Straight Ahead

Out of Detroit’s lively jazz scene, which has produced some of the world's greatest musicians, comes the Grammy-nominated jazz group Straight Ahead. Straight Ahead broke new ground for women in the recording industry as the first all-woman jazz band signed to a major record label- Atlantic Records. A group of strong, inventive instrumentalists and vocalists, they have shown themselves to be powerful and imaginative composers and arrangers. Featuring Alina Morr-piano, Marion Hayden- bass, Gayelynn McKinney- drums, Ingrid Racine- trumpet, and Kymberli Wright- vocals

Widely recognized for their eclectic and soulful approach to creating music, the Straight Ahead sound ranges comfortably from jazz, to Latin music and jazzy hip-hop. Their live performances are a dynamic celebration of power and joy with a wide range of musical textures, moods and tempos.

The ensemble has shared the concert stage with a who’s who of the music world including: Nancy Wilson, Tony Bennett, George Duke, Ray Charles, the Yellowjackets, Dianne Reeves and Stanley Clark.

With 5 recordings to its credit, Straight Ahead has established itself as one of jazz’s most enduring and prolific groups. The group’s first two recordings for Atlantic Jazz “Look Straight Ahead” and “Body and Soul”, produced by legendary drummer/producer Lenny White, made the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Chart “Top 20”. “Dance of the Forest Rain” their evocative 3rd release for Atlantic, produced by Bob Belden, featured guest appearances by Kenny Garrett, Brazilian percussionist Guillerme Franco and guitarist Fareed Haque. “City Cuts” includes fresh takes on Stevie Wonder’s classic “You Got It Bad” and the Stylistics “People Make the World Go ‘Round”. The latest release, “Still Swinging” includes original works from the band as well as compositions from saxophonist Jimmy Heath and the late master percussionist/composer Roy Brooks.

These Grammy-nominated recording artists have travelled extensively in the United States, the Caribbean and Europe garnering rave reviews.

Joy, Power, Love, Wisdom…..Magic! This is the sound of what is to come.

This is Straight Ahead!