Meet the Artist

PHIL PERRY AND MELBA MOORE
LIVE PERFORMANCE FROM THEIR SEPTEMBER 29, 2009 RELEASE
"GIFT OF LOVE"

Phil Perry, born and raised in East St. Louis, Phil Perry has spent most of his career as one of the most sought-after backing vocalists in the music business. His bright, multi-octave range has played a supporting role on dozens of albums by such acts as Anita Baker, Boz Scaggs, Rod Stewart, Peabo Bryson and George Duke. But he has also distinguished himself through five strong solo albums that have highlighted both his ability to interpret classic soul songs as well as his own songwriting skills.

Perry first came to the attention of Soul Music fans as the lead singer of the Montclairs, whose "Begging's Hard to Do" was a moderate hit in 1972. In 1985 he married soul/jazz singer Lillian "Tang" Tynes, and began a marriage partnership that has lasted ever since. After a brief stint as part of the singing duo Perry and Sanlin, Perry went solo in 1991 with The Heart of a Man, an album most notable for Perry's sheer guts (or some thought audacity) in releasing as a single a remake of Aretha Franklin's "Call Me." It was a real coming out for Perry, as he ripped through the song in bold fashion, even surpassing Aretha's revered original version.

Wayman Tisdale Performing at 7:30pm
June 9, 1964 - May 15, 2009 A commemorative Tribute

Gerald Veasley, a contemporary jazz bassist Gerald Veasley makes no claim to be a master chess player, but there are certain unmistakable parallels between his line of work and the small-scale war game that has challenged great minds for centuries. Like chess, Veasley sees music as a pursuit that involves a combination of strategy, quick thinking and even a bit of blind faith, which gives you the lastest CD "Your Move." The album opens with the infectious riff of “Hear Now!” a high-energy tune written and arranged by guitarist, Chuck Loeb that serves as a somewhat rare showcase for Veasley’s technical chops. “When I’m the writer or the arranger, I usually think about more than just the bass,” says Veasley. “I tend to think about what’s best for the song in general, and what all the instruments will sound like together. But Chuck wanted me to have the chance to do one of those bass-in-your-face songs. This was my opportunity to show off a little bit.” The pieces are all in place on Gerald Veasley's lastest CD, "Your Move."

James Staton - A Norfolk, VA native will be the featured saxophonist with Phil Perry and Gerald Veasley. Staton, a local icon recently performed in a sell-out performance at Sheraton Waterside Riverwalk that included a standing ovation. He was accompanied by a host of local talents to include the jazz band "Under Construction" and background vocalist Erika Grandison. Grandison will also perform as the featured background vocalist for Phil Perry. This is an exciting time for Hampton Roads local talent to showcase, and share the stage with National artist.

Reggie Gist, A Portsmouth, VA native will be the opening performer at 7:00pm. Gist career started at age 12 playing the alto saxophone to which his love of music flourished to become an accomplished musician in Hampton Roads. A music major at Norfolk State University (NSU), Gist took some time off from NSU to continue his studies at the renowned Berklee School of Music, in Boston, MA majoring in Music Performance. It was at that time, that he was getting National attention. Gist has opened for esteemed artist such as The Dells, Jerry Butler and played with Jazz Giants such as Frank Foster, and Clark Terry. Most recently, Gist was featured as guest performer with Najee. Today, Reggie Gist leads his own musical revolution and can be enjoyed in Hampton Roads.