November 2001

Musicians' Ombudsman
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By George Carroll

Talk about your consumate musician.....If you're not aware of Boston's secret weapon, singer-jazz pianist Paul Broadnax, where in the world have you been? Paul is a virtual river of musicality. And, if there ever was the perfect marriage between audience and performer, Paul exemplifies this affinity to PLEASE people with his warm renditions, as well as his premium choice of music and song. His mother Ellastine Broadnax wasted no time getting young Paul into the music idiom as Paul relates: "I cannot ever remember not being involved in music." Some people are destined to be great, and Paul's childhood set all this in motion. From boy soprano, to sax player, to big band performer-arranger, Paul is one the country's premier singer-pianist.

Paul has had his share of mentors along the way, helping to mold his career, albeit regionally with his association with L.A. based Donn Trenner, who later became musical director for the original Tonight Show (with Steve Allen, precursor to the Johnny Carson Tonight Show.) In Paul's words: "This became a vital apprenticeship for me both as a pianist-arranger, and led to a close life-long friendship with Donn as well."

(Note: Here is a man of many talents. Paul holds a degree from N.E. Univ. in mechanical engineering....an interesting dichotomy.) Paul's association with Donn Trenner gave him the credential to write and arrange for such bands as Lionel Hampton, Basie, Woody Herman, etc. I asked Paul about his rich vocal resonance and intonation, and he readily attributes his vocal prowess to his mother and dad. Paul Sr., and his mom Ellastine were highly respected and accomplished singers. Paul and his family have established the "Broadnax Scholarship Fund" in honor of his mother (Mrs. B), who excercised influence on the music community, finding ways to assist and nurture young aspiring music students. Anyone interested in the fund should know that the foundation will accept matching funds from an employer-employee situation, and can be reached by calling Harold Emerson at: 617-288-4388. You can hear Paul play in only the best venues in and around the Boston area. His collaboration with the prodigious bass playing of one Peter Kontrimos, makes this one formidable jazz duo with vocals to be reckoned with. Some of Paul's discography for you to enjoy include:

"Come Sunday" with the Ken Hadley big band
"It's About Time"
And, watch for one with the blessings of Joe Williams which Joe bestowed on Paul well before Joe died. Famed trumpeter Clark Terry says of Paul: "Paul is a credit to the profession." The Manchester Union Leader proclaims Paul's music to be: "Loaded with class. Check him out." I've heard him many times and I can assure you he has that unique ability to enchant you with his version of The American Songbook.