Why does Ballads by Lamont (LDK), feature this genre in their repertoire?
For Lamont, the owner of Ballads by LDK, and as you have guessed by now, the “L” is for Lamont, the answer is simply this. He has always loved the human vocal instrument and its ability to capture the heart in either rich tones of baritone, tenor or alto flavors. Either male or female singers, particularly in the R&B or jazz categories of music, have mesmerized and captivated Lamont’s attention from the time he was a child and into his adult life and music career. The list of powerful vocalists across genders and generations, to whom Lamont credits for inspiring him to sing, is much too numerous to list in this writing. To answer this first question in the blog, as to why ballads are his go to for listening pleasure, here are two solid reasons.
1. Ballads, especially the romantic ones, are designed to expressly move the soul, heart and mind of the listener.
2. There is a rich catalog of music dating back several decades and up through today, so one can never get bored of having something to listen to.
This article is really just a personal perspective of some of the balladeers and even songs that have played a significant role in shaping the atmosphere that Ballads by Lamont studios emotes when you come to one of their shows.
Who were some of the early balladeers that Lamont was inspired by?
Lamont recalls in his biography, his early teenage years, where during his high school involvement in chorus, he was encouraged to sing solo by his choral instructor, the late “Ernie Scott”. As he fondly recalls, Ernie made all of the “boys” sing as loud as they could to a Stevie Wonder tune, and after coming closer to the ensemble, he told me “, come down off the back of those bleachers. Stand here and I want you to sing something for me”, to which I obliged. With him being the conductor for the high school play, “Guys and Dolls”, he immediately told me that my role would be to play and sing the songs of the character, Sky Masterson.
After completing that production, Mr. Scott also insisted that I sign-up for the talent show. It just so happened, that I had discovered and fell in love with the sounds of Mr. George Benson, during my high school years. One of the songs made famous by George, which remains a staple for Lamont today, is “Everything Must Change”. To the thunderous applause of the audience after the performance was finished, Lamont was delighted to have found “his true passion”. As the saying goes, “it was history” from there!
During the late 70’s and 80’s, Lamont’s became enamored with many male and female vocalists. Of course, there were the standards such as, Aretha, Luther, Gladys, Peobo, George, Al Green, Teddy Pendergrass, Marvin Gaye, etc. The soulful sounds and moves of the Jackson 5, were in his wheelhouse, as Lamont was in that same generation, growing up with Michael J, so to speak. Only a partial list by example. From some of his other blogs and postings, you will notice one voice that stood out as Lamont’s all time favorite female vocalist. That would be none other than, the late, great Ms. Phyllis Hyman. It would take volumes for Lamont to describe his love for her unbelievable talent and beauty. So you can keep following the blogs and you’ll be sure to come across some of his sentiments in this regard. As well, Lamont does post everywhere he can for his audience, video clips featuring this wonderful artist in her prime.
Are there any balladeers that stand out for Lamont, from today’s generation of singers?
Lamont is not under the illusion that great singers aren’t born like they used to be. No, that is an absolute misperception in his opinion. While Lamont believes that the music industry has changed and that the appreciation for great singers isn’t the same as it was during the times of such crooners aforementioned, new vocal powerhouses are born every day. Listen to Tori Kelly, Ariana Grande, Cam Anthony (2020 voice winner), and the list goes on and on. To demonstrate that point, I came across in my strolling through the YouTube channels, the most funny and captivating singer and producer, Terrill Grice. He hosts the most intriguing show where he invites the most talented vocalists, to sing a song based on only 1 word that he gives them, within 10 seconds. Suffice it to say, Lamont’s mind has been blown away by some of the most fantastic singers from today’s generation. Here is a sample of what I mean below.
What can you expect to hear when you visit Ballads by Lamont studios for a show?
In addition to being serenaded, based upon a themed seasonal show series, (This season going into the winter months, Ballads will be having a “Winter Serenade series”), Ballads invites some of the best DJ talent on the scene, to get you on the floor and popping after the swooning. Sometimes it may just be the concert of serenades with beautifully placed contemporary jazz mixes, during intermissions. At others, you can look forward to busting your favorite move on the Zoom dance floor. Did we mention that these events are hosted via Zoom, as virtual concerts and parties?
How is Ballads by Lamont supported
Outside of any packages that Ballads by Lamont offers for private engagements, there are no tickets sold to his live Zoom events. However, there is ample opportunity to demonstrate your appreciation by donating to the artists featured, as well as the DJ, during the evening. Your contributions are greatly appreciated and go a long way in ensuring that the type of singing that you enjoy, can continue to be brought to you, right in your own living rooms.
