ROCK YOUR SOUL
LIMITED EDITION VINYL RELEASE POP UP
We’re back! Come out to our Vinyl Release Pop-Up at Dew Drop Inn (2836 Lasalle St.) this Thursday, April 3, from 5–8 PM!
Come get your limited edition, signed vinyl of my debut album Rock Your Soul at the historic Dew Drop Inn. A portion of sales will support Girls Play Trumpets Too in hiring more trumpet instructors as we continue to grow!
This is a historic moment—we were the first band to perform on the Dew Drop stage when it reopened—so let’s celebrate together! See y’all Thursday!
DEBUT ALBUM
ROCK YOUR SOUL
ROCK YOUR SOUL
album release video
new single
SpottieOttieDopaliscious
RIDE MY TRAIN
ROCK YOUR SOUL feat. ROCKIN’ DOPSIE JR.
music video
Troy Sawyer is an accomplished soulful trumpet player and music educator from New Orleans, Louisiana. He comes from a line of great musicians including his cousin, Leon Bridges, and his great grandfather, Louis D. James (who played with and co-wrote songs with the great Buddy Bolden). He has shared stages with artist such as Jon Batiste, Lalah Hathaway, Harry Connick Jr., Wynton Marsalis, and more.
His band, Troy Sawyer and the Elementz, originated from a trio that rocked the New Orleans music scene after Hurricane Katrina. Their unique sound could be described as a gumbo medley infused with funk, rock, soul, jazz, and latin influence. This energizing concoction will blow your mind and rock your soul. Troy Sawyer and the Elementz released their debut album entitled Rock Your Soul on Louis Armstrong’s Birthday (Aug. 4, 2023).
Troy Sawyer is also the founder of Girls Play Trumpets Too, which is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that empowers girls ages (8-19) to play the trumpet on a novice and an advanced level to enhance equal representation in a male dominant music industry.
Press
Troy Sawyer, the founder of Girls Play Trumpets Too, along with two talented girls from our program, will be featured on the Kelly Clarkson Show in New York City. The show, airing on NBC, promises an inspiring segment as Troy shares his journey growing up playing the trumpet in New Orleans and the heartfelt reasons behind founding Girls Play Trumpets Too. Joining them on the show will be the sensational Justin Timberlake.
Friends…someone you can always depend on💪🏿 My Bro @senseidreness and I have been rockin and rollin since we met teaching back in the day. He’s from my second home New York city and now he lives in his second home New Orleans. Dat New Orleans + New York connection is real…ya dig👊🏾 📸 @cozmoblack
#friendship #neworleansnewyork #illbehomeforchristmas #rockyoursoul #frenchquarter
#wutangforever
“I’ll Be Home For Christmas” is dedicate to all of my people like @jaymorg999 who was locked up in jail for 20 years for a crime that he didn’t commit. I believe that jail is another form of slavery and it will never be the solution to the problems that plague our community and our world. I didn’t imagine how deep this Christmas song would be…I had only covered it because I loved the melody but everything happens for a reason. I have been passionate about shedding light on the inequalities of the criminal justice system for a minute. They’re so many people- especially my people that are locked up- that wish that they can say, “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” and Jerome made me realize how impactful the song was the other day when we talked on the phone. So that’s another reason why I’m donating a percentage of the record sales to @freedemfoundations that Jerome Morgan is one of the founders of that gives back to our community✊🏾❤️ #illbehomeforchristmas #freedemfoundations #justice #rockyoursoul #singadifferentsong #fbf #neworleans #criminaljusticesystem #christmassong #holiday
Thank God for this BEAUTIFUL day In New Orleans…74 degrees in December…we blessed🌞 #illbehomeforchristmas #neworleans #frenchquarter #humpday #sunshine #wednesday #christmastime #christmassong #holidayseason #rockyoursoul #singadifferentsong
Thanks to @gentilly_fest for having us and @girlsplaytrumpets2 We had an incredible time rockin the stage and making history! We appreciate our sponsors @notcfund and @lovenotesnola for the continued support…until next time!
#rockyoursoul #girlsplaytrumpetstoo #gentillyfest #notcf
I am truly honored and grateful to be recognized by @notcfund and my city for staying on the path of purpose. My journey has been filled with so many enriching and learning experiences that have brought me this far by faith. I remember after a gig at King Bolden’s back in the day, an old man told me, “Don’t worry about getting praise from man; God will give you all the praise you need.” Since then, I’ve lived my life not seeking praise to validate who I am or my purpose, but it’s always special when your city shows you love. Thank you again, and I’ll see y’all in 2025🎺
#notcf #honors #bestemergingartist #nola #rockyoursoul #nolatrumpetplayer
We’ll be kicking off Gentilly Fest this Friday, with @girlsplaytrumpets2 opening the show at 6:15 p.m., followed by us at 6:45 p.m. This is a historic moment as it’s the first time GPTT will open for us. Plus, we have a special surprise in store, so don’t miss it!
Presented by: @lovenotesnola “Jazz Under the Star”, in partnership with @notcfund
#GentillyFest #TroySawyer #LiveMusicNOLA #JazzUnderTheStars #TroySawyerAndTheElementz #NewOrleansMusic #FridayNightVibes #JazzFest #NOLALive #NOLAEvents #SupportLocalMusic #NOLAJazz #Soultone #rockyoursoul #girlsplaytrumpetstoo
My journey always brings me back to that little black boy from NOLA who picked up the trumpet in 4th grade. God’s plan is amazing, and that’s why I’ll never compare my path to anyone else’s—our journeys are what make us unique. We all have our season to do different things, and I’m grateful for the good seeds planted in me that I now get to sow and watch grow abundantly. That’s why I’m constantly in the mindset of improving not proving. Now, it’s time to create and play that trumpet…Happy Friday🎺
📸 @kault_photography
#journey #rockyoursoul #spottieottiedopaliscious #andre3000 #gptt #freedom #fbf
Congrats to @whoisdenisia for getting the opportunity to perform at the late great Whitney Houston’s Birthday Celebration! Denisia has been a tremendous supporter of Girls Play Trumpets Too. The girls are always excited to see her perform and look up to her as a big sister and role model. We are forever grateful for her support and love. We are extremely proud of her!
#whoisdenisia #gptt #whitneyhouston #birthday #humpday #femaleempowerment #kamalaharris
Get ready for Satchmo After Dark: Pool Party! Join us as we honor the legacy of Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong and celebrate the first anniversary of my debut album “Rock Your Soul” @dewdropinnnola this Saturday, August 3 from 8p-9p!
Admission is free, with a suggested donation to support @girlsplaytrumpets2 and I’ll be DJing a special set to take you on a global musical journey back to New Orleans. Plus, enjoy wellness massages from @7rootsbw
Date: Saturday, August 3, 2024
Time: 6 PM - 8 PM
Location: Dew Drop Inn,
2836 Lasalle St,
New Orleans, LA 70115
Don’t miss this unique event celebrating our city’s history and culture🎺
#SatchmoAfterDark #RockYourSoul #GirlsPlayTrumpetsToo #satchmofest #whitelinennight
I’m honored to join this year’s @RecordingAcademy new member class! I’m ready to be part of a family of creators, professionals, and music advocates. I’ll have the opportunity to make a difference for my people, the broader music community, and my own journey...Rock Your Soul💜
#IAmTheAcademy #recordingacademy #rockyoursoul #tbt #grammys
Y’all know @girlsplaytrumpets2 is my labor of love❤️Join us for the Girls Play Trumpets Too: Spring Concert at Cafe Istanbul (2372 St Claude Ave Room 252, New Orleans, LA 70117) on Saturday, June 8, from 3 PM to 5 PM. Doors open at 2:30 PM. No cover charge, but donations are suggested.
RSVP now to secure your spot and support our talented young musicians! Link in the Bio!
#springconcert #gptt #girlsrock #femaletrumpetplayer #history #girlsplaytrumpetstoo
I am still overwhelmed with joy to witness a vision come to fruition! Girls Play Trumpets Too is a testament to my journey, reflecting transformation, altruism, and joy. We rocked their souls last Friday @jazzfest
Gratitude to my music mentors for passing on the torch to inspire the next generation of female musicians. A special shoutout to my family, band members, team, supporters, and parents for your support through the struggle and progress. Huge thanks to Jazz Fest for the opportunity, as we made history on that stage, empowering young women through trumpet, music, and equality🙏🏾🎺 @girlsplaytrumpets2
#rockyoursoul #gptt #jazzfest #fbf #femaleempowerment #beyoncé #taylorswift #femaletrumpetplayer #grammys
Thanks to @fqfest for having us open up the Jack Daniel’s Stage last Saturday feat. my sis @iamcasme 🔥 We Rocked their Souls that day, and then my Nola Fam @teedramoses closed the stage that night. This year was super special…see y’all next year!
#rockyoursoul #tse #fqfest #jackdaniels #chevron
TODAY @girlsplaytrumpets2 will be rockin the Kid’s Stage @fqfest from 12:15p-1:15p! The Kid’s Stage is located inside the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park building in the courtyard (419 Decatur St.) We have special@whoisdenisia and Kynedi Cole coming through to rock with the girls. This performance will be for the history books. Come through to support the future of Nola🎺
#fqfest #gptt #chevron #neworleansjazznationalhistoricalpark #history #femaletrumpetplayer #femalebrassplayers #blackgirlmagic
It’s Fench Quarter Fest Baby! We will be Rockin Y’all Souls this Saturday (4/13) on the Jack Daniel’s Stage @fqfest from 11:10a-12:30p with some special guest…come thru as we kick off the fest this Saturday!
And @girlsplaytrumpets2 will be making their @fqfest debut on the Kid’s Stage this Sunday from 12:15p:1:15p🎺 It’s going to be a historical weekend!
#rockyoursoul #fqfest #tse #debutalbum #girlsplaytrumpetstoo #chevron
We rocked their souls @smoothiekingcenter for the @pelicansnba halftime show last night! I’m beyond thankful for my family, which consists of everyone who supports and encourages me to keep going❤️ Thanks to the fam @jess.weinbergg for showing us some love by making last night happen. 2024 has been historic already, and it’s not over🙏🏾
#pelicansnba #smoothiekingcenter #rockyoursoul #zionwilliamson #tbt #halftimeshow
We will be rockin @pelicansnba halftime show this Wednesday, April 3…Come thru to Rock Your Soul!
#pelicans #halftimeshow #rockyoursoul #wednesday #tse #nba #springbreak
I’m excited to rock the Jack Daniel’s Stage with my band @fqfest on Saturday, April 13 from 11:10a-12:30p with some special guest!
French Quarter Fest is one of my favorite festivals to perform because it’s a celebration of New Orleans local talent that’s Global. Come thru!
#FrenchQuarterFest #JackDanielsStage #LiveMusic #NewOrleans #NOLA #rockyoursoul #fqfest #jackdaniels
Thanks to @fqfest for inviting me to speak at the French Quarter Fest Press Conference. It was an honor to represent my fellow NOLA musicians that make this city thrive. I was also honored to represent the living legend that’s on my debut album, the great Little Freddie King. His spirit of love, perseverance, and selflessness is inspirational. I ended the conference with my @notcfund family. It takes a village to elevate and facilitate any vision, so I would like to express my gratitude and love for showing love and support through the years. Happy French Quarter Fest🎺
#happyfrenchquarterfest #frenchquarterfest #rockyoursoul #gptt #fqfest
I ran into the big bro and mentor @terence_blanchard with my boy Eddie! Everything happens for a reason💪🏾 #happyfriday #rockyoursoul #happywomenshistorymonth
It was an honor to be the first band to perform at the recently restored Dew Drop Inn @dewdropinnnola , which originated in 1939 and is making its comeback.
This historic venue, cherished by music legends, has retained its 1950s charm through meticulous restoration, offering an intimate setting where icons like Little Richard created magic. With 17 boutique hotel rooms, it’s a place where Ray Charles stayed when he was in New Orleans.
My late great-uncle, who was a popular mixologist, stayed in one of the rooms. I felt the spirit of our ancestors while I was performing there. I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to have been blessed the stage that historical night. I can’t wait until the grand opening, which is coming soon!
#dewdropinn #nolaculture #history #mardigras #zulu #tse #rockyoursoul
Thanks to @black_boys_read_nola for having me as their special guest to make a real-life connection after reading the @tromboneshorty book. It was amazing to see these boys come together to read and discuss what they had read. My mom always encouraged me to read, and she would bring me to the library every Saturday to check out some books. We need to showcase more of the positive things in our community because they represent hope. They inspired me to write a children’s book about my journey🙏🏾
#blackboysread #tromboneshorty #literacy #blackhistory #blackhistorymonth #blackboyjoy
Tomorrow, we pay homage to 50 years of hip hop and celebrate Black History plus the month with a special tribute release: our cover of OutKast’s iconic “SpottieOttieDopaliscious.”
OutKast, comprised of André 3000 and Big Boi, is more than a hip hop group; they are architects of cultural evolution. From the dungeons of creativity, the Dungeon Family birthed a sound that transcended boundaries and defined a generation.
OutKast’s influence extends far beyond beats and rhymes. They represent a fusion of musical genres, a celebration of Southern rap, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. Their lyrical poetry captures the essence of life, love, and the complexities of the human experience.
As we release our rendition of “SpottieOttieDopaliscious,” we honor the trailblazing spirit of OutKast and the Dungeon Family. This cover is more than a musical tribute; it’s a testament to the power of art to shape culture and commemorate the resilience, creativity, and brilliance of Black History.
Join us in celebrating the legacy of OutKast and the Dungeon Family tomorrow as we unveil our homage to 50 years of hip hop with the world. Let the song Rock Your Soul ya dig🎺
#HipHopAnniversary #OutKast #andre3000 #BlackHistoryMonth #hiphop50
#DungeonFamilyLegacy #spottieottiedopaliscious #rockyoursoul #justintimberlake #kellyclarksonshow #rockyoursoul
I’m so excited and thankful to be part of the @kellyclarksonshow today, along with my NOLA crew from Girls Play Trumpets Too and Justin Timberlake! Tune In @3P CT!
@girlsplaytrumpets2 @justintimberlake
#kellyclarksonshow #rockyoursoul #gptt #nola #justintimberlake #nolamusic #musiceducation #grammys #nbc #vh1savethemusic
Whoa na! I’m so excited to release one of my favorite hip-hop songs, “SpottieOttieDopaliscious,” by OutKast. We have been playing this hip-hop classic at our shows for a minute. The enormous amount of love that we received after playing my arrangement of the classic has inspired me to record it to pay homage to 50 years of hip-hop, which represents black history. This song brings everyone together because it has a vibe that just feels good. Click the link in my bio to pre-save the song on Spotify TODAY🔥
#hiphop #50yearsofhiphop #hiphoptribute #tribute #outkast #andre3000 #bigboi #atlanta #dungeonfamily #jazz #bam #trumpet #blackhistorymonth #blackhistory #spotify #newmusicfriday #grammyawards #recordingacademy
It’s truly an honor to be the featured artist along with my bro @nesbyphips @noaamtreme Sips and Spirits event this Thursday, December 14 from 6p-9p…we perform from 7:30p-8:30p!
Come through to experience a special vibe that will only happen once a year at the New Orleans African American Museum🎺
#sipsandspirits #africanamericanmuseum #rockyoursoul
I remember when I sent the song “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” to the great photographer @jafarmpierre because I wanted him to shoot the record cover for the song. He said, I’m feeling a Blue Note classic cover. I was like let’s do it to represent for my ancestors that paved the way🙏🏾
📸 @jafarmpierre
#illbehomeforchristmas #bluenote #christmastime #holidayseason #neworleans #frenchquarter #fbf
Happy Birthday Ma❤️
I’m truly grateful to have my mama in my life because she is the foundation on which I stand to live a purpose-driven life. She instilled so many values and wisdom in me, which are connected to her journey. From being a part of the first class of black students who integrated LSU-UNO to becoming a social worker at Charity Hospital with a master's degree to being a super mother raising five kids, the list goes on. My mama wrote a poem called "Look at Me" because the ugly face of racism in New Orleans tried to break her spirit of learning, self-worth, and self-expression. My mama, Janice Sawyer, is on the last track of my album. I encourage you to listen to that creative piece because she will tell you who she is, which is a testament to her unwavering determination to accomplish what God planned for her life. Look at you. I see you, we see you, and they see you. A strong black woman, a cancer survivor, a beautiful queen, our nurturer, our protector, Mama Dear and Grandpa's child, a child of God, and my heart... Happy Birthday Mama❤️🥳🎂
#happybirthdaymama #happybirthday #lovemymama #blackfriday
Happy Birthday to my drummer and my big bro @biged_johnson that always have my back…love you!
#happybirthday
I’m honored and looking forward to speaking @nolamusicon for the Historical Stages Project!
#nolamusicon #guestspeaker #rockyoursoul #girlsplaytrumpetstoo
Rock Your Soul album represents where I am from, who I am, and where I am going! I’ve come thus far by faith because the struggle and the doubters are real. However, I embrace the power of my ancestors to give me super powers to walk in my purpose! We are now up for Grammy consideration for Best Alternative Jazz Album and the Best Music Video for the song, Rock Your Soul feat. Rockin Dopsie Jr. 🙏🏾
#foryourgrammyconsideration #foryourconsideration2023 #rockyoursoul #bestalternativealbum #bestmusicvideo #grammy #debutalbum #recordingacademy #grammymuseum
Breaking News! The @recordingacademy switched our category from Best Roots Album to The Best Alternative Jazz Album. I know that it’s hard to put us in a box but we just want to make good music without the labels. We are still excited and thankful for your Grammy consideration in the new category…Check out our new album TODAY! Link in the bio…Let’s Go💪🏾
#foryourgrammyconsideration #foryourconsideration2023 #rockyoursoul #bestalternativejazzalbum
It’s about that time y’all…the first round of the Grammy’s consideration process starts today! Thank you for your consideration, and I want to thank my parents, my band, and everyone who was a part of this musical history because it took a village, patience, and fortitude to make this vision a reality🙏🏾
Check out the debut album TODAY…link in bio🔥
The Rock Your Soul Village:
Stephen Walker(trombone), Laquay Frazier (tenor sax), Asante Amin (alto sax), Jentleman Sharp (keys), Gary Washington (electric bass), Edward Johnson (drums), Billy Franklin (electric guitar), David Pulphus (electric and upright bass), Jawara Simons (percussion/vocals), CJ (drums), Honey Savage (vocals), Sula Spirit (vocals), Mama La La (percussionist), Costantine Mgalle (vocals), David Gaspard (vocals), Rockin Dopsie Jr. (vocals and washboard), DJ Ben Espstein (dj), Little Freddie King (vocals and electric guitar),Keisha Slaughter (flute), Sha’Condria “iCon” Sibley (spoken word/vocals), Jerome Morgan (spoken word), T-ray the Violist (violin), Helen Gillet (cello), and Janice Sawyer (spoken word)
Composed/Produced: Troy Sawyer
Recording Engineer: Daryl Dickerson, Jazmine Butler, & Mike Harvey
Mixing Engineer: Mike Harvey
Editing Engineer: Kendall Williams
Mastering Engineer: Bruce Barielle
Publishing: Janice Sawyer Publishing (BMI)
Studios: Ellis Marsalis Center for Music, Nola Recordings, and Eschelon Productions
Record Label: Eschelon Productions
Album Cover Design: Ayo Scott
Photographer: Danielle Miles
#rockyoursoul #foryourgrammyconsideration #recordingacademy #newalbum #newmusic #bestregionalrootsalbum
Success is the pursuit of happiness, consistency, and peace…let’s get it✌🏾
#happiness #rockyoursoul #fbf #consistency #peace #musicfriday #beyoncé
We are doing an intimate performance @nola_mix_records this Saturday 8/16 at 4p sharp for Nola Mix Records 8th Anniversary Party! The owner, Ben, is a great person that’s all about supporting the music and culture of NOLA. Ben scratched on Freedem feat. @jaymorg999 & @icontheartist on ROCK YOUR SOUL album…Come thru🔥
#nolamix #anniversaryparty #recordstore #rockyoursoul #newmusicfriday #nationalhispanicheritagemonth
Good Morning Fam! We had a blast yesterday that we just decided to do another Pop Up CD signing event at Peaches Records at 2p-4p today! Come thru to get your signed CD and get your Rock Your Soul & Girls Play Trumpets Too t-shirts…I’ll see you in a few🙏🏾
#sundaypopup #cdsigning #newmusic #rockyoursoul #labordayweekend #decadence
Whoa…I’m excited to do my first album release CD signing pop up celebration @peachesrecords this Saturday (9/2) for Labor Day Weekend from 2p-4p🔥 I’ll have some exclusive ROCK YOUR SOUL T-Shirts also…Come thru to celebrate a milestone in my life🙏🏾
#rockyoursoul #albumrelease #cdsigning #peachesrecords #newmusic #labordayweekend #newmerch #nolatrumpetplayers
Come join me and the Elementz for the album release CD signing pop up celebration next Saturday, Sept. 2 from 2p-4p at New Orleans’ staple @peachesrecords (4328 Magazine St) in the old Woolworth building.
The Woolworth’s counters are an icon of the civil rights movement. During the Jim Crow era, Woolworth’s had segregated lunch counters in the Southern states. In 1960, African-American activists in Greensboro, North Carolina, staged a sit-in at a Woolworth’s counter, ordering from the white-only luncheonette and refusing to leave when employees, as required under state law, denied them service.
The Greensboro protest sparked similar sit-ins at Woolworth’s counters around the country, with New Orleans activists quickly picking up the mantle and staging sit-ins at the lunch counter on Magazine Street as well as on Canal Street.
So come thru to get a signed CD, be a part of history, and celebrate Rockin Your Soul🤘🏾❤️
#rockyoursoul #labordayweekend #albumrelease #history #popup
We didn’t leave no crumbs on the stage with the Queen @kqbailey on keys going in @emcmnola…our energy was crazy that night🔥
📸 @accidentalcajun
#rockyoursoul #livemusic #funklatinsoul #rockinthestage #music #summervibes #nola #trumpetplayer
I love it when I have these moments on stage where my energy is so high that I’m sweating and then I smile because I’m having so much fun…I’m thankful for these moments❤️ 📸 @accidentalcajun
#rockyoursoul #love #livemusic #tbt #joy #inspirational
The power lies within the story, so I have to tell it through my voice to pass it on🎺 @passiton_nola
#rockyoursoul #passiton
📸 @i.g.flowersphoto
Thanks to everyone who helped me to continue the legacy of the great Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong and my Great Grand Father (Louis D. James) by sharing their gifts for the creation of my first album called ROCK YOUR SOUL.
I give all praises to God for blessing me with a musical gift and a village that raised and encouraged me to get to this point in my life.
I’m truly thankful to my band, musicians, artist, engineers, and recording studios that contributed to the album such as Stephen Walker(Trombone), Laquay Frazier (Tenor Sax), Jentleman Sharp (Keys), Gary Washington (Electric Bass), Edward Johnson(Drums), Billy Franklin (Electric Guitar), David Pulphus (Electric and Upright Bass), Honey Savage (Vocals), Sula Spirit (Vocals), Mama La La (African Shekere), Costantine Mgalle (Vocals), David Gaspard (Vocals), Marius Tilton (Electric Bass), Rockin Dopsie Jr. (Vocals/Washboard), Ben Espstein (DJ Scratching), Little Freddie King (Vocals/Electric Guitar), Sha’Condria “iCon” Sibley (Poetry/Vocals),Janice Sawyer (Poetry), Daryl Dickerson (Recording Engineer), Mike Harvey (Recording/Mixing Engineer), Bruce Barielle (Mastering Engineer), Danielle Miles (Photographer), Ayo Scott (Visual Artist), the Ellis Marsalis Center for Music Studio , and Nola Recording Studios for providing the studio space for us to record.
Special thanks to the my Uncle Vincent,Jazz and Heritage Foundation, and Mike McKenzie for the support as well!
As you can see that it takes a team, family, and village to make it happen. I’m beyond grateful for them and I love y’all…Rock Your Soul is out Baby❤️🙏🏾
#rockyoursoul #debutalbum #thankful
Check us out at Satchmo Summerfest feat. @girlsplaytrumpets2 from 3p-4:10p on the Eugenie & Joseph Jones Stage TODAY…we will be performing songs from off the debut album that came out yesterday🔥🎺 @fqfest
#rockyoursoul #satchmosummerfest #debutalbum #louisarmstrong
I woke up this morning with joy and anticipation because my debut album drops tomorrow! Releasing your first album is such a hard thing to do because it’s a full introduction of you to the world in a creative form. I had to embrace my imperfections, fears, and what makes me unique to be vulnerable to share. We will only grow and become free when we surrender all to thee…ROCK YOUR SOUL baby!
#rockyoursoul #debutalbum #satchmosummerfest #aug4
We will be rockin the stage at Satchmo Summerfest feat. @girlsplaytrumpets2 Saturday, Aug. 5 from 3:00p-4:15p on the Eugenie & Joseph Jones Family Foundation Stage on Esplanade Ave. and our debut album is dropping this FRIDAY…Come thru to ROCK YOUR SOUL❤️🔥
#rockyoursoul #debutalbum
#newmusic #satchmosummerfest #gptt
I love to see my people when I step out because it reaffirms my purpose…let’s get it…we outside💪🏾 #rockyoursoul #debutalbum #satchmosummerfest
It’s coming…Rock Your Soul drops next Friday, Aug 4! I’m so ready for the whole world to hear it because only surrender will set you FREE…let’s Go💪🏾 #rockyoursoul #debutalbum #aug4 #satchmosummerfest
Our porches in New Orleans are places where you see everything in the neighborhood, talk that talk, smoke, drink, laugh, listen to good music, dance, and during the NOLA summertime heat, eat a frozen cup, or some people call it a hucklebuck, which all represent the soul of New Orleans and how we rock our souls🤘🏾
Rock Your Soul album represents everything New Orleans and beyond, and it’s dropping on Aug 4🔥
Click on the link to pre-save TODAY!
#rockyoursoul #debutalbum
#satchmosummerfest
My debut album “Rock Your Soul” out on all streaming platforms…Link in the Bio🔥
#rockyoursoul #foryourgrammyconsideration #newalbum #recordingacademy #grammys
We will be rockin @emcmnola tonight from 6:30p-8p…we will be doing some joints off the debut album…Come thru🙏🏾
#concert #rockyoursoul #debutalbum #ridemytrain #gambit
We are getting ready to rock the @emcmnola with some new energy this Tuesday (7/11) at 6:30p-8p! We will be doing some songs from off our upcoming debut album…so come through to Rock Y’all Souls❤️
#rockyoursoul #concert #ridemytrain #ellismarsaliscenterformusic
It feels so good to finally let this music go into the universe because it’s been a journey! Ride My Train, which is the second single from our album, drops TOMORROW baby🔥Check me out on @wwoz_neworleans at 11:25a TODAY and don’t forget to PreSave the song on Spotify…link in bio🙏🏾 #rockyoursoul #ridemytrain #interview #newmusic
Happy Father’s Day! I stumbled upon this pic of my baby boy and I at the drum circle in Congo Square a few years ago. It’s these special moments that I cherish because it represents spending quality time that brings us closer. I’m beyond blessed to be a Father to Amiri because he helps me to become a better person and a better teacher. Ashe’ to my Pops who was a shining example of how to be a father and a man that puts his family first. I love you and I know that you are my guardian Angel. Ashe’ to all of my ancestors that paved the way on the eve. of Juneteenth❤️ #happyfathersday #happyjuneteenth
You know that I couldn’t forget about lil sis @rifitlife that came through at the last minute to put the icing on the cake with her gift to dance and passion to workout💪🏾 We did that running scene a few times and she never complained because she is a true artist that’s willing do it over and over again until it’s right. RiFit definitely rocks her soul and she does it with grace, coolness, and love…there’s more to come🔥 #rockyoursoul #dancer #workout #algierspoint #newvideo #friday #mural #jazzfest #cincodemayo
Algiers first settled by the French, making it the second oldest neighborhood in the City of New Orleans. It soon became the holding area for all the enslaved Africans brought to Louisiana from the Senegal/Gambia area. It’s said that the very name comes from the view of the site from The Quarter -- the hundreds of Black figures seen from across the river reminded the Europeans of Algeria in Africa.
Thanks to my big bro @lionelmiltonart for the inspiration to shoot a video for our song in the neighborhood of Algiers Point. Lionel is an amazing artist and beyond that…he’s a good person! We have been friends for quite some time and what brings us together is our black boy joy and our passion for the arts. He continues to document our history and he rocks his soul everyday. Thanks to my team and family of brothers for coming through to make it happen…this one is for our ancestors because we are still here, which means that they couldn’t stop our magic…Leggo✊🏾 Rock Your Soul feat. Rockin Dopsie music video drops tomorrow🔥
mural🎨 @lionelmiltonart
#rockyoursoul #cincodemayo #jazzfest #algierspoint #algeria #musicvideo #mural #art #nolaartist
Today is GiveNola Day🎺 Your support will help us to continue our mission to empower young ladies ages 8-19 to play the trumpet on a novice and advanced level to enhance equal representation in a male dominant music industry. I’ve had so many girls and women tell me that they were discouraged from playing the trumpet and that’s why we are here to knock down the walls of gender bias. We appreciate the outpouring of love and support as we grow our family to make a difference in the world🎺 As you may know that it’s financially tough to keep a nonprofit afloat, so we appreciate anything that you can give…the link in the bio🙏🏾 #givenola #girlsplaytrumpetstoo #girlsrock #gpt2 #femaletrumpetplayer #rockyoursoul #nolagirls #musiceducation #blackgirlmagic #musiceducation
I’m thankful for the young ladies that are a part of @girlsplaytrumpets2
God gave me a vision that WE turned into reality. It’s bigger than me because it’s a movement to inspire girls to play the trumpet, to break gender bias, to find their purpose, and to spread joy that will uplift their community. And our community understands the importance of programs and nonprofits that are doing the work by creating a GiveNola Day but now we have a GiveNola season, which is on and poppin TODAY…It’s called Early Giving.
Help us to continue our mission by giving to @girlsplaytrumpets2 during GiveNola season. Our goal is to reach $20,000 to cover operational cost.
We appreciate our donors in the past for giving us that support and we hope to grow our family in the future…GiveNola link in Bio🙏🏾
#givenoladay #girlsplaytrumpetstoo #gpt2 #femaletrumpetplayer #girlsrock #musicprogram #womenempowerment #blackgirlmagic
I would like to thank my support system that came to our performance and the ones that were there in spirit @fqfest 🙏🏾 Y’all give me that extra inspiration to keep doing it. That energy that day was amazing! Thanks to French Quarter Fest for having us rock on the Tropical Isle stage and shout out to our new sponsor @notcfund this year. Last but not least, I would like to thank my band members for constantly having my back and for bringing their special talents that helps to define our own sound. I can’t wait until the world hears our debut album🔥
#rockyoursoul #frenchquarterfest #fqfest #tbt #jazzfestival
Tomorrow we will be rockin for my city on the Tropical Isle Hand Grenade Stage (Fri. 4/14) at 12:30p-1:30p @fqfest…Come thru! This will be a special performance to represent for everyone that paved the way for me to do what I do🎺
#rockyoursoul #fqfest #tropicalislehandgrenadestage #nolalivemusic
We are excited to be back @fqfest on Friday (April 14 @12:30p-1:30p)on the Tropical Isle Hand Grenade Stage! This pic was at FQ Fest before the Pandemic with my sis @iamcasme and we did a tribute to my adopted Grandfather, the late great Smokey Johnson and Queen Latifah. I’m sadden to hear of the passing of our beloved and the realist music teacher in the world, Edward “Kidd” Jordan. He inspired and encouraged me to keep doing what I’m doing and to never compromise my sound for anyone. We will do a song that he inspired that’s on my debut album to honor his legacy and passion at the Fest…Cheza🙏🏾❤️ #fqfest #kiddjordan #freedom #fbf #bam #rockyoursoul
It’s time to shake your tambourine because it’s the weekend in NOLA baby!
#rockyoursoul #mardigrastime #fbf #jazzmuseum
We will be rockin @nolajazzmuseum this Tuesday (1/31) from 5p-6p for the free concert balcony series…Come thru!
#rockyoursoul #jazzmuseum #tuesday #funklatinsoul #mardigras
I’m honored to perform with the @ubwdance from New York for the world premiere of Haint Blu today thru Sunday!
Haint Blu is an ensemble dance-theater work seeped in memory and magic. (Haint Blu known as the color that Southern families paint their front porches to ward off bad spirits.) Haint Blu uses performance as a center and source of healing, taking us through movement into stillness and rest: remembering, reclaiming, releasing, and restoring.
I was blown away with the production when I went to the first rehearsal. You don’t want to miss this experience of a lifetime…you can go to @ubwdance and @junebugnola for more info!
#urbanbushwomen #junebug #nyartist #nolaartist #dance #haintblu
“I’ll tell you what freedom is to me: no fear. I mean really, no fear!” -Nina Simone
I really felt free on the stage @tipitinas for the Dave Bartholomew Culture Experience. I took more risk because the spirit moved me to be vulnerable and free…what a magical night! Thanks to @therealdonlouis67 for having me to be a part of his vision🎺
📸@steverapportphotography
#rockyoursoul #tbt #trumpetplayers #tipitinas #davebartholomew #rocknroll #ninasimone
I’m sorry to announce that the gig at @nolajazzmuseum has been postponed due to the weather today. We’ll be back at a later date. We wish you and your family a Happy Holiday and a Happy New Year…2023 here we come💪🏾
#rockyoursoul #girlsplaytrumpetstoo #illbehomeforchristmas #happyholidays #merrychristmas #happynewyear
Catch us live this Tuesday (12/20) @nolajazzmuseum from 5p-6p…I can’t wait to work it out with my band because it’s been a minute. It’s time to get ready for 2023🎺💪🏾 #rockyoursoul #nojazzmuseum #gpt2 #tuesday #livemusic #happyholidays #wwoz #offbeatmagazine
Giving Tuesday is Tomorrow! My nonprofit, @girlsplaytrumpets2 are excited to participate in @givingtuesday for the first time this Tuesday (11/29)🎺
GivingTuesday is a global generosity movement unleashing the power of radical generosity. We are raising money to buy trumpets, music stands, keyboards, and method books.
The link is in the bio to support with a donation to change the world. Our goal is to raise $10,000 to keep the program viable in the community and beyond…WE THANK YOU🙏🏾#givingtuesday #gpt2 #girlsplaytrumpetstoo #support #nonprofit #thevintage
Happy Birthday Ma! Look at you…Beautiful, Vibrant, Healthy, and 83 years young🥳 We celebrate your life of sacrifice, selflessness, love, and empathy. I’m blessed to have you on my debut album because you encouraged me to go after my dreams. This year your birthday fell on Thanksgiving Day and we are thankful to have you in our lives. I know daddy is dancing and smiling from heaven…Happy Birthday Ma❤️#happybirthday #thanksgivingday #love
I’m thankful to God for giving me the vision of @girlsplaytrumpets2 which is my new 501(c)(3) non-profit that empowers girls ages (8-19) to play the trumpet on a novice and advanced level to enhance equal representation in a male dominant music industry. I stepped out on faith and I have been getting so much love from the universe.
We are excited to participate in GivingTuesday for the first time this Tuesday (11/29). @givingtuesday is a global generosity movement unleashing the power of radical generosity. We are raising money to buy trumpets, music stands, keyboards, and method books.
The link is in the bio to support with a donation to change the world. Our goal is to raise $10,000 to keep the program viable in the community and beyond…WE THANK YOU🙏🏾
📸 @itsfatima
#givingtuesday #happythanksgivng #gpt2 #girlsplaytrumpetstoo #support
I’m so blessed to see another Birthday! My Birthday was extra special because It represented perseverance, purpose, and making the visions that I have received become reality.
One of those visions is my debut album. The album (Rock Your Soul) has been a long time coming but I didn’t give up…we didn’t give up. I couldn’t have done it by myself. So shout out to my band members that are my brothers because It takes a team to make history.
I played the first two songs on the album at my birthday celebration. I was overwhelmed with the love and the awesome reception of those songs…what a night because we Rocked Our Souls @bartonique🔥
I’m truly thankful to everyone that came out to hear the first two songs on the album and to celebrate life. And of course, I felt the spirit of anyone who couldn’t be there in person.
Now, the next vision is Girls Play Trumpets Too, which is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that empowers girls ages (8-19) to play the trumpet on a novice and advanced level to enhance equal representation in a male dominant music industry. I’m very passionate about this mission because our girls need equal opportunities and encouragement, which will yield more representation of professional female trumpet players from New Orleans and Beyond🎺
You can follow us @girlsplaytrumpets2 to find out more about the mission. We would love for you to be a part of GPT2 family. You can support by giving and/or service. Let’s change the world together🙏🏾❤️🎺#girlsplaytrumpetstoo #happybirthday #listeningparty #gpt2 #rockyoursoul #tbt #trumpetplayers #girlsrock #musiceducation
📸 @deanofneworleans
It’s almost scorpio season, so it’s time to come back on the surface with the purpose and the passion to change the world…now’s the time🎺 Where my Scorpios at??#rockyoursoul #gpt2 #essencefest #scorpioseason #fbf @essencefest
📸 @deanofneworleans
The power of telling your story can inspire and transform lives, so I would like to thank @funsizeco from Austin for having me to speak to their team of creators to tell my story🎺
Everyone in this room has something to say that makes them special. You guys inspired me to continue living in my purpose🙏🏾
#mystory #purposedriven #speakingengagement #tbt #rockyoursoul
Louis Armstrong stayed with a smile on his face because he turned his Pain into Purpose…find your purpose and be happy🙂🎺 #happyfriday #satchmosummerfest #nolatrumpetplayers #happy #jazztrumpeter #jazz
Screaming FREEDEM…No Fear…Let’s Get It💪🏿 #freedem #happyfriday #nofears #rockyoursoul #freedemfoundations #fbf
I had an awesome time performing at the first @essencefest In His Zone Men’s Experience that represented brotherhood, empowerment, and black boy JOY🕺🏾I reconnected with my bros @methodmanofficial and @wendellpcg Meth and I go way back…my bro @thekeng that transitioned last year…brought Meth to my house and the rest is history….I also met so many good people this weekend. The pandemic has taught me to live in the present and to never take anything for granted🎺 The Essence Fest experience was amazing…until next time🙏🏾 #essencefest #inhiszone #blackboymagic #methodman #rockyoursoul #gpt2 #blackexcellence
📸@madania_graves
Essence Fest Time Baby🎺Catch us for an intimate performance at the first ever Essence In His Zone (Men’s Experience) on Sat. July 2 at La Nouvelle Orleans Ballroom - Hall E, 2nd Floor in the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center @12:50p-1:20p💪🏿 @essencefest #essencefest #rockyoursoul #tse
#blackexcellence #neworleans
📸 @deanofneworleans & @kault_photography
I’m excited and honored to perform at the first ever @essencefest In His Zone: Men’s Experience on Saturday, July 2nd on the 2nd floor in the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center @12:50p…Come thru💪🏿
#essencefest #inhiszone #rockyoursoul
In Living Color @tremecoffeehouse 😁I’m happy and thankful to have some time to reflect, practice, plan, workout, reconnect with people in my city and around the world…the summertime grind is coming in hot🎺 #rockyoursoul #selfcare #treme #summertime
Growth starts with Self-Reflection…this pic brings me back to where I was as a person to where I am now. Every day God wakes me up is a day to be Better...I am a Working Progress💪🏿 #rockyoursoul #tbt #selfreflection #trumpetplayer
📸 @kault_photography
We just want to make good music and have fun doing it at the same damn time…Happy Friday from TSE😁 #rockyoursoul #happyfriday #fbf #joy #festivals #fqfest #jazzfest2022 #family 📸 @deanofneworleans
Happy Mother’s Day to my Mama and my Auntie Mamee…the two most special women in my life that was instrumental in my upbringing. Thank y’all for the unconditional love, tough love, support, guidance, and wisdom that y’all continue to give me as a man…It was great to see my Golden Girls supporting me and my band at French Quarter Fest @fqfest
They brought so much joy to me because they were having a great time dancing to my music and it’s a blessing to still have them in my life❤️🙏🏾
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#happymothersday #love #thankyou #rockyoursoul #fqfestisback #jazzfest2022
I had a blast last night reconnecting with @ceelogreen and his management team! I met Ceelo back in the day on the streets of New Orleans and we had a freestyle session around the @hobnola
He’s always kept it real💪🏿 Be on the lookout for a special collab🎺
#rockyoursoul #ceelogreen #jazzfestival
#fullcircle
Happy Jazz Fest 2022🎺 Check out my journey to performing at French Quarter Fest with my mouth feeling weird because I had two teeth pulled a few days before the gig but ya boy pushed through the pain💪🏿
Thanks to @fqfest and our sponsor from the Tropical Isle Stage. It was an honor to open up for one of the best music festivals in the world.
We had a funky good time and it was a blessing to be back on that stage doing what we do…BE on the lookout for the album coming SOON! #rockyoursoul 🔥❤️
#jazzfest #fqfest #fbf #fqfestisback #livemusic #nostrugglenoprogress
Can’t nobody still our JOY❤️ Kentanji Brown Jackson is the first black female Supreme Count Justice🕺🏾 #blackgirlmagic #blackhistory #gpt2 #tbt #rockyoursoul #supremecourtjustice #firstblackfemalesupremecourtjustice
Congrats to my bro and fellow purple knight @jonbatiste for all of his accomplishments. J stayed true to his mission and purpose…now it’s time to secondline🕺🏾🙏🏾#rockyoursoul #grammys #neworleans #weare
Let’s welcome the first black woman, @dr.aviswilliams, chosen to serve as superintendent and the first woman to permanently serve the position in the New Orleans✊🏾 #blackgirlmagic #gpt2 #tbt #nola #education
This was the last time that I played with my friend and funky jazzy drummer @kevin_oday_777
Kevin and I ran into each other in 2019 at a jazz spot in New Orleans. We hadn’t seen each other and played together in years. Kevin said that we should get together to jam at that spot soon. I said let’s do it…I called up a few cats to jam and that’s exactly what we did…jammed!
Fast forward to 2022…I opened up my phone during a meeting and went to Instagram because that’s a habit that I need to break but the first picture that popped up was
Kevin O’Day’s @offbeatmagazine
I proceeded to read and they said that he had died. I just couldn’t believe what I was reading. I had found this footage that my boy took of us jammin.
We made some magic that night with @theurbancellist_cornwater @jsimon_percussion because of you…may your spirit Rest in the Power of Music🥁❤️🙏🏾
#rip #drummers #jazz #funk #rockyoursoul #thepowerofmusic
Magic happens when you turn your vision into reality🎺 This was the first day working on my album in the studio at the Ellis Marsalis Center for Music @emcmnola and I haven’t looked back because reality is right in front of me…now’s the time💪🏿 #rockyoursoul #tbt #studiolife #album #gpt2 #grammys
Happy International Women’s Day❤️
Who is Clora Larea Bryant?
Clora Larea Bryant (May 30, 1927 – August 25, 2019)was an American jazz trumpeter. She was the only female trumpeter to perform with Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker and was a member of the International Sweethearts of Rhythm.
I’m thankful and have the upmost respect for women like Clara Bryant for having the courage to say…“I Can Do It TOO” because It represents a revolutionary love that causes change in the world, mind, and soul🙏🏾🎺 💪🏿
#happyinternationalwomensday #gpt2 #rockyoursoul #blackgirlmagic #girlsrock #womentrumpeters #blackgirlsrock
Gangsta✊🏾 @kendricklamar always represent🔥 #wegonebealright #blackhistorymonth #happyloveday
Do you know the trumpet player that played in Sly and the Family Stone?
Cynthia Robinson (January 12, 1944 – November 23, 2015) was an American musician, best known for being a founding member, the trumpeter and a vocalist in Sly and the Family Stone. Her voice and presence were featured in the hits "Dance to the Music" and "I Want to Take You Higher."
Robinson was among the first female trumpeters in a major American band, and the first such player in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Robinson’s career with Sly Stone began in 1966 when the bandleader put together a group called the Stoners. They fell apart quickly, though, and she became a fixture of the Family Stone – a group whose members were male and female and represented different races, a novel idea at the time – alongside her cousin Larry Graham.
She was the only member of the original Family Stone to continue working with Sly Stone after the band fell apart in 1975. She also played in the funk band Graham Central Station with Family Stone bandmate and cousin Larry Graham, starting in the 1990s. She also worked with George Clinton and Prince.
#blackhistory #blackhistorymonth #trumpetplayer #femaletrumpetplayer #Gpt2
Do you know the Queen of the Trumpet?
Her name is Valaida Snow and she was a virtuoso African-American jazz musician and entertainer who became internationally celebrated. She was known as "Little Louis" and "Queen of the Trumpet," a nickname given to her by Louis Armstrong and W. C. Handy.
Over the latter half of the 1930s, Snow recorded roughly 40 sides in studios across Europe, including her signature song, “High Hat, Trumpet and Rhythm.” But she never made a commercial recording in the United States as a trumpeter.
Snow died of a brain hemorrhage on May 30, 1956, during an engagement at the Palace Theater in New York. “She was survived,” Mr. Miller wrote in his biography, “by her husband, Earle, her sister Lavada, her brother Arvada and her stepbrother Arthur (Artemus) Bush — as well as a mythology that had taken on a life of its own.”
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#blackhistorymonth #GPT2 #jazz #trumpetplayer #blackgirlmagic #jazztimes
The pic that you take after you have played your ass off and it’s finally over…you can relax and just smile😀 @jazzandheritage #tbt #rockyoursoul #jazzfest
Don’t take Live Music for granted🎺
#livemusic #rockyoursoul #tbt #singadifferentsong #mardigrasindians #nolamusicians
It’s time to get back to the FUTURE🎺 I’m looking forward to a new beginning and a continuation of manifesting the vision in 2022🙏🏾💪🏿 📸 @deanofneworleans
#backtothefuture #rockyoursoul
#newyear2022 #singadifferentsong
I believe that when you understand your divine purpose is when you find your superpower…ya dig🎺💪🏿
#divinepurpose #illbehomeforchristmas
#neworleanstrumpetplayer #superpowersFriends…someone you can always depend on💪🏿 My Bro @senseidreness and I have been rockin and rollin since we met teaching back in the day. He’s from my second home New York city and now he lives in his second home New Orleans. Dat New Orleans + New York connection is real…ya dig👊🏾 📸 @cozmoblack
#friendship #neworleansnewyork #illbehomeforchristmas #rockyoursoul #frenchquarter
#wutangforever“I’ll Be Home For Christmas” is dedicate to all of my people like @jaymorg999 who was locked up in jail for 20 years for a crime that he didn’t commit. I believe that jail is another form of slavery and it will never be the solution to the problems that plague our community and our world. I didn’t imagine how deep this Christmas song would be…I had only covered it because I loved the melody but everything happens for a reason. I have been passionate about shedding light on the inequalities of the criminal justice system for a minute. They’re so many people- especially my people that are locked up- that wish that they can say, “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” and Jerome made me realize how impactful the song was the other day when we talked on the phone. So that’s another reason why I’m donating a percentage of the record sales to @freedemfoundations that Jerome Morgan is one of the founders of that gives back to our community✊🏾❤️ #illbehomeforchristmas #freedemfoundations #justice #rockyoursoul #singadifferentsong #fbf #neworleans #criminaljusticesystem #christmassong #holiday
Thank God for this BEAUTIFUL day In New Orleans…74 degrees in December…we blessed🌞 #illbehomeforchristmas #neworleans #frenchquarter #humpday #sunshine #wednesday #christmastime #christmassong #holidayseason #rockyoursoul #singadifferentsong
Thanks to @gentilly_fest for having us and @girlsplaytrumpets2 We had an incredible time rockin the stage and making history! We appreciate our sponsors @notcfund and @lovenotesnola for the continued support…until next time!
#rockyoursoul #girlsplaytrumpetstoo #gentillyfest #notcfI am truly honored and grateful to be recognized by @notcfund and my city for staying on the path of purpose. My journey has been filled with so many enriching and learning experiences that have brought me this far by faith. I remember after a gig at King Bolden’s back in the day, an old man told me, “Don’t worry about getting praise from man; God will give you all the praise you need.” Since then, I’ve lived my life not seeking praise to validate who I am or my purpose, but it’s always special when your city shows you love. Thank you again, and I’ll see y’all in 2025🎺
#notcf #honors #bestemergingartist #nola #rockyoursoul #nolatrumpetplayer
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