Date Night Friday: Romantic Standards

Richard Jackson grew up surrounded by music. His voice quickly became synonymous with vocal legends such as Luther Vandross, Barry White, Marvin Gaye and Ronald Isley. He went on to open for legendary acts such as The Stylistics, Regina Belle, Tuck & Patti, Peabo Bryson, Will Downing, Jennifer Holiday, George Clinton, Incognito and Bob James. He has performed with Jazz legends Ernie Watts and Randy Brecker as well as Kenny Drew Jr, Al Di Meola and Ricky Lawson to name a few. Currently based in Singapore, Richard has been performing internationally at Jazz Festivals in Australia, France and Russia as well as across Asia and is consistently sought after. He combines incredible tone with intelligent phrasing and heartfelt intensity. Along with a convincing vocal trombone, listening to Richard sing is like being covered by a warm blanket on a winter's day.

EJ Hughes is a professional saxophonist and woodwind instructor with over 35 years of experience in performing and teaching. Trained in a variety of musical styles, Hughes has deep roots and interests in jazz and improvisation. He was awarded a tuition scholarship to Valdosta State University, where he studies from 1989 to 1993, earning a degree in saxophone and clarinet performance with a primary focus on classical music and repertoire. In 2003, Hughes earned a master’s degree in jazz pedagogy from Georgia State University after living in New York City and Orlando, where he studied privately with many notable artists, gaining insights into jazz saxophone sound, technique, and harmony while teaching, and performing.

Hughes began professional-level gigs at the age of 18. Now, 52 years old, he has performed in a variety of gigs spanning four decades. Notable performances include playing with The Temptations at 19 years old, the Sam Rivers RivBea Orchestra in his late 20s, GRAMMY-winner Speech of Arrested Development in his 30s, and Jennifer Holiday (Dream Girls) in his 40s. He has also performed with numerous professional bands while residing in New York, Orlando, Atlanta and Singapore.