The Lovejoy Group has long championed the soulful blues
rhythms of jazz, understanding that it’s all about that groove! Jerrold
Allen is pianist and musical director of the group. His knowledge
and background have allowed the group to continually expand their
musical reach. Saxophonist Herb Smith has played with some of the
greats, Phineas Newborn, Clark Terry, Webster Young. He adds his
sweet sound to the mix. This jazz historian keeps the group grounded in tradition. Drummer Lawrence Dean has supported the East Coast jazz scene since the 90’s. His rhythms are always solid yet intricate, adding body and texture to the music.
Individually and collectively the group has played and shared the
stage with such notables as: Dionne Warwick, Brian McKnight, Bobby Hutcherson, Joe Williams, Bebe Winan, Al Green, Phineas Newborn, Clark Terry and Webster Young. Club appearances have included: 219 Club, Twins Jazz, Bohemian Caverns, Cafe Lautrec, HR-57, Ramada Inn, L’Enfant Plaza, the Saloon, B&B Main Street Cafe, Westminster, Mayorga, Blues Alley, Smithsonian, Kennedy Center and more!
Karen Lovejoy fronts the group. She is originally a Kansas City
native but has spent more than 20 years in the greater Washington Metropolitan area honing her craft. Like many artists she started experimenting with music in junior high or high school. However, unlike most artists, who love music, her musical pursuit was not intentional. She came in through the back door. Her relationships with, and love for the jazz community allowed her to grow in the clubs, practice rooms and jam sessions that she religiously took part in until she found and embraced her voice.
Lovejoy has been propelled by her belief in jazz and the musicians that work endlessly to play the music. Believing jazz to be a cornerstone of hope for the black community and a beacon of light for the world, her presentations are always about uplifting people. Even if it’s just to make them smile.
Although she has several musical idols, her style has always been
her own. Her definitive sense of rhythm and phrasing gives her a
distinctive sound. She loves good lyrics and enjoys digging
deep to find the feeling in a tune.
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