All That Jazz - The Straight Skinny

The Straight Skinny

Say It Ain't So

By Carol Archer

I have had the pleasure of sailing aboard two previous Smooth Jazz Cruises and can tell you that the experience is sublime -- unlike anything else, and nirvana for passionate fans of smooth jazz. Between brushing elbows with the stars 24/7, electrifying performances (as well as fabulous related activities) and outstanding destinations and accommodations, the Smooth Jazz Cruise is the ultimate, once-in-a-lifetime event (or, as we used to say in Top 40, "So nice, I think I'll do it twice").

Make reservations from the U.S. and Canada by calling toll-free 888.8JAZZ.US (888.852.9987) and internationally by calling toll-free 800-8JAZZ.USA (800.852.99872). For additional information, click www.thesmoothjazzcruise.com.

Concord Handily Weathers Stormy Seas

A fascinating piece by Joseph Plambeck on Beverly Hills-based Concord Music Group ran in the May 9 edition of The New York Times. It revealed that last month the independent company announced two deals: one to distribute Paul McCartney's post- Beatles catalog (and who has sold 9.4 million units in the U.S. since 1991) and another to buy roots-oriented Rounder Records. "Those additions are the latest in Concord's years-long period of growth, and they come at a time when many other labels are shrinking or battling for survival," the article reports.

Plamberg writes that the success has Concord's CEO Glen Barros, singing a tune not generally heard in the industry these days. "The future of the music business is very bright," Barros says. "People want to listen to great music."

He told Plambeck: "People will pay for that music, too," especially the fans he calls the adult audience. Concord has focused its attention on that group, trying to lure people less inclined to chase the latest pop sensation and more interested in music Mr. Barros describes as "timeless and authentic" -- more McCartney and less Justin Bieber.

Barros says he expects Concord to generate more than $100 million in revenue this year, 10 times more than in 2003 and that the company has a consistent operating profit. CMG employs a 160-person staff, up from about 50 in 2003.

Sade Earns Seventh Platinum Award

Perhaps you recall, as I do, Sade's first U.S. tour, when she swayed languidly onstage behind the mic, like a goddess, barefoot in a sultry gold lame sheath. Twenty-five years later, the Smooth Jazz format's leading core vocalist's second No. 1 -- and seventh RIAA-certified Platinum project, "Soldier Of Love, released on Feb. 9 -- debuted at No. 1 with more than 500,000 units sold.

I'd very much like to know what's happening in your world and share the news The Skinny's readers. Please reach out to me directly at jazzdolphingirl@gmail.com. Meanwhile, have a great week and stay smooth.

The views expressed by Carol Archer do not necessarily reflect the opinions of All That Jazz.