
Internationally acclaimed jazz singer JOSÉ JAMES is busy preparing a new album for release in Spring next year. Mr J’s team tell us that the LP is to be called ‘1978’ and will deliver Jose’s especial take on contemporary jazz with its usual soulful undertow.
You can catch the vibe on the album’s first single – a deep, socially conscious, soulful groove, ‘38th & Chicago’. The song is named the intersection in James’ hometown Minneapolis where George Floyd was tragically murdered in 2020; and we’re told that the song is an exploration of faith, sorrow and perseverance in the face of police brutality against the Black community. José explains: “It’s close. Too close. I grew up a few blocks from there and had my first concert down the street at Powderhorn Park. I’ve walked by that store a million times, that could have easily been me.”
Though no stranger to provocative song making, ‘38th & Chicago’ represents a new departure for James and an investigation of his Afro-Latin heritage. Produced by James and featuring an all-star ensemble including Grammy nominees Pedrito Martinez (Camilla Cabello), Marcus Machado (Daniel Ceasar) and David Ginyard (Blood Orange), the song combines Latin Jazz, soul and R&B into a powerful, hypnotic plea for change.
‘38th & Chicago’ is out now and comes recommended. The album ‘1978’is out April 5th 2024