Jacques Lesure

Just when you thought you knew everything about recording artist Jacques Lesure, he offers up yet another dimension of his existence which transcends any artistic limitations the world may have tried to relegate him to. Currently a resident of Los Angeles, California Jacques Lesure is a Detroit, Michigan native. His classic style along with his innovative, yet sincere approach to the music, are an integral part of the signature Jacques Lesure sound. Guitarist, Educator and Actor Jacques Lesure is an enigma. His sound is steeped in the rich tradition of his mentors like George Benson, Kenny Burrell and a host of others, but more than that, he’s also a visionary.

It’s no secret that his music is rooted in the foundations of gospel, blues and improvised Black American Music. It’s his belief that the sounds of “today” are equally as relevant as those of glorious days gone by. It is that synergy that makes his music swing with a style like no other. Jacques is proudly associated with the prestigious WJ3 Records imprint and now has three recordings as an artist on that label. WJ3 Records is the brainchild of prominent drummer, Willie Jones III. Jacques is label mates and often collaborates with a host of other iconic artists such as pianist Eric Reed and SFJAZZ artist, Warren Wolf.

His previous recordings, “When She Smiles” and “Camaraderie” were very highly regarded worldwide including a four star rating by DownBeat Magazine for his “Camaraderie” release. In his 30-year career, Jacques has played and recorded with many notable musicians across various genres. His performances have been seen and heard most recently in the Academy Award winning movie “La La Land” (with Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone) as well as in some of the world’s premiere venues and music festivals. Jacques believes in the future of our youth and serves as an ambassador and advocate of the arts, thus securing the future of great music.

Mr. Lesure is also very active in the community and mentors many of today’s up and coming musicians. Always mindful of spiritual needs of his fellow man, Jacques is also an author, motivational speaker and radio/podcast host. Because of his diverse experiences and associations, Jacques is often called upon as a viable source of antiquity and has been featured in numerous national publications including the Oxford African American Studies title “Leimert Park, Jazz” and is the recipient of countless awards.

He is the Musical Director for the Living Legends Foundation and is President of the African-American Jazz Caucus.

“With a talent on guitar that is hard to match Mr. Lesure will not be standing in an unemployment line as long as there are clubs that showcase talent of his caliber. But, I would like to add another aspect of Jacques' appeal - he talks to his audience with a warmth and sincerity that I seldom witness in a stage performer. He has a charm that he openly shares with every member of his audience. Mr. Lesure's verbal asides add to the strength of his performance. He made several important points concerning Jazz Music and I could not help but agree with his insight when he told his audience "Jazz is a national treasure" and that he felt it his obligation to "take it out of New York and bring it everywhere." He alluded to Chattanooga's rather "underground" relationship with jazz as if it were a family secret that had been kept in the closet for too long - that he wanted to share it with as many people as possible

Primary Instrument

Guitar

Location

Los Angeles

Willing to teach

Advanced only

Credentials/Background

25 years teaching experience from pre-school to high school in both public and private education. 25 years performance experience with various, major Jazz artists

Clinic/Workshop Information

"Playing From the Source" a course in which music, psychology, and spirituality are all discussed as one in their importance to the overall success of the musican. "Jazz for Juniors" a course for pres-school to high school students in which Jazz is taught through the use of popular music from today and traditional music of the past