This is a rare live recording of Rahsaana Ison in her early 20's. Many of the musicians in the band were also in their early 20's. My brother L Kasimu
Harris and my father Richwell Ison were invited to join me on stage. However, most of the core band members studied music alongside me at
the University of New Orleans. Many of them are now headlining and /or performing with other major artists.
Here's the list of musicians on this album:
Rahsaana Ison Vocals
Tyrone Jackson Piano
Marvin Williams Bass
Adonis Rose Drums
Richwell Ison Trumpet
Kasimu Harris Trumpet
Dwight Fitch Piano- Wave
Jason Stuart Bass -Wave
Eric Hornsby wrote Midnight Ride
This was recorded live from the Essence Festival 1994. My mother asked the sound guy to record my set. She slipped him a few bucks. You got to
love my mother The late great Eartha Harris. She was a force to be reckoned with. My mother was very innovative and never excepted no for an
answer. That's how I got many of my opportunities. She was a go-getter.
I digress, Rahsaana Ison is a little lady with many talents. If you know anything about New Orleans you know it is the birthplace of Jazz. I was very
fortunate to study under many jazz legends such as Harold Harold Battiste, Ellis Marsalis Jr., and Leah Chase Kamata just to name a few.
Harold Battiste Jr., the prolific saxophonist, pianist, producer, arranger, and educator who helped shape music in New Orleans and beyond for more
than six decades. (He loved my energy! I just didn't know it until I was much older) Mr. Batt loved me. I was just too young and foolish to understand
the level of greatness I was blessed to be around.
Mr. Battiste founded A.F.O. Records, the first New Orleans label owned by musicians, which released Barbara George's 1961 hit "I Know (You Don't Love Me No More)." He collaborated with Sam Cooke on two of the soul star's landmark singles. After moving to Los Angeles in the 1960s, he served as Sonny and Cher's musical director and helped launch Dr. John's career.
In 1989, he returned to New Orleans and joined the jazz studies faculty at the University of New Orleans, mentoring and inspiring countless students.
He was the reason I was on the first Second Line album with the Soul Rebels.
This brings so many wonderful memories of my early adulthood. I hope you enjoy my rendition of Green Dolphin Street.
