Album Notes

"He uses space like an inner musical instrument."
-Nat Hentoff, Wall Street Journal

"In 2007 jazz vocalist Ed Reed released his debut CD at the ripe age of 78 and left the jazz scene with their jaws in their laps. His passion, talent, and musicality are unparalleled, and, with the help of producer Bud Spangler and musical director Peck Allmond, his career got a jumpstart with a debut album titled Ed Reed Sings Love Stories.

"The album got major play on jazz radio stations across the country and was highlighted by being the most played new release in 2007 at KCSM FM 91, the San Francisco Bay Area's 24-hour jazz station. Why? Because it is great! Ed has what many jazz singers lack: a voice with a resonance and timbre like a tenor sax that articulates verses with a seasoned experience to tell a story like he lived it.

"Now Ed delivers The Song Is You, a new work that like the Watts Towers reaches for the sky with brilliant musical objects he has caressed all his life – whether in a prison cell or the streets of South Central Los Angeles. Much like the Watts Towers, he proves he is a survivor whose soul was never demolished and is now here to shower us all with the beauty and love of his art.

"We are blessed to have Ed Reed in our midst here in the SF Bay Area. There are not enough words to express the appreciation jazz fans have for him. "Now's the Time," to quote Charlie Parker, for the rest of the world to discover Ed Reed. The song is you, Mr. Reed, and I thank you for the spirit, love, and music you have brought us. Get on out there and sing your jazz song!"

Jesse "Chuy" Varela
Music Director, KCSM FM 91.1