Bio
Jawanza Kobie has composed music for Theater starting with The Freedom Theater in Philadelphia, The Elma Lewis School for Arts in Boston, Award-winning Films, and Television for productions in Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Boston, and Chicago with his music being showcased on PBS, ABC and other networks over his music career. Jawanza has also been an accompanist, session player, and writer for artists on Warner Brothers, Philadelphia International, Alpha International Records (writer/producer), and other independent labels and projects. He released his 1st critically acclaimed CD as a solo artist ‘Feels Better Than It Sounds’ a few years ago (*** out of **** stars from the Philadelphia Inquirer) and reviews in Jazz Times, and other publications as well as being on the top ten list of ten radio stations in the USA.
After working and retiring 33 years from beginning as an electrician and ultimately in management with SEPTA (Southeastern Transportation Authority) have garnered interest from this former Philadelphia School Music Teacher.
Since retiring, Jawanza had won the coveted Jazz Residency from the Philadelphia Kimmel Center home of the Philadelphia Orchestra as well as becoming an Artist in Residence and Teaching Artist at the Mann Center for The Performing Arts in Philadelphia Pa. also performances at the Annenberg Center. In 2020 Jawanza won the video pitch award at the Lincoln Center Jazz Congress.
The 2nd CD release of ‘Jawanza Kobie Jazz Composer’ in 2021 which peaked at #24 on JazzWeek Charts and #1 on Smoothjazz.com has been gaining attention and accolades from the radio streaming. Recording industry,
Jawanza performs with his several bands from trio to larger ensembles at festivals and other venues local and elsewhere. He is a graduate of Berklee College of Music majoring in composition.
The original compositions which are the clear focus of this band spanning the genres of Jazz like Traditional, Fusion, Progressive, and Contemporary are the highlight and unique attributes which distinguish this band from others. The musicians and playing are all top-notch, but the compositions are the star of the show which audiences have come to expect and enjoy from this band. This band partners with venues to market and promote our shows. We are dependable, professional, and ready to entertain.
Links (outside of my website) to articles and reviews
