Guitarist Rodney Jones will be out and about supporting his new release, "The Undiscovered Few". You can also see him every week on the Rosie O'Donnell show. Having built an impressive resume working with virtually everyone from Lena Horne to Madonna to Maceo Parker to Arthur Blythe, Rodney has proven he can do it all. It's AAJ's great pleasure to bring you this special feature and give you an insiders look at the musical endeavors of this master guitarist.

About Rodney: Few artists are able to freely and successfully integrate the cerebral, spiritual and emotional realms, into one single unifying force. Guitarist, composer and arranger Rodney Jones magically weaves these extraneous forces into a solid tapestry of refreshing and diverse musical terrain on his long anticipated Blue Note Records debut, "The Undiscovered Few". Jones's uncompromising musical fervor, willingness to continually reinvent himself and the dauntless linear, angular and hard bop vernacular affirm that he is one of this era's most significant guitar innovators to emerge in decades.

Your thoughts and words of encouragement are welcome throughout his tour. You can participate by clicking the "Add Your Comment" button on the bottom of the page.

Date:	18-May-1999 19:17:07
From:	Gracejoy (Gracejoy7@aol.com)
	Rodney Jones is by far one of the greatest guitarists of our time. His music--at once spiritual and lively, compelling and powerful, brilliant and human--should be experienced by all who love and appreciate music and who desire to be lifted and moved by a remarkable artist and musician.

 

Date:	18-May-1999 23:31:47
From:	Earl Swanson (Eswan57@aol.com)
	I have had the pleasure of working with Rodney Jones on numerous Ruth Brown engagements, and I can say without question that he is one of the most gifted and professional guitarists of our times. His name should be as known and respected by the general listening public as it is by the many great artists whose works have been enhanced by his presence. He is a remarkable talent who deserves a listen anytime you see his name on a session\credits list. Get to know why the pros think so highly of him. Turn yourself on to a great

 

Date:	19-May-1999 16:46:26
From:	Rodney Jones
	Welcome one and all to my "On The Road" area on Allaboutjazz.com. First, I must thank the entire staff for making this dialogue possible. I look forward to much interesting conversation regarding this music that I love, called jazz. Feel free to post here with your questions and comments and I will do my best to respond as quickly as I can. I will be making daily posts to this area, filling you in on what's going on in my musical life as well as all the latest scoop from the New York music scene. So sit back and get ready to have some jazz fun. -Rodney Jones P.S. My first daily post will be tomorrow, 5/20/99

 

Date:	20-May-1999 09:03:03
From:	Rodney Jones
	Hello all! This is my first daily post to this site. Let me start by giving you an idea of my day. As I write this I am in my dressing room at the Rosie O'Donnell Show. I just finishd a rehearsall of some Bradway show music which will be used for todays and tommorow's show. Later I will be rehearsing with my group for an taping in Washington DC friday for BET on Jazz. We will be performing the music from my new Blue Note Records CD "The Undiscovered Few" which will be released June 15th. In the band is: Rodney Jones Guitar Donald Harrison - Tenor Sax Sheddrick Mitchell - Piano Lonnie Plaxico - Bass Eric Harland - Drums Roger Squitero - Percussion With the exception of Roger, all of these musicians are on the new CD! My life as a musician can be viewed in two lights: Art & Craft. Sideman work often is Craft meaning that I am able to adapt to the setting and play the right thing and Art which is the music of my heart or at least from the heart" My musical life is so varied. Here are the musicians that I spoke with yesterday: Lena Horne: I am producing and arranging a new CD for her. Regina Carter: I will be performing with her this summer and working with her next week at Sweet Basil's Jazz club here in NYC. Ruth Brown: Have some performances with her. Donald Harrison: Re: My music and echoes of Coltrane performance in the JVC Festival in June. Mike Renzi - Pianist and Musical Director of Sesame Street. Today I rehearse with Phil Collins for a performance on the Rosie show tommorow. If variety is the spice of life then I have a very spicy life! What I have tried to do is to bring the wisdom gleaned from my musical journeys to bear in the new CD. This music is honest and I believe each song. Tommorow I will tell you about the BET taping. More Later, RJ

 

Date:	20-May-1999 19:39:58
From:	Jill !!! (JillyG16@aol.com)
	I have had the pleasure to meet many talented people in my life. Yet I have never seen so much compassion, humor,and joy encompassed in one being such as Rodney. I look foward to the new CD, as Im sure all do. If it's anything like Mr. Jones, it'll be completely wonderful! Have a great day everyone! And to you Rodney! "I reached up, and took hold of this dream, I looked upon this stardust in my hand , how should I be so lucky? I can not keep this wonder to myself, surely the world must fall to its greatness, experience the wonder I have been given. My heart decided and my hand obeyed, the moon looked approvingly down, as I cast this dream, this talent upon the net of night for all to see, now my joy is in the sky, like fireflies that have found love, the world stopped, and gazed upon my talent set in the night. I have a sudden love for the stars." (from a poem of mine) Thank you Rodney for "setting your talent upon the night for all to see.." we marvel at its brilliance!

 

Date:	22-May-1999 12:28:11
From:	Lisa (Roanglbrat@AOL.com)
	Hiyas Rodney it is me The one and only BRAT.... I just have to say that I too enjoy your music and am looking forward to the release of your new CD... You are a very talentented person and a great friend too.. Take care and BEST WISHES!!!

 

Date:	22-May-1999 22:57:41
From:	Amy (R0fan001@aol.com)
	Hello! This is a really cool site! I, too, can't wait for the CD to come out--I'm sure it will be great!! I loved the X-Field, but think this new one will be even greater (hard to imagine, but true). Congrats, Rodney, on all your success! Keep up the hard work!

 

Date:	23-May-1999 01:16:56
From:	Cathy (fidllestic@aol.com)
	Rodney, sending a big HELLO from Missouri. Looking forward to listening to your CD

 

Date:	24-May-1999 08:44:23
From:	Rodney Jones
	Hello to all of my friends in cyberspace. As I write this I am back in my dressing room at the Rosie O'Donnell show after a fantastic weekend in the Washington DC/Silver Spring Maryland area. Before I tell you about the weekend I want to thank each one of you who has posted to this site as well as those of you who have just checked it out. I look forward to many lively discussions with you. Please feel free to post your comments and questions. I will try to respond to each one. On Friday, May 21st, 99 I taped a 1 hour TV special for BET in Washington. BET is one of the few networks that is actively giving jazz a forum to be heard. The taping went well. I played a lot of the new music from my "The Undiscovered Few" CD. The CD comes out June 15th and the TV special tentatively airs in September so that is good. What I have tried to do in this album is to play jazz that is modern and creative but that has a warm heart. I find that much jazz and music in general is either overly mental or overly emotional. I try to strike a balance between the two and to play music that can warm you heart and be interesting. I will be opening this week at Sweet Basil's Jazz club here in New York City with the fantastic violinist Regina Carter. She is one of the few violinists that really plays jazz in an expressive and warm way but who also has a lot of "fire" in her playing. It will be a tiring week though! I will be taping 2 Rosie shows each day and then working with Regina at night. I will miss getting enough zzzz for sure. Anyway please continue to post with your questions or comments. I look forward to it. More Later, Rodney

 

Date:	24-May-1999 11:50:43
From:	Robyn (askdadu2@aol.com)
	Dear Rodney: What a great site....now I will know what you are doing, where you have been, and why you were not at yesterday's race..LOL...big brother...I mean sister is watching:-). I look forward to the new CD coming out. Wishing you great sucess with it. Let me know if you will be doing any CD signings, you know me I"ll be there. Take care. Love, Robyn

 

Date:	26-May-1999 01:11:51
From:	Rez Abbasi (abbasi@mindspring.com)
	Hey Rodney: It was a wonderful surprise running into you the other day at HMV. It's been years and it didn't surprise me to see you in great spirits as you've always been. With a career like yours, although you deserve it, most guitarist would walk around with a smile. I just wanted to let anyone who reads this know that you are one of the most giving and kind musicians I've come across and I look very forward to hearing your playing on the Blue Note debut. Congrats from your former student. Rez

 

Date:	27-May-1999 08:45:16
From:	Rodney Jones
	Hello again! Iam writing you from my Rosie O'Donnell show dressing room. Well here is the latest update from my world. I have been having a great week with violinist Regina Carter at Sweet Basils here in New York. She is a remakable artist who plays with a lot of feeling and groove. Regina's Band at Basils: Regina Carter Violin Rodney Jones Guitar Vana Gierig Piano Darrell Hall Bass Myra Casales Percussion I will be in the studio with Brazilian pianist/singer Eliane Elias in a week. Se is recording a new album. It is a quartet date with: Eliane Elias piano Rodney Jones guitar Christian McBride bass Carl Allen drums We had a great rehearsal and it shoud be a fun date. I encourage you to post any questions and or comments. I enjoy hearing from you. To everyone who has posted hear thank you so much. I am truly blessed! More Later, Rodney

 

Date:	27-May-1999 16:48:53
From:	Tony Viamontes (TonyViamontes@Yahoo.com)
	Rodney, This is Tony V. the engineer that had the pleasure of working with you on a few albums. I've been out of NYC for a couple of years, but now I am back.I talked with Mark Sherman but wasn't able to get through to you. I really would like to hear from you, if you get a chance. Maybe we could work together again soon. Glad to see that you are doing so well. Peace, Tony V. (212)437-0551

 

Date:	27-May-1999 18:29:59
From:	Amy (R0fan001@aol.com)
	Rodney--I was just wondering if you had a personal favorite on your new upcoming CD. Also, do you have a favorite song on the X-Field or are they all special in their own way? I was just curious and thought I would ask :) Love, Amy

 

Date:	28-May-1999 08:49:34
From:	Rodney Jones
	Dear Amy, My favorite tunes on the new CD are: Dreamers In Love Tradewinds On X Field: Call of Soul X Field When you get the new cd tell what your favorits are! RJ

 

Date:	28-May-1999 15:43:52
From:	Amy (R0fan001@aol.com)
	I love Call of Soul, too! I'll be sure to let you know my favorites on the new CD. Amy

 

Date:	29-May-1999 00:58:35
From:	Scott Hesse
	Rodney is the type of person and musician who is constantly stretching the boundaries of what he knows. I've known him for several years and he continues to be an inspiration to me both as a person and musician. I'm sure anyone who knows Rodney or who has had the pleasure of crossing paths with him will agree. (This is a great site and I'm glad we'll be able to keep tabs on your professional life) :)

 

Date:	01-Jun-1999 08:34:12
From:	Rodney Jones
	Dear Friends, Here is another update from the world of Rodney Jones. First of all I hope that each of you had a wonderful Memorial Day weekend. Mine was enjoyable. Yesterday(Monday) I recorded with the great Brazillian pianist/singer Eliane Elias. We recorded a song called "The Beat of My Heart". It was a four piece group with Eliane on Piano/Vocals, Myself on Guitar, Christian McBride on Bass and Carl Allen on drums. The seeion went smoothly we recorded two takes of which both were good and that was it. It was a great band and a fun tune. I am back in my Rosie show dressing room as I write this. Today Harry Connick Jr. is performing with his big band. Should be good! I am watching his rehearsal on the momnitor and it sounds great. Music for me has always been a way to look inside myself and to give voice to those feelings and visions that will not manifest any other way. Have any of you ever used music to explore your own worlds. I would love to share and discuss this with you. More later, Rodney Jones

 

Date:	01-Jun-1999 18:29:08
From:	Amy (R0fan001@aol.com)
	Music for me opens up my creativity, whether I am trying to compose or just playing with a musical touch. Most people can sit down and play a Bach prelude (for example) by just playing the notes written on the page. But playing it expressively, getting softer or louder when it is appropriate, or easing in a feeling of sadness, happiness, etc. takes a little more work. I hear that on your CD, Rodney, and I know that takes a lot of hard work and dedication. :) That is what makes listening to music so inspiring and captivating. Amy

 

Date:	02-Jun-1999 11:31:43
From:	Rodney Jones
	Dear Friends, I thought that it might be of interest to give you an insight into the nature and origin of the music on the new cd. The words below are extracted from the liner notes to the Undiscovered Few. Your questions and/or comments are most welcome. THE UNDISCOVERED FEW This CD represents the completion of one journey and the beginning of another. My journey began many years ago when I was first touched by the magic within music. As a young child of 6 or seven I remember sitting underneath an old cabinet style record player. I would listen and dream. I would find myself transported to a different place. A world of freedom and adventure. A world of mystery and love. Music touched my heart and the fire grew within me to want to play the guitar. The love and the wonder of music are why I started playing. They are the reasons I play today. Many persons live within these songs. Each composition rests upon the shoulders of many who through their sweat, discipline, love and talent left footprints upon my heart, Dreams inside my mind, Light shining upon my eyes and the echoes of Sound within my ears. So what is the Undiscovered Few” The Undiscovered Few are those principles, those elements that form the keystone for each persons existence. Each of us seeks to find a way to make it in this world. To give meaning to the events of life. To have a matrix or prism through which to interpret the experience of living in order that it has purpose. Each of us is on a journey to somewhere. Where are we going? Why are we going there? And what happens when we get there are three questions that everyone consciously or unconsciously is trying to answer. This music reflects my own answers. The specifics for each person will be different but the questions remain true for all. This CD is built upon 4 principles, which I discovered, was given, shown, awakened to. All of these descriptions apply. 1. A desire to know myself: As far back as I can remember I wanted to know what I was doing here. Why was I born in this place at this time to these parents? Why did I love music, the color blue? These questions haunted and fascinated me. At around age ten I went on a mission to get some answers to these questions. This search lasted many years. It drove me to experience life deeply. I learned an important lesson: It is the effort and lessons learned during the search that yield the gifts of wisdom not the destination for with every arrival the horizon recedes and there is always another step to take. 2. The experience of finding myself: This was truly a remarkable experience. With it came immense happiness. Charlie “Bird” Parker said, “If you don’t live it it won’t come out of your horn.” After years of study and practice upon my instrument I found myself musically, After years of prayer and meditation, I discovered the HU(pronounced Hue), an ancient love song or chant used to open up the individual to the creative flow of Spirit. I found this HU sound to be the seed sound or primary sound behind all sounds, all music. It gave my music a strong foundation and opened my heart to a wellspring of love from which I could draw inspiration. With the exception of Tradewinds and My Favorite Things, All of the tunes of this CD were written less than three months prior to their recording. 3. Being Myself Being myself was and is perhaps the most difficult aspect of the Undiscovered Few. Playing and living from that perfect balance of the head and the heart at all times. Playing what I feel while blending with what the other musicians are feeling. These are the elements of Mastery. Martin Luther King, John Coltrane, Lawrence Jones, Paul Twitchell, Lena Horne, Miles Davis, Wes Montgomery, Sri Harold Klemp, Charlie Parker, Debussy and countless others. They have mastered this fine sweet balance. 4. Taking the Next Step I found that being myself was just the beginning. Growth is a continous process. This requires resonating with the primary cause of all. Call it Spirit, God, the creative force the title doesn’t matter what does matter Is that we learn the ways that IT speaks to us and tune in. We must learn to listen to the still small voice that is within each of us. The fountain from which all music and all life flows. Great artists continue to grow and re-invent themselves. Miles Davis, John Coltrane and Lena Horne come to mind as individuals whom have set a high example for their willingness to embrace the new in an effort to grow personally, mentally and spiritually. These songs are like so many windows that surround the Soul. Each express’ a piece of my journey. Each reflects the light of the musical diamonds in my life that are connected like pieces of a puzzle and which when complete reveal my heart and Soul. Those are the principles of The Undiscovered Few. My Undiscovered Few. I wish you much joy on your road to discover your own Undiscovered Few. Rodney Jones, New York City, March 1999

 

Date:	02-Jun-1999 16:24:40
From:	Robyn (askdadu2@aol.com)
	Rodney- I am very moved by your writings. When we were in school, I always knew that you were "into" music, and had a passion for it, but you are able to express it so beautifully here. Looking forward to the 15th, when I can purchase the CD. Will you be performing any of your works on Rosie? Best to you always. Robyn

 

Date:	02-Jun-1999 17:48:22
From:	Roseanna Vitro (rvitrojazz@aol.com)
	Rodney, as a veteran on the New York scene and someone that knows your great musicianship for at least 15 years or more, I can only say, "Congratulations" on all of your visability and the well deserved attention you are finally receiving. I look forward to digging your new cd and enoyed hearing your unit at Sweet Basil. All the best always to you for continued happiness, good health and success! RVX

 

Date:	02-Jun-1999 20:27:24
From:	Natasha Maddison (natasha4mp@aol.com)
	Dear Rodney It is with great pleasure that I have checked out this site while in the middle of a tour with Maceo in France. I would like to endorse all the food things (and true) that everyone has said of you) and say that in the years in which it was my pleasure to work with you when you were on the road with us, that one more thing which you always bring with you is a great sense of humour, and that's VITAL in this this business and one of the greatest gifts to give anyone, I also must say that when you are able to join Maceo as part of the All Star House Band for the R&B Awards it is an honour and a true true joy to work with you, once again you bring smiles to all our faces and your talents abound ass well as those little things you watch out for and help out with on this huge event... we talk about you for months afterwards!!! so the very best of luck with the tour and with the album, I can't wait to hear it as soon as I can get my hands on a copy... bless you and look forward to seeing you soon with love Natasha

 

Date:	02-Jun-1999 20:51:48
From:	Andrea (AGHU@aol.com)
	Dear Rodney.... I have always loved your music...you are a gifted artist......you are family. Any success achieved now is only an outer manifestation of what has always been. We appreciate all that you share when you play. You play with heart....you play with spirit. P.S. I especially love your flamenco playing. (smile)

 

Date:	03-Jun-1999 13:49:17
From:	GENE BIGLIN (e.biglin@worldnet.att.net)
	DEAR RODNEY: I LOVED YOUR WORK ON HOUSTON PERSON "THE OPENING ROUND." MY FAVORITE SONGS WERE SWEET SUCKER AND BLUE SPRING. I'VE BEEN TRYING TO FIGURE OUT THE CHORDS FOR THESE TWO SONGS. BUT I'M AFRAID THAT MY EAR ISN'T POLISHED ENOUGH TO DEAL WITH THE ALTERED CHORDS IN JAZZ. I WAS HOPING YOU YOU COULD JUST JOT DOWN A COUPLE OF BARS TO GET ME STARTED IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION. LOOKING FORWARD TO YOUR NEW RELEASE. I APPRECIATE THE TIME YOU'VE TAKEN TO READ THIS MESSAGE. THANKS GENE BIGLIN

 

Date:	04-Jun-1999 00:38:29
From:	Mark Higham
	Dear Rodney I've had the pleasure of hearing you play at an ECK seminar here in Australia some time ago. I really enjoyed and was moved by your words about your music/life, I look forward to hearing your new CD and perhaps meeting you at some future time. Thank you for your inspiring journey. With love in the Eck Mark

 

Date:	05-Jun-1999 00:57:55
From:	Kim Walker (kimwhu@aol.com)
	Dear Rodney & Fans, I've known Rodney for years. He's a very spiritual man who seems to know himself. He has complete confidence in himself. Rodney has a sense of purpose and mission. It comes across in his musical performance and off the bandstand. Rodney also has a good sense of humor. He can laugh at himself and he can laugh at others. This is Rodney's time. His musical notoriety is long over-due. He has much to offer in his musical expression. Look for his name…. CD's, DVD's , movies and television shows. His works will be a house- hold name in the near future. Carry on my brother. The world is holding its breath waiting for your greatness. May the blessings be!

 

Date:	05-Jun-1999 07:20:32
From:	sean bray (seanbray@interlog.com)
	Hi Rodney; My name is Sean Bray and I am a jazz guitarist based out of Toronto. I studied with you at the Manhattan School of Music's summer jazz program in I think '89. I did the full 3 weeks and thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm not sure if you remember me but at the time I was living in Calgary Canada. It's nice to see that your career is doing so well. You were always a great guitar player and had such an upbeat way of teaching a class. If you remember who I am, send me an e-mail. Take care, Sean Bray www.seanbray.com.

 

Date:	07-Jun-1999 09:21:50
From:	Rodney Jones
	Dear Friends, Once again I want to personally thank each one of you who has posted to this site with your comments of love and encouragement. I am truly humbled by your words. With each song that I write or play I try to make love the starting point. Love of music, love of self, love of friends and family and love of God. Then I let go of the thought process and let the music flow allowing it to be what it will. I feel limited only by the fact that I have so much music that I would like to get out and share but the world of recording operates much more slowly than the creative flow. Patience is the key here. I was down in Maryland over the weekend. I performed at the Capitol Jazz Festival with violinist Regina Carter. The performance went well and I stayed an extra day to visit with family. This is the final week of our third season at the Rosie O'Donnell Show. The year has gone quickly and has been fun. We will be off for the summer now and come back in September for season 4! As of this writing Rosie will be featuring my CD and doing an audience giveaway on June 16th so tune in. The CD is already available for order on the online music web sites. If you like the music on the CD then please make your comments known here and at the Amazon.Com web site. Their reviewer was not very positive about the CD and that is ok but his comments lead me to think that he did not "get it". One must listen with an open heart and ear and not bring to many pre-conceived ideas of what jazz guitar or music should sound like. Anyway please let your voice be heard if you like the CD or even if you don't. I am very interested in positive constructive comments and suggestions. I will be re-recording the Listen to the Beat song with Eliane Elias. She feels the version that we recorded last week was to fast. I am recording on Friday with Rosie drummer Ray Marchica for a jazz project that he is working on. I will be rehearsing with Lena Horne this week for her Billy Strayhorn tribute, which we will record next week. Lots of other stuff to talk about. I have a busy summer ahead. Thanks again to each of you for your support and your love in keeping creative music alive. Rodney

 

Date:	09-Jun-1999 08:43:17
From:	Rodney Jones
	Hello to all fellow travelers in cyber space. Here is the latest update from my world. As I write this it is 8:17 am on Wednesday June 9th. I just finished my rehearsal for the Rosie O'Donnell Show and am upstairs in my dressing room. Jennifer Lopez is in the studio rehearsing her new single for performance on the live 10am show this morning. Today we are taping a second show at 2pm, which will be aired on June 16th. Rosie is doing an audience giveaway of my CD and speaking with me for a few seconds. It is a wonderful opportunity to get the word out about CD and I am very grateful to her for giving me the chance. Last night I re-recorded the song "The Beat of My Heart" with Eliane Elias. She wanted to try something different this time. It went well. The band this time was: Eliane Elias Piano Rodney Jones Guitar Marc Johnson Bass Carl Allen Drums We finish the 3rd season at Rosie tomorrow. I must say that I will welcome the chance to sleep in a little and to delve into some other musical areas. I will be going to Europe with Regina Carter in early July for 3 weeks. We will tour Italy, Holland, France and England. I will be posting form over there as well so stay tuned. This month I am performing in the JVC Jazz Festival twice. First in a tribute to John Coltrane and also in a tribute concert to the late pianist and my friend Kenny Kirkland. Both of these events should be a lot of fun. Now about music itself. One thing that I have always felt important was the intent before any creative (or non-creative if there is such a thing) action. It is in this declaration of intent that one begins to resonate with the creative spirit of life. If the intent of a piece of music is only to make money for example, then that music will have a certain vibration that reflects that intent. If the intent is to express a sincere emotion then it will reflect that vibration. What I am getting to is this… The next time you perform any action or listen to a piece of music, as yourself, "What is the intent of the artist in this music and what is my intent in listening to it." I know that if you do this you will begin to hear subtle changes in what you hear in a piece of music and notice changes in how the music is affecting you. Let me know what you think about this. I am an advocate for Conscious Listening. More Later, Rodney

 

Date:	09-Jun-1999 16:18:45
From:	Amy (R0fan001@aol.com)
	Hi Rodney! Just curious to know how the show went today (for June 16th). Let us know!

 

Date:	09-Jun-1999 21:14:07
From:	Guy Buonocore (gbo78@aol.com)
	Hi Rodney great review and U R O C K

 

Date:	10-Jun-1999 07:30:50
From:	Patty Perullo (pattyp44@aol.com)
	Rodney, Best of luck with he new CD. Have a great summer tour, and see you next season on Rosie. Looking forward to hearing your new CD. Patty

 

Date:	15-Jun-1999 18:57:33
From:	Michael Valentine (mvalentine@umiami.edu)
	What's up Rodney?,I just featured your cd for new music monday here in Miami on WDNA 88.9 F.M. The horn arrangements are great.

 

Date:	16-Jun-1999 08:16:38
From:	Rodney Jones
	Well the CD is out! I must say that it is an exciting time. I am truly humbled by all of the support that I have had from each of you who have posted here as well as from a number of other people whom I have met when I was performing. I will post any reviews that the record receives here and would appreciate it if you do the same. Also after you have listened to the cd please post your feeling here. I want to know how you are impressed by the music. Your comments will he the next cd be even better. Ok enough about that. Let me tell you what has been going on since my last post. On the June 16th show Rosie did hold up my CD and speak about it for a few seconds. I am curious to see what difference that that makes to cd sales. I wanted her to mention All About Jazz as well as play something off of the CD but I am grateful for what she did. I recorded with Ray Marchica for his new CD. It was a great band with: Rodney Jones Guitar Teodross Avery Tenor Sax Lonnie Plaxico Bass Ray Marchica Drums We recorded two of my originals as well as some standards. It really went well. I played with violinist Regina Carter at the IMAC Center on Long Island. It went well and the audience love her. She sold a number CD's on site that night. Today I am in the studio playing and producing three tunes for Lena Horne as part of a tribute to Billy Strayhorn. the band is: Rodney Jones Guitar Donald Harrison - Sax Mike Renzi - Piano Benjamin Brown - Bass Akira Tana - Drums We rehearsed on Monday and it was fantastic. The famed arranger for Duke Ellington Luther Henderson will take the tracks that we record and add Orchestra to them in London. I will keep you posted about this. Next week I am in the JVC Tribute to Coltrane Concert as well as the tribute to Kenny Kirkland Concert so stay tuned. Please let me know what other sorts of things that you would like me to post about and thanks agin for your posts. Rodney

 

Date:	17-Jun-1999 00:32:15
From:	Jill :) (JillyG16@aol.com)
	Hi everyone!! :) Just to let everyone know....I went in search of "The Undiscovered Few" in 3 music stores....Best Buy and The Wall..(Just to name two biggies). Although the release date was the 16th, they both arent getting them in until the end of the month or early July, but I would check in a week or two again, if your stores are missing Rodney's work also. I ordered several copies for people that had requested the CD (Hahahaha...the man laughed at me and called me a , and I quote, "silly girl", when I said how many copies I needed)...So when the "silly man" calls me back, I will relay the info to you. Of course you can still find "The Undiscovered Few" available to buy online.... Have a great week everyone!!!! Love Always!!! Jill :)

 

Date:	17-Jun-1999 00:32:52
From:	Renee Epstein
	Rodney you are a remarkable person and your CD is beyond words. You're certainly an adept musician and a master at your craft. Your writing, arranging and producing is so unique,creative and advance.

 

Date:	17-Jun-1999 22:23:38
From:	Carol (Tom 8 Cat@aol.com)
	Rodney, Nice chatting with ya in the room tonight, can't wait to get the CD. Just wanted to wish you the best of luck with the tour and the CD and hope its a big success. Take care and see ya online.....Love ya****bunches, Carol

 

Date:	18-Jun-1999 15:37:18
From:	Rick Hanser (rhanser@ix.netcom.com)
	A couple of years ago I started noodling around on the electric guitar. Somehow, I ended up on the Jazz Heritage Society's mailing list. On a whim, I purchased your last CD, "the X-field." Little did I know that this CD would go on to be my all time favorite. Additionally, this CD inspired me to learn jazz guitar. PS-Any chance you'll have any gigs in the Washington DC area in the near future?

 

Date:	18-Jun-1999 18:10:47
From:	Eric (eric_bur@americancentury.com)
	Just picked up the new CD. It is excellent - one of the best I've heard in a long time. Great, great writing and playing by all involved! Eric

 

Date:	19-Jun-1999 19:52:45
From:	Pablo (cencor@piast.t19.ds.pwr.wroc.pl)
	Dear Rodney!!! I wanna ask you about your equipment - I mean guitars and amps. I'm just curious because I'm guitar player. Pablo

 

Date:	20-Jun-1999 10:28:22
From:	Rodney Jones
	Dear Friends, Well here is another post from Jones Land! Again I want to thank each of you who has taken the time to post here. I have read each and every entry and am very grateful for your comments. Today is Father's Day so I wish each one of you a happy Father's Day! Last week I was in the studio recording 3 Billy Strayhorn tunes with the legend Ms. Lena Horne. At 82 her sense of swing and groove and phrasing are amazing. We recorded Something To Live For, Maybe, and You're The One and each was a complete take. No fixes or overdubs! I am enjoying my time off from the Rosie O'Donnell Show. That getting up at 5am thing is pretty hard and it feels good to be able to wake up a little later. Next week I will be performing as part of the JVC Festival in a tribute to John Coltrane and a Tribute To the great pianist and my friend Kenny Kirkland. I will post the play by play of these events as they occur. Let me tell you about the equipment that I use. Where to begin??? I have a lot of guitars and amplifiers. On "The Undiscovered Few" I used a 1966 Gibson L5CES for most of the CD. A couple of tunes were played on a Yamaha SA 2200 Semi-Hollow Guitar. My amplifier on the cd was a Fender Vibro-King which is a great amp for recording. For my live setup I usually use a Line Six Amplifier which is an all digital amp but sounds very warm. It can remember your setting and has the ability to sound like virtually any other amplifier. I have an amazing guitar called a Mortoro which is made by a guitar maker in Florida called Gary Mortoro. It is a beautiful Jazz style guitar with a body thinner than and L5 and built in pickups. The F holes are in the shape of birds wings and it sounds great. I also have a Polytone Taurus V amp that I use sometimes as well as a Rivera. I have a Heritage 535 that I play often and many other guitars. On a separate note: I would encourage each of you who has listened to the CD to go to the Amazon.com web site and post a review of it. Your voice and viewpoint is important in that it gives potential buyers the real deal side of things. Keep posting and I will keep writing. I am grateful for each and every one of you. More Later, Rodney

 

Date:	24-Jun-1999 00:13:12
From:	Scott McCloud (jazzncit@aol.com)
	Hey Rodney. This is what I call superior access to ones mentor! All the complements are well deserved. My first complement of your playing was many years ago when you were this anonymous guitar player with Dizzy Gillespie performing with Gatemouth Brown somewhere in Europe. The PBS channel played a segment of Gatemouths cool blues-tradition solo and then you followed with this modern-advanced-post-bebop killer solo! I didnt know what in the world you had played but that was the beginning of my hearing jazz guitar hip and slick as any street talk I had ever heard! The duo record with Bruce Johnson opened my ears even more. I was one of those competitive athlete-turned-guitar player guys in the "hood". Many of us would find guitar records criticize , condemn and reject most of these pseudo jazz men. We would rally around with remarks like..."man that wasnt shit"..."man that tune wasnt even hip". Well, " Articulation" showed up on the scene somehow. Man, we had to discuss that record in private because you were playing hard -ass changes with intervalic leaps, chord solos, walking basslines with chords and generally just playing the instrument in a manner we had never heard! The worst thing yet was the fact that we were around your same age and we thought our 3-4 repertoire of riffs over Herbie Hancocks "Chameleon" was really something. Humbled? Yes we were. A new definition of jazz guitar was borne for me. The influence continues to this day as you were generous enough, a decade or so later, to accept me "Out of Nowhere" as a private student. It is called gratitude for decades! Best of luck always. Hope to get the CD soon. Later, Scott McCloud

 

Date:	24-Jun-1999 23:35:40
From:	Amy (R0fan001@aol.com)
	Hello! I just got the CD and boy do I love it! I highly recommend it for anyone who appreciates good quality music. There is a great variety of music which I find enjoyable. My favorite song is "through the eyes of a child". Rodney plays the guitar and Jesse Levy plays the cello. It gave me chills! Also, it was great to hear The Rosie O'Donnell Show's very own Mo Goldberg play the alto sax in some songs. But best of all, the cute picture of Rodney at 6 or 7 years old is reason enough to buy the CD! j/k! :) Amy

 

Date:	26-Jun-1999 23:59:35
From:	Andrea Garrrison (AGHU@aol.com)
	The Undiscovered Few - Rodney Jones A review by Andrea Garrison Light and Shadows A wonderful sassy sound that adds a new twist to traditional jazz. Tradewinds This up tempo tune will take you on a Brazilian journey……….and beyond. Dreamers In Love A very sweeping…melodic……mellow sound………you just want hear more and more. My Favorite Things These guys are slamming on this all time favorite. Through the eyes of a child This cello and guitar duet is a real treat and the best I have heard. Oliver & Thad A terrific tribute for two jazz greats. The Message The message is clear - this band can play!!!! Lesson Time A happening tune - that speaks for itself!!!!! Tears of a Forgotten Child Rodney Jones and Regina Carter make beautiful……beautiful music together!!!! Some things are beyond words -- this is one of them and you must hear it to experience it!!!! Circus Wheel This is a wheel worth traveling on!!! The music is fantastic - Rodney at his best!!!! 3rd Orbit This is indeed one of the best musical journey's I have ever taken - all you have to do is listen and you are there. The Undiscovered Few The title cut seems rather appropriate. Rodney is one of the giants among musicians as evidenced by his many years of being a sideman to many of the leaders in jazz. Rodney has always been an innovative player and a leader. He is a favorite to those who have had a chance to hear him. While being a giant among many Rodney has somehow managed to be one of the "Undiscovered Few" to the general public. His playing here certainly places him in the league with many of the great guitarist including George Benson, Kenny Burrell, Charlie Christian, Grant Green and Wes Montgomery. Those of us who have known Rodney and his music for many years consider ourselves fortunate to be able experience a history of great artistry. We welcome the newcomers. With this kind of musicianship there will be many of you who will be glad to discover The Undiscovered Few.

 

Date:	29-Jun-1999 22:23:24
From:	Rodney Jones
	Dear Friends, It has been a while since I posted a lot is going on. I performed at the JVC Jazz Festival with Donald Harrison and the Echoes of Trane concert. It went well. It was a great band with Gary Bartz, Javon Jackson, Mulgrew Miller, Carl Allen etc. I leave for Europe in a about a week. I will be in Italy, Holland, France, England and Greece. I will be posting from the road if at all possible so stay tuned. I will be going as a part of Regina Carter's tour. It should be fun. My record is doing well considering that the reviews and ads for it havent even come out yet. I thank each of you who has purchased it. In my next post I am going to talk about the deeper aspects of the music on the cd. Should be interesting. Keep posting and feel free to ask me any questions about the music. I would be happy to answer. More Later, Rodney

 

Date:	01-Jul-1999 09:34:57
From:	Tim Reyes (timreyes@empireone.net)
	Dear Rodney, What can I say? We go way back and you are still one of my very best friends and heroes. I love you very much! You are also one of the funniest human beings on the planet!! I remember my first lessons with you in nyc in the early eighties, you blew my mind and tore my shit up! Ha-ha! I am excited about this cd. I love all your work and considere you one of the few masters living today. Peace and love Tim Reyes

 

Date:	13-Jul-1999 13:50:13
From:	Amy (R0fan001@aol.com)
	Hey Rodney! How is your summer going? Are you in Europe? Just curious...! Hope all is going well.... you rock! Amy :^)

 

Date:	21-Jul-1999 19:15:30
From:	Tim Reyes (timreyes@empireone.com)
	Rodney, thank you for the beautiful writing you have been e-mailing from the road. You words have a lot of impact for me, because I have seen you grow. You really practice what you preach! How is the family? Love always brother, Tim Reyes

 

Date:	02-Aug-1999 23:37:48
From:	Michael Sherman (ACa3549784@aol.com)
	Hi My name is Michael and I am a 21 year old inspiring singer. I first learned of you because I am a Lena Horne fan. I think your guitar playing is fantastic. I really enjoyed it on her Being Myself album. I have written letters to Bruce Lundvall at Blue Note about albums I think Shoul be reissued on Lena and my hopes to meet her. If I do maybe I will meet you to. You sound like a real down to earth guy who loves God. I pray your album will sell well and young people will develop an appreciation for good clean beautiful music like yours.

 

Date:	03-Aug-1999 18:31:52
From:	Jean-Francois Ethier (ethiej@hotmail)
	It is a great opportunity for me to congratulate Mr. Jones for his wonderful CD. My friend introduce me to Rodney a couple of years back with a bootleg tape of him and Dizzy and everytime I hear some Rodney Jones (I hope you guys know about the Jones\Flanagan on Timeless...) I have the feeling of hearing the complete history of the instrument... Too bad I missed the Regina Carter show at FIJM...

 

Date:	04-Aug-1999 07:19:34
From:	Rodney Jones
	Dear Friends, It has been quite a while since I posted to this site. I was out ot the country for almost a month with the great violinist Regina Carter. We were in Nice France, Italy, Greece, Paris Frence, The Netherlands, England, and numerous other places. It really a lot of fun. The band was: Regina Carter Violin Rodney Jones Guitar Vana Gierig Piano Sean Conly Bass Alvester Garnett Drums We played all of the major jazz festivals in europe and people really went wild for Regina and her music. It was fun for me to visit a lot of the places because in some cases it had been many years since I was last there. I got to see them through slightly different eyes. I am back state side now. I have a busy couple of months coming up. I will be working to complete Lena Horne's next recording as well as gearing up for the Rosie Show. In addition I will start pre-production on my next recording and am setting up my spirng and summer tour 2000 with my own group which will be exciting. I thank each one of you who has posted to this site. All of your comments are valuble and important. Each reflects your level of awareness and the state of your heart and that is what it is all about. Please continue to post with your ideas and insights. I will do the same. A lot more now since I am back in town. Musically yours, Rodney

 

Date:	12-Aug-1999 13:23:24
From:	Michael Aarons (Maarons@aol.com)
	Anybody who hasn't had the honor of hearing or speaking with Rodney Jones is truly missing out on life. Rodney has been a dear friend of mine for about 6 years and since that time, I can't even put in to words how his presence and music has touched my life. The release of his new record on Blue Note and the ever escalating sucess of his career in the past two or three years makes me very proud to see that finally, the world can experience the talents, unconditional love, and spirituality of Rodney Jones like I have had the pleasure all these years. Here's to you Rodney, my dear friend> See you down the road. Michael Aarons

 

Date:	16-Aug-1999 21:38:11
From:	James Pelton (jtpelton@ix.netcom.com)
	All right, All right I'll buy your CD since I can't get the mellow one that got released in Europe and not over here. It's funny, but I still remember the space of that CD. What was the name of it? If I send you a check, will you buy one of your CD's when you're over there and mail it to me? Will drag the boys with me to see you on Saturday. I'm going to lie and say that you're a featured artist on (groan!) Radio Disney (maybe you can put a Mickey Mouse patch on your guitar... please?) Hey, they're 5 and 3... they do know what Jazz is. I try to program a little during the day in between the Backstreet Boys and the Chipmunks. Been using music as background when I write, you know, as a space, an environment. Found that I liked mellow Miles because he didn't draw me away from the story but CD 101.9 stuff does. It agitates me. Why? But Woody Shaw doesn't and I suspect your CD won't either. Parallel realities? Glad I found this page. See you Saturday.

 

Date:	23-Aug-1999 13:43:50
From:	Alvester Garnett (vester7@msn.com)
	Yeah Rodney! Keep up the good work! Thanks for being so inspiring out on the road this summer with Regina. I really dug all the chances that you were taking with the music. It was really exciting drumming behind you on your solos and you know I always like that extra bit of 'umph'! I'm going to miss you a bunch this fall in that you'll be keeping your prior commitments to Rosie's show and won't be going to the west coast with Regina. I'll be missing you musically AND socially. Thanks for being one of the funniest intellects I've ever had the pleasure to work with. I'll try to keep the torch burning by keeping Regina in stitches! I'll just have to 'double up' now!

 

Date:	25-Aug-1999 23:39:05
From:	Carl Hines (CHines1309@AOL.com)
	Rodney, I saw you some years back with Dizzy at an outdoor concert in Nashville, TN. I hadn't heard of you then, but your playing impressed me a lot. Micky Roker was on drums, and I can't remember the bassist, or if there was a pianist. If so, it might have been Walter Davis, Jr. On the same bill were Stan Kenton, John Abercrombie, and others. I ham glad to know you are reaching the level your talent deserves. I have your "When you feel the love" and "The X-Field." I believe you played with Kenny Burrell an an all-guitar CD.Best of luck to you and keep on keeping on. By the way, I took some photos of Dizzy and Mickey Roker that day, but I didn't get any of you unfortunately.

 

Date:	30-Aug-1999 23:20:43
From:	Amy
	Happy birthday, Rodney! Hope you take some time out to share this special day. Talk to you later Amy :^)

 

Date:	13-Sep-1999 21:47:04
From:	Rodney Jones
	Just wnated to thank everyone for their posts. I will be posting more and often. I have been away but will fill you in on that in a post in the next couple of days. Keep reading and tell your friends. This site is definitely still active. Rodney

 

Date:	21-Sep-1999 22:30:11
From:	Robert
	Is the gavin report accurate?

 

Date:	16-Oct-1999 20:05:11
From:	tiffany strom (maskmuzk@gte.net)
	Rodney, Hi,it's been a long time since jazz camp, and your probably wondering who the hell this is, right? Well I'm katie's friend Tiffany we all went to camp toghether and you got us the back stage passes for the Bonnie Rait consert in Ames,Ia. I just got a computer and wanted to see what was going on. I watch you on Rosie every chance I get. Oh buy the way have you heard anything from any of the other guys? Well I'm liveing in St.Louis, and am working for one of the leading music stores in the U.S., I am a Instument repair tech. I fix things like flutes and claranets and I do a little singing still on the side, but not as much as I use to. Well now that I know the name of your new cd i'm going to go out and get it as soon as I can. I miss all of you guy's, TIFFANY P.S. tell scott and mark I said Hi.

 

Date:	26-Oct-1999 09:42:19
From:	Norman Emerson (norman_emerson@hotmail.com)
	Rodney, I just happened to come across your CD at a Borders listening station. Needless to say, I was blown away. I feel that it is now the finest CD that I own. Where did you find Shedrick Mitchell? Since purchasing your CD I have tried to find other examples of work that he's done and I have found nothing. He is an incredible pianist. Thank you for the inspiring music that you've created. Sincerely, Norm

 

Date:	30-Oct-1999 13:53:59
From:	Amy
	Happy Halloween! Great costume yesterday on the Rosie show. The band looked awesome and you're sounding better than ever. Keep up the great work...I heard that the alien back there was yours and the Barbie was Tracy's? How funny!

 

Date:	31-Oct-1999 11:43:33
From:	Rodney Jones
	Well....it has sure been a long time since I posted last. Right after my last post I caught pneumonia and that took me out of circulation for a while. I have been busy working to get the word out about The Undiscovered Few. It has really been a treat to get to meet so many of you and to share the love of music. Anyway I hope that you will keep visiting this site and sharing your views. I will be posting regularly from this point on. With gratitude, Rodney Jones

 

Date:	05-Nov-1999 15:10:29
From:	Dan Coffey
	Listening to the Undiscovered Few: the track after My Favourite Things - leaves "no around un-turned" if you like. Beautiful stuff ! More power to your elbow ! This is as good as guitar playing gets. Wonderful piano player, too.

 

Date:	06-Nov-1999 12:37:09
From:	Amy
	How did the gig with Regina Carter go that John McD mentioned?

 

Date:	22-Nov-1999 19:36:35
From:	Joe Garcia (jprcussion@aol.com)
	Hey Rodney! Caught your performance on BET. Excellent band! I am a Phoenix percussionist, second generation Cuban. Have you ever performed in Phoenix? If so, was it recent? Will you be coming back anytime soon? I'd love to catch you live if you are ever in this area. I had the opportunity this past May to work with Freddy Ravel at a club in Scottsdale. The show was well attended and the audience really responded with a lot of excitement. I am looking for an opportunity to connect and work with a musician of your caliber, who covers so many different styles of music. I have a vast collection of hand percussion instruments and have been working professionally for over 20 years, both here and in south Florida. I would like to send you a one-page music resume for your review, for possible future opportunities. Continued success with all your future musical endeavors. I can be reached via the above e-mail address, or by telephone at (602)863-2093.

 

Date:	27-Nov-1999 02:09:38
From:	Guy Daniels (GuyD3@aol.com)
	Rodney, I met you a couple of years ago when you subbed for the late Ted Dunbar at Sweet Basil's in NY (I was working there at the time, and had my classical gtr. with me). I am looking forward to hearing your new CD!

 

Date:	29-Nov-1999 05:10:40
From:	Timothy Reyes (timothy.reyes@worldnet.att.net)
	Hey Rodney, just wanted to say hello, it's been a minute. Hope you are well. Hope you are feeling better. I may be back in NY. Hope we can get together. sincerely, Tim Reyes

 

Date:	14-Dec-1999 21:49:58
From:	Rodney Jones
	Dear Friends, Ii want to thank each one of you who has taken the time to listen to my CD and to post a note or to about. I am grateful for each and every comment. My life is a marvelous journey filled with much excitment and joy. Yes there are bumps in the road but the dynamic flow of the life force moves ahead in the same manner that a stream flow over the stones which lay on the stream bed. I often reflect on the specialness of these times. We are able to share the love and joy of music with one another. We share a bond in that in hearing my music you glimpse a window into my heart and head. I too look out through my music into the world and find you there. I am looking forward to being able to perform the music on The Undiscovered Few live and hope to be able to get a chance to meet each one of you personally. Let me know what you would like to discuss. My life is full of work stories and life stories. With gratitude and love I am, Rodney Jones

 

Date:	17-Dec-1999 15:45:55
From:	Amy
	When was the first time you decided that you wanted to play the guitar professionally? Is there an actual moment, or did it progress slowly? Thought i'd ask...

 

Date:	14-Jan-2000 09:02:55
From:	Rodney Jones
	Dear Friends, I want to thank each of you who takes the time to visit here and to read and or share your comments and feelings about music. It has truly been wonderful to email with so many of you and to share so many wonderful insights about music. Music is truly a gateway into the essence of a person. I have learned and am learning so much about life and myself from music that I am amazed. I would like to know from you, what has been your most profound experience from music as a listener or player? What do you expect from music when you listen to it. I look forward to your wisdom and your experiences. Rodney

 

Date:	28-Jan-2000 01:08:34
From:	Lage (LageLund@excite.com)
	I read an interview where you mentioned Nathen Page. I have wanted to check him out for a long time but have been unable to find any of his recordings , or any of the stuff he did with Tolliver. What records of him would you say have influenced you ? Will you be touring in support of "the undiscovered .." ? If so , what will the band be? Is it possible to get a tape of the BET feature somehow ? Is the next record in the works ? Your record was killing. Thanx.

 

Date:	28-Jan-2000 01:10:52
From:	Lage (LageLund@excite.com)
	I read an interview where you mentioned Nathen Page. I have wanted to check him out for a long time but have been unable to find any of his recordings , or any of the stuff he did with Tolliver. What records of him would you say have influenced you ? Will you be touring in support of "the undiscovered .." ? If so , what will the band be? Is it possible to get a tape of the BET feature somehow ? Is the next record in the works ? Your record was killing. Thanx.

 

Date:	28-Jan-2000 01:12:41
From:	Lage (LageLund@excite.com)
	I read an interview where you mentioned Nathen Page. I have wanted to check him out for a long time but have been unable to find any of his recordings , or any of the stuff he did with Tolliver. What records of him would you say have influenced you ? Will you be touring in support of "the undiscovered .." ? If so , what will the band be? Is it possible to get a tape of the BET feature somehow ? Is the next record in the works ? Your record was killing. Thanx.

 

Date:	12-Feb-2000 19:03:08
From:	Janie Samantha Thomas Williams (wmsfarm@bbtel.com)
	I need to know the name of an musical instrument that begins with an E????

 

Date:	15-Feb-2000 04:09:19
From:	cuthbert simpkins (phippsdian@al.com)
	It is 2/15/00 and I am listening/watching to Rodney Jones on BET. The performance has been deeply rewarding and I cant wait to get the CD. Peace, Cuthbert Simpkins MD

 

Date:	22-Apr-2000 00:51:57
From:	Amy
	Rodney, do you still check this webpage?

 

Date:	22-Apr-2000 00:52:24
From:	Amy
	Rodney, do you still check this webpage?

 

Date:	15-May-2000 08:26:02
From:	Rodney Jones
	Hello all. Just a note to let you know that I still check this page and welcome any comments or questions that you may have about my career or music in general. Much love, Rodney

 

Date:	26-May-2000 15:16:33
From:	Eric Sealls (ESealls@aol.com)
	Hello Rodney, this is from Eric Sealls, tall bass player from Silver and Horland. I'm writing to say congratulations on your new album. Also, at this point I am only working part-time with Melvin Sparks, and am available if you need me at ESealls@aol.com

 

Date:	19-Jun-2000 10:52:36
From:	al (jthompson@ci.buffalo.ny.us)
	i am looking forward to your performances at the freihoffer festival in saratoga springs, the crowds there are pretty hip, and love checking out 'next great thing' cats... see you at the gazebo saturday peace...al

 

Date:	13-Jul-2000 19:57:34
From:	Tony Viamontes (TonyViamontes@Yahoo.com)
	Rodney, It's me Tony V. the engineer. I have a new phone number (212)840-9819. I want to work with you again soon. Hope everything is cool. Peace, Tony V.

 

Date:	23-Oct-2000 13:15:47
From:	Rodney Jones
	Dear Friends, I have been away from the site for awhile but am back now and intend to share a lot more. I just completed recording a new CD for Bluenote. It was an exciting process and I look forward to sharing more about it with you. Anyway, I am back and look forward to some good dialogues. Rodney

 

Date:	07-Nov-2000 09:38:30
From:	Marc P. (becca@eticomm.net)
	Hi Rodney, I'm an biginner\intermediate guitar player and I've been interested in purchasing a Yamaha "SA" series guitar and I'd like your opinion. I play all kinds of music but mainly Blues\Rock. I've only played an AES-1500 and loved the sound but after seeing the "SA" series I want one, but I haven't heard one and no guitar shop in my area has any.(Southern New Jersey) So your opinion would be appreciated. Thanks Marc

 

Date:	12-Feb-2001 19:12:03
From:	Rodney Mitchell (reynard93@hotmail.com)
	Hi Rod! Brother it's great to write this e-mail to you! It's been many years. I now live in Aurora, Colorado. Musically, about a year ago I did a club date at a place here in Denver called "Vartan Jazz". On this date was myself (guitar), Javon Jackson (tenor & alto sax), Lonnie Smith (hammond B-3), and Nat Yarborough (drums). More recently, I did a four night stint with Count Basie Orchestra alto saxaphonist, Brad Lieley. Here in Denver, 89.3 FM (KUVO) is about to release a CD called "Live At The Oasis-Volume IV. I'm on that CD with an organ trio. I haven't talked with Kenny Burrell in years but I hear that he's doing well. And of course, we lost Ted Dunbar. I miss New York, but I like out here in Colorado. Rod, I just completed my CD entitled "Insight". I'd like to get with you to catch up on old times. "The Undiscoverd Few" is a fine CD. Rod, your music sounds just as fresh as it did when we used to trade gigs in New York (twenty years ago)!! My home phone: (303) 750-2496. E-mail: reynard93@hotmail.com Take care & god bless you! Rodney Mitchell

 

Date:	26-Feb-2001 01:16:19
From:	tim reyes (reyesjazz58@aol.com)
	rodney's new album is a scorcher. i was at the session and man, its something. rodney is the most consistent and talented and caring human being i have ever met. peace bro tim

 

Date:	23-Mar-2001 14:12:50
From:	JIM (jimalpeg@aol.com)
	Hi........I'm looking for an old recording by Lena Horne circa 1939 in which she sang classics like Beale Street Blues, Basin St.Blues. She was terrific. Please mail me any info Jim.

 

Date:	24-Apr-2001 02:48:30
From:	Natalie Dunbar (theliterati@earthlink.net)
	Hi Rodney: We've never met, but I've heard lots about you from my father, the late Ted Dunbar. So many people have sent messages via phone, snail and e-mail regarding his influence on their lives, both as musicians and "ordinary folk." As the third anniversary of his death approaches (May 29), I wonder if you have a few moments to share some thoughts of your own. Straight Ahead, brother!

 

Date:	14-May-2001 09:24:55
From:	Rodney Jones
	Dear Natalie, It is wonderful to hear from you. I have tried to say in a few words what can never be expressed in words. Your father’s music changed hearts and minds, but his spirit changed lives! He left big impression on the hearts of all of the musicians who knew him. God Bless. Rodney Ted Dunbar was that rare man. Although he was accomplished as a guitarist and a teacher it was always his presence that resonated with me. He was a kind person with a deep perception about those around him. He was always seeking something more. He was always looking for a greater awareness and the meaning behind the sounds that he would create. I heard about Ted as a master guitar teacher when I was just 14 or 15 years old. He was legendary to a whole generation of young guitarists particularly Black Jazz Guitarists. He was rare because he was a master player and a master teacher but greater than that, he was a master giver. He was always willing to share an idea or perception that he had about music. His giving to others still reverberates throughout the jazz community. I learned a lot from him about the art of jazz guitar. He was warm and sincere and is a pillar in my musical heritage. Ted is on to bigger and better things now but he left us with a tremendous legacy of music, spirit and love. Man…he left some big shoes to try to fill. For Ted with love, Rodney Jones, 4/2001