Music Production

Background

A proud native of Gary, IN, Tom’s music artfully combines the influences “old school” R&B, funk, and gospel, with popular modern smooth jazz and blues/rock genres to make a popular style that he simply calls, “music you can live your life to. . .” His cross-genre sound appeals to a wide international audience of all age groups.

Tom learned the rudiments of music theory, composition, and arrangement by taking guitar and piano lessons and playing trumpet, trombone, and tuba in his high school’s marching band. By the time he finished high school in 1972, Tom had become a well-rounded musician that was accomplished enough to start composing tunes and honing his craft by playing rhythm and lead guitar in several local funk/R&B bands like "The Lost Weekend" and The Exquisites." For much of the past 40 years, Tom has continued to pursue his passion for music by writing contemporary jazz, hip-hop lyrics, background music for spoken word artists, and music scores for children's eBooks.

Musical Influences

Growing up in a musical environment in Gary’s Midtown neighborhood in the ‘60’s, Tom was inspired by hanging out with local stars who recorded on Gary’s iconic Vee-Jay Records during that era. Artists like the Dells, the Spaniels, the Staple Singers, and blues legend, Jimmy Reed were all influential in Tom’s musical development. Those artists, and that same neighborhood, also spawned other great musical talent like the Jackson 5, Denise Williams, and Motown session guitarist, Willie “Junei” Lee – who would all go on to become superstars in the music industry.

Background

Jean LeRoy (French pronunciation: Zhahn Lur-Wah) is a versatile musician known for his distinctive blend of rich R&B, jazz, neo-soul, classical, and sweet gospel harmonies. His unique sound is shaped by his upbringing in Chicago and influenced by his Haitian and other Caribbean cultural roots. 

Jean spends most of his time in the studio recording tracks, playing at local churches, and performing at world community events that raise funds to support educational activities in other countries. 

For the past 45 years he has wowed audiences with his soul stirring performances and accompaniment of some of Chicago's greatest gospel choirs and vocal groups.

Musical Influences

His compositions reflect his diverse influences, creating a musical experience that is both innovative and deeply soulful. As a proud descendent of French & Haitian immigrants, Mr.  Leroy's background includes gospel and contemporary jazz genres that feature virtuoso piano performances. The son of a pastor and a classically trained pianist, Jean began playing piano as a child prodigy in his father's church at the age of six!

Background

The energy and magic of being in the studio watching the process of his father, Verne Allison, making history with The Dells, ‘VA’ discovered his superpowers.  He became a producer/songwriter, and his thoughts became powerful lyrics and melodies . . . that he completed with his trademark rhythms, grooves, and his first love . . . the drums. 

A few years later, he had to start singing, because it was all around him. A memorable moment was on a Robert Townsend tour, when he took the stage with legends Dionne Warwick, Gladys Knight, Stevie Wonder, and Howard Hewitt. Performing alongside these industry icons gave him the confidence to realize that he could also be a great vocalist.

A versatile musician, ‘VA’ has played every genre of music, on both piano, and drums -- from "back alley" blues to Vegas orchestras. 

Musical Influences

Verne has contributed as a producer, drummer, vocalist, or touring musician for the following well-known acts:

The Dells; Gene ‘Daddy G’ Barge; Nick Colionne; Otis Clay; Uvee Hayes; Marqueal Jordan; Frank Russell; The Emotions; R. Kelly; Robert Townsend; Bloodstone; Slide Hampton; The Ken Chaney Xperience; and Dee Alexander.

He has also written, performed, and released the following tracks on his own labels:

• “Focus " – Wolf Entertainment 

• "Merry Christmas, Happy New Year" and “Spend Christmas with You” – Nu Ground Productions