Menu
Menu
By Giget C. Johnson
How often does one get to sit down one on one with a living legend? I had the opportunity to sit with Ralph Johnson, percussionist for Earth Wind & Fire. Although Mr. Johnson entered the interview stating “I’m not a fan of interviews,” he allowed me a full hour of his time to pick his brain full of wisdom for survival in the music industry and survival in life altogether. You’ll be able to read all about the life of Ralph Johnson in his upcoming memoir entitled “Rhythm and Fire” which is expected to be released in 2026. “It’s about my life. People always want to put that Earth Wind thing in there. It’s about my life. Now Earth Wind just happens to be a part of that.” In the meantime, you’re stuck with this article. My advice is to sit back with pen and paper to take notes on how to thrive for 50 + years in the music industry and still have a zeal for life individually and distinct from what others would expect from a member of such a legendary group as Earth Wind & Fire.
(Read the full article in the Year In Photos issue).
By Jeannette Estes
The world of Smooth Jazz is experiencing the sights and sound of pure musical bliss with the incredible talents of guitarist and vocalist Andréa Lisa bursting onto the scene. This guitar phenomenon released her first, self-produced album, “Silver Linings,” in 2024. The album is undoubtedly a work of love, dedication, and pouring-in of self which shares her journey with others.
This writer had the distinct honor and pleasure of sitting down with Andréa at Tulsa’s Jazz on the Green Festival to find out more about this impressive artist and her work. (Read the full article in the Year In Photos issue).
By Lexi Lewis
Eric Benét’s “It’s Christmas”—his first holiday album—was released on October 10, 2025, through his independent label. The 11-track collection blends beloved holiday classics with original songs co-written and co-produced by Benét and longtime collaborator Randy Emata.
Benét’s smooth, soulful R&B vocals add warmth and a sense of familiarity to both the timeless classics and his own original tracks. For longtime fans, the album feels like a seamless continuation of his signature sound rather than a departure from it.
The album features holiday standards such as “Oh Holy Night,” “Please Come Home for Christmas” and “My Favorite Things,” coupled with originals like “It’s Christmas” (a duet with Stacey Ryan) and “Christmas Morning” (featuring his daughters Luna and Lucia).
(Read the full article in the Year In Photos issue)
