I’ve had Trombone Shorty’s “Backatown” album #OnRepeat this week. I first discovered him while listening to his music at my job. One of the many perks of working at a job that promotes and holds musical performances is that you get exposed to great music that you usually wouldn’t be aware of or listen to on a regular basis. Since I first listened to this album, I’ve went on to listen to more of Trombone Shorty’s albums and his music never fails to disappoint.
Trombone Shorty (Troy Andrews) is a trombone and trumpet player from New Orleans who also sings, composes and arranges his own music. He has toured with artists such as Aerosmith and Lenny Kravitz and has participated in several benefit concerts and projects for New Orleans after the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. His music blends New Orleans-style Jazz, Hip-Hop, Rock, and R&B music. He is well-known for his single, “Do To Me,” and his most recent album, “Say That to Say This,” another album that everyone should definitely check out. Below is a Youtube video of the full “Backatown” album. Take a listen:
Although his music is a new, impressive hybrid type of music blending many styles that causes people to get up on their feet, I am even more impressed with his philanthropic work. Trombone Shorty is involved in several different programs that give back to the community in which he grew up and is still actively a part of; the main program being the Trombone Shorty Academy, which provides young New Orleans musicians mentorship, music performance experience, and basic musicianship skills, all while donating instruments to underserved schools in the area and teaching New Orleans musical traditions. He also takes a leadership role in the Fredman Music Business Institute, which gives music industry training to young musicians in the New Orleans area. Not many musicians give back to their community where they grew up in the same way that Trombone Shorty is and it is something to be admired and commended.
Check out his music for yourself and see what you think. Do you know any other musicians or groups who are giving back to their communities while making a name for themselves? Let us know in the comments below!