BAAS Entertainment presents: SIX DEGREES OF... Hosted by Troy Saunders, Wanda T. & Arif St. Michael

This is one of a two parter on the unsung greatness of Nona Hendryx!!! Nona has written some of LaBelle's great songs like "Touch Me All Over",  "Pressure Cooker", (Can I Speak to You Before You Go To) Hollywood", "Nightbird", " You Turn Me On",  "Messin With My Mind", "Come Into My Life" and more!!! In this episode we cover some of these songs; as well as songs from her first 2 solo albums, Nona Hendryx and Nona!!!Come join Wanda T , Arif St. Michael and I (Troy Saunders) on this musical journey with some  of the best written music, sung by the trailblazing group LABELLE!!!

In doing this Season of the SIX DEGREES OF... Podcast on Patti LaBelle; we find it only fitting to tribute the other women that helped make up the music powerhouse group The Bluebells/ Labelle. This week we will tribute to the late, great, Sarah Dash!!! Not only was Sarah  part of Labelle, but she had a solo career that crossed all genres of music. From Rock to Pop to R&B, to Disco to Jazz, to Hip Hop, and House Music; Sarah could do it all!!! Sarah also was a sidewoman for the Rolling Stones and dear friends and collaborator with Keith Richards. Her 4 solo albums helped demonstrate her versatility. Sitting in on the celebration is music royality; Ms. B.J. Nelson!!! Some of you might not have heard her name but you have definitely heard her voice. Remember Evelyn Champagne King's super hit "I'm In Love"? That's BJ wearing those backgrounds out!!! Some of the other artists that BJ has worked with include @Howard Johnson, Melba Moore, Scritti Politti, @Robert Palmer, @Duran Duran, @the Power Station, Will Downing Singer and of course @Sarah Dash. Sarah and BJ were close friends so we are honored that she is taking the time to speak with us and share memories of the iconic Sarah Dash. JOIN THE CELEBRATION!!!!

Here's another thrilling, provocative and music filled episode featuring the music and conversation around the iconic Patti LaBelle and the Bluebells and their alter ego the trailblazing Labelle. This episode features Special Guest Keith Anthony Fluitt!! Keith has worked with The Who who's in music from Michael Jackson to the Pet Shop Boys to @Diana Ross to @Celine Dion and of course the subjects of this episode!! Keith has worked with both Sarah Dash and Nona Hendryx (with whom he still works with) separately; as well as all three women as LaBelle!! This is one you won't want to miss!!

This episode of SIX DEGREES OF... Podcast, featuring the music of the legendary Patti LaBelle, will include our conversation with the multi-talented John Stanley. From musical theater, to Off-Broadway to touring in some of the best stage plays, John Stanley is a tour de force in entertainment. But, the crown jewel in his resume is working with Patti LaBelle.  John has worked with Patti for almost 30 years. First as one of her background singers; then as her musical director. Tune in this Friday to get a behind the scenes look into what makes Patti's performances so unforgettable!!! We will also feature some of Patti's  music from 1990-Present!!! It's going to be a fun pack episode!!! 

This Season the focus is on the God Mother of Soul, the legendary, the incomparable, Patti LaBelle!!! We will be taking you on a journey through her  music!!! This episode will highlight Patti's solo years from 1977-1990. From her first solo project "Patti LaBelle" which features such hits like "Joy To Have Your Love" and "You Are My Friend" to her last album in the 1980's "Be Yourself" Fasten your seatbelts its going to be an incredible ride!!!! 

Of course we know that Luther Vandross' vocal delivery is LEGENDARY!!! Just as legendary is Luther's music!! Luther's music had a style of its own. Not only did he have the best of the best background vocalist; but the musicians he chose were just as stellar!!! From Nat Adderley Jr to Marcus Miller, to our special guest; drummer, song writer, arranger, teacher, producer, grammy award winner, IVAN HAMPDEN JR. All of the these incredible artist helped to create that Luther Vandross sound. Tune in to this episode as we discuss what went into the production of some of Luther's biggest hits. Ivan Hampden Jr. has worked with some of  best in the music industry, in all genres. He started as part of Kurtis Blow's band while still a teenager. Then went to on to play drums and percussion for the Dance Theater of Harlem and Alvin Ailey!! From there it was to Broadway with Eartha Kitt,  touring Ashford and Simpson, Chaka Khan, Stephanie Mills, Vanessa Williams, Roberta Flack, Jennifer Lopez and of course the topic of this season Mr. Luther Vandross!!! Mr. Hampden is also a stellar song writer and producer. He collaborated with Luther in writing incredible songs for Luther's albums.I'm only scratching the surface of Ivan's incredible artist's 45 year career. This episode is filled with so much history and love for the the one and only Luther Vandross. 

Continuing our conversation on the great Luther Vandross; we are attempting to scratch the surface of the songs that Luther has collaborated on; as well as some of the lesser known songs recorded by this incredible and iconic artist. Enjoy as we explore some of our favorite Luther collaborations and rare tunes. Also check out the Rare Tune and Collaborations playlist on Spotify and iTunes!!!

Cindy Mizelle has sung with almost everyone in the music industry from Evelyn Champagne King to Wilson Pickett to Chaka Khan to Whitney Houston to Mariah Carey to  Steely Dan to Bruce Springsteen to Alicia Keys to, of course our featured artist Luther Vandross. Who better to speak about Luther's backgrounds than one of his incredibly talented background vocalist. Tune in and hear the music, and a great conversation that will educate, humor, and enlighten.

Even though Luther Vandross passed over 15 years ago, his music and legacy still lives on. In this episode, Arif St. Michael and I; Wanda T was on vacation, scratch the surface of the thousands of artists that have been influenced by Luther's greatness. From Freddie Jackson to Will Downing to Rueben Studdard and Lalah Hathaway Luther Vandross has inspired some of the world's top entertainers. Tune in has we discuss these artists and more. If this isn't enough, I also had the pleasure to sit down with the iconic Paulette McWilliams. Ms. McWilliams has been in the music industry for over 50 years and is still going strong. Not only has she sung background for Luther; but she was the original lead female vocalist for Rufus and introduced Chaka Khan to the group. She was also one of Bette Midler's Harlettes; sung lead with Marvin Gaye, Johnny Mathis, and appeared on Quincy Jones's gem "Mellow Madness". Her background credits read like the Who's Who's of the music industry, from David Bowie to Billy Idol, to Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson, Mary J. Blige, to Jennifer Lopez and Steely Dan, and that's a mere drop in the bucket. Paulette McWilliams is LEGENDARY!!!!Clips from our incredible conversation are also be included in this episode; with the full conversation to be released in the near future.Download, subscribe, listen and enjoy!!!

In this episode Wanda T., Arif St. Michael and I cover some of the great songs that helped to engrave Luther Vandross in the annuals of exceptional and one of a kind  male singers. From his debut solo album "Never To Much" to the posthumous hit "Shine"; Luther's albums have constantly gone  platinum. He has been nominated for 33, and won 8 Grammy Awards. If you haven't heard of Luther Vandross or just need a refresher on his greatness this episode is definitely a must. Not only do we discuss Luther but we go into what made his music so incredible; from the angelic backgrounds from the  great  Cissy Houston (Whitney Houston's mother), Lisa Fischer, Brenda White King, Tawatha Agee, Paulette McWilliams. Cindy Mizelle and more. The bass playing from Marcus Miller;  Nat Adderley Jr's piano or just how Luther arranged all the music.  You will see how Luther's approach to music has made an artist that many  try to imitate. We definitely miss Luther Vandross. Listen to this episode and see why he is worthy of this tribute and more.

SIX DEGREES OF….Season 2, Episode 1, features the illustrious works of the incomparable silky, buttery-smooth Luther Vandross. During this episode, the crew (Troy Saunders, Wanda T, and Arif St. Michael) discuss the influences that gave birth to Luther's vocal prowess and innovative vocal arrangements.  In the late 70s, Luther was one of the most sought-after vocalists lending his style and brand to the jingle industry and providing vocal support for many notable artists.  As one of the industry's up-and-coming prominent vocalists, Luther's most famous works were for artists such as David Bowie, Roberta Flack, Change, and Chic, to name a few.  This podcast episode merely scratches the surface of Luther's influences.  However, come join the crew as we reminisce and show our love and excitement about the steller works and illustrious 33 years plus career of this genius... Mr. Luther R. Vandross.

SIX DEGREES OF… Season 1 Episode 6. This episode concentrates on Chaka Khan's incredibly musical family!! Taka Boom, Mark Stevens aka Noochi Norton; Chaka's Siblings and her daughter Indira Milini Khan!!! This 2 hours and 25 minutes podcast will take you on a trip through each family members musical journey from groups they have been in, songs they have written, solo ventures, collaborations and much more. Unfortunately we couldn't cover everything because each persons repertoire is so vast. But,we hope you will see how incredibly gifted are Chaka Khan and her other family members; and how each contributed to music.

For this episode I decided to add to the discussion three fellow Khannoisseurs, who are just as passionate and knowledgeable on our subject matter, the one and only CHAKA KHAN; as Wanda, Arif and I. Our special guests are the multi-talented Wallace Gary; singer, educator and and all around music aficionado, MonRay Francois; and the man of so many talents he needs his own podcast, Mr. Cleo Manago!! In this conversation we talk about our loves, likes and even our dislikes. We laughed, sang and played some of the music by Chaka that makes our hearts sing!!! Sit back with a nice beverage, subscribe, download, listen and enjoy!!!

In this episode we will be covering some of Chaka Khan's best, B sides, Collaborations and Other Rare Tunes.  From Patti Austin to The Average White Band to Stevie Winwood; I believe Chaka has contributed her vocal expertise to more artists's music, in more genres than any other artist in the past 50 years. After this podcast episode you too will see why I say this.  Of course, we can't cover all the songs during this podcast; so like the other 3 episodes there will be an iTunes and Spotify playlist that accompanies this episode!!!

Meli'sa Morgan has been an R&B powerhouse for almost 40 years!! From her beginnings as  the lead vocalist of Shades of Love, they brought us the #1 Dance song "Keep In Touch (Body to Body)" to being one of Chaka Khan's background singers to her #1 R&B cover of Prince's "Do Me Baby" to her string of R&B and Jazz hits; Meli'sa has been a constant in the field of soul and jazz music. If Meli'sa is on the bill you know there is going to be some incredible sangin going on that night. She never disappoints!!Come join Meli'sa, Wanda, Arif and I as was converse about Meli'sa's beginnings, her rise to fame, her memories of singing with Chaka and others, as well as her new ventures. If that wasn't enough we will even play a few songs of other incredible artists that have been influenced by Chaka's dynamic voice.This episode is a wonderful look into the great Meli'sa Morgan as well as scratching the surface of some of the artists that Chaka has influenced in her almost 50 year music career.This was an informative and fun filled conversation that stemmed from love. Love of music, love of history,  love of laughter, love for one another, love of life!!

Welcome Back!!! This episode covers Chaka Khan's unique, versatile and powerful vocal style that has kept her in the game for almost 50 years!!!  Joining in on the conversation is the incredible Karen Bernod!!For those of you that don't know; Karen has been in the game for over 30 years!!! From her vocals on the house classic "Motherland" to singing backgrounds for Paul Simon, Marc Anthony, Rueben Blades, Ru Paul, Whitney Houston, Luther Vandross and Stephanie Mills.Karen also toured and recorded with Erykah Badu. Don't you remember Erykah's live cd, when she covers "You Don't Have to Cry" by Rene' and Angela, and Erykah says "Karen tell me why you don't have to cry." and Karen goes into this incredible solo! FIYAH!! Karen also toured with D'Angelo and Incognito, which with whom she sung lead on 3 of their most memorable tracks,"Marrakech", "More Of Myself", and "Yesterday's Dream"; and last but definitely not least she toured with our featured artist CHAKA KHAN!! Who else to get in on the conversation but someone who has witnessed Chaka's genius night after night for  several years.Karen has also put out three incredible solo projects, Some Othaness 4 U and Life @ 360 Degrees and Planting Seeds. Most recently Karen released a house tune that will surely lift your spirits and get you feet to moving. It's called "Truth Iz"

The first episode of SIX DEGREES OF... featuring CHAKA KHAN podcast!! We will be focusing on the artists who influenced Chaka's creativity. From Aretha Franklin to Stevie Wonder and everyone in between. To help start the inaugural Season of SIX DEGREES OF... We have invited our friend and and vocalist extraordinaire Arif St. MIchael. Arif has traveled the world vocally supporting as well as recording with many critically acclaimed performers such as Pearl Jam, Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Billy Joel, Asha Puthli, Deborah Harry, Martha Wash, Me'Shell Ndegeocello, Kelli Sae, Fonda Rae, Sandra St. Victor, Caron Wheeler, Degrees Of Motion, Toshi Kobuta, Jazzhole, Indira Milini Khan, Tonni (Funkin For Jamaica) Smith, Aaron Carter, Madagascan Jazz vocalist Anna Rahzafimbahiny, Stevie Wonder and Austrian Pop/Jazz Group “Count Basic.” He's also shared the stage with many icons in the industry such as Herbie Hancock, Chaka Khan, Harvey Mason, Dewey Redman, Joshua Redman, Jennifer Holiday, Dennis Chambers, Teri Lynn Carrington, and Roy Ayers to name a few. Arif has also lent his vocal talents to perform on dance records by Caravan feat, Arif St. Michael (The Promise) and for Bobby D'Ambrosio's dance tune of the Eddie Kendrick classic “Girl You Need A Change of Mind.”Arif's musical knowledge will amaze you and his spirit will keep you uplifted. Also hop on over the Spotify and listen to our playlist. It will have everything from this episode and so much more.

Introduction: I, Troy Saunders, have  been in the entertainment industry for nearly 30 years. I've done some acting, modeling, and vocal performing. I'm most proud of the time I spent promoting independent artist through my company "The BAAS Group". The BAAS Group started in 2009. Our goal was to provide an upscale space where independent Soul, Jazz, R&B, Funk, and some Hip Hop artists could showcase their talents around the New York City Area. Wanda T., Not only is an incredible  drummer, but she is a walking music encyclopedia!! Her knowledge of music facts is surpassed by very few. Wanda is also a booking agent for some of the top artists in the industry. Our love for music brought us together for this new venture. Plus, we have been best friends for over 20 years. Our goal is to inform, entertain and educate our listeners of the seldom heard, and unknown facts about the artists we feel have made a major contribution to modern music.So sit back and laugh, dance, snap you fingers, nod you head and enjoy.