In the ever-evolving landscape of music, few artists manage to genuinely innovate while paying homage to the greats who paved the way. Cliff Beach, a dynamic singer, pianist, and composer whose lineage could be traced back to the legendary Ella Fitzgerald and Stevie Wonder if music had DNA, is one such artist. With the release of his latest album, “You Showed Me The Way,” Beach embarks on a soulful journey through jazz standards that not only showcases his versatile artistry but also reaffirms his place in the pantheon of contemporary musical innovators.
A native of Washington D.C., Cliff Beach grew up surrounded by gospel music and familial voices in harmony. His musical education began in church and continued at home, eventually leading him to the prestigious Berklee College of Music where he honed his skills in voice and music business/management. After graduating, Beach moved to Los Angeles in 2003, launching a career that would see him navigating the challenges of being an independent artist with aplomb and ingenuity.
Beach’s professional journey is marked by a decade-long commitment to releasing new music annually. His debut project, “Who the Funk is Cliff Beach?”, garnered multiple nominations at the L.A. Music Awards and set the stage for a career defined by soulful funky tunes and exceptional vocal prowess. Alpha Magazine aptly noted, “Cliff Beach is a one-of-a-kind musician… What makes him even more unique is his soulful funky music style.”
Beyond albums, Beach has ventured into radio and TV licensing, publishing, and even established his own record label. His podcast “Deeper Grooves” has resonated with listeners far beyond its broadcast on station 88.5fm, underscoring his influence within the musical community.
“You Showed Me The Way” marks a significant pivot in Beach’s discography as it delves into jazz standards previously immortalized by Ella Fitzgerald. Unlike his prior works predominantly featuring original compositions, this album sees Beach interpreting classics from various periods of Fitzgerald’s career with only one original song contributed by himself. This choice underscores not only his reverence for Fitzgerald’s versatility but also his desire to explore different facets of musical expression.
For this ambitious project, Beach assembled an ensemble capable of weaving between jazz, funk, gospel effortlessly; led by MUNENORI “Moon” KISHI on keyboards and EVAN MACKEY as music director and lead trombonist. This collective brought new life to timeless pieces like “That Old Black Magic,” “Round Midnight,” “Love You Madly,” among others—each infused with Beach’s signature blend of styles.
Perhaps what sets “You Showed Me The Way” apart is its seamless integration of modern sensibilities with classic jazz elements without overshadowing the essence of each song—a delicate balance that speaks volumes about Beach’s artistic integrity and vision.
Closing with “The Gift of the Blues,” an original composition by Beach himself that feels both retrospective and forward-looking encapsulates what he stands for as an artist: honoring tradition while forging new paths.
Beach’s approach to music can be best summarized in his own words: “It doesn’t matter whether you play jazz, soul, gospel country or pop because all different musical styles are really branches of the same tree that has its roots deeply embedded in American soil… I just think about what I’m trying say and try to make it different engaging.” It’s this philosophy that permeates “You Showed Me The Way,” making it not just an album but a compelling narrative on American music’s enduring legacy through innovation.
As Cliff Beach continues on his sonic voyage with “You Showed Me The Way,” he does so not only as a torchbearer for genres past but as a visionary shaping their future contours. And for those eager to join him on this journey or learn more about this multifaceted artist can follow him on Instagram @cliffbeachmusic where he shares glimpses into his world — one note at a time.
In essence, Cliff Beach isn’t just showing us ‘the way’ through familiar tunes; he’s inviting us into uncharted territories where genres blend seamlessly under the banner of heartfelt expression — proving yet again why he remains one step ahead in today’s musical tapestry.
Check out his new album here.
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