In Memory Of David Coleman

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David Coleman

Hollywood Rhythm Kings is deeply saddened by the passing of dear friend and founding member, pianist/vocalist David Coleman. He will forever be in our hearts. In spirit he will always be on our bandstand. We had many wonderful times together. David made every situation happier with his optimism, encouragement and deep musical knowledge. David Coleman is and will be truly missed.

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Performing at David Coleman’s memorial service. George Woo graciously played piano with original members Martin Blasick and Kerry Crutchfield

On a personal note, this writer composed “So Long” to say goodbye to David, and, following his example, dutifully made a proper lead sheet.

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Our final performance with David Coleman. It was May 24. 2015 at a lovely backyard birthday celebration. David was in fine form vocally and on the keys. A lovely day for some jazz with friends.
Our final performance with David Coleman. It was May 24. 2015 at a lovely backyard birthday celebration. David was in fine form vocally and on the keys. It was a lovely day for some jazz with friends.

Appearing On Television

Hollywood Rhythm Kings members lent their talents to being house band for the pilot of the upcoming talk show Highway To Hollywood. Martin, is the musical director (switching to guitar). Kerry and George are drums and keyboards. Natasha Blasick  is on bass. All together it’s Martin Blasick & The Highway To Hollywood Band.  The shoot was easy going fun. It was all done on a green screen. The show is currently being pitched to networks.

The band appears at the top and the end of the show.  Video below:

 

Valentine’s 2015

Hollywood Rhythm Kings had a delightful Valentine’s 2015 playing an outdoor corporate event in a beautiful courtyard. Fancy cupcakes were available for all to have a major sugar intake to go along with the romantic jazz classics. Guest vocalist Michael Morano has a true rat pack flair and way with guest. Guest pianist George G. Woo dazzled with great artistry and technique.

Valentine's 2015 With Guest Vocalist Michael Morano
Valentine’s 2015 With Guest Vocalist Michael Moran Hol

All Aboard The USS Midway

It was a glamorous night performing for the International Australian Universities Conference aboard the USS Midway. Now a museum, this grand vessel was for a time the largest ship in the world. We played 40’s swing to match the theme of the event. Pianist Bill Keis guested with us. Kerry provided drum rolls during the raffle portion of the event. We played favorites like Tuxedo Junction, Perdido and Chattanooga Choo Choo.

 

A very gracious person shot a cel phone video of us aboard the USS Midway.

It Don’t Mean A Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing

Hollywood Rhythm Kings proudly played at the Burbank Public Library in a National Endowment For The Arts program produced by Skakespeare At Play. This clip captures the  final minute of Duke Ellington’s It Don’t Mean A Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing. Thank you to Natasha Blasick for capturing the video.

elegant event music

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