Passive Thoughts CD Review ROCKLINE Magazine
Oct 17, 2002
Although the title says “Passive Thoughts” there’s nothing passive in the debut by Saxophonist Jimmie Highsmith, Jr. I found myself drawn to the opening measures of the first track, “Just Chillin.” The introductory melody of guitar and soprano tug on the listener’s heartstrings as passive thoughts turn to those of tenderness. Throughout this 11-song release, each song is played with such emotion and feeling, giving you a snapshot inside Jimmie’s heart, his undying love for Jesus. Jimmie mixes elements of smooth Jazz, R&B, Gospel, and Funk, culminating into a kaleidoscope of musical textures. “Upstate Funk” is a funky joint that’ll “get yer boutte” up and moving, while “Once Upon A Time,” takes the listener on a melodic journey through a delightful trek of soulful melodies as sax and keyboard compliment one another. Two versions of the song, “May I Love You,” exist, which give the listener a taste of Jimmie’s arranging versatility and creativity. This disc is a “must have” if you enjoy serious smooth jazz with a positive vibe. Being a sax player myself, I am big on playing with emotion and feeling, and I can tell when a musician is mechanical in their playing. Well,... let me tell ya, Jimmie plays his heart and soul out, it’s undeniable where he pulls his strength from, the greatest musician in the universe, Jesus! If you’re a fan of Kirk Whalum, Branford Marsalis, or the late Grover Washington, Jr., you’ll enjoy this CD tremendously,.. Go Buy it NOW!! >>EP Rockline Magazine Vol.2 Issue 3
CD review Freetime Magazine
Nov 13, 2002
Saxophonist Jimmie Highsmith Jr. rips it up on his debut CD, Passive Thoughts, with a dinner show scheduled for Milestones on Saturday, November 23rd. Highsmith studied sax at Hochstein, School of the Arts and the Eastman School of Music, and his training is evident. With jazz stylings that go from smooth to funk, Highsmith adds healthy doses of R&B as well. A mostly instrumental endeavor, Highsmith is joined by select vocalists on a couple tracks, including Shawn "Black" Jackson and "Divine Nature." Originals like "Upstate Funk" and "Just Chillin'" are especially infectious....>>M Picardo FREETIME Magazine Vol. 26 No. 12
Second CD Started
Feb 2, 2004
Hard at work in the studio working on the new project... Stay tune for more up dates.
Mirus Magazine
March 27, 2004
Jimmie will be one of the featured guest Sunday March 28th on this very informing Televison show. Mirus Magazine airs Sunday's 11:30am channel 16 on the WB network.
New CD in Stores Sept
April 6, 2004
Keep your ears open. My new CD and second effort will be in stores early this fall. It will feature such tatents as Chris Lofton, Nikki, Brother Wilson, Victor Antonetti, Jr., Big Marv, Divine Nature and many more.... It will be released by Variance Records... Oh and yes there will be another CD Release Party!!! Stay tune for details..
Alicia Keys FLPAC
August 2, 2004
If Samson felt a little too familiar, guys like Jimmie Highsmith Jr. might make you forget that Kenny G ruined the alto sax for everyone. Although the Rochester reedman was out in front of every song, he spread the face time around the band very nicely. Highsmith's opening instrumental, Jeff Lorber's “What It Is,” was so relentlessly and infectiously percussive that I'd still be listening to it at this moment if he hadn't stopped playing....>> Jeff Spevak Staff music critic D and C
Rochester's Own Premiere Jazz Artist Releases Second CD
September 9, 2004
Join Rochester native, Jimmie Highsmith, Jr., jazz musician as he celebrates the release of his second cd, Jacquin later this month with Variance Records for Tjari Music. If you have heard the debut cd, Passive Thoughts, you will be blown away by Jacquin. A cd release party has been scheduled for Sunday, September 19 at Karma (355 East Avenue) from 7 - 10 p.m. Hors d’oeuvres will be available while they last. Tickets are $10.00 per person. If you want to purchase a ticket that includes a cd, the price is $20.00 per person. Additional cds will be available for purchase. This event is sponsored by Tjari Music with support from LandNPR Productions. If you like jazz, you don’t want to miss this event! Jimmie Highsmith, Jr. and his band will be performing. Jimmie Highsmith, Jr. is managed by Tjari Music. Jacquin was produced by Jimmie Highsmith, Jr. for Tjari Music. Jimmie has performed with the following notables: Paul Boutte, Bob Stata, Rich Thompson, Mike Mileto, Rey Scott, Janet Beamon, Dita Jackson, Chris Beard, Joe Beard, Wessell Anderson, Carl Thomas, Wycliffe Gordon, Eric Reed and Yolanda Adams. Jimmie and members of his band have also opened for such greats as: Natalie Cole, Little Richard, Najee, "Papa John" DeFrancesco, Robert Cray Blues Band, Joyce Cooling, Montell Jordan, Shamika Copeland, Neville Brothers, Temptations, the Isley Brothers, and recently Alicia Keys. For booking information, please contact: Tjari Music - (585) 234-9067 or email tjarimusic@aol.com. To schedule a media interview, please contact: Shaunta Collier-Santos, LandNPR Productions - (585) 530-9318 or email landnpr@aol.com.
Jacquin CD Review Freetime Magazine
Sept 15, 2004
Ace saxophonist, Jimmie Highsmith Jr. dropped off his new (and second) CD, entitled Jacquin, dedicated to his eldest daughter of the same name. A mostly instrumental excursion, Highsmith features a couple guest vocalists, as on the lovely "In Your Presence." And while it seemed a bit early for holiday music, Highsmith's rendition of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" is simply beautiful and made even this scrooge long for the season! Get a dose of this smooth, R&B-laced jazz as Highsmith celebrates his CD release party at Karma on Sunday, September 19th (7-10pm)... By Michelle Picardo, Freetime Magazine
Jimmie is newest member of InTune Staff
Dec 30, 2004
Exciting News: 12/30/04 Jimmie Highsmith, Jr., has join the staff of InTune Contemporary Music & Production. He will be teaching Saxophone/Theory & Ear Training. InTune is founded upon a modern approach to music education. Both Brad Johnson and Jake Glasgow, inTune's founders, have been influenced by their experiences as performers, students and teachers. Their philosophy reflects insights into new ways that the discipline of music can be taught. It is their belief that aspiring musicians ought to be equipped with the practical and technological tools necessary for success in an always evolving industry. InTune provides a unique combination of instruction in contemporary music technique and modern music production. The curriculum integrates core knowledge of music theory, ear training, and music technology with the practical skills necessary to be a successful musician today. Rochester is known for its music schools and InTune is responding to the need for a contemporary perspective in Rochester Music Education. The school will help to enhance an already vibrant educational community. For more info: http://intuneonline.com/index.html
Music Clinic for Teens
May 5, 2007
In conjunction with Hochstein Music School, The Advocacy Center and Jimmie Highsmith, Jr. will host a one-hour music clinic for 70 teenage and young adult student musicians who are interested in learning more about jazz. The music clinic will be held at Hochstein Music School, 50 North Plymouth Avenue, on Saturday, May 5, 2007 from 4:00-5:00 pm. Jimmie will talk about the history of jazz and the difference between jazz and other types of music. There will be time for questions and answers. Jimmie and the students will end the clinic with a jam session. The event is open to student musicians, instrumental or vocal, age 14 and older. Students are encouraged to bring their instruments with them. If you would like to participate, please contact Joyce Steel at 546-1700 ext. 234 by Wednesday, May 2, 2007. This event is a warm up for “A Night of Hot Jazz and Cool Art,” which will be held on Saturday, May 12, 2007 from 8:00 – 10:00 pm at the Memorial Art Gallery and will feature the music of Wycliffe Gordon, Jimmie Highsmith, Jr., and Tyler Owens, as well as a silent auction and light refreshments. To purchase tickets for the May 12th event, contact Anna Costalas at 546-1700 ext. 265
Night of Hot Jazz and Cool Art "The CD Release party for
May 12, 2007
It is what it Is!!!" May 12, 2007 8:00pm - 10:00pm Internationally acclaimed jazz musician Wycliffe Gordon joins Jimmie Highsmith Jr. and vocalist Tyler Owens for the release of Jimmie's 3rd Album It is what it is!!! This event will be held at the Memorial Art Gallery 500 University Ave Rochester, NY 14607 on Saturday, May 12, 2007 from 8 pm to 10 pm to benefit The Advocacy Center. Highsmith celebrates the release of his third CD, "It Is What It Is," which features Wycliffe Gordon. The "Night of Hot Jazz and Cool Art" will also feature an art auction, with all proceeds benefiting The Advocacy Center's programs. Lia Lando from Fox Rochester and News 8 Now will serve as Host for the event. Guests will enjoy hors d'oeuvres and desserts from local restaurants and bakeries. The Advocacy Center provides information, support and advocacy to individuals with disabilities and their families. Sponsors of the event include Wachovia, Faraci Lange LLP, Preferred Care, and WROC Channel 8. Wycliffe Gordon enjoys an extraordinary career as a performer, composer, arranger, and educator, receiving high praise and multiple awards and honors from audiences and critics alike. Highsmith, a favorite on the local jazz scene, has performed many times with Gordon and other notables such as Wynton Marsalis. This is Highsmith's second year playing for The Advocacy Center's event, and he is happy to collaborate a second time: "I wanted to some way benefit a cause that I really felt strongly about," said Highsmith. "I've seen the struggles individuals with disabilities and their families go through to create quality lives. There are a lot of children, adults, and families who need help to break down the barriers that keep them from realizing their goals." Advance tickets for "A Night of Hot Jazz and Cool Art" are $35 person and can be purchased by calling The Advocacy Center at 546-1700. Tickets will be $40 at the door. For more information on Wycliffe Gordon, visit www.wycliffegordon.com For more information on The Advocacy Center and "A Night of Hot Jazz and Cool Art" visit www.advocacycenter.com
It is what it is CD Review Freetime Magazine
June 21, 2007
The jazz won't stop we received the new CD from sax master, Jimmie Highsmith Jr., his third overall, entitled It Is What It Is!!!. All songs were tracked, engineered and mixed at Dynamic Recording, where we hear noted trombonist Wycliffe Gordon laid down some tracks for the record. The impassioned interplay of the two creates something beyond the smooth jazz style Highsmith is noted for, and gets into more of a groove, not quite a nasty one, but one with teeth certainly. Highsmith performs originals, like the self-titled track, which adds a little funk to the equation, and some great covers too, like his mesmerizing version of Marin Gaye's "What's Going On" and the soulful cover of Bill Withers' "Lovely Day," featuring vocals from Danielle Ponder. ....>>M Picardo FREETIME Magazine Vol. 31 No. 2
Oct 17, 2002
Although the title says “Passive Thoughts” there’s nothing passive in the debut by Saxophonist Jimmie Highsmith, Jr. I found myself drawn to the opening measures of the first track, “Just Chillin.” The introductory melody of guitar and soprano tug on the listener’s heartstrings as passive thoughts turn to those of tenderness. Throughout this 11-song release, each song is played with such emotion and feeling, giving you a snapshot inside Jimmie’s heart, his undying love for Jesus. Jimmie mixes elements of smooth Jazz, R&B, Gospel, and Funk, culminating into a kaleidoscope of musical textures. “Upstate Funk” is a funky joint that’ll “get yer boutte” up and moving, while “Once Upon A Time,” takes the listener on a melodic journey through a delightful trek of soulful melodies as sax and keyboard compliment one another. Two versions of the song, “May I Love You,” exist, which give the listener a taste of Jimmie’s arranging versatility and creativity. This disc is a “must have” if you enjoy serious smooth jazz with a positive vibe. Being a sax player myself, I am big on playing with emotion and feeling, and I can tell when a musician is mechanical in their playing. Well,... let me tell ya, Jimmie plays his heart and soul out, it’s undeniable where he pulls his strength from, the greatest musician in the universe, Jesus! If you’re a fan of Kirk Whalum, Branford Marsalis, or the late Grover Washington, Jr., you’ll enjoy this CD tremendously,.. Go Buy it NOW!! >>EP Rockline Magazine Vol.2 Issue 3
CD review Freetime Magazine
Nov 13, 2002
Saxophonist Jimmie Highsmith Jr. rips it up on his debut CD, Passive Thoughts, with a dinner show scheduled for Milestones on Saturday, November 23rd. Highsmith studied sax at Hochstein, School of the Arts and the Eastman School of Music, and his training is evident. With jazz stylings that go from smooth to funk, Highsmith adds healthy doses of R&B as well. A mostly instrumental endeavor, Highsmith is joined by select vocalists on a couple tracks, including Shawn "Black" Jackson and "Divine Nature." Originals like "Upstate Funk" and "Just Chillin'" are especially infectious....>>M Picardo FREETIME Magazine Vol. 26 No. 12
Second CD Started
Feb 2, 2004
Hard at work in the studio working on the new project... Stay tune for more up dates.
Mirus Magazine
March 27, 2004
Jimmie will be one of the featured guest Sunday March 28th on this very informing Televison show. Mirus Magazine airs Sunday's 11:30am channel 16 on the WB network.
New CD in Stores Sept
April 6, 2004
Keep your ears open. My new CD and second effort will be in stores early this fall. It will feature such tatents as Chris Lofton, Nikki, Brother Wilson, Victor Antonetti, Jr., Big Marv, Divine Nature and many more.... It will be released by Variance Records... Oh and yes there will be another CD Release Party!!! Stay tune for details..
Alicia Keys FLPAC
August 2, 2004
If Samson felt a little too familiar, guys like Jimmie Highsmith Jr. might make you forget that Kenny G ruined the alto sax for everyone. Although the Rochester reedman was out in front of every song, he spread the face time around the band very nicely. Highsmith's opening instrumental, Jeff Lorber's “What It Is,” was so relentlessly and infectiously percussive that I'd still be listening to it at this moment if he hadn't stopped playing....>> Jeff Spevak Staff music critic D and C
Rochester's Own Premiere Jazz Artist Releases Second CD
September 9, 2004
Join Rochester native, Jimmie Highsmith, Jr., jazz musician as he celebrates the release of his second cd, Jacquin later this month with Variance Records for Tjari Music. If you have heard the debut cd, Passive Thoughts, you will be blown away by Jacquin. A cd release party has been scheduled for Sunday, September 19 at Karma (355 East Avenue) from 7 - 10 p.m. Hors d’oeuvres will be available while they last. Tickets are $10.00 per person. If you want to purchase a ticket that includes a cd, the price is $20.00 per person. Additional cds will be available for purchase. This event is sponsored by Tjari Music with support from LandNPR Productions. If you like jazz, you don’t want to miss this event! Jimmie Highsmith, Jr. and his band will be performing. Jimmie Highsmith, Jr. is managed by Tjari Music. Jacquin was produced by Jimmie Highsmith, Jr. for Tjari Music. Jimmie has performed with the following notables: Paul Boutte, Bob Stata, Rich Thompson, Mike Mileto, Rey Scott, Janet Beamon, Dita Jackson, Chris Beard, Joe Beard, Wessell Anderson, Carl Thomas, Wycliffe Gordon, Eric Reed and Yolanda Adams. Jimmie and members of his band have also opened for such greats as: Natalie Cole, Little Richard, Najee, "Papa John" DeFrancesco, Robert Cray Blues Band, Joyce Cooling, Montell Jordan, Shamika Copeland, Neville Brothers, Temptations, the Isley Brothers, and recently Alicia Keys. For booking information, please contact: Tjari Music - (585) 234-9067 or email tjarimusic@aol.com. To schedule a media interview, please contact: Shaunta Collier-Santos, LandNPR Productions - (585) 530-9318 or email landnpr@aol.com.
Jacquin CD Review Freetime Magazine
Sept 15, 2004
Ace saxophonist, Jimmie Highsmith Jr. dropped off his new (and second) CD, entitled Jacquin, dedicated to his eldest daughter of the same name. A mostly instrumental excursion, Highsmith features a couple guest vocalists, as on the lovely "In Your Presence." And while it seemed a bit early for holiday music, Highsmith's rendition of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" is simply beautiful and made even this scrooge long for the season! Get a dose of this smooth, R&B-laced jazz as Highsmith celebrates his CD release party at Karma on Sunday, September 19th (7-10pm)... By Michelle Picardo, Freetime Magazine
Jimmie is newest member of InTune Staff
Dec 30, 2004
Exciting News: 12/30/04 Jimmie Highsmith, Jr., has join the staff of InTune Contemporary Music & Production. He will be teaching Saxophone/Theory & Ear Training. InTune is founded upon a modern approach to music education. Both Brad Johnson and Jake Glasgow, inTune's founders, have been influenced by their experiences as performers, students and teachers. Their philosophy reflects insights into new ways that the discipline of music can be taught. It is their belief that aspiring musicians ought to be equipped with the practical and technological tools necessary for success in an always evolving industry. InTune provides a unique combination of instruction in contemporary music technique and modern music production. The curriculum integrates core knowledge of music theory, ear training, and music technology with the practical skills necessary to be a successful musician today. Rochester is known for its music schools and InTune is responding to the need for a contemporary perspective in Rochester Music Education. The school will help to enhance an already vibrant educational community. For more info: http://intuneonline.com/index.html
Music Clinic for Teens
May 5, 2007
In conjunction with Hochstein Music School, The Advocacy Center and Jimmie Highsmith, Jr. will host a one-hour music clinic for 70 teenage and young adult student musicians who are interested in learning more about jazz. The music clinic will be held at Hochstein Music School, 50 North Plymouth Avenue, on Saturday, May 5, 2007 from 4:00-5:00 pm. Jimmie will talk about the history of jazz and the difference between jazz and other types of music. There will be time for questions and answers. Jimmie and the students will end the clinic with a jam session. The event is open to student musicians, instrumental or vocal, age 14 and older. Students are encouraged to bring their instruments with them. If you would like to participate, please contact Joyce Steel at 546-1700 ext. 234 by Wednesday, May 2, 2007. This event is a warm up for “A Night of Hot Jazz and Cool Art,” which will be held on Saturday, May 12, 2007 from 8:00 – 10:00 pm at the Memorial Art Gallery and will feature the music of Wycliffe Gordon, Jimmie Highsmith, Jr., and Tyler Owens, as well as a silent auction and light refreshments. To purchase tickets for the May 12th event, contact Anna Costalas at 546-1700 ext. 265
Night of Hot Jazz and Cool Art "The CD Release party for
May 12, 2007
It is what it Is!!!" May 12, 2007 8:00pm - 10:00pm Internationally acclaimed jazz musician Wycliffe Gordon joins Jimmie Highsmith Jr. and vocalist Tyler Owens for the release of Jimmie's 3rd Album It is what it is!!! This event will be held at the Memorial Art Gallery 500 University Ave Rochester, NY 14607 on Saturday, May 12, 2007 from 8 pm to 10 pm to benefit The Advocacy Center. Highsmith celebrates the release of his third CD, "It Is What It Is," which features Wycliffe Gordon. The "Night of Hot Jazz and Cool Art" will also feature an art auction, with all proceeds benefiting The Advocacy Center's programs. Lia Lando from Fox Rochester and News 8 Now will serve as Host for the event. Guests will enjoy hors d'oeuvres and desserts from local restaurants and bakeries. The Advocacy Center provides information, support and advocacy to individuals with disabilities and their families. Sponsors of the event include Wachovia, Faraci Lange LLP, Preferred Care, and WROC Channel 8. Wycliffe Gordon enjoys an extraordinary career as a performer, composer, arranger, and educator, receiving high praise and multiple awards and honors from audiences and critics alike. Highsmith, a favorite on the local jazz scene, has performed many times with Gordon and other notables such as Wynton Marsalis. This is Highsmith's second year playing for The Advocacy Center's event, and he is happy to collaborate a second time: "I wanted to some way benefit a cause that I really felt strongly about," said Highsmith. "I've seen the struggles individuals with disabilities and their families go through to create quality lives. There are a lot of children, adults, and families who need help to break down the barriers that keep them from realizing their goals." Advance tickets for "A Night of Hot Jazz and Cool Art" are $35 person and can be purchased by calling The Advocacy Center at 546-1700. Tickets will be $40 at the door. For more information on Wycliffe Gordon, visit www.wycliffegordon.com For more information on The Advocacy Center and "A Night of Hot Jazz and Cool Art" visit www.advocacycenter.com
It is what it is CD Review Freetime Magazine
June 21, 2007
The jazz won't stop we received the new CD from sax master, Jimmie Highsmith Jr., his third overall, entitled It Is What It Is!!!. All songs were tracked, engineered and mixed at Dynamic Recording, where we hear noted trombonist Wycliffe Gordon laid down some tracks for the record. The impassioned interplay of the two creates something beyond the smooth jazz style Highsmith is noted for, and gets into more of a groove, not quite a nasty one, but one with teeth certainly. Highsmith performs originals, like the self-titled track, which adds a little funk to the equation, and some great covers too, like his mesmerizing version of Marin Gaye's "What's Going On" and the soulful cover of Bill Withers' "Lovely Day," featuring vocals from Danielle Ponder. ....>>M Picardo FREETIME Magazine Vol. 31 No. 2