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Shannon Kennedy (Sax and Vocals) / Press

“Her latest release, Back Again, is top quality c-jazz with a lot of snap and such magnetic character, loaded with tons of rich, colorful melodies and catchy hooks. Let me add here that the horn arrangements are killer. In fact, there’s not a throw-away track on this well-done production. Each song, original or cover, carries a Shannon Kennedy standalone identity with much presence and, as I mentioned earlier, melody—lots of melody. If this is your first introduction to Shannon Kennedy, you’ll be back. I am sure of it. A++ effort.”

“With Back Again Shannon Kennedy offers a balanced collection of own compositions and exquisite covers. She successfully continues her earlier work and consolidates her position as a recognized saxophonist in the smooth jazz genre.”

“Kennedy, a native Californian, is something of a prodigy and activist for young musicians who has also paid her dues backing and playing alongside contemporary jazz performers. [...] the creative saxophone talent that he has in Kennedy and gives her ample room to play on tracks such as the mid-funk number “Summer Nights,” [with] Kennedy’s energetic solos. [...] Groove Ltd walks that fine line well, and U-Nam’s collaboration with Kennedy turns First Class into a project where the whole is even greater than the talented individual parts. Recommended.”

“Here's a young woman who will take your breath away. Beautiful inside and out, this saxophonist, composer, producer, and overseer of a magnificent site (www.teenjazz.com) is the absolute match for U-Nam's virtuosity. She has performed on national TV and has been highly visible via recordings (Peter White) and on tour (10,000 Maniacs). Her work with U has been unbelievably compelling - and still she has found the time to forge a path via singing. She is considered a triple threat in the business. One listen to her nuanced playing on "First Class" and you'll know why.”

“Der geölte Blitz! U-Nam spielt die Gitarre in Sinn und Stil der Smooth-Fusion-Soul-Pop-Jazz Größen – George Benson kommt unvermittelt vorbei, aber nur um freundlich grüßend um die nächste Kurve abzubiegen und die Show dem Saiten-Mann aus Frankreich zu überlassen. Für sein neues Album braucht´s zudem Platz auf der Bühne, auf der sich im Schlaglicht auch die Shannon Kennedy und ihr hochglanz-poliertes Saxofon breit macht.”

“Shannon Kennedy, however, is the personification of that sexiness and clearly the marketing guys for her new album ‘First Class’ think the same [...] With five previous albums and various solo projects under her belt Kennedy’s experience shows through with her slick, well-crafted lines knowing just when to growl,when to purr and when to claw. [...] I find it hard to pick out a track to recommend as a favourite because they’re all so good. Perhaps ‘Lovedrive’ would be contender with both sax and guitar, at times, racing through some cool funky lines during their solos?”

“Packed with funk, lots of snap, and soulful rhythms, the album touches that smooooth nerve that resides in c-jazzers. Tracks like the infectious head-boppin’ and busy lead and title track, as well as the catchy up-tempo “Uprising” — which features keyboardist Jonathan Fritzen – show off U-Nam at his usual top-tier best and allows Kennedy to shine ever so brightly on sax. Speaking of Kennedy, her gritty tenor sax offering on “Pheromones,” truly one of my faves here, gets down into the very depths of one’s soul and really moves things around in there.”

“Another choice re-imagining comes in the form of ‘Pheromones’ [...] which here (courtesy of Shannon Kennedy’s picture perfect playing) is quite simply an easy grooving gem. Much the same can be said of Kennedy’s astute interplay with U-Nam for the Womack and Womack classic ‘Teardrops’ [...] The wonderfully shuffling beat of ‘Summer Nights’ finds Kennedy delivering a performance that marks out the song as one of the album’s standouts while elsewhere her tender interpretation of ‘Lovedrive’ produces something akin to instrumental quiet storm. However the mood never stays relaxed for too long and this is evidenced by the mid-tempo ‘Coastline’ where velvety horn arrangements complement fiery sax from Kennedy [...] Highly recommended.”

“When two musical elemental forces come together, something extraordinary is created. [...] Groove LTD. opens the album with First Class and covers its name with glory. The song shimmers in Benson like guitar style with Shannon's extra sax appeal fully equipped with a string orchestra. Uprising turns up the volume with a disco beat with Shannon completely unleashed and an exceptionally disposed Jonathan Fritzen on piano. [...] Music lovers will be fascinated by how casually Shannon weaves famous sequences in her presentation.”

“It's AWESOME!!! The work that U-Nam and company are putting out there is EXACTLY the shot in the arm that our music needs now more than ever. Always funky and always fresh, U-Nam and Groove LTD never fail to energize every set of speakers that their music jets out of. In a music industry that is desperately trying to find its' way, it's musicians like these that are taking the wheel and driving.”

Jason Church - HIP 96.3 HD3 St. Louis

“Sensational album!!!! Love it....have added tracks including Uprising which is in high rotation... And sounds great LOUD...hope neighbors don’t mind tho’...Again congrats:)”

Mike Ryan - Music Director - HTR Radio

“WOW this is a STELLAR project and certainly will rise up the charts as all Artists do from Skytown. The vocals of Shannon and Maysa are BRILLIANT and SULTRY as always. We are now broadcasting the CD and we KNOW that our listeners will have their Smooth Jazz Palate satisfied and will be listening for more. Thanks for your continued support and please thank the Artists for their BRILLIANT music and collaborations!”

Jeff Moses - Music Director - WJMX-DB Smooth Jazz Boston

“Love this track (Uprising) - Monster !! HOT track !!”

Richard Edwards - Music Director - SmoothGrooves

“His latest venture (again with Shannon Kennedy) is as the feisty Groove Ltd and the duo will release their self titled debut CD later this year. The first single is a vibrant cover of ‘It’s Only Love’ by the legendary Barry White which in turn was turned into a world-wide hit by UK band Simply Red. Even at this early stage this is a ‘shoo in’ for my top ten covers of the year.”

“I absolutely love this song. Will definitely be on daytime rotation next month but will be in system this weekend. Love it”

Sharon Jones - KAZI FM

“Love it!! Sounds stylish and sexy!! Congrats!”

Stu Berketo, Music Director - Wave.FM Canada

“My girl Shannon is a beast on sax. U-Nam adds his guitar genius to the mix. Love the video treatment new single, "It's Only Love". Smoking hot. Very sexy. Shannon looks, sounds, and plays marvelously.”

Bridgette Lewis - Coffee Talk Jazz

“The song and the video are GREAT!! You both are so talented and inspiring!!”

Jimi Fitz Fitzgerald - KJJZ 102.3 FM

“Killed it!”

Will McNeal - WOWE 98.9 FM

“Just checked [It's Only Love] Out and I love it. Wow!”

Jackelyn Anderson - WJAB 90.9 FM

“Just watched the video and it's great [...] its got a spot on the hot hits playlist for our stations.”

Doug Sinclair - WSJF

“Oh. My. God. EAR CANDY! Awesome job on that one [It's Only Love]... I love this one! Listening again. Can't wait to share the video on the Hip FB page!”

Jason Church - HIP 96.3 HD3 St. Louis

"It's Only Love Doing Its Thing" is a track featured on Barry White's album The Man (1978). British soul band Simply Red later covered the song, under the shortened title "It's Only Love", as the lead single for their third studio album, A New Flame (1988/89). Now, in 2015 the duo known as 'Groove Ltd'. featuring Shannon Kennedy & U-Nam have produced this saxy/vocal track with U-Nam adding his trademark guitar influence on this smooth cover version of " It's Only Love". OUT NOW!

Groovefather Norrie Lynch

“Shannon Kennedy shines with a stylish sax input”

“Oh, DANG! This music is so SEXY! Whew! What is the word...Exhilarating Yes! Stimulating, invigorating, ALIVE... You certainly have a knack for "feeling" the 80's [..] and I remember clearly what that decade was like. It was fabulous to return via your music today and visualize so many occasions that I experienced - because I always used music as a soundtrack Now, THAT'S a gift to pull that off. And I thank you!”

Trish Hennessey - Hybrid Jazz

"I've added "Love's No Distance." I love your sound and [Shannon's] playing's da bomb. The track was included in this month's SmoothJazzSundayBrunch.com soundtrack and on the weekly show I deliver to Hot FM-smooth Grooves Radio an online show based in London. "

Barbara Blake - Smooth Jazz Sunday Brunch

“NiVO DEUX, the French-American duo based in Los Angeles may be relatively new to the professional music scene but their sound is one that captivates and blends various genres, producing a one-of-a-kind and distinctivesound. With influences that encompass 80′s New Wave, Electro-Pop, Funk, Nu-Disco, Disco and smooth jazz styles, the duo’s core members are comprised of Platinum French R&B/Pop Producer and Chart-Topping Guitarist U-Nam and budding saxophonist and vocalist Shannon Kennedy. Their new single, “Love’s No Distance” is one that is a musical tapestry of musical ingenuity, creativity and skill. As SkyTown Records’ artists, NiVO DEUX is a group who embraces the musical textures of the past to provide their growing fan base musical flavors that are deliciously set to various styles of music.”

“Now, as NiVO DEUX, [U-Nam] has teamed with sax player and vocalist Shannon Kennedy to push the envelope even further. The duo’s first single is the zesty ‘Love's No Distance’ that was written and produced by U-Nam. It is sure to be an attention grabber and, with NiVO DEUX, he might just have hit on a formula that is capable of giving the genre a much-needed shot in the arm.”

“In a display of her refined instrumental expression, “Falling Slowly” is a gorgeous piece that has no need for words. The melodic flute paints the whole picture with a fine bristle brush. Result? A breath-taking portrait of whatever your heart desires.”

“I love this album very much. I never get tired of it and go back to it every now and then. I like the original compositions and easy going sounds.”

Madden2012 - Amazon Reviews

“This young lady has an enormous amount of a talent!. Love the way she composes and really enjoy her voice! Worthy of listening to! Strongly advise anyone who appreciates Real Musician / song writer to check this Out!”

David Kyle - iTunes Reviews

“Shannon Kennedy is a prodigy. Whether composing with heartfelt lyrics, playing any number of woodwind instruments to perfection or singing, Shannon has conquered them all with her amazing talent. She combines simple melodies and tasteful arrangements with sweet vocals that compliment her unique style. Any one who enjoys the likes of Taylor Swift or Elle Goulding will thoroughly enjoy Shannon's music. 5 stars!”

Debra L. Parks - Amazon Reviews

“Shannon composes and plays many instruments beautifully. I had no idea that she sang and was very pleasantly surprised when I heard her singing voice for the first time. She sounds like an angel. Refreshingly sweet, pure & untainted. If that's not your thing, check out her sax. She will blow you away. I have been fortunate enough to have almost everything Shannon has recorded and I love them all for different reasons.”

Debbie T. - Amazon Reviews

“I stumbled upon you on Amazon today. WOWWWWW! You are so talented. I'm a new fan!”

Alicia Marie Roark - Facebook

“A very talented phoenom. Always fun to play music with her.”

Brian Vidal - BranchOut Recommendation

“A tirelessly supporter of her colleagues, Shannon Kennedy is an inspired musician who delivers on CD, in concert, and in the classroom.”

Christofer Gross - BranchOut Recommendation

“Shannon is an amazing multi-talented musician, songwriter and performer, as well as a genuine person with integrity and a dynamic and charismatic personal presence.”

Jonathan Widran - LinkedIn Recommendation

“Excellent musician and entertainer”

Ron Moss - LinkedIn Recommendation

“Shannon is the epitome of a very gifted, talented, and exceptional saxophone artist! When Shannon performed for an upscale 25th Anniversary Celebration in Newport Beach, CA -- the audience was extremely impressed and mesmerized by her grace, smoothness, and comforting saxophone melodies. . . With that said, I would hire Shannon without a doubt/question for other engagements. Her performance stand on its own merit. Her stage presentation and ability to "wow" the audience is of excellence. Her personality, service, high integrity, and willingness to go the extra mile demonstrates her ability to surpass expectations. Shannon Kennedy will become an "inspirational, positive and 'the best' saxophone artist" household name for all music lovers. Watch out world -- SK is on her way!”

Jarita Davis - Stoneybrooke Christian School

“Take talent and creativity, add it to hard work and perseverance, and you get success. Shannon has demonstrated all of these qualities, that's why we're expecting her star to continue to shine brighter and brighter”

Randy Gunter - The Gunter Agency

“Shannon is extremely dedicated to learning, exploring, and always seeking to enhance her craft. Her talent is awesome and a gift to the world, which is evidenced by Shannon reaching back to help other evolve within their gifts. Shannon has a wonderful joy for life..”

Nesheba of ESpiritE Radio7 - LinkedIn Recommendation

“Among some of the top names in the smooth jazz genre, one newcomer made waves on the All Star Smooth Jazz Cruise this last week. Shannon Kennedy, shared the stage with world’s top jazz artists, including performing with Grammy-nominated guitarist Craig Chaquico on the main stage.”

Randy Gunter - Young Artist Makes International Debut

“she has the confidence to write some original songs like All It Takes and Lost The Reason (I Fell In Love). They are smooth and mellow compositions that reflect the music of Kenny G and Alexander Zonjic. She brings a youthfulness to the song with memories of love, peace and harmony.”

Gary James - Wave Fave

“Shannon Kennedy is a powerhouse of a musician.”

Rex Djere - The Future Queen of the saxophone

“Shannon Kennedy is a very talented young saxophonist who is taking the music world by storm. A native of Southern California, Kennedy’s musical rise has made her a force to be reckoned with.”

Rex Djere - SaxTalk

“...photo shows Kennedy playing with a confidence that belies her youth.”

Anne Valdespino - The Sounds of Child Prodigies

“...we heard an amazing teenage sax talent, O.C.'s Shannon Kennedy, play a few expert sets with two seasoned sidemen.”

Paul Hodgins - Post Haste

“Shannon is a rare breed in todays music industry," said Robert Polan, Rico Brand Manager. "She has accomplished so much at 18 and is really the leader in connecting the music industry to aspiring young players. Her outreach to upcoming players is a true inspiration to future professionals.”

Rico Reeds - Rico Welcomes Rising Saxophonist Shannon Kennedy

“Jazz saxophonist Shannon Kennedy is overwhelming audiences in night clubs all over the state and she isn't even old enough to drink alcohol.”

Holly Herndon - Californian Music

“Driven by Shannon’s most colorful playing and the blistering guitar of Stephan Lexner, this song is too much fun for smooth jazz radio, but so what? It’s an absolute smash and will get everyone’s day off to a pumpin’ start.”

Jonathan Widran - Jazz Monthly CD Reviews

“Shannon—still a full time classical saxophone performance major at Cal State Long Beach--is more accomplished as a composer, producer and multi-faceted performer and recording artist than most musicians over twice her age.”

“Steppin Up. She sticks basically to the smooth jazz type of sound that sells! She also has some funkier type of tracks on this CD, but still keeps it laid back for the smooth sound she is going for. It's relaxing music with a somewhat spirited sound.”