Lose Your Mind... and be inspired

As I think more about the importance of artistic expression for a balanced life, I'm reminded that art also serves as a source of inspiration for others... especially when it's music!

One artist who inspires me is Maurice "MoBetta" Brown. As a phenomenal trumpeter, composer, band leader, musical director and producer, he has lent his creative touch to the music of Aretha Franklin, Talib Kweli, Wyclef Jean and Laura Izibor, and has played with jazz greats Elvin Jones, Curtis Fuller, Clark Terry, and too many more to name. (Oh, and he also happens to be my partner!) Anyhow, with that said, and any bias considered but adamantly denied, I urge everyone to check him out, both online and live. He'll be performing this Thursday in Brooklyn at Rustik Tavern, close to Pratt Institute in the Clinton Hill 'hood.

Lose Your Mind is a project that Maurice and his long-time friend Sam Barsh started in 2008, simply because they love to make beautiful music together and have an enormous amount of respect for each other's musical abilities. They're both in high-demand and rarely in town at the same time, so Lose Your Mind shows are a special treat. And, when these superstars put on a show, their fans come together to form a diverse mix of soul-funk-jam-jazz lovers that includes hip-hop heads, hipsters, jazz cats and groove seekers. Needless to say, it's a funky good time.

Come check them out this Thursday in Brooklyn at Rustik Tavern. The show starts at 7pm. Click the flyer for more details.

If you want to keep up with Maurice, sign up for his e-newsletter, which I happen to write! ;)

Thanks for visiting straight no chaser. until next time, be well... and inspired.