(July 23, 2025) Madeliene Johnson’s affection of the universal language of music began in her home country of the Philippines. The artist now known as MADZ climbed the ladder from the local church choir to college choirs – The University of Philippines Madrigal Singers and the U.P. Concert Choir – where the she travelled to Europe, Canada and U.S. as an Ambassador of Goodwill. And MADZ participated in a rock opera ballet in the U.K. entitled Tales of the Manuvu, celebrating her homeland’s artistic history.
MADZ then elevated her platform as an ambassador again in 2015, founding the Soul Funk Jazz Summer Festival in Washington, D.C. while sharing the stage with Lakeside and Pfunk Connection. She was a four-time Finalist in Jazz for D.C.’s Wammies Awards. Amongst MADZ’s discography are singles “Feel the Funk,” “Your Love,” and ”Love Will Lead You Back,” produced by Grammy winning Ric Wake (Mariah Carey, Monica) from her MADZ Jazz CD.
SoulTracks introduces MADZ to our pages with a festive summer party song, “Feel the Vibe,” a number rolls in non-stop funk. The interaction between several members of her backing band clicks on every level guiding soul, rock and pop into motion. “Feel the Vibe” cranks out an infectious ambiance, assisted by drummer Stacey Ellis, bass guitarist Sam Jenkins and Dee Rock with a roaring guitar solo.
And MADZ handles several departments as the producer (and exec producer) to nail down a vibe that is absolutely right. Listen up!
By Peggy Oliver
