There has always been a debate about who gets invited into the "cookout". Especially when it comes to bringing people outside of the AA community. It's a silly notion but it's a symbolization of gatekeeping. This is connected to the history of American cultural appropriation. White musicians, coming up in urban genres, have historically been met with suspicion. Due to instances of using black culture's aesthetics, slang, and mannerisms. Only to deem it as a phase and then look down on it in retrospect. However, for other white musicians, there have been those who are authentic and true to themselves without overcompensating. Not only are they "pretty fly" but they show immense appreciation and love for not only the culture but the people in it too. This artist right here definitely skews towards this type.

Hailing from Los Angeles, CA. The jazz composer has been producing since the 70s and hasn't stopped a beat. He has been requested for sessions by a lot of big names such as Quincy Jones, The Brothers Johnson, and many more. It adds to the fact that he was named best upcoming artist by both Billboard and Cashbox back in 1985. This dude got the stamp of approval. He was more than legit, he's certified. Certified with a degree of smoothness and passion.

Combining elements of Jazz and R&B into his own, this man is one helluva composer and arranger. His grooves are unrestrained and multifaceted. Very George Benson esque, specifically how he emphasizes the importance of swing in a gradual sense. I'd honestly go so far and say that some of his music reminds me of a video game Saving Room theme. Even close to actual themes I would hear throughout a VG. It just feels so soothing yet upbeat and impersonal. Unpredictable like LA weather, it's always interesting to figure out which direction his music takes. Songs such as "Playing The Fool", "Sudden Madness" , and "Love Gone Wrong" showcase his mellow creativity in different shapes and sounds.

Fun fact: Christian Adult Contemporary vocalist Bob Carlise actually has his origins singing throughout David Diggs "Street Shadows"(1984)

Special shout out to all those who despite being deemed outsiders, still show love and appreciation for the culture.

Recommendations:
Elusions (1978)
Street Shadows (1984)
Jazz Werk (2003)

For those that groove to:
Jeff Lorber
Bobby Caldwell
Frankie Bleu
The Imperials
Average White Band
Alan Sorrenti
St. Paul Peterson
Boney James
Jon B
JMSN

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Dope write up. I'll dive into the music in the @op some more when I get the time, but yeah, artists like Bobby Caldwell (rip) crafted their music from what felt like a genuine place and you pick it up in their passion.

thanks for always tagging me friend. i’ma check this out

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In, will check it out! Thank you, op the best user right now

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Appreciate it bro

Imma get high and come check this out later after the gym but always in for some smooth jazz

in

Nothing but sum Smooth Jazz, Bud, and Chicken after a gym sesh

Thank you for always tagging. Safe to say you did it again bro! @Aquilla

The drum work on the first video is so hard

I f***s with the Streetshadows album a lot too

Yeah Streetshadows is a banging project musically

Much appreciation king

100%

love for always tagging, you keeping the spirit of KTT alive with this bmt

Thank you bro I try my best

What's on ya mind?

@edumist