CHARLES A KELLY is a rising star pianist in the smooth jazz firmament. He’s worked with people like Neil Diamond, Elton John, Nile Rodgers, Sister Sledge, The Pointer Sisters, and Nathan East as well as contemporary Christian artists CeCe Winans, Mary Mary, Jeremy Camp, and Israel Houghton. He also was cast to act on the television series ‘Fame’.
But our man learned his trade in the clubs and bars of Philadelphia where the magic sounds of Gamble/Huff, Thom Bell et al still held sway. He says: “I started looking at old videos of The Spinners, Blue Magic, Delfonics, and other legendary Philly International Records groups. Since I used to play with Blue Magic, it was fun and exciting to think about that time in my life”. Thus our man has penned and recorded a tribute to the music and the night life of his city – the City of Brotherly Love.
Charles’ feel good track is out now and called ‘City Night’. It’s a big, “up”, jubilant affair with the piano man’s keys leading the way on the ultra-catchy melody. Add a punchy 4 man horn section, some jazzy guitar, swaying rhythms and a slick production and you have a classic slice of contemporary smooth jazz.
Charles A Kelly’s lovely ‘City Nights’ is out now via Innervison and we’re told it prefaces his upcoming album, ‘Phase II’ which is coming soon.
