(February 12, 2025) The saxophone is synonymous with smooth jazz.
We’ve heard artists like Gerald Albright, Kenny G, and Kirk Whalum bring the expressive sounds of the sax to life on record for several decades. Another saxophonist who has been doing his thing for just as long is Johnny James (aka Dr. J). The musician/vocalist has 40+ years of performing and recording under his belt, which includes founding the group Will to Power, best known for their 1988 #1 hit cover of “Baby I Love Your Way/Freebird Medley.”
On his own, Johnny James/Dr. J has gained substantial airplay for his smooth jams, gracing stages nationally and internationally. His latest solo work is a love song called “Welcome.” There are two versions of the song – an instrumental one and a vocal one. The vocal version is our new First Listen; it was produced by legendary keyboardist Bob Baldwin and features the voice of internationally known singer, William “Kooly” Scott.
The single – which has landed on the UK Soul charts – opens with Dr. J setting the tone on the saxophone, which then accents Kooly’s baritone voice throughout the song. Kooly sings to that special lady: “You’re the love of my life / I’m so glad that you’re mine.” It’s the kind of song that can fit the soundtrack to date night. Speaking of that, it’s not unusual for a couple to dine at a fancy spot with a glass of wine on date night. That pairing of wine with a good meal goes together well like pairing the sax with vocals.
So, check out the pairing of Dr. J and Kooly as they welcome you to love on their smooth new single.
By Darnea N. Samuels
