nola funk - The Upful Life

Upful Life

29 minutes ago

I had the pleasure of performing on 5 tours with Pharoah Sanders including my own CD release concert featuring Pharoah in Central Park which is where this photo was taken by Alan Nahigian. My time with Pharoah Sanders was invaluable. He introduced me to many books, recordings, films, and people that broadened my outlook on life. He always spoke to me in a very calm, clear and consistent tone, and if he was offering advice he would repeat the phrase even slower with more intent. Listening to Pharoah warm up back stage felt like someone sticking an electric prong into your spine that suddenly connected you to another universe. His choice of notes, breathing techniques, tone, and melodies were from another spiritual galaxy. The band, catering, crew, production staff, promoters, and security would stop whatever task at hand and stand still listening to the mesmerizing sounds of Pharoah Sanders. His saxophone spoke a different language that transcended mortal existence. Pharoah was totally open to sounds. He was the first “ Jazz Musician” who allowed me to bring my electronic gadgets on stage and integrate them into his music. My Native Lands recording was heavily inspired by Pharoah.Many great things must come to an end and I spent the first few days on my first tour with Pharoah dreading the day my days of playing with him would come to and end. One night in Hamburg, Germany we played a show that was so amazing I forgot about the audience- the energy went beyond the venue. Pharoah was smiling after that show and gave me a very noticeable nod of affirmation. I went to Bed that night thinking- it’s best I celebrate every moment with Pharoah rather than waste time thinking about the last time we’ll play together. “The entire universe loves you Pharoah Sanders and all the gifts you have given us......Thank you”.-Will Calhoun#PharoahSanders ... See MoreSee Less

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