum “Freeway of Love”), Steve WinwoodRay CharlesStingElton JohnWhitney HoustonGeorge MichaelMariah CareyBarbara StreisandLionel RitchieLisa FischerStevie WonderTom JonesGladys Knight, and The Temptations, the EMMY and multi-GRAMMY winner (Producer, Album and Song of The Year) has been at the helm of hit music that spans decades.

CINDY BLACKMAN SANTANA has been creating magnificent musical time and space since the beginning of her career as a busking street performer in New York City in the '80s through the present day, touring the globe and making albums at the top of her game—including the critically acclaimed Another Lifetime (2010). In addition to collaborating onstage and in-studio with her own group—also known as Another Lifetime—she has toured and recorded with artists including Pharoah Sanders, Cassandra Wilson, Bill Laswell, Joss Stone, Joe Henderson, Al B. Sure, Buckethead, Don Pullen, Hugh Masakela, Buster Williams, and Angela Bofill. Cindy was part of the Tony Williams Lifetime Tribute Band called Spectrum Road with Jack Bruce, Vernon Reid, and John Medeski. From 1992 to 2007 and again in 2014 & 2015 she was the drummer in Lenny Kravitz's band, performing through multiple world tours and hit albums. In 2010, she was part of the all-star line-up performing “Bitches Brew,” a tribute to Miles Davis' seminal album staged at the San Francisco Jazz Festival and NYC Winter JazzFest.

More recently, Cindy has become the regular touring drummer for Santana. Having met several years earlier at a festival in Europe while she was touring with Kravitz, Cindy first played with Santana in spring 2010, when drummer Dennis Chambers had a previous commitment. “They have a great band vibe. It's nice to play with people who have grown together, built a sound together, and stayed together,” she says. “When that happens, you can create so many different levels of communication. That's what they've done, and I love reacting with it and being a part of it.”

Electricity onstage generated chemistry offstage—Carlos proposed to Cindy during a July 2010 concert, and they married in December. Looking ahead, they will collaborate artistically as well, on projects that will no doubt reflect their shared passion for improvisation, and belief in the transcendent nature of music. Cindy was an integral part of the new Santana/Isley Brothers release Power of Peace, featuring the song “I Remember,” which she wrote and sings. “To me,” she says, “music is completely spiritual, it's the way you connect with your higher self, with the universe. It's also a way to share light with millions of people. They don’t need to speak your language, have your beliefs, or be in the same place you are. The music speaks, it channels good energy, and makes a difference in people's lives. Carlos and I are both conscious of doing that.”

NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN started his storied career as a drummer with John McLaughlin and the Mahavishnu Orchestra. Narada's music flows freely from pop, rock and soul, to the rarified realms of jazz, fusion, and world music. With Jeff Beck, Narada wrote and played drums on the seminal album Wired that earned them both their first Gold Album. Walden was an integral part of introducing Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey to millions of fans worldwide, producing and writing their breakthrough hits. Billboard Magazine honored him as one of the Top Ten Producers of all time.

In 2016, Cindy connected with her fellow drummer and world-class producer NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN, and together the two have been working on new material ever since. CINDY BLACKMAN SANTANA continues to build a body of work and artistic legacy that make her one of the finest drummers and recording artists of this or any generation.

To pre-order the “FUN, PARTY, SPLASH” single on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/fun-party-splash-single/id1269743526?app=itunes or http://smarturl.it/funpartysplash

For more information about Cindy Blackman Santana, please visit her social media pages or Website: http://www.cindyblackmansantana.com/

For Interview Requests please contact Michael Jensen & Erin Cook / Jensen Communications: MJ@jensencom.com Erin@jensencom.com Phone 626-585-9575

For Press and Interview inquiries, please contact Billy James at Glass Onyon PR:
(828) 350-8158 or glassonyonpr@gmail.com

For Digital Marketing, please contact Jerome Forney at Independent Distribution Collective: jerome@independentdistro.com

2/23/2016

Hong Kong Based Artist Jennifer Saran Releases New Single and Video “Rise Up Time”


Produced By the Legendary Narada Michael Walden, released Worldwide on February 22nd, 2016 on Tarpan Records

San Francisco - Jennifer Saran is a North American alt-pop/adult contemporary artist, songwriter and vocalist based in Hong Kong. The first single from her upcoming album Walk With Me is “Rise Up Time,” available digitally worldwide with its release on February 5th, 2016. Her new album was created with the legendary producer Narada Michael Walden, and is being released through his label Tarpan Records.

In tandem with the single’s release there is an original animated music video for Rise Up Time, which will be seen on both online and broadcast outlets. This video features original animation created by Jojo Ramos (Warner Brothers Animator) in Los Angeles, CA. The video's concept was conceived by Jennifer Saran and brought to life in this wonderful depiction geared toward both children and adults alike. The single is currently played on dozens of radio stations and is being added to more every week.
Jennifer Saran’s upcoming album is a contemporary mix of brand new originals penned by herself and Narada, many of which revolve around the central themes of love and family and positive messages. Musically the album spans ballads to up-tempo grooves, while also including some swing and gospel influences.

Narada enlisted some amazing musicians and performers for his band on Walk With Me including: Frank Martin (Sting, Angela Bofil, John Handy Band, Tuck & Patti, Jose’ Neto, Airto & Flora, & Trudie’s Rainforest Band) on Keyboards, Angeline Saris (Ernest Ranglin, Zepparella) on Bass and Vocals, Matthew Charles Heulitt (Zigaboo Modaliste) and Jose’ Neto on Guitars. Additional Backing Vocals on this album include vocalists Nate Soul Sanger and Cornell Carter. All of the strings were arranged and conducted by Minna Choi of Magik*Magik Orchestra.

Jennifer Saran, aka Jennifer Hill, was born in Washington DC to a Canadian mother and American father. It was at the local Episcopal Church while at school in Villars, Switzerland, where she first realized how much she loved to sing, performing Handel's Messiah a cappella. Jennifer went on to attend high school in Alexandria, Egypt, where she performed in school plays and learned to speak Arabic. She then attended The American University in Cairo, earning a Bachelors Degree in Political Science. Throughout her years growing up in Egypt she and her friends always followed the local Egyptian live bands that performed American and British pop music, dreaming one day of being a singer.

She went through a long dry spell away from music – raising children, working in various corporate roles, singing in the shower or car, rarely having any time to go out dancing. She was moved to Philippines for an international corporate role for 2 years, followed by Singapore for another 2 years, and then to Hong Kong where she has lived for the past 24 years.

Her new full-length album Walk With Me was recorded and produced entirely at Tarpan Studios in San Rafael, California, by legendary producer Narada Michael Walden and will be released in late April of 2016. Narada has produced music royalty like Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Aretha Franklin. With Narada’s music and Jennifer’s lyrics and vocals, they have created a tremendous debut album that is sure to captivate a worldwide audience.

For Music Samples or to order Rise Up Time visit: https://tarpanrecords.bandcamp.com/track/rise-up-time
To purchase the single on iTunes please visit: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/rise-up-time-single/id1080453262

To view the video for Rise Up Time, please check out Jennifer’s YouTube Channel:


Check out Jennifer’s website for more information: http://www.jennifersaran.com

For more information on Tarpan Records or any of its releases check out: www.tarpanrecords.com

Press inquiries and Interview Requests contact Billy James at Glass Onyon PR glassonyonpr@gmail.com 828-350-8158

Live Performance Bookings and Management contact Dave Ferguson at The Record Label info@therecordlabel.co.uk +44 203 727 7286

Hong Kong Based Artist Jennifer Saran Releases New Single and Video “Rise Up Time”


Produced By the Legendary Narada Michael Walden, released Worldwide on February 22nd, 2016 on Tarpan Records

San Francisco - Jennifer Saran is a North American alt-pop/adult contemporary artist, songwriter and vocalist based in Hong Kong. The first single from her upcoming album Walk With Me is “Rise Up Time,” available digitally worldwide with its release on February 5th, 2016. Her new album was created with the legendary producer Narada Michael Walden, and is being released through his label Tarpan Records.

In tandem with the single’s release there is an original animated music video for Rise Up Time, which will be seen on both online and broadcast outlets. This video features original animation created by Jojo Ramos (Warner Brothers Animator) in Los Angeles, CA. The video's concept was conceived by Jennifer Saran and brought to life in this wonderful depiction geared toward both children and adults alike. The single is currently played on dozens of radio stations and is being added to more every week.
Jennifer Saran’s upcoming album is a contemporary mix of brand new originals penned by herself and Narada, many of which revolve around the central themes of love and family and positive messages. Musically the album spans ballads to up-tempo grooves, while also including some swing and gospel influences.

Narada enlisted some amazing musicians and performers for his band on Walk With Me including: Frank Martin (Sting, Angela Bofil, John Handy Band, Tuck & Patti, Jose’ Neto, Airto & Flora, & Trudie’s Rainforest Band) on Keyboards, Angeline Saris (Ernest Ranglin, Zepparella) on Bass and Vocals, Matthew Charles Heulitt (Zigaboo Modaliste) and Jose’ Neto on Guitars. Additional Backing Vocals on this album include vocalists Nate Soul Sanger and Cornell Carter. All of the strings were arranged and conducted by Minna Choi of Magik*Magik Orchestra.

Jennifer Saran, aka Jennifer Hill, was born in Washington DC to a Canadian mother and American father. It was at the local Episcopal Church while at school in Villars, Switzerland, where she first realized how much she loved to sing, performing Handel's Messiah a cappella. Jennifer went on to attend high school in Alexandria, Egypt, where she performed in school plays and learned to speak Arabic. She then attended The American University in Cairo, earning a Bachelors Degree in Political Science. Throughout her years growing up in Egypt she and her friends always followed the local Egyptian live bands that performed American and British pop music, dreaming one day of being a singer.

She went through a long dry spell away from music – raising children, working in various corporate roles, singing in the shower or car, rarely having any time to go out dancing. She was moved to Philippines for an international corporate role for 2 years, followed by Singapore for another 2 years, and then to Hong Kong where she has lived for the past 24 years.

Her new full-length album Walk With Me was recorded and produced entirely at Tarpan Studios in San Rafael, California, by legendary producer Narada Michael Walden and will be released in late April of 2016. Narada has produced music royalty like Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Aretha Franklin. With Narada’s music and Jennifer’s lyrics and vocals, they have created a tremendous debut album that is sure to captivate a worldwide audience.

For Music Samples or to order Rise Up Time visit: https://tarpanrecords.bandcamp.com/track/rise-up-time
To purchase the single on iTunes please visit: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/rise-up-time-single/id1080453262

To view the video for Rise Up Time, please check out Jennifer’s YouTube Channel:


Check out Jennifer’s website for more information: http://www.jennifersaran.com

For more information on Tarpan Records or any of its releases check out: www.tarpanrecords.com

Press inquiries and Interview Requests contact Billy James at Glass Onyon PR glassonyonpr@gmail.com 828-350-8158

Live Performance Bookings and Management contact Dave Ferguson at The Record Label info@therecordlabel.co.uk +44 203 727 7286

11/16/2015

Hong Kong Based Artist Jennifer Saran Releases Holiday Album “Merry Christmas, You Are Loved” Produced By Legendary Narada Michael Walden Due For Worldwide Release November 20th, 2015 on Tarpan Records


San Francisco, CA - Jennifer Saran is a North American alt-pop/adult contemporary artist, songwriter and vocalist based in Hong Kong. Her first full-length album Merry Christmas, You Are Loved, will be available both digitally and physically worldwide with its release on November 20th, 2015. This album was created with legendary producer Narada Michael Walden, and is being released through his label Tarpan Records.

Since she was a young child, Jennifer has loved Christmas, and when she had the opportunity to work with one of the most lauded producers in modern recorded music, she jumped at the chance to create and release a modern Christmas album. Jennifer says: “Since meeting Narada Michael Walden I have been constantly inspired to write lyrics. Sitting in a pool in Thailand I was thinking about people I love that are no longer with me, or may not be able to be with me, and I wrote about it. I sent it to Narada with a 'what do you think?' He loved it. I called the song 'You Are Loved'.  He wrote a melody around it and we talked for a few days. And it hit me that my first full-length album 'Walk With Me' was not going to be released until after the first of the year, why not make it a Christmas Song. I messaged Narada and said, 'Hey, why not make it a Christmas song?' He said, 'Cool! I love Christmas!' So we called the song, 'Merry Christmas, You Are Loved' and now it’s a whole Christmas album.”

The album is a contemporary mix of brand new originals penned by Jennifer and Narada, as well as some very well chosen covers, all of which revolve around the central themes of love and family and the winter holidays. Musically, the album spans ballads to up-tempo grooves, including some swing and gospel influences as well. This album is a perfect complement to a family holiday dinner, or holiday radio shows all over the world. It features a handful of traditional Christmas songs like Oh Come Oh Ye Faithful, O Holy Night, and Hark The Herald Angels Sing to more modern covers of The Carpenters' Merry Christmas Darling and the classic Baby It's Cold Outside.

Narada enlisted some amazing musicians and performers for his band on Merry Christmas, You Are Loved including: Frank Martin (Angela Bofil, John Handy Band, Tuck & Patti, Jose' Neto, Airto & Flora, Sting & Trudie's Rainforest Band) on Keyboards, Angeline Saris (Gretchen Menn, Zepparella, Ernest Ranglin) on Bass and Vocals, Matthew Charles Heulitt (Zigaboo Modaliste) and Jose' Neto on Guitars. Additional Backing Vocals on this album include vocalists Nate Soul Sanger and Cornell Carter. All of the strings were arranged and conducted by Minna Choi of Magik*Magik Orchestra.

Jennifer Saran, aka Jennifer Hill, was born in Washington DC to a Canadian mother and American father. It was at the local Episcopal Church while at school in Villars, Switzerland, where she first realized how much she loved to sing, performing Handel's Messiah a cappella. Jennifer went on to attend high school in Alexandria, Egypt, where she performed in school plays and learned to speak Arabic. She then attended The American University in Cairo, earning a Bachelors Degree in Political Science. Throughout her years growing up in Egypt she and her friends always followed the local Egyptian live bands that performed American and British pop music, dreaming one day of being a singer.

She went through a long dry spell away from music – raising children, working in various corporate roles, singing in the shower or car, rarely having any time to go out dancing. She was moved to Philippines for an international corporate role for 2 years, followed by Singapore for another 2 years, and then to Hong Kong where she has lived for the past 24 years.

Her debut full-length album Walk With Me was recorded and produced entirely at Tarpan Studios in San Rafael, California, by legendary producer Narada Michael Walden and will be released in March of 2016. Narada has produced music royalty like Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Aretha Franklin. With Narada's music and Jennifer's lyrics and vocals, they have created a tremendous debut album that is sure to captivate a worldwide audience.

For Music Samples or to pre-order Merry Christmas, You Are Loved visit: https://tarpanrecords.bandcamp.com/album/merry-christmas-you-are-loved

Check out Jennifer's website for more information: http://www.jennifersaran.com

For more information on Tarpan Records or any of its releases check out: www.tarpanrecords.com

Interview Requests contact Billy James at Glass Onyon PR glassonyonpr@gmail.com 828-350-8158

Live Performance Bookings and Management contact Dave Ferguson at The Record Label info@therecordlabel.co.uk +44 203 727 7286.

9/22/2015

Grammy and Emmy Award Winning Multi-Platinum Producer Narada Michael Walden To Release New Full Length Album EVOLUTION on Tarpan Records


San Rafael, CA - Tarpan Records is pleased to announce the international release of EVOLUTION the upcoming full-length album by Narada Michael Walden releasing on October 30th 2015. The albums’ first single, Billionaire On Soul Street, which was released on August 14th, 2015 and the forthcoming album represent a change of direction for Narada, one that brings him back to his roots in Dance and Club Music, Funk and Soul. The first single was, and full-length album will be released on Narada’s own imprint, Tarpan Records.

Narada Michael Walden has produced many household names including: Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, George Michael, Mariah Carey, Stacy Lattisaw, Steve Winwood, Ray Charles, Sister Sledge, Patti Austin, Gladys Knight, Rev Al Green, Barbra Streisand, Lionel Ritchie, Elton John, Sting, Carlos Santana, Shanice Wilson, Tevin Campbell, Lisa Fischer, Stevie Wonder, Tom Jones, Wynonna Judd and The Temptations. He was awarded Grammys for Producer of the Year in 1988, Album of the Year for the movie soundtrack The Bodyguard in 1993 and the R&B Song of the Year in 1985 for Aretha Franklin's Freeway of Love. Billboard Magazine also named him one of the “Top Ten Producers with the Most Number One Hits”.

As impressive a production and songwriting resume as Narada Michael Walden has assembled over the past forty years, he has earned equal acclaim as a recording and performing artist in his own right. Beginning as a drummer with the pioneering Mahavishnu John McLaughlin’s Mahavishnu Orchestra (following Billy Cobham at 20 years old), Narada also toured with Jeff Beck, Tommy Bolin, and Weather Report. With twelve acclaimed solo albums of his own which produced Dance Hits such as I Don’t Want Nobody Else to Dance With You, I Shoulda Loved Ya, Divine Emotions, Gimme Gimme Gimme and Tonight I'm Alright along the way, he has achieved greatness in a wide range of sonic arenas. Walden’s music includes groundbreaking soundtrack work on such blockbuster films as The Bodyguard, Free Willy, Beverly Hills Cops II, 9 ½ Weeks and Stuart Little including Gladys Knight’s License to Kill for the James Bond Film, Jefferson Starship’s Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now for Mannequin to the EMMY-winning One Moment In Time, the theme to the 1988 Olympic Games.

In early February 2012, Narada Michael Walden returned from a well received 10 day stint of shows at the Blue Note in Tokyo and Nagoya, Japan to perform at the White House in an all-star band for President Obama’s “Red, White and Blues” Concert with legends B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Mick Jagger, Trombone Shorty, Booker T Jones and more.

Narada enlisted some amazing musicians and performers for his band on EVOLUTION including: Nikita Germaine (Train, Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan, James Taylor, and Patty Austin) on Vocals, Frank Martin (Angela Bofil, John Handy Band, Tuck & Patti, Jose’ Neto, Airto & Flora, Sting & Trudie’s Rainforest Band) on Keyboards, Angeline Saris (Gretchen Menn, Zepperella) on Bass and Vocals, Matthew Charles Heulitt (Zigaboo Modaliste) on Guitars.

Narada explains about the album’s first single: “This album EVOLUTION means the world to me because it reflects my personal feeling of spirituality and that feeling renewed for life by having my children Kelly and Kaylah in my life and my wife Katie. Having children now at this time in my life really has touched my heart to feel like WOW! Look how lucky and how blessed I am by God. I used this slogan, this sentence that I got from Kimrea who works at my Tarpan Studios. Cause’ I feel so good like a Billionaire on Soul Street. “EVOLUTION is a strong statement from Narada, inspired by the “retro” sound that is so prevalent on the radio and in clubs today. The album features mostly original material and two covers; Freedom by Richie Havens and Long and Winding Road by John Lennon and Paul McCartney.

Tarpan Records will release Narada Michael Walden’s new album EVOLUTION internationally in October of 2015 with help from distribution and marketing powerhouse Independent Distribution Collective. This new album is a Dance masterpiece, with many flavors of Narada’s vast history mixed in.

His label, Tarpan Records is a home to both established and amazing up-and-coming artists as well. Tarpan Records specializes in artist development, full service project management, promotion, and distribution. Initially focused on Narada’s releases, the plan is to apply this business model to up and coming and established recording artists in the years to come.

Narada Michael Walden and his all-star band will perform a series of shows across the USA in the next few months in support of the release of EVOLUTION.

November 13, 2015 - The Iridium - New York, NY http://theiridium.com/
Show Times 8:30pm & 10:30pm

November 17, 2015 - The Birchmere - Alexandria, VA http://www.birchmere.com
Showtime: 7:30pm

November 21, 2015 – Reggie’s Music Joint - Chicago, IL http://www.reggieslive.com/
Show Times: 6pm & 9pm

Get the single Billionaire on Soul Street now on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/billionaire-on-soul-street/id1024757144 or any other digital retailer.

For more information on Tarpan Records or any of its releases check out: www.tarpanrecords.com

Interview Requests contact Billy James at Glass Onyon PR glassonyonpr@gmail.com 828-350-8158
Live Performance Bookings contact Stephan Gehrig SGENT NATION LLC stephan@sgentnation.com
Tarpan Studio Bookings contact Tarpan Studios 415-485-1999 kimrea@tarpanstudios.com
#billionaireonsoulstreet #NMWevolution

5/26/2015

Legendary Narada Michael Walden Produces Third Release by Lauded Bay Area Songstress Jordan Hurwitz Titled “Here I’ll Stand” on Tarpan Records


Redwood City, CA - Jordan Hurwitz, an American singer/songwriter born and raised in Redwood City, California, is announcing the release of her new EP, Here I’ll Stand, digitally and physically worldwide on June 23rd, 2015. This brand new release features six original songs written by Jordan and produced and arranged by the legendary Narada Michael Walden on his label, Tarpan Records.

Here I’ll Stand is Jordan’s third release, and her first with Narada. “Working with Narada is an incomparable and invaluable experience,” she says. “His talent and artistry take my music to a whole new dimension and continue to be nothing less than amazing.” 

When asked about working with Jordan, Narada says: “If you love Billy Joel, his chord changes and his melodies, if you love Broadway, if you love Lady Gaga and her dramatic sense of theatrics in music, Jordan brings a lot of that to her music. She is a wonderful keyboard player and singer, who is humble and has a lot of heart and care, and she is very powerful…”

Jordan released her first album of original songs, Infinity, at age 16, and hasn't stopped writing or performing since. Her songs are an outlet that speaks to the challenges people face in their everyday lives, providing an opportunity to empower everyone to rise above.

Jordan uses her lyrics as a way to work through the trials and tribulations of growing up. “A finished song always brings resolution to my internal conflicts,” she notes. “The problems themselves sometimes never change, but my actions and perspectives do. Every song I’ve ever written carries the motif of being broken and finding the strength to rise above. Often, before I create the song I don’t have this strength, but the empowering lyrics play on repeat in my head until they become reality.”

“I would be nothing without my lyrics. My songwriting is who I am.”

Infinity, which debuted in 2013, was followed with her EP, The New Me, produced by Marcus Barone in 2014. Jordan’s musical expertise began with piano lessons at age six, and has evolved to include drums, voice training, and guitar, all of which she now uses to accompany her songwriting. “Empowering myself with song was life-changing in itself, but that doesn’t even compare to the feeling deriving from other people relating to my songs. It gives me comfort to know that the issues I face are faced by other people, and it gives me a sense of pride realizing that with my music, I can help them feel better about themselves as well.”

She appreciates and is influenced by artists from many genres of music, including Billy Joel, Sara Bareilles, Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith, and Kelly Clarkson.

Jordan will be attending University of Miami’s Frost School of Music beginning in the Fall of 2015. “I am so excited to go to Frost. It’s my dream school: the perfect place to continue my music education and work towards my long-term goals of being a professional singer/songwriter.”

Her Here I’ll Stand EP will be available in stores and online June 23rd, 2015. Jordan plans to showcase her talents in assorted venues across the US over the next few months to support the new release.

For more information on EP release parties, new music samples, or to join the mailing list visit Jordan’s website http://www.jordansmusic.com. To pre-order the EP visit https://jordanhurwitz.bandcamp.com/

For Physical Distribution Inquiries please contact Steffen Franz or Ben Lang at Independent Distribution Collective at 415-292-7007 or via e-mail sales@independentdistro.com

For Digital Distribution Inquiries contact Jerome Forney at IDCDigital at 415-292-7007 or via e-mail jerome@independentdistro.com

For Press and Radio Inquiries contact Billy James at Glass Onyon PR at 828-350-8158 glassonyonpr@gmail.com

For more information on booking Jordan for live performances please e-mail jormusic@yahoo.com

11/20/2014

Granddaughter of Legendary Dionne Warwick, Cheyenne Elliott to Release Narada Michael Walden Produced Singles and an EP in 2015


New York, NY – A brand new star has appeared on the US music scene; her name is Cheyenne Elliott. Cheyenne is the granddaughter of iconic singer Dionne Warwick, and a cousin of the late superstar Whitney Houston. In early 2014, producer Narada Michael Walden discovered her exemplary vocal talent and invited her out to Tarpan Studios in San Rafael, California, where Whitney, Aretha Franklin, Mariah Carey and many other artists recorded some of their biggest hits. The young New Yorker was signed to Narada’s Tarpan Records. She will initially release a string of dance music mixes in the winter of 2014-15. Her debut EP is slated for release in early 2015.

Cheyenne’s talent was recognized at the tender age of 9 years old, at which time she started singing in public. Her grandmother, Dionne Warwick, called her to the stage to sing during a performance of her massive worldwide hit “That’s What Friends Are For” in Coney Island, New York. Even as a child she wowed the audience. Cheyenne learned her craft and drew innately from being born into a family of music royalty, including her grandmother, her father David Elliott - who co-wrote Luther Vandross’ massive hit “Here and Now,” and her late superstar cousin Whitney Houston. Dionne would play an instrumental role in Cheyenne’s development as a performer.

By the time Cheyenne was 10 years old, she demonstrated her immense talent while visiting recording studios in the Los Angeles area. She made subsequent appearances with Dionne at renowned venues throughout her youth. The audience’s appreciation of her vocal prowess led to summers traveling with her “Grammy,” performing in dozens of countries all around the world. She made a very special appearance celebrating Dionne’s 45th anniversary of recording at the Hollywood Palladium. Another performance honor included her Carnegie Hall debut at age 12, opening for legendary singer Gladys Knight. At 12 years old, Cheyenne also appeared on Dionne’s My Friends & Me album. She lent her vocals to a duet entitled “Love Will Find A Way,” a song that Dionne had previously recorded with Whitney. Cheyenne later joined Dionne, David, Whitney, Cissy Houston, Dee Dee Warwick, Bobbi Kristina Brown, Felicia Moss and others from the family on the recording of “Family First,” which appeared in the Tyler Perry movie Daddy’s Little Girls.

Cheyenne is following in the socially conscious footsteps of her grandmother, whose 1985 charitable recording of “That’s What Friends Are For” raised awareness and funds all over the world to help people suffering from the plight of AIDS. Cheyenne is featured on Dionne’s brand new release, Feels So Good. Narada produced a touching duet of the dynamic grandmother and granddaughter, entitled “Let There Be Love”.

The song happens to be written by Narada along with Shannon Rubicam & George Merrill, who wrote two of Whitney’s biggest hit songs: “How Will I Know” and “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me).” On the Feels So Good album, she joins the company of other luminaries such as Gladys Knight, Cyndi Lauper, Ne-Yo, Cee Lo Green, Jamie Foxx, Billy Ray Cyrus and many other greats.

Tarpan Records, in association with dance music powerhouse Dauman Records, is releasing a series of dance mixes of Cheyenne’s song “With You”. “With You,” which she co-wrote, is intentionally reminiscent of the classic disco era. The mixes are destined to heat up dance floors throughout the winter of 2014-15.

Cheyenne will be making many appearances over the next few months, including some major performances with Dionne Warwick in support of Feels So Good and their duet “Let There Be Love.” Cheyenne currently performs in nightclubs in and around New York City fine-tuning her craft, most often including Ashford & Simpson’s Sugar Bar.

View Dionne Warwick introducing Cheyenne to her audience in Atlantic City, New Jersey earlier in 2014. Cheyenne then performs her original song “Saltwater Tears”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Axx2Ny66GZY

Cheyenne’s duet with Dionne Warwick titled “Let There Be Love” is available now on iTunes:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/let-there-be-love-feat.-dionne/id933306159

Listen to Cheyenne’s cover of Ed Sheeran’s “Lego House”: https://soundcloud.com/tarpan-studios/01-lego-house

View Cheyenne Elliott’s Video EPK: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SefmE2_sQso ;

For more information, please visit Cheyenne’s website: www.cheyenneelliott.com or her social networking sites:
www.Facebook.com/OfficialCheyenneElliott
www.Instagram.com/TheCheyElliott
www.Twitter.com/TheCheyElliott (@TheCheyElliott)

For information about her new single, EP and dance mixes, please visit: www.tarpanrecords.com

Press and Radio Inquiries: Billy James, Glass Onyon PR, at 828-350-8158; glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Bookings: Jason Abrams, Cheyenne Elliott Entertainment, at 917.576.2835; jeapublicity@aol.com

9/16/2014

Legendary Narada Michael Walden Produces Conscious Songstress Christina Holmes Debut Album 'Peace, Love, and C. Holmes' Due For Release October 14, 2014


Narragansett, RI – In June 2013, Christina Holmes, a singer/songwriter originally from New Jersey, now based in Rhode Island, was presented with the opportunity to record her debut album with multi-platinum producer Narada Michael Walden after he heard some of her demos and was blown away by her raw talent. Walden has produced music royalty like Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Aretha Franklin, and worked with world-class musicians like Sting, Carlos Santana and Lenny Kravitz. He bonded not only with her talent, but also with the message her music represents. Soon after Christina flew to California to begin working with Narada at his legendary Tarpan Studios.

Christina was a little nervous heading in to the studio knowing how talented and successful Narada was, but he made her feel at home. Before the two started recording they both sat down and grooved together musically. With Narada on drums and Christina on vocals and guitar, they jammed together for hours. Everything was so effortless that they could tell right away they were meant to work together. Christina began to record with Narada throughout the summer of 2013 and into early 2014, and during that time she wrote and recorded 21 songs. In July of 2014, Narada offered Christina a record deal with his newly founded label, Tarpan Records. Christina signed and is now releasing her debut album, Peace, Love, and C. Holmes on October 14th, 2014. The album contains 16 amazing original compositions featuring many amazing guest performers. All of the Vocals, most of the Guitars, and even some of the drum tracks were performed by Christina.

After a few years of playing everywhere from open mics, bars, and smaller local venues to busking on the street, she thought it was time to try something bigger. She came across an ad for auditions to be on “Amateur Night at the Apollo” and knew it was the perfect opportunity to finally show what she could do. She auditioned and on the spot was asked to play at their next show. On June 6th, 2012 Christina took the stage at the legendary Apollo Theater, and the audience response was overwhelming. Christina says “It was an absolute honor to be able to play on that stage, and I couldn't believe it when I received a standing ovation.”

That day truly changed Christina’s life and made her 100% confident in herself. She went on to book a small east coast tour, put out original music on YouTube, joined Musicians on Call and continued to plow forward doing what she loved. Christina Holmes now has a fan base that is growing every day, and has had the opportunity to play legendary venues such as Eddie's Attic in Atlanta, The Hard Rock Cafe in Chicago, and The Middle East in Boston.

Christina’s new album is titled Peace, Love, and C. Holmes… because it's a little bit of peace, a little bit of love, and a whole lot of C. Holmes. She has always been passionate about music and enthusiastic about helping people, so why not put the two together? Her main goal has always been to spread her music to anyone who is willing to listen, with the hope of changing his or her day for the better.

Christina says “Music is healing in so many ways and I want to bring positivity to the world through my music. I have seen firsthand, while working with Musicians on Call, how powerful music can be for a person’s life. People spend too much time focusing on the negative and the hatred in life, and I want to be able to shed some light in the world. My music is not only how I express how I feel, but it’s also been my way of being able to bring out the best of the people who listen.”

Christina plans to tour in support her new album with a half dozen “CD Release” events on both the east and west coast of the USA. She will perform in New York, Massachusetts and Rhode Island, as well as showcasing in Northern California around the album’s release date.

Visit Christina’s Website or Social Media pages for sound samples or more information about this release and future tour dates and promotions at www.christinaholmesmusic.com

For Physical Distribution Inquiries please contact Steffen Franz or Ben Lang at Independent Distribution Collective at 415-292-7007 or via e-mail sales@independentdistro.com

For Digital Distribution Inquiries contact Jerome Forney at IDCDigital at 415-292-7007 or via e-mail jerome@independentdistro.com

For Press Inquiries contact Billy James at Glass Onyon PR at 828-350-8158 glassonyonpr@gmail.com

For Radio Inquiries contact Brandon Day at Tinderbox Music at 612-375-1113 brandon@tinderboxmusic.com