Bettye LaVette was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2020, after launching her career in 1961 with a song that landed on the Top 10 of the R&B charts.  Throughout her career she's combined elements of Soul, Blues, Rock and Roll, Funk, Gospel and Country music in a way that's made her very unique as a vocalist.  Besides recording, Bettye had a six-year run on Broadway.  She's been nominated for numerous Grammy awards and took home various other music awards during her career.  In our February of 2011 interview, multi-award winning program director Ray White talked with Bettye about her Interpretations: The British Rock Songbook release and highlights from her illustrious career.  Bettye is up for another Grammy with the recent release of her Blackbirds CD.  Lisa Davis features 13-time Grammy nominee, and former lead vocalist for the Gap Band, Charlie Wilson, in our showcase segment.  Also featured is 5-time Grammy winner Robert Cray, whose latest album is titled That's What I Heard.  The Blues, R&B and much more... we have it covered on the Coool CAT!

Grammy nominee Richard Elliot had his musical breakout when he joined Tower of Power in the mid-1980's.  Throughout the years he's been at the forefront of the contemporary jazz scene.  Richard's released over 20 albums during his career, including a handful that hit #1 on the charts!  In our March of 2015 interview, multi-award winning program director Ray White sat down with Richard backstage to talk about the major influence that Tower of Power had on his career, insights into his Lip Service release, and giving back through his work at charity events.  Richard's brand new album is titled Authentic Life, and is climbing the jazz charts.  In our showcase segment, Lisa Davis features 13-time Grammy nominated R&B and jazz recording artist Ledisi, who also landed several acting roles.  Her latest CD is The Wild Card.  Smooth jazz and R&B at its best, right here on the Coool CAT!