Photo Flash: Rhonda Ross Plays Birdland Jazz Club

On Monday, August 18, the Broadway at Birdland concert series was proud to present singer-songwriter Rhonda Ross, along with her slamming jazz band (Terry Burrus on piano, Dominick Maybank on bass, Kevin Harrington on drums, Terelle Tipton, Keesha Gumbs, & Sheniqua Trotman on background vocals, Duane Eubanks on trumpet, and Darrly Yokely on sax).

After captivating audiences at Madison Square Garden and The Montreal Jazz Festival, Ross packed the Birdland house with fans and friends who couldn't get enough of her neo-soul jazz! They especially loved an impromptu appearance by Rhonda's son, Raif Kendrick! As the only child of Diana Ross and Motown Founder Berry Gordy, it has become evident that Rhonda not only has the talent, but the significance to carry on her parents' legacy, all the while establishing her own unique musical destination. Rhonda's music is based in Black-American traditional jazz. In 1994, she met, married, and began a 20-year musical collaboration with jazz pianist and composer Rodney Kendrick. Through him, Rhonda started to study with the late jazz great Abbey Lincoln. "It was Abbey and Rodney who convinced me to begin my journey as a singer-songwriter." Rhonda says, "I primarily consider myself a story-teller and poet. I use my music to inspire and to uplift...to teach people - including myself." Their live CD, "Rhonda Ross Live: Featuring Rodney Kendrick" is a hot internet-seller.

The Broadway at Birdland concert series takes place at 7pm every Monday night at 9:30, prior to "Jim Caruso's Cast Party." Birdland is located at 315 West 44 Street in the heart of the Theater District.

Photos by Kevin Alvey