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The Straight Skinny
Koz & Emeril Kick It Up A Notch…On TV
By Carol Archer |
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Dave Koz Photo by Bettie Grace Miner |
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Koz & Emeril Kick It Up A Notch…On TV The endlessly multi-faceted Dave Koz teams with Emeril Legasse as sidekick and bandleader on the superstar chef's latest television project, "The Emeril Legasse Show featuring Dave Koz," which debuts on Sunday, April 18 at 8p.m. The hour-long show represents both the new ION cable TV network's first foray into original programming, and the saxophonist's return to the medium, where he appeared in a similar role early in his career with late night TV host Arsenio Hall. Koz explains that Legasse, whose meteoric rise blossomed amid New Orleans' rich cultural legacy, possesses an innate connection to music (not to mention Cajun cuisine, which he single-handedly brought to the forefront when he opened the award-winning eatery, Emeril, in 1990). "And what a great and rare opportunity to expose Smooth Jazz on television," Koz says. No kidding! The show's first 13 weeks begin taping in New York tomorrow (through March 19). Elevating the equation of arguably TV's most famous and successful chef, and the talented, accomplished musician; dynamic live performer; and engaged, charming, attractive personality -- band members, guitarist Jeff Golub and keyboardist Philippe Saisse, are on board to contribute stellar chops and mega-watt charisma: all told a knee-weakening combination, I'd say. Koz holds down afternoon drive duty on the Broadcast Architecture Smooth Jazz Network. His partnership with Napa's Vinum Cellars and Whole Foods Markets, where the grower's wines that bear his imprimatur enjoy premium retail real estate, is in its second year. Currently, he is also recording his label debut for Concord Music Group, co-produced by Marcus Miller and the label's head of A&R, John Burke. (I can't wait to hear this project.) |
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What a great and rare opportunity to expose Smooth Jazz on television. -- Dave Koz |