Dee Lucas: The Smooth Jazz Maestro Celebrating Two Decades of Musical Brilliance
Dee Lucas, a contemporary jazz artist known for his smooth yet expressive saxophone playing, has been a staple in the Atlanta music scene for over 30 years. Born and raised in the small town of Tanner, Alabama, Dee has carried his nickname from childhood straight into his successful career as a musician. His journey has spanned decades, allowing him to blend various styles of music into what he humbly calls "just music," even as the world recognizes it as smooth jazz. Growing up in the 70s and 80s, Dee Lucas was exposed to a wide range of musical genres, giving him an eclectic ear that draws from legends such as Grover Washington Jr., George Howard, Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Ronnie Laws, and David Sanborn. Outside the jazz world, he found inspiration from funk and soul greats like Maze, Bootsy Collins, and Parliament. This rich variety of influences has deeply impacted his work.
Dee's latest album, ‘Twenty’, marks an impressive milestone in his career: a celebration of 20 years as a solo recording artist. Two standout singles showcase his creative versatility. The R&B-infused track "Weak Spot" features the soulful voice of Kevin Bennett, while the title track, "Twenty," shines in the smooth jazz realm, with the contribution of mega-producer and pianist Michael Broening. The album, like its creator, defies easy categorization, blending smooth jazz and R&B in ways that resonate with a broad audience.
When asked about his creative process, Dee credits the collaborative spirit of those he works with. "Weak Spot" was brought to life by his long-time college friend and drummer, Melvin "Melly" Baldwin, with lyrics by Kipper Jones, and vocals by Bennett. Dee faced a personal challenge during the recording, carefully balancing his saxophone performance with Bennett’s powerful vocals. His mantra of "less is more" allowed the perfect blend between smooth jazz and R&B, creating a sonic experience that connects deeply with listeners.
With this latest project, Dee aims to capture the vulnerability often felt in relationships, sending a message that it's okay to let your guard down and open up to someone special. Recently, Dee graced the stage at St. James Live in Atlanta on September 19, 2024, and is set to perform at the prestigious Blue Note in Napa, CA, on September 26, 2024. His live shows are known to bring the energy of his recordings to life, leaving audiences captivated by his melodic storytelling.
Listen to 'Weak Spot' ft. Kevin Bennett
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