August 27, 2007

Hi There!

The End Of Summer....., is that the "Jaws" theme playing in the background? Only a few more days to squeeze in warm weather fun. I will make it to the beach in Malibu, of course, but I'm pretty busy with promotion work for my new release, "The New York Sessions." I'm waiting for the exact airdate for the syndicated NPR show that I did, "The Song Is You With Bonnie Grice" but it will air in September. It's a very cool concept, and Bonnie is an incredibly strong interviewer and radio personality. The premise of the show is to have people discuss 10 songs that have been influential in their life in some way. What songs would you choose? Believe me, it's hard to make decisions, and then leave some songs out. We recorded the show in Manhattan and right after my segment, she interviewed John Abercrombie who also has a new release too. While in NYC, I also stopped by Dizzy's to say "Hi" to my drummer, Lewis Nash and to see his set with pianist Cedar Walton. It was a perfect set - just terrific, and it was fun to meet the jazz legend backstage afterwards, although someone teased and inquired if I was Cedar's groupie. :)

We've got lots and lots and lots of airplay in our third week now at radio, (THANK YOU!), and this week is our official street date, so please wish us lots and lots of sales too! "The New York Sessions" has been fortunate to get plenty of strong positive reviews right away, my favorite being, "A virtuoso pianist and a world-class cast of players", from EJazz News. There will always be differences of opinion though, and I got hit last week with a few. That's the biz I guess. You don't have to necessarily agree with what other people do, but it's not cool to just disparage good work. I had one reviewer discuss not only the cover of my release but also the cover from a CD I did in the year 2000. Another reviewer had only been working in the industry since 2006! Next thing you know they're going to review my hair or the guys' hats! Whatever anyone says, I remain committed to creating instrumental music that is authentic, well produced, well played and that communicates and connects with people around the world. I desire to build the interest in jazz and instrumental music for everyone connected with this music, and I intend to be continue it when I'm Mr. Brubeck's or Ms. McPartland's age!

Have a great upcoming Holiday weekend!

Take care,
Lisa Hilton