PRESS

testimonials & reviews
from critics, conductors, &
composers

Kristin Chenoweth

  • “It's not often one gets to experience a true living legend. You know, someone with extreme unparalleled talent and a genuine charm to match. Someone who is an authentic interpreter of song. I'm talking, of course, about the incomparable Kristin Chenoweth. Her weekend run with the Nashville Symphony is undoubtedly the hot ticket in town. Chenoweth delivers a triumphant musical experience… Chenoweth's entrance came with thunderous applause as she enthusiastically bounced across the stage... before delighting her adoring crowd with the first of 16 songs of the night, [Kelly's arrangement of] "Que Sera, Sera."

    — Chad Young, THE NASHVILLE PARENT (2018)

  • “Kristin Chenoweth Dazzles in First Solo Concert at Hollywood Bowl: The evening began with a mini-burst of fireworks… . The cleverly-curated concert allowed her to pay tribute to some of her favorite Hollywood movie musicals in the first half… Spunky, adorable, and incredibly theatrical, Chenoweth---armed with a beaming smile and that unmistakable, stratospheric voice---charmed and mesmerized her captivated audience with some witty barbs and sassy one-liners, while simultaneously wowing them with terrific renditions of classic songs”

    — Michael L. Quintos, BROADWAY WORLD (2013)

  • “A classically trained coloratura soprano with a three-octave range turned gold-plated Broadway star… ‘I have a great amalgamation of songs I’ll be doing on this tour…‘Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be),’ [arranged by Kelly] and ‘The Man That Got Away,’ which are from some of my favorite movies. I find concert work very gratifying. When I’m in the moment, performing a song I love, I know I can’t lose.’

    — R. Scott Reedy, THE PROVIDENCE JOURNAL (2015)

  • "From the moment her iconic voice could be heard singing a gentle ballad version of [Kelly's arrangement of] "Que Sera, Sera" from off-stage the audience could feel that familiar warmth of authenticity fill the entire theatre. A friend, an ally, a spiritual powerhouse of talent was about to enter... With every word she sang of the 1956 Doris Day hit it felt like a large invisible hand reached out and captured all 1,127 people in attendance; we gladly remained there for the duration of the evening. Chenoweth presented a perfectly executed master class on how a concert show should be designed."

    — Gilmore Rizzo, Palm Springs Concert - BROADWAY WORLD (2024)

  • “The brightest star swept across the stage, a tiny supernova named Kristin Chenoweth. The Broadway and television star attracted a large audience... Chenoweth has a wide ranging voice that is as comfortable with a belted-out Broadway ballad, a twangy country tune, or a coloratura soprano showpiece. Her innate showmanship bursts forth immediately with her entrance. Dressed in a knockout scarlet and black strapless gown, with black opera-length gloves, she looks every bit the diva. With “Que Sera, Sera,” [arranged by Kelly] the audience eagerly responds to her command to join in the song.”

    — Theodore P. Mahne, THE TIMES-PICAYUNE (2013)

  • "As if there was ever even an inkling of doubt, Broadway, Film and TV phenomenon Kristin Chenoweth's first solo concerts... at the 17,000-seat Hollywood Bowl was, as expected, nothing short of spectacular. The evening began with a mini-burst of fireworks that took everyone by surprise [composed by Kelly]. "I like starting things off with a bang," she joked, after making her long way to stage center glistening in the first of two gorgeous sparkling-white frocks...."

    — Michael L. Quintos, BROADWAY WORLD

  • "A meteor hit the stage at the Hollywood Bowl this weekend for two consecutive performances... It is hard to describe in words, what the audience witnessed, but one would have to begin with the star's entrance [written by Kelly] that literally took the audience's breath away... The show received numerous standing ovations"

    — Staff Review, BROADWAY WORLD

  • "From the intricate musical arrangements to [Chenoweth's] glamorous attire, it was obvious this auspicious occasion was long thought-out."

    — Heather Youmans, THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

  • “[Chenoweth] made national headlines with her stunning renditions of Hollywood’s most beloved songs from classic films [with arrangements by Kelly], when she performed at the Hollywood Bowl with the Los Angeles Philharmonic.”

    — Shannon Thomason, THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA REVIEW

  • "Emmy- and Tony- winning performer [Kristin] Chenoweth took to the stage in an Oscar-worthy gown... to open her two-night stay at the [Hollywood] Bowl with "Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)," prompting an audience singalong, which set up the evening perfectly for what would be two hours of pure bliss."

    — Jerry J. Sharell, THE GRAMMY AWARDS ONLINE

  • “Tony Award and Emmy-winning musical actress Kristin Chenoweth will be starring at Segerstrom Hall in the magnificent Segerstrom Center for the Arts for one night only [featuring Kelly’s arrangements]… the stunning and renowned Broadway and television star will perform a compilation of songs from stage, film, and also music from her new album.”

    — Angela Hatcher (Costa Mesa, CA), ‘LOCALE’

  • “With a flourish of an introduction by the symphony [composed by Kelly], Kristin appeared on the stage in a flowing white gown. She glided into a beautiful rendition of “Que Sera Sera" [arranged by Kelly]. It was her first performance in a year and a half in front of a live audience. Chenoweth, along with the symphony, emitted the joy of returning home after a long time away. Or as Kristin put it, “like water in the desert”.

    — Katie Barber, THE UTAH CONCERT REVIEW (2021)

  • "Taking the stage in a University of Oklahoma jersey over her sleek black suit, Chenoweth opened her set with a heavenly rendition of “Que Sera, Sera" Beautifully backed by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, the Tony winner crooned... emotions already were running high"

    — Brandy McDonnell, THE OKLAHOMAN

  • "Broadway darling Kristin Chenoweth is just as charming down South... [she] performed at a gala celebrating the official reopening of New Orleans' Saenger Theatre. The vocal powerhouse made the whole crowd feel like they were part of the show and even brought Mayor Mitch Landrieu onstage... Chenoweth also encouraged the audience to join her in [Kelly's] rendition of "Que Sera, Sera."

    — Rebecca Macatee, E! ONLINE

  • "[Chenoweth] has always worked her image as the opera singer next door. The sure-fire Broadway star, former “Glee” actress and frequent guest on the Jay Leno-era “Tonight Show” has broad, common-denominator appeal. ‘My Act I was songs from movies, like [Kelly s] ‘Que Sera Sera…’ an interesting amalgamation of everything that I do” said Chenoweth.

    — Rebecca Ritzel, THE WASHINGTON POST

  • "The Nashville Symphony provided an exquisite backdrop for each incredible number, so much so that Chenoweth referred to the Nashville troupe as the 'best in the country.' With noteworthy performances of "Que Sera Sera," a nod to her breakout role in Wicked... an evening filled with show-stopping numbers... Chenoweth's personality glows as much as her voice and demonstrated to Nashville why she's one of the most respected talents in the arts."

    — Cillea Houghton, KXRB (NASHVILLE)

  • “To say that Chenoweth had the audience eating out of the palm of her hand all night is no surprise. She was an utter delight – she owned our hearts from the minute she stepped out onstage with a parka thrown over her sequined gown. She opened with a delightful, lilting rendition of [Kelly’s] “Que Sera Sera.”

    — Staff Review, FALLEN ROCKET ONLINE

  • “Chenoweth has a wide ranging voice that is as comfortable with a belted-out Broadway ballad, a twangy country tune, or a coloratura soprano showpiece. Her innate showmanship bursts forth immediately with her entrance. Dressed in a knockout scarlet and black strapless gown, with black opera-length gloves, she looks every bit the diva. With “Que Sera, Sera,” the audience eagerly responds to her command to join in the song.”

    — Theodore P. Mahne, THE TIMES-PICAYUNE / THE NEWS ORLEANS ADVOCATE

  • “From her opening number [of Kelly’s ‘Que Sera, Sera’] Saturday night, Kristin Chenoweth made clear that she’s an amalgam of all kinds of interests, attitudes and talents… I’ve seen a lot of Broadway artists in concert, but few are so quickly able to wrap an audience around her finger as Chenoweth did in her sold-out concert in the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.”

    — Jay Handelman, THE SARASOTA HERALD-TRIBUNE

  • ”Kristin Chenoweth took the stage at Strathmore Music Center [singing Kelly’s arrangement’]… and filled the hall with her remarkably strong, beautifully clear, and thrilling coloratura soprano voice… this petite powerhouse delighted the audience with an ever-changing kaleidoscope of pop, country, rock, gospel, and show tunes.”

    — Paul M. Bessel & Barbara Braswell, DC METRO THEATRE ARTS

  • “There are singers who satisfy our musical tastes by regularly performing the songs that made them famous. Then there are those who constantly reinvent themselves with musical choices that are unusual, far-reaching or unexpected… Strolling on stage wearing a University of Oklahoma cap and carrying her trademark Sonic beverage, Chenoweth launched into a compelling version of [Kelly’s] “Que Sera Sera” before proudly proclaiming to the audience how pleased she was to be back home again.”

    — Rick Rodgers, THE OKLAHOMAN (2020)

  • “Through this concert I want to remind people of what I believe because it’s important to show who you are as an artist. And I’ll be particularly singing songs from some movies [feat. Kelly’s arrangements] I love as well as some new songs I’ve wanted to try in addition to Broadway, operetta and country-pop. Above all I want people to leave with a big smile on their face having been entertained,” said Chenoweth.

    — Russell Florence Jr., DAYTON DAILY NEWS

  • ”[Chenoweth’s] program with the [Cincinatti] Pops is billed as ‘a charming evening of Broadway and Hollywood,’ but according to Chenoweth, there will be much more... [Kelly's arrangement will be included in] everything from her beloved Broadway to Gospel and American Songbook classics to Pop… “It’s an eclectic program,” she says in a phone interview. “These are songs that made an impression on me throughout my life, and I’ll talk about that.”

    — Anne Arenstein, CITYBEAT CINCINATTI

  • “The Kimmel Center’s upcoming season is seriously a Broadway queen’s dream come true… The Philadelphia Orchestra announced today that the one and only Kristin Chenoweth will be performing with the acclaimed musical ensemble this January at Verizon Hall [and includes Kelly’s arrangements]. The Tony and Emmy Award Winner has performed with the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Pops, the National Symphony, the Chicago Symphony, and the San Francisco Symphony.”

    — Bryan Buttler, PHILLY MAGAZINE

  • “The Tony winner – who closes out the Tanglewood season with the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra on Saturday, Sept. 5 [says]… “I have a great amalgamation of songs I’ll be doing on this tour including… [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)’ which are from some of my favorite movies. I find concert work very gratifying. When I’m in the moment, performing a song I love, I know I can’t lose.”

    — R. Scott Reedy, THE DAILY NEWS

  • “The Lutcher Theater presents Emmy and Tony Award winning actress and singer, Kristin Chenoweth in the Coming Home Tour [featuring Kelly’s arrangements]. The performance is the only date Ms. Chenoweth has scheduled for a Texas or Louisiana venue for this tour. [She] made national headlines with her stunning renditions of Hollywood’s most beloved songs from classic films, when she performed at the Hollywood Bowl with the Los Angeles Philharmonic.”

    — Dawn Burleigh, THE ORANGE LEADER

  • “The Tony and Emmy Award winner has a few surprises for us when she takes the stage at Kodak Hall on Oct. 9… In her last five concerts… stop number 10 in a 40-city tour… she moved seamlessly through country, operatic, Jerome Kern and Broadway numbers. Some were symphonic arrangements [including Kelly’s arrangements] while others had nothing more than a simple piano accompaniment.”

    — Nancy O'Donnell, DEMOCRAT & CHRONICLE

  • “[Orlando's] Center for the Performing Arts celebrated the new year with Broadway pizazz as Kristin Chenoweth and Cheyenne Jackson took the stage as the centerpiece of a 6-hour gala Thursday night. Tony-winner Chenoweth, who shot to stardom in the leading role of Glinda in the original cast of "Wicked," performed for an hour leading up to the countdown to 2016 [including Kelly’s arrangement]. Her perky, well-sung set was preceded by selections from Jackson.”

    — Matthew J. Palm, ORLANDO SENTINEL (2016)

  • ”Mayor David Holt granted Kristin Chenoweth the key to Oklahoma City during her “Love Letter to Oklahoma” performance at the Civic Center Tuesday evening. Kristin Chenoweth held her “Love Letter to Oklahoma” performance tonight to benefit the Allied Arts. She opened with [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Que Sera, Sera’ in honor of Doris Day’s [death] and sang How Great Though Art and For Good from “Wicked” with Sandi Patti.”

    — Kaylee Douglas, OKLAHOMA CITY TV STATION ‘KFOR’ (2019)

  • “The Kristin Chenoweth last night was AMAZING. She is such an inspiration! After her first song "Que Sera, Sera" [arranged and orchestrated by Kelly] the group I was with shouted”

    — THE PARK CITY UTAH REVIEW

  • ”One of the rewards of a Kristin Chenoweth concert is re-discovering familiar songs. On Friday at Morristown’s Mayo Performing Arts Center, Chenoweth dusted off a tune at once so old and new, she needed a cheat sheet for the lyrics… On the lighter side, Chenoweth offered [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Que Sera, Sera’… [it] pivoted from punchy to poignant, alternately sounding warm notes and indulging the Oklahoman’s twangy humor.”

    — Kevin Coughlin, THE MORRISTOWN GREEN (2018)

  • “Kristin Chenoweth performed at the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts... singing stunning orchestral arrangements of songs from her favorite moves… highlights include [Kelly’s arrangement of] “Que Sera, Sera” (from The Man Who Knew Too Much”)…”

    — THE INDEPENDENT, (WABE) Florida Staff)

  • “There are a lot of superlatives that have been thrown around about the world-renowned Kristin Chenoweth -- stunning, personable, fun, and entertaining. All are true and she demonstrated all of those traits when she came to Louisville for a second time and performed with our Louisville Orchestra… With a cute and quick intro Ms. Chenoweth came onto the Whitney Hall stage… and delves into [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Que Sera, Sera.”

    — Annette Skaggs, ARTS LOUISVILLE (2016)

  • “…her two-night stay at the Bowl with Doris Day's GRAMMY Hall Of Fame-inducted "Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)," [arranged by Kelly] prompting an audience singalong, which set up the evening perfectly for what would be two hours of pure bliss. Under the direction of Richard Jay-Alexander (co-director of Barbra Streisand's Back to Brooklyn tour), the pace, song choices, banter and, of course, Chenoweth's voice were all simply perfect.”

    — Jerry J. Sharell, THE GRAMMY AWARDS (2014)

  • “The vocal powerhouse made the whole crowd feel like they were part of the show and even brought Mayor Mitch Landrieu onstage for a rendition… Per the Times-Picayune, Chenoweth also encouraged the audience to join her in a rendition of "Que Sera, Sera," [arranged by Kelly]… Accompanied by the New Orleans Philharmonic Orchestra, she went on to perform several crowd favorites”

    — Rebecca Macatee, E! NEWS (2013)

  • "LA Film Composers to Watch: Nathan Kelly"

    — Nicholas Galesburg, PLAYBACK MAGAZINE [Vol. 38, Iss. 4, pg. 2]

“Nathan can write one hell
of a good arrangement — because he worked with me for years.”

— David Foster

“Ten emerging composers are being spotlighted in the EarShot New Music Readings presented this winter and spring… The selected composers and compositions for Fort Wayne Philharmonic were Nathan Kelly (Redwood)… Performances are the culmination of a series of private readings, feedback sessions, and work with mentor composers. EarShot is a partnership between American Composers Orchestra, League of American Orchestras, American Composers Forum, and New Music USA.”

— Staff, SYMPHONY MAGAZINE (2018)

“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”

— Quote Source

“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”

— Quote Source

AJR

  • “Ryan: ‘When we found out tours were going to be cancelled, our first thought was, “How can we do shows that are safe?” Last summer, we did these drive-in shows that were really fun. And then we did this big virtual show, ‘One Spectacular Night,’ [orchestrated by Kelly] where Jack was walking on lasers and being picked up by a giant hand. It was this big, theatrical thing that was super fun. Our albums are very tied to live performances. While we’re making the album, we’re imagining how this will read on stage. Will this be a finale? What will Jack be doing? What kind of crazy effects can be tied to this song? So it was a bummer to make this album without the prospect of being able to play it live. But we’re actually super excited.”

    — Andy Kaufmann, MUSIC CONNECTION (2021)

  • “To enhance the virtual setting, Ryan referenced the video game concept which creates 3D images to draw the person into the show. Ryan said in the interview, ‘Let’s bring it out into the audience, let’s have Jack walk on the laser walk out into the audience in this 3D space, let’s have it snow actually on the stage, let’s have Jack in an actual boat not all on a video wall.’  The attendees felt that the special effects made the virtual event well worth it…  It was the first time that AJR had a virtual concert and our first time being in the virtual audience.  It really lived up to its name — it was spectacular with the lights, special effects, and extraordinary music.”

    — Katrina Cisewski, THE MIRROR (2021)

  • “AJR’s tech stuns fans at 'OK Orchestra' tour… indie-pop brothers AJR have been eagerly waiting to take their music to live performances… During the height of the pandemic, the band’s frustration and lack of personal connections with their fans led them to create ‘One Spectacular Night.’ This virtual concert experience highlighted their notorious use of technology and got fans excited… Causing fans to immediately jump out of their seats and begin fist-bumping the air. The audience’s arms stayed in the air through the entirety of the show. The band smoothly transitioned into a rendition of [an] ‘overture’ [orchestrated by Kelly]. Many of their popular songs were played in a remix, with intense sound effects, highlighting their impeccable sound production skills.”

    — Raina Kutliroff, THE DAILY ILLINI (2021)

  • “AJR pioneers virtual concert experience…the group of NYC-based brothers started livestreaming their performance to hundreds of thousands of fans, who had the power to ‘cheer’ using a clap button. There was a lot to cheer for… AJR made the questionable decision to not record the concert, which on some level I understand but ultimately find infuriating….During the show, the members of AJR were secured in harnesses Cirque du Soleil style and performed wild in-air stunts… probably the highlight of my year… If a virtual concert can elicit that strong of a reaction, then in my eyes they’re 100% worth it.”

    — Luke Davis, THE VERMONT CYNIC (2021)

  • “[AJR has] gained thousands of fans throughout the year. Starting with their hit single ‘Bang!’ going viral and even Apple using their song in their iPhone 12 commercial, to Disney’s Pixar using ‘Overture’ in the trailer for the new movie ‘Soul,’ they’ve become quite the sensation this year… AJR was supposed to go on their ‘Neotheater World Tour – Part 2’ tour this year, but for obvious reasons, it was sadly canceled. When they realized that it’s probably going to be another while until we all get in-person concerts again, they decided to put together a Broadway-style show. They called it AJR’s ‘One Spectacular Night,’ which sold more than 8 Million tickets in the US alone.”

    — Diana Barcelata, MUSIC DAILY (2020)

  • 'One Spectacular Night' was a livestream concert that was performed in 2020 and re-aired 2021. "The show included many unique special effects and never-before-seen performances, including an entirely new overture [orchestrated by Kelly] featuring samples of many different songs from 'Neotheater,' 'The Click,' and 'OK Orchestra,' and multiple musical sketches/interludes… It included inspirational messages mentioning the COVID-19 pandemic, and was very well-received among fans.”

    — AJR Fandom, ONE SPECTACULAR NIGHT (2024)

  • “[They] opened the show with a nod to Disney’s animated classic Fantasia, silhouetting a lone orchestra conductor and a dozen musicians for an overture [orchestrated by Kelly]. Soon a vibrant, stylized New York City skyline fills the upstage video screens as three of the musicians reveal themselves to be Adam, Jack and Ryan, and the band moves smoothly from their opening song... I admire them for pushing and always wanting a high level of production.”

    —  Randi Minetor, PROJECTION, LIGHTS & STAGING NEWS MAGAZINE (2021)

  • “All in all, AJR’s One Spectacular Night was indeed spectacular. While nothing can be the same as moshing to “Weak” with hundreds of other people, the band did a fantastic job putting together and performing a virtual show. Everything from the song selection to the visual effects to the stunts was completely captivating and I’m really glad I decided to go.”

    — Amy Soba, WDCV FM (2021)

  • “In December I had the chance to see the live streamed concert that AJR called ¨One Spectacular Night.¨ Although virtual, it was awesome! Spectators from around the world had the opportunity to engage in a livestream virtual concert with fun special effects of cheering, clapping, and stomping… it was amazing… It was the first time that AJR had a virtual concert and our first time being in the virtual audience.  It really lived up to its name — it was spectacular”

    — Katrina Cisewski, THE MIRROR (2021)

  • “The show started out with a FANTASTIC overture [orchestrated by Kelly] containing pieces from AJR’s entire discography. As a big AJR fan, I was a little sad that they did not include an overture on their ‘Neotheater’ album like they did on ‘Living Room’ and ‘The Click,’ so, to me, this was the perfect way to kick off the night. The band played through a good portion of their ‘Neotheater’ album while also throwing in some bigger hits like ‘Weak,’ ‘Sober Up,’ ‘Burn the House Down,’ and (perhaps their biggest hit yet) ‘Bang!’”

    — Amy Soba, WDCV FM (2021)

  • “[AJR] intended to ‘blur the lines between a movie, a broadway show, and a concert,’ as they said in their sneak peak, and they did so successfully… and created a show that would go down in history… There were so many memorable scenes for AJR fans. The overture [orchestrated by Kelly] was played at the very beginning of the show; it was a mix of many of their songs together in one… which seemed to be magical.”

    — Carly Amoriell, THE OAKDALE POST (2021)

  • ‘One Spectacular Night’ by AJR brings interactive experience to virtual concerts… The show began with a classic AJR overture [orchestrated by Kelly], filled with an orchestra of alternative instruments playing a compiled remix of their songs. The performance grew into a beautiful light show with stunts and extravagant effects. Each brother had their moment of originality to define their character.”

    — Veronica Kuffel, THE BADGER HERALD (2021)

  • “‘Imaginative and ethereal’ – Cheyenne Speer, ‘AJR’s imagination is limitless’ – Danielle Rice, ‘Above and beyond’ Ashlee Thompson; these are just some of the quotes from AJR fans after watching the once in a lifetime live show AJR’s One Spectacular Night on December 26th.” 

    — Carly Amoriell, THE OAKDALE POST (2021)

  • “Maybe it was the upbeat songs that just made you bop your head or maybe it was the Broadway-like sound they brought to all their songs. Whatever it is their songs delve into the realities of life, and I found a deep connection with their lyrics and sound… They set the stage on fire, delivered an electrifying concert, and continue to guide us through the complexities of life.”

    — Stephens & Rolfe, UTAH CONCERT REVIEW (2024)

  • “Had to find a rip of it online, but they are just such good performers. It's insane how much passion they put into their shows and how engaging they make it…Words can't describe how much I love this band. Thank you AJR, you guys are my happy place.”

    — Avery Wiegand, LETTERBOXD.COM (2021)

  • “The show opened with a mega overture [orchestrated by Kelly], full of songs from the band’s sophomore album ‘The Click’ and third ‘Neotheater’ studio albums. It also included a few songs from their latest release ‘OK Orchestra.’.. I cannot stress enough how captivating, modern, and mesmerizing this live stream was; other fans watching agreed as the message board on the website generated 3.3 million fan reactions… The beginning and end of the show were just as spectacular as advertised.”

    — Alex McEwen, CULTURESS (2021)

  • “The brother trio has announced One Spectacular Night, a livestream concert set to take place the day after Christmas… The musicians thread together a set of fan favorites with a theatrical arc and explosive production complete with lots of lightning, lasers, and illusions… The sights and sounds of the ultimate AJR concert ensure[d] One Spectacular Night will more than live up to its name."

    — Josh Johnson, KQIC RADIO, Minnesota (2021)

  • “Thoughts on the overture in 'one spectacular night'? I recently heard the overture played at the start of ‘one spectacular night’ [orchestrated by Kelly] and I think it's amazing. Definitely the best overture they've made. Is it officially uploaded anywhere? [YouTube views 1.2M views]”

    — Reddit Fan

  • “[‘Bang’] has more than 350 million streams worldwide and is AJR’s sixth platinum single to date. It also reached No. 1 on the iTunes All Genres, USA Top 100 Shazam and Pandora’s Top Spins charts. The band recently held their first-ever live stream concert, AJR’s ‘One Spectacular Night,’ [orchestrated by Kelly]. The show… generated 8 million viewers and 32 million fan impressions.”

    — DEANE MEDIA SOLUTIONS (2021)

  • “The band postponed a second leg of the Neotheater World Tour and an upcoming Everything Everywhere Tour, later canceling them due to the COVID-19 pandemic… AJR announced their first virtual concert, ‘AJR's One Spectacular Night’ [Kelly orchestrated the ‘Overture’]… The livestream was interactive, allowing viewers to clap after songs and change the camera to both simulate a live concert and experiment with livestreaming”

    — Wikipedia

  • “Like the plot of a successful Netflix original series, AJR’s ‘One Spectacular Night’ is the season finale of an exciting year for the rising indie pop band of three brothers. The livestream concert held on VenewLive started at 8 p.m… AJR brought the entertainment to computer screens and iPads across the nation, as well as shows that were hosted for countries in Europe and Asia that same week. AJR seamlessly blends unique instruments and beats with feelings that many of us store away and never open back up. AJR found a way to expose raw emotion and helped fans process the big questions that cloud our minds. The opening set [orchestrated by Kelly] is a mash-up of hit songs like ‘Sober Up,’ ‘Burn the House Down’ and ‘100 Bad Days.’ It was a reminder to fans that ‘Oh y’a, sit back and relax, this is gonna be a good one.’.. A concert, a live stream…What should we call it? A masterpiece!”  

    — Hunter Berube, THE SUFFOLK JOURNAL (2021)

  • “Adam, Jack, and Ryan Met — together known as the New York-based pop band AJR —  are currently gearing up for their own livestream, ‘One Spectacular Night,’ airing on Saturday… Fans expect big spectacles at their performances… Now the trio is letting their imagination run wild… While an in-person tour stop might have eight or so impressive feats, this show will have one for practically every song, from Jack walking in midair thanks to wire automation, plus laser and LED tricks that look like magical illusions. ‘It’s weird because we’re living in a world where this idea of the livestream and what it could be is being built as we’re doing this,’ Adam says… but “there hasn’t really been a box put around what a livestream can be yet.”

    — Deepa Lakshmin, MTV (2020)

  • “All in all, AJR’s One Spectacular Night was indeed spectacular. While nothing can be the same as moshing to ‘Weak’ with hundreds of other people, the band did a fantastic job putting together and performing a virtual show. Everything from the song selection to the visual effects to the stunts was completely captivating and I’m really glad I decided to go…AJR also used a giant projector screen which Jack, the lead singer, interacted with. However, I think the coolest stunt they did was having Jack suspended mid-air with wires and making it look like he was walking on a laser beam. In a way, I think certain visual effects could have only worked in this virtual setting, as you would have had to look at the stage from just the right angle to make the effect look real.”

    — Amy Soba, WDCV (2020)

  • “AJR is a New York City-based indie pop band composed of brothers Adam, Jack, and Ryan Met (born Metzger). The band is a DIY pop group who write, produce, and mix their own material in the living room of their Chelsea apartment. Their music style has been described as ‘eclectic,’ combining elements of pop, barbershop, electronic, and dubstep music. They have opened for Demi Lovato, Hoodie Allen and the Wanted. In Summer 2014 the band went on tour with Lindsey Stirling. There is no band, no song, no video, no sound, that is more ‘now’ than AJR. The band — three brothers born and raised in New York City — has achieved a startling quick level of success.”

    — LAST.FM (2021)

  • “This diversity of instrumental abilities is reflected in their music, which draws upon myriad genres including electropop, dubstep, doo-wop and even Broadway. It’s an intoxicating pastiche, as unexpected as it is effervescent. They’re a pop act with relatable, lovable lyrics that speak directly to the Millennial generation’s anxiety-riddled emotions, hopes and desires… The brothers’ videos are just one manifestation of their outsized creativity. AJR’s live shows are renown for stunning visual flourishes. A recent virtual concert, dubbed AJR’s ‘One Spectacular Night,’ [Kelly orchestrated] featured cutting-edge effects, including lasers. The show ultimately generated 32 million impressions.”

    — Andy Kaufmann, MUSIC CONNECTION MAGAZINE (2021)

  • “The crowd’s anticipation during the final waiting minutes was tangible. Anticipation for the three-brother pop band AJR’s arrival on stage, awaiting the moment when the lights dimmed and the opening song, filled the arena. Fans were cheering and clapping, building up the energy before the concert began.... [The] show was a spectacular experience. The visual aspects were stunning in every way possible, all the way from the vivid flashing lights to the colorful displays on the screen. The songs on the setlist were nothing to scoff at, as AJR played all of their fan-favorite songs and an array of other well-loved songs, too.”

    — THE ROAR (2024)

  • “In 2020, the band postponed a second leg of the Neotheater World Tour and an upcoming Everything Everywhere Tour, later canceling them due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, AJR announced their drive-in show, ‘A night in your car with AJR,’ which took place in 2020, in Philadelphia. Two days later after the first show had sold out entirely, they announced a second show…AJR announced their first virtual concert, ‘AJR's One Spectacular Night,’ [orchestrated by Kelly]. The livestream was interactive, allowing viewers to clap after songs and change the cameras.”

    — Wikiwand

  • “The group announced they would drop one more song… during its live-streamed performance ‘One Spectacular Night’…. The overture [orchestrated by Kelly] seamlessly bleeds one song to the next, creating a unique opportunity to listen to it after the rest of the songs have been played to discover the way that they mixed the tracks together.”

    — Gerber, LANCER FEED (2021)

  • “Fans of AJR will have plenty to remember when December is all said and done… the band announced ‘AJR’s One Spectacular Night’ [orchestrated by Kelly]… A new immersive virtual event, ‘One Spectacular Night,’ will combine elements of Broadway theatre, film, and concerts. Fans will also have new ways to applaud, cheer, interact with the band, and even control where they’re looking throughout the ‘Night.’ The band also promises “new songs, new setlists, and new moments,” building on their social media posts that a new AJR era was coming.”

    — Jason Brow, HOLLYWOOD LIFE (2021)

  • “This really was a group that genuinely was here to have fun. From Jack’s gentle ribbing of Ryan, to a surprise appearance[s]… it was pure entertainment… he sound was huge and the music was infectious, and that feeling was reciprocated in the audience. Some of those in the stands wore outfits, including one youngster who Jack pointed out who was dancing around in pure glee. Although this was my first experience witnessing AJR it certainly won’t be my last..”

    — David LaMason, PARKLIFE DC (2024)

  • “The lights and special effects created a cinematic eye-catcher... Viewers could feel like kids again… The opening set [orchestrated by Kelly] is a mash-up of hit songs… Cinematically, this show was a full-fledged film festival. Each song had a unique look and fun choreography… Fans could also interact during the show with “mash buttons” to applaud, cheer and stomp. Each of the sound effects were custom made by the band, highlighting the small details and extra mile the band is willing to go. There was also a live chat that was flooded with AJR fans, all excited to see the band perform their favorite songs. Jack Met, the youngest brother and lead vocalist, talked about the show in a post on the AJR brothers’ Instagram page. “We wanted to do something outrageous and actually frightening,” he said…. The future is bright for these brothers. You should get your shades on and join their rising stardom.” 

    — Hunter Berube, THE SUFFOLK JOURNAL (2021)

  • “AJR Promises ‘Something Different’ With Special Concert… Ahead of their ‘new era,’ AJR offers a unique live stream experience for their fans.“So, obviously this year we couldn’t tour at all, so we’re just missing that connection with [our fans]”… The group – brothers Adam, Jack, and Ryan Metzger – [have a] special livestream concert experience... In addition to this intimate music event, fans of AJR can enter to win an exclusive meet & greet with the band ahead of the show… After months of being socially distant from their supporters, [the group said] ‘It feels really good to be able, even virtually, just kind of be able to communicate with them and have fun and play some acoustic songs… And we just thought it would be something fun to participate in.”

    — Jason Brow, HOLLYWOOD LIFE (2020)

  • “The brother trio of Adam, Jack and Ryan Met broke through to the ‘Billboard Hot 100’ top 10 for the very first time last week, thanks to their unstoppable, nearly year-old single ‘Bang!’… In the absence of touring, the guys put together their ‘One Spectacular Night’ [orchestrated by Kelly] livestream concert for fans last month and Adam says it might start a trend for the band. ‘So many people saw this show that had never been to an AJR show before,’ he says, and it made them think, ‘OK, maybe we should do this in addition to touring so everyone can see the show we’re putting together even if we’re not coming to their city.’

    — Katie Atkinson, BILLBOARD (2021)

  • “The concert was a virtual experience of various levels for people all over the world… To enhance the virtual setting, Ryan referenced the video game concept which creates 3D images to draw the person into the show… The attendees felt that the special effects made the virtual event well worth it.  Although this event was very different from anything we have ever experienced before, it was amazing to be a part of this concert.  It was the first time that AJR had a virtual concert and our first time being in the virtual audience.  It really lived up to its name — it was spectacular with the lights, special effects, and extraordinary music.  In the future, it will be even better when my friends and I can see it in person. It would be really awesome together!”

    — Katrina Cisewski, THE MIRROR (2021)

  • “A new frontier: the arts in the Metaverse. AJR, a NYC based indie band, hosted One Spectacular Night, a live streamed concert delivered to fans in the comfort of their homes. The concert was built with the telos of being 100% virtual and live-streamed whilst engaging on a level never seen before. To accomplish this, the group offered fans the ability to manually change which camera they were viewing the performance from. The concert also had a live chat function where fans would applaud using sound effects made by the band themselves, engage with other viewers, and purchase stickers to use in the chat. The band also included a ‘Gary-Cam’, a live-streamed camera view of their father (the band is composed of three brothers) reacting to the performance. The show sold 8 million tickets in the U.S alone and became a pandemic success story.”

    — Miles Dorsey, HdK Agency (London), (2022)

Danny Troob

“Nathan is a very talented, hard working musician with a great passion for film music. He has worked as my assistant on quite a few projects. He knows the biography of every important film composer, dead and living — who earnestly wants to become a skilled craftsman and a better composer.

Disney orchestrator

Rod Stewart

  • “The album’s high point is ‘Merry Christmas, Baby,’ [arranged by Kelly] a paean to December spending that Cee Lo enlivens considerably over brass and well-mixed wah-guitar. Stewart’s Cooke playacting is very effective here, while Trombone Shorty adds helpful riffs and vocals alike. (Say what you will of Shorty’s cameo promiscuity, he’s rarely an unwelcome presence.)”

    — Ted Scheinman, SLANT Magazine (2012)

     

  • “His first Christmas album features easy-listening takes on seasonal standards… The album does its job – the 67-year-old's husky rasp sounds as Christmassy as a log fire and, when the lush instrumentation creates a warm glow, you can almost smell the chestnuts roasting… Elsewhere, Cee Lo Green brings an uptempo soulfulness to ‘Merry Christmas Baby’ [arranged by Kelly].”

    — Dave Simpson, THE GUARDIAN (2012)

  • "'Merry Christmas, Baby,' is the first Christmas album by Rod Stewart and his 27th studio album overall. The album has proved to be a top 10 success in many countries including the UK, US, Canada, and Australia. It was certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America in November 2012 with over 1,000,000 copies sold in the US."

    — Wikipedia

  • “Merry Christmas Baby's tracks may have a jazzy sheen but deep down they fit that bill… Who wouldn't enjoy a well-executed mix of warm and fuzzy easy-listening seasonal standards and carols? Vocally there’s the trademark mix of silk and gravel and the arrangements are lovely and cosy… Cee Lo Green puts a pair of low slung trousers on [Kelly’s arrangement of] 'Merry Christmas, Baby'... for a shade of blues class."

    — Russ Coffey, THE ARTS DESK (2012)

  • “The album features thirteen standard holiday songs that have all had the Rod Stewart magic sprinkled on them. The album also features a whole host of interesting and quirky duets ranging from Michael Buble to Cee Lo Green. The title song Merry Christmas, Baby [Kelly arranged] is the duet between Green and Stewart and is chock full of soul and sass, brass accompaniment and rhythm. It is such a quirky and unlikely duet but it works so well.”

    — Lisa Bentley, MORE THAN THE MUSIC (2012)

  • “Merry Christmas, Baby” debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 with first-week sales of 117,000, spending eight weeks in the top 10 and finishing as 2012’s best-selling holiday album. It ranked as the year’s 15th best-selling U.S. album and ninth best-selling physical album (Nielsen). In the UK, it debuted at No. 2 and remained in the top 10 for six weeks. In Canada, it topped the charts for three consecutive weeks and spent eight weeks in the top 10, ranking ninth for the year. Globally, it sold 2.6 million copies, making it 2012’s seventh best-selling album (IFPI).

    — Wikipedia

  • “In a career spanning five decades, not to mention the Grammy’s and two time Hall of Famer status, this is Rod Stewart’s first Christmas album… The arrangement of the songs remains very traditional… [but his] voice is extremely distinctive and that is heavily present from the opening bars to the final chords.”

    — BEAUTY AND LACE ONLINE MAGAZINE, Australia (2012)

  • “Rod Stewart has taken some heat for morphing from old-school rock star to old-style standards balladeer, but when it comes to filming a Christmas special, he wears it well… The unique parts mostly involve the guests, including his duet with… Cee Lo Green on “Merry Christmas, Baby” [arranged by Kelly]. This special should move a lot of copies of the new CD on which he first recorded these tunes, and if it gives PBS a boost, that’s great, too. And in its own way, yeah, maybe viewers will even think it’s a little sexy.”

    — David Hickley, THE DAILY NEWS (2012)

  • “This year’s top Christmas pick is Rod Stewart’s ‘Merry Christmas, Baby.’ Stewart’s first-ever Christmas album is my top choice to make spirits bright come December… The flamboyant Cee-Lo Green joins Stewart on the title track adding a Motown flavor to the Christmas classic.”

    — Emmanuel Fonte (2012)

  • “Always a populist crowd-pleaser, the 67-year-old rocker-turned-crooner’s choice of Yuletide standards… glide along on twinkly, jazzy, silken arrangements that provide mellifluous counterpoint to his agreeably unpolished vocal approximations of Louis Armstrong or Bing Crosby.”

    — Stephen Dalton, CLASSIC ROCK (2012)

  • “Hard as it may be to believe, but Rod Stewart has gotten through five decades without succumbing to a holiday album. That streak ends in 2012 with the release of ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’, an easygoing and chipper collection of secular seasonal standards. A couple of carols are thrown in for good measure but these songs… slide by easily on the mellow big-band swing of the rest of the record. Song for song, ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’ [arranged by Kelly].”

    — Stephen Thomas Erlewine, ALL MUSIC (2012)

  • "Rod’s first festive collection finds the crooner on fine fireside form… Stewart’s voice is a crumbling, crackled thing, ideal for fireside serenades… High-profile guests – Michael Bublé, Mary J. Blige, and Cee Lo Green [that Nathan arranged] – join Rod for a few numbers; but the 67-year-old, officially a crooner these days, never lets them steal the show."

    — Mike Diver, BBC MUSIC REVIEWS (2012)

  • “First-ever vinyl release of Grammy Award®-winning and two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Rod Stewart’s 2012 debut Christmas album, ‘Merry Christmas, Baby.’ Showcasing well-loved duets with [Kelly’s arrangement for] Cee-Lo Green, as well as production by David Foster… is the perennial Christmas favourite is sure to be a big hit this holiday season.”

    — ROUGH TRADE (2012)

  • “Having cleaned up on the old American Songbook front over the last few years, former rocker Rod Stewart now lends his gravelly tones to some Christmas classics… with special guests Mary J Blige, Cee Lo Green [arranged by Kelly], and Ella Fitzgerald… Just as you would expect there are a couple of funkier moments and Rod’s voice is just perfect for this sort of thing. 4/5”

    — Simon Gage, THE DAILY EXPRESS, UK (2012)

  • “With 16 songs, it’s got all the Christmas classics… The album includes duets with Michael Bublé, Cee Lo Green, Ella Fitzgerald, and Mary J. Blige.  I have to say I was a little leery of a Cee Lo and Rod duet but they sing a mean ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’ together!  That’s my pick”

    — Lindsay Frank, SEE MOM CLICK (2012)

  • “You'll have heard tracks from Rod's Christmas debut on the M&S and Westfield ads; rest assured, it's perfect music to buy socks to. Humbugness aside, though, it's a serviceable collection of jazzy covers and duets, whose syrupy production works.”

    — Hugh Montgomery, THE INDEPENDENT, UK (2012)

  • “Rod’s in good voice, the arrangements are beautiful and there are a handful of special guests to keep things interesting… Where the album really shines is the more upbeat tracks, such as [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’ with Cee-Lo Green.”

    — Michael Cavacini (2012)

  • "Step aside, pumpkins!. Take a number, turkeys! It's already time for mistletoe [with]…. Rod Stewart Merry Christmas, Baby [orchestrated by Kelly]. What’s the Christmas Mood? Tree trimming with your jolly, raspy uncle, all hopped up on eggnog and nostalgia. 3 ½ trees."

    — Staff, ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY (2012)

  • “Rod Stewart and CeeLo Green teamed up to record 'Merry Christmas, Baby' [arranged by Kelly] for Green's 2012 Christmas album, 'CeeLo's Magic Moment.' The duo reunited to sing the track as part of the 'CeeLo & Friends' holiday special in Las Vegas.”

    — Caryn Robbins, BROADWAY WORLD (2012)

  • “Christmas in Rockefeller Center," featuring the lighting of America's most famous Christmas tree, will be an extra special celebration this year… Rod Stewart will be performing songs live from his number 1 Christmas CD " Merry Christmas Baby" [arranged by Kelly].”

    — WFPG 96.9 FM, South Jersey (2012)

  • "After more than four decades of solo records, it was only a matter of time before Rod Stewart made a Christmas album. The track listing on the David Foster-produced 'Merry Christmas, Baby' is what you'd expect... and duets...it still sold over a million copies."

    — Allison Rapp, ULTIMATE CLASSIC ROCK (2024)

  • "Every now and then a good Christmas album will crop up… Stewart's re-issue of Merry Christmas, Baby, is very much another version to add to that list.”

    — Murphy, ‘THE MUSIC’ - AUSTRALIA, (2013)

  • “Rod Stewart's holiday season becomes a little more merry as ‘Merry Christmas, Baby,’ was just certified platinum, and debuted at #3 on the Billboard 200, marking Stewart's 16th Top 10 Album on the chart.”

    — TOP 40 CHARTS (2012)

  • “A very special Christmas… The mood of ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’ [arranged by Kelly] is a lot closer to Stewart's more recent releases than anything from his '70s and '80s heyday. Key tracks: 'Merry Christmas, Baby'"

    — Charleston News, THE POST AND COURIER (2016)

  • “In February 2013, 'Merry Christmas, Baby' was nominated for a Canadian Juno Award in the 'International Album of the Year' category."

    — Wikipedia

  • “This disc is eloquently produced and arranged.  Rod is in top form here and proves that he can still hit the high notes.  His vocals are clear, honest and thoughtful. One great surprise in this set is the Motown-themed title track,  Merry Christmas, Baby.  There are several guest appearances on this disk and Cee Lo Green steps in to make this tune memorable and with just enough spice to go with your holiday eggnog.”

    — NOODLING STUFF (2012)

  • “The rasp is still in his voice, but the once-rowdy Rod Stewart is on his most wholesome behavior on “Merry Christmas, Baby,” the audio side of his PBS Christmas special. David Foster’s production usually cushions an easygoing jazz rhythm section with plush string arrangements, and Mr. Stewart sings suavely and carefully, smiling… serene and comfortable.”

    — Jon Pareles, THE NEW YORK TIMES (2012)

  • “When you've made it big in the pop-music world, a Christmas album is practically a rite of passage… but Rod Stewart also wants to stuff your stocking. The title track, which features Cee Lo Green and Trombone Shorty [arranged by Kelly]. The album's 13 holiday staples range… The [PBS} special was filmed at a lavish Los Angeles villa overlooking the Pacific Ocean and will feature the album's guest stars.”

    — Marco R. della Cava, USA TODAY (2012)

  • “Rod Stewart will reportedly appear on this Sunday's live X Factor results show. The veteran singer is said to have been lined up to join the final four acts for their group performance at the beginning of the show. Stewart will sing a cut from his new festive album Merry Christmas, Baby with the group [arranged by Kelly]. An insider said: "It is a big coup to get Rod - and to get him to perform with the contestants.

    — Tom Eames, DIGITAL SPY (2012)

  • "Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews and CeeLo Green join Rod Stewart for the album’s namesake song, 'Merry Christmas, Baby' [arranged by Kelly]. The curious and uplifting mix of this trio enjoys a classic if slightly understated treatment with the strongest sense of enthusiasm within the song not coming until roughly two-minutes into the song."

    — MATT LYNN DIGITAL (2020)

  • “Stewart is one of the most successful and acclaimed singers in music history. A winner of Grammys and Brit Awards and a member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame since 1994, he has sold more than 120 million records worldwide and notched four No. 1 albums in the U.S. to go along with four stateside No. 1 singles. On Dec. 31, 1994, he headlined the largest free rock concert in history for a crowd of 3.5 million at Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro. Concurrent to the launch of his formidable solo career in 1969, he rose to fame as the singer for Faces. He was inducted into the Rock Hall a second time in 2012 as a member of the band. In 2016, he was knighted at Buckingham Palace.”

    — ACOUSTIC SOUNDS

  • Rod Stewart, the newest world-class megastar to join the roster of the Verve Music Group, a division of Universal Music Group... "I have always been tempted to do a Christmas album," said Rod Stewart... joined by a number of A-list guests... and the title tune "Merry Christmas, Baby" is a duet with Cee-Lo Green featuring New Orleans' favorite son, Trombone Shorty [arranged by Kelly]."

    — Hannah Kampf, PR NEWSWIRE (2012)

  • “Rod Stewart and Cee-Lo team up for a blue-eyed soul meets neo-soul version of  “Merry Christmas, Baby” [arranged by Kelly]. The singers trade verses in a pop-influenced rendition of the R&B classic, with backing from New Orleans jazz virtuoso Trombone Shorty. And although Stewart recently said he’s “always been tempted to do a Christmas album,” we bet he never imagined it would help make him the largest-selling musician on the Home Shopping Network.”

    — Kelly Conniff, TIME Magazine (2012)

  • “The undisputed champ of this season’s holiday music bonanza is Stewart, whose first holiday album is currently doing big business (it narrowly missed preventing Alicia Keys from being the top album in the country this week). His approach is very much “Over-Eggnogged Uncle Croons Hugs ‘Round the Tree,” but it’s still Rod-ily charming… and will be an alternate-universe hit”

    — Kyle Anderson, ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY (2012)

  • “Let Rod do what he does best, and that is to sing and make your heart aflutter. This spectacular CD bundle helps you remind yourself of your obsession with one of the most successful performers of all time. Rod Stewart's new Christmas CD will give you the holiday spirit while he sings some of the most classic songs in his timeless voice… He’s upped the ante and put in some effort by bringing in the credible music elite to duet with him including, Cee-Lo Green [arranged by Kelly]. If you were looking for a fun, slightly different album which still delivers.”

    — Jennifer Ramirez, GRUB STREET (2012)

  • “Mariah Carey, Cee Lo Green and Rod Stewart help turn on Christmas lights at NYC's Rockefeller Center and belted out some classic Christmas tunes as the 45,000 LED lights of the Rockefeller Christmas tree were lit on Wednesday night. Tens of thousands of chilly spectators braved the near-freezing temperatures to watch the live performances of 'Christmas in Rockefeller Center' as the city celebrated the advent of the rundown to Christmas Day.”New List Item

    — THE DAILY MAIL (2012)

  • “Rod has his own holiday-themed album out this week, also called Merry Christmas, Baby (Verve). Stewart surprisingly tackles old holy classics and slow reverent songs along with a few Tin Pan Alley standards and the rocking secular… a solid stocking stuffer.”

    — A.D. Amorisi, GLAMORSI (2012)

  • "Worldwide, the album ['Merry Christmas, Baby']achieved total 2012 sales of 2.6 million according to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, making it the seventh best-selling album of the year."

    — Wikipedia

  • “Grammy Award®-winning, two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Rod Stewart, hosts his first holiday special featuring Mary J. Blige, Cee-Lo Green, and Chris Botti beginning this December on PBS. Season 40 Episode 2.”

    — PBS: GREAT PERFORMANCES (2012)

  • “Rod Stewart live at Stirling Castle for his annual Christmas special. Broadcast on ITV (Independent Television Network) in the UK. Michael Buble, Kylie Minogue and Nicola Benedetti are featured in this Christmas special...Stirling Castle, located in Stirling, is one of the largest and most historically and architecturally important castles in Scotland. Rod Stewart and CeeLo Green perform "Merry Christmas Baby" [arranged by Kelly] live on iTV.”

    — Christmas at Stirling Castle on ITV (UK), (2012)

“Nathan Kelly’s Harbor Music for flute and harp was disarmingly innocent. Its harp writing is tactile, its flute lines rich in melody. Mr. Kelly provides enough athleticism and dialogue to make this an appealing showpiece.”

— Allan Kozinn, The New York Times

SPARKS

  • “Everything a Sparks fan could ever want is here. 'The Girl is Crying in Her Latte' features somewhat abrasive moments both musically and lyrically, such as the title track and 'We Go Dancing' respectively, while the Mael brothers' acute sense of melody on songs like [Kelly’s arrangement of] 'Take Me for a Ride' is powerful to say the least. Through it all, the duo never quite lose their sense of outsider humor either. “

    — Vernon Warez, RATEYOURMUSIC (2023)

  • “Now in their sixth decade of releasing albums and soon to headline the Hollywood Bowl, the biggest show of their career, it’s hard to think of a band who, for all their sales fluctuations, have been so consistently outstanding for so long… Whatever they had, they haven't lost.”

    — John Aizlewood, MOJO 4 MUSIC

  • "The orchestral performance of Sparks’ classic album was aflutter with glissando strings, dramatic pauses, trills, tremolos and countless crescendos. Bravissimo! Each song was given a customized score befitting its character, by award-winning arranger Nathan Kelly. Violin bows were bobbing with millions of 16th notes. Every musician’s feet and heads were tapping and nodding."

    — Madeline Bocaro, THIS IS WHAT’S COOL

  • ‘Take Me For A Ride’ is a masterful track, not only because of the glorious orchestration by Nathan Kelly, but also with what seems to be the tale of skillful wrong-footing... you can’t see coming.

    — Lee Thacker, SET THE TAPE (2023)

  • “Sparks teamed up with the Heritage Orchestra and conductor Jules Buckley to perform Kimono My House, with new arrangements by Nathan Kelly, for 2 nights at the Barbican Hall in London. In February 2015 they performed the album with a local orchestra conducted by Suzie Katayama over 2 nights at the Ace Theatre in downtown Los Angeles.”

    — Staff Writer, NPR LIVE SESSIONS

  • Sparks’ 26th Release Keeps The Innovative, Bizarre, Creative, and Skewed Faith... There aren’t many other songwriters in Sparks’ genre, whatever that might be, creating their finest work 50 years on. There may not be any… The Maels’ combination of theatre, dance, prog, electronic, and yeah, pop continues to find fresh ways to entertain. Some songs have choruses, some don’t, most zig when you expect them to zag and every one of them sounds like well, Sparks... But as usual, it’s the quirky songs and artful, casual, sometimes caffeinated presentation that makes Sparks’ music so refreshing in its own bespoke way.”

    — Hal Horowitz, THE AMERICAN SONGWRITER (2023)

  • “The duo of Ron and Russell Mael will perform the entire record at London’s Barbican with the 35-piece Heritage Orchestra on December 19. The songs will feature new orchestral arrangements by Nathan Kelly, and Sparks will also sing other favourites from their long career. The Heritage Orchestra are known for their unorthodox approach to music and for working with many new and experimental artists... we’ll also perform a selection of songs from our other 22 albums with blaring symphonic accompaniment. You waited 40 years; the wait is over!”

    — Paul Sexton, UDISCORVERMUSIC (20

  • RUSSELL: ”One song in particular [arranged by Kelly], 'Take Me For A Ride,' is really orchestral in its approach and sounds more cinematic even down to the instrumentation..." ZALESKI: One song you mentioned, 'Take Me For a Ride' -- I like that song especially because it feels like a mini-movie. There's a story happening; there's a narrative. And a lot of songs on this record in particular have that characteristic. That's one of my favorite parts about the record.”

    — Annie Zaleski Interview with Russel Mael, SALON

  • “The Maels’ continuous streams of curiosity and experimentation over the decades, and a recent upsurge in notoriety following the 2021 Edgar Wright documentary, ‘The Sparks Brothers,’ along with the brothers’ award-winning score of the French film ‘Annette,’ segued into the introspective and satirical storylines of their 26th album ‘The Girl is Crying in Her Latte’… Further into their 14 vignettes are stories of adventure, escape, and more universal tribulations…More baroque orchestration [by Kelly] leads “Take Me For A Ride” and the story of a hitchhiker running from the law in a Chevy Powerglide.

    — Tina Benitez-Eves, AMERICAN SONGWRITER (2023)

  • ”Returning to their former Island Records home, the Maels emerge with their latest and 26th studio effort, The Girl is Crying in Her Latte. “Take Me For a Ride” (in a Chevy Powerglide) pairs cinematic car chase orchestral swells and crunching electric guitar chords with dramatic narrative lyrics to produce cinematic thrills… There are also hints of the repetitive symphonic nature of 'Lil' Beethoven,' the crunching guitars of 'Hello Young Lovers' and the baroque pop flair of 'Hippopotamus.' This album is a musical melting pot containing something for every Sparks fan to enjoy.”

    — Dylan Peggin, TRACKING ANGLE

  • ‘Take Me For A Ride,’ is so very Sparks… The repetition remains as Russel Mael frantically asks for a ride while performing impeccable vocal gymnastics to match the instrumental melody. Here we find a musical accompaniment to the getaway scene in a crime musical with its anxious, frenetic movement intercut with chugging guitars and stall-shaking drums. Again though, it's all washed away as we find the gripping narrative is just a shared fantasy between two average people, one which has the best refrain to ever reference a Chevy Powerglide; it’s so very Sparks… It’s no secret that Sparks are one of my favourite bands of all time… Nearly a decade later, I’m still being bamboozled and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

    — Matt Lynch, 102.1 FM RADIO BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA

  • “Sparks’ 21st century resurgence is one of the greatest comeback stories in popular music… ‘The Girl Is Crying In Her Latte’ is their first album since [Edgar Wright’s] film’s release, and finds Ron and Russell riding high on its success... These first four tracks illustrate the album’s two main modes, since most of the tracks fit either the “rock” or “electro-pop/dance” one, or somewhere in between… “Take Me For A Ride” is probably the strongest of these symphonic tracks, though, sounding like classic Sparks backed by [a] Trans-Siberian Orchestra — it shouldn’t work, but somehow it does -- Key Album Track(s): 'Take Me For a Ride'”

    — Simon Workman, THE FIRE NOTE MUSIC MAGAZINE

  • “What’s most amazing about the Sparks revival of the last half-decade isn’t that they’ve been resetting popular music boundaries for half a freaking century… Sparks’ constant changes in musical approach are now canon. They’re not contained by a reductive timeline… Even attempts to escape become disquieting. The white-collar couple in 'Take Me for a Ride' can only decompress by role-playing Bonnie and Clyde in a speeding getaway car… Running under all these cinematic short stories are Ron Mael’s gleaming, volatile arrangements. The 77-year-old still gets a kick from straight-up arena rock… Ron has no problem generating rhythm from... metal rhythm guitar riffs ('Take Me for a Ride').”

    — Paul Pearson, TREBLEZINE

  • “What can I possibly say about ‘your favorite band’s favorite bands’ that hasn’t been said before? Sparks have influenced many of my beloved musical geniuses – from Duran Duran and New Order to Björk and Depeche Mode… [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Take Me For A Ride’ is a tale of Johnny, an outlaw hitchhiker running away in a Chevy Powerglide with Laura behind the wheel. Johnny implores Laura to go faster. The funny thing is that you wind up rooting for the main character, even if he did break the law…and it is as refreshing and relevant as their breakthrough record, Kimono My House, and many subsequent offerings. If you are looking for 14 songs of fabulousness, I present this album to you.”

    — Sherry Thomas, THE AQUARIAN

  • “Sparks take to the stage to the orchestral strains of their very own [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Take Me For A Ride’ from this year’s album ‘TGICIHL’ the 4 members of the touring band lining up across the back of the stage to allow Russell and Ron Mael room at the front of the stage. Using such a recent song as intro music serves notice that Sparks are not a mere ‘Heritage’ act, but artistically still very much a going concern. There’s nothing wrong with older bands ploughing through the hits every night, but the Maels clearly want to strike a balance between celebrating their legacy and showing that they are still capable of producing great work… The new record is represented by six songs (as well as that intro tape), but… it’s just possible that they will outlast us all!”

    — Andy Page, GOD IS IN THE TV

  • “The brothers Mael are incorporating new sounds and concepts, whilst still sounding exactly like themselves. They’re a band we should all embrace… It’s an unusual clash between middle-aged respectability and youth hedonism… there are plenty more pop concepts to be slyly detoured before the album is out... [Kelly's arrangement of] 'Take Me For a Ride' twists the classic rock topics of fast drivin' and law-breakin' into harmless middle-class cosplay, expertly illustrated by a disconnected metal guitar smashing into skittish woodwinds direct from an MGM musical... It's impressive on their 26th album Sparks are incorporating new sounds and concepts, while still sounding *exactly* like themselves."

    — David Murphy, MUSIC OMH

  • “Sparks are back on Island records, where they experienced their first success in 1974, one can see there is a lot riding on this album… Sparks not only live up to the expectations, they surpass them. 'The Girl Is Crying In Her Latte' is 2023 Sparks with the classic Sparks sound. The album has a bit of a harder edge to it and is much more electronic-based than their last studio album… [Kelly’s arrangement of] “Take Me For A Ride” is an energetic song that would not be out of place in a musical… This is fantastic album. 4.5 STARS!"

    — Aaron Badgley, SPILL MAGAZINE --EDITORS PICK

  • “It's now 50 years later and the brothers from Los Angeles are still doing it! [sic] What really appeals to me about Sparks is that they don't just rehash their illustrious past (they could get away with it perfectly) but that they still evolve musically and remain innovative. For example, the new album “The Girl Is Crying In Her Latte” (14 tracks, 47 minutes playing time) is undeniably influenced by 'minimal' and we do not so much mean minimal wave but the minimal music of Philip Glass, Michael Nyman and the like. The new album also contains fantastic songs such as the great title song and [Kelly’s arrangement of] “Take Me For A Ride.” Score: 10 out of 10.

    — Henk Vereecken, PEEK-A-BOO MUSIC MAGAZINE

  • “The Girl Who’s Crying In Her Latte” is superb. [Kelly’ arrangement of] ‘Take Me For A Ride’ stands out with its unique harmonies that defy expectations. Sparks dare to push boundaries and challenge conventional musical norms, delivering a truly distinct experience… There are those people who have “You don’t have to be mad to work here, but it helps” mugs on their desks and describe themselves as “wacky.” Those people are to be avoided at all costs. Then there are those people who genuinely, truly see the world differently. They’re called geniuses. Sparks are the latter.”

    — Andy Thorley, MAXIMUM VOLUME MUSIC

  • “The band has an ability to home in on a small detail and blow it up to the most dramatic proportions imaginable... As disparate as these songs are, they are tied together by a sense that no other band could write a song on the subject. They jump back and forth between the touching and the odd, wringing a pathos out of the strangest situations they can imagine. Their music has an operatic quality… Putting on a Sparks album feels like entering a world with slightly different rules. Russell told The Big Takeover that people who enjoy Sparks often have a “sense that they’re part of some special club that is exclusive to them.” The Girl Is Crying is a perfect ticket in.”

    — David Meir Grossman, TABLET MAGAZINE

  • "5/5 - A late career masterpiece -The opening title track sets the tempo with an infectious energy that many groups a fraction of the Mael brother’s age would struggle to capture… The video for the track boasts Oscar winner Cate Blanchett cutting loose, showing the appeal working with Sparks still has… [Kelly’s take on] ‘Take Me For A Ride’ starts with a gorgeous woodwind introduction before building into a different beast entirely. [The album] continues the extraordinary run of recent records from Sparks, sounding unlike their previous work while retaining recognizable elements… which results in an exhilarating, wildly unpredictable listening experience and another standout among a pantheon of great albums.”

    — Chris Connor, WHYNOW UK MAGAZINE

  • ”With the 2021 releases of Edgar Wright's documentary The Sparks Brothers and Annette, the award-winning film Ron and Russell Mael made with director Leos Carax, this renewed attention reached a crescendo… and the standout "Take Me for a Ride" [arranged and orchestrated by Kelly] is a symphonic rock thriller that even offers a shocking twist near the end… and it's extra satisfying that this peak in their popularity coincides with music this vibrantly engaging.”

    — Heather Phares, ALLMUSIC.COM Review

  • “With an underpinning darkness and a brooding sense of urgency that builds throughout, it sets the tone for an album that explores a multitude of soundscapes, each of which exists within its own narrative, set at various places and times… Meanwhile, experimental moments like… [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Take Me For A Ride’ deviate from the traditional pop structure and showcase Sparks’ enduring creativity that has sustained throughout their 50+ year career… but on their latest LP they remain as witty, sharp and brilliant as ever, offering up a body of work that stands bold against the backdrop of their masterful catalogue.”

    — Connor Gotto, RETROPOP MAGAZINE (2023)

  • “Continuing on the orchestrated thinking… ‘Take Me For A Ride’ takes an exhilarating tongue twisting journey into dramatic virtual strings, cascading woodwinds and Timpanic romps before the rocking up half way… Sparks have doggedly continued their pursuit of the unconventional and remain as eccentric and fun as ever; their long standing supporters will be more than happy with this new offering.”

    — Chi Ming Lai, ELECTRICITY CLUB COMPANY UK

  • “Since when they have appeared in a biopic for Edgar Wright (‘The Sparks Brothers’) and written a surreal feature film for Leos Carax (‘Annette’), for which they composed and, in a memorable opening scene, performed the music – earning them an Oscar nomination for Best Song… there is the cinematic ‘Take Me For A Ride,’ a miniature movie told by a man on the run from the law in a hijacked car with a stranger called Laura. Or so it seems until it gradually becomes clear what what we are listening to is a couple’s elaborate sex fantasy to spice up their mundane lives. Against all the odds, the 2020s have proved not just fertile, but the most successful of their entire career.”

    — Tim Cooper, LOUDER THAN WAR (2023)

  • “The prolific Los Angeles duo Sparks have returned with... a 14-song collection of eclectic instrumentation and irresistibly catchy additions to the band’s extensive catalogue… this is Sparks and this is the record that brothers Ron and Russell Mael wanted to make… ‘Take Me For A Ride’ is a breakneck adventure, soundtracked by xylophones, woodwinds and later joined by a detuned, chugging, metal rhythm guitar that makes the music that precedes it sound haunted in retrospect… There’s a lot of emphasis on pop music when discussing Sparks, but it’s not out of the question to simply define their latest release as purely music, given the massive spread of instrumentation and influences. It’s music made by music lovers.”

    — Ryan Meyer, NORTHERN TRANSMISSIONS (2023)

  • "The Girl Is Crying in Her Latte," the title track of their twenty-fifth album is lush and robust; as Cate Blanchett, who stars in the accompanying video… [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Take Me for a Ride" is Hitchcockian unhinged… And that's the sort of complementary push-pull the brothers have always trafficked in: highbrow-lowbrow, humorous-sad, pop-niche. They're also genius observers of the world and fantastic imagineers of some world that maybe excited decades ago (or maybe just in their heads).”

    — Shelly Rideour, QOBUZ (2023)

  • ”Their 26th studio album, 'The Girl Is Crying in Her Latte,' continues the varied excellence… If earlier albums sounded and felt like more stylistically united entities, later albums riot and revel in genre-jumping. If there’s an element that gives Latte tracks musical similarity, it’s electronics… Ron utilizes an intelligent range of tones and textures, including… the music-box bells of [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Take Me for a Ride’… Which is a curious comparison, but this is Sparks, whose most consistent trait might be the ability to build fantastical worlds within their songs. The aforementioned “Take Me for a Ride” only seems to be a chase-scene love story with orchestral trimmings.”

    — Jon M Gilbertson, MILWAUKEE SHEPHERD EXPRESS

  • “The Mael brothers cement autumnal resurgence with this strong return to their former UK label… [Kelly’s orchestral take on] ‘Take Me For a Ride’ is a a galloping Bonnie And Clyde fantasy chase drama couched in lush, Hollywoood-sized string arrangements. Blurring the line between sunny and sinister, both have some of the sugar-coated oddness of Danny Elfman’s scores for filmmaker Tim Burton... Forever fresh, witty and stubbornly original, Sparks are living proof that weirdness never gets old."

    — Stephen Dalton, LOUDERSOUND

  • “Brothers Ron and Russel Mael have spent the last forty-plus years innovating pop music as we know it, and inspiring countless musicians and artists… even legendary artists in their own right, such as Sir Paul McCartney, have gleaned ideas from the group… [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Take Me For A Ride’ appears as this former track’s followup, embracing the same theatrical sound and dark vibe. In the vein of musicals… all [are] represented in this eclectic ensemble of songs. It’s little surprise, however, that Sparks have managed to create yet another album, even this far into their career, that challenges listeners by intertwining genres and playing with sounds. It is a delightfully deranged listen from start to finish.”

    — Ryan Bulbeck, RENOWNED FOR SOUND (2023)

  • "This album will immerse you in a wonderfully bizarre landscape, one that mirrors reality in some fashion, only it is more fun and kaleidoscopic; bringing with it the sensation of happiness and imagination experienced in childhood… [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Take Me For A Ride’ could be taken from a fever induced number in a musical (the best kind, in my opinion).”

    — Eimear O Sullivan, MUSICNGEAR EDITOR

  • "The arrangements by Nathan Kelly brought to life the full potential of Sparks’ grand operatic vision... The arrangement of 'Thank God It’s Not Christmas' had the hair on the back of my neck standing at attention like it has not in quite some time... closing out the set with an incredible arrangement of 'Number One Song In Heaven.'

    — Erin Amar, ROCKERZINE (2015)

  • “With eyebrows arched and pop culture lampooned, the 26th album from the LA Mael brothers is almost business as usual. Kinda, but not at all vintage Sparks… It starts off strongly with the title track… but But despite some gems, it loses its way…but the Giallo Goblin prog tingle of [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Take Me For A Ride’ is a surprising bit of menace.”

    — Lorina Irvine, THE WEE REVIEW

  • “This is Sparks’ 26th album since their eponymous debut in 1971, and it might be their best received in decades. It might even deserve that accolade…[Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Take Me For a Ride’ “Take Me For A Ride” [possess] itchy orchestrations and [its] vocal gymnastics, too, repays regular listen…”

    — Dave Thompson, Contributing Editor at GOLDMINE

  • “More soaring strings in [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Take Me For a Ride,’ whose soaring big screen style adds weight to the story... and it’s definitely given more punch by the addition of strings; I can’t imagine it having quite the same scope if it had been done entirely on synths... and it can turn on a penny from sweeping orchestral grandeur"

    — Paul Ferry, OMNIBUS Review (2023)

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Jennifer Lopez

  • “When Andrea Bocelli sang a Cuban love song [arranged by Kelly] with Jennifer Lopez in surprising duet.. the much-loved Italian tenor is celebrated his decades-long singing career… In October this year, Decca Records has released an album of his greatest duets, from Ed Sheeran and Celine Dion… to pop star and actress, Jennifer Lopez. In April 2013, the unlikely duo lent their voices to the Season 16 results show of ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ as dancers Valentin Chmerkovskiy and Anna Trebunskaya performed a winning routine in the foreground.”

    — Maddy Shaw Roberts, CLASSIC FM (2024)

  • “The song choice was the classic ‘Quizás, quizás, quizás’ by Cuban songwriter Osvaldo Farrés [arranged by Kelly], a love song that became a hit for Bobby Capó in 1947. After the Italian tenor opens the song with the backing of a big band, Lopez approaches Bocelli before they join in harmony. Bocelli and Lopez’s light, lyrical voices are a natural fit, blending beautifully in the Spanish language duet. Lopez, who is of Puerto Rican descent, has had an incredible influence on Hollywood and the pop charts”

    — Maddy Shaw Roberts, CLASSIC FM (2024)

  • “Her duet with Bocelli [arranged by Kelly] was a perfect coming-together of two musical worlds. It features as the third track on Bocelli’s 2024 album Duets, which celebrates the duets Bocelli sang across his incredible career in music from Gwen Stefani to a time-defying duet with Édith Piaf.”

    — Roberts, CLASSIC FM RADIO (UK), (2024)

  • “Jennifer Lopez performed the classic Latin song ‘Quizas, Quizas, Quizas,’ a duet [with Bocelli] featured on the Italian singer's latest album ‘Passione,’ on ABC's ‘Dancing With The Stars’ on Tuesday, April 9… As the power duo sang… [the dancers] danced in a smoke-filled room. I think for once, no one paid attention to the routine, and only had 'eyes and ears' for Andrea and Jennifer's history-making moment.”

    — Kevin Apaza, DIRECTLYRICS NEWS

  • “While the accompany of guest artists such as… Jennifer Lopez on ‘Quizàs'… all set a groundwork to Bocelli’s beautiful interpretation, let us not forget the arrangement endeavour of David Foster and [Kelly with] the match of [an] 63-piece orchestra - such background varieties, with violins, guitars, flutes, saxophones, and syrupy strings, are well-suited to Bocelli’s high-ranged vocals… If you would also like to experience sweet sensation of romance and relieve yourself with charismatic power of Bocelli’s voice, do plunge into his musical world..."

    — Bauhinia Esther, VARIETY SPICE (2015)

  • “When the performance [of ‘Dancing With the Stars’] begins, Andrea stands alone in front of an orchestra, impeccably dressed in a black suit. Smoke swirls about his leg adding to the drama. As he beings to sing, the crowd cheers its approval, both of his skill and choice of song. It may be in Spanish, but the tune is unmistakable. After he has sung a few lines, Jennifer [Lopez] join him… It’s a remarkable performance, which only enhances the beauty and drama of [the] duet. When the performance ends, the crowd goes wild... definitely one to watch.”

    — Claire McGregor, THE MUSIC MAN UK (2023)

  • ”Jennifer Lopez and Andrea Bocelli have recorded a duet that will be included in the Italian tenor's new production. A new video gives us a brief preview of the new single, [arranged by Kelly] which is the cover of the very famous song ‘Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps’… After more than 20 years of career, the renowned opera singer seeks a new crossover into the pop world market with his production ‘Passione,’ which will be released on January 29 and includes songs in six different languages.”

    — Staff, THE HUFFINGTON POST

  • ‘Quizàs'... is a catchy Latin song given a standout interpretation, Bocelli cleverly complementing Lopez's sparkling vocal. [Nathan's] arrangement, with a solo violin and whistle, makes for an intoxicating cocktail... David Foster's production, with a 63-piece orchestra, is as smooth as Bocelli's delivery. The employment of instrumental colours from saxophone, guitar, flute and accordion across the palette, played by distinguished instrumentalists, adds variety to deft arrangements…”

    — Adrian Edwards, BBC NEWS

  • “Bocelli also had opportunity to wrk with pop stars Jennifer Lopez… He teamed up with the former ‘American Idol’ judge fort he Cuban classic ‘Quizas, Quizas, Quizas,’ better known to American audiences as the Nat King Cole standard ‘Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps’… Though Bocelli has certainly collaborated with his share of big names… he says he was thrilled to work with both J.Lo… ‘The thing about these artists is that their voices, they have a great sensuality,’ he says. ‘They ennobled my record with their sensuality.’”

    — Kelli Skye Fadroski, ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

  • Bocelli: "I am honored I have performed ‘Quizas, Quizas, Quizas’ [arranged by Kelly] with Jennifer Lopez, an eclectic artist who thanks to the charismatic power of her voice and to her soft sensuality, has managed to make this song particularly convincing. Ms. Lopez’s singing penetrates the subtexts, her vocal talents are combined with the actor’s experience, and the multiplicity of her talents blends in the apparent simplicity of this melody.”

    — Leila Cbo, BILLBOARD (2013)

  • ”Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli has loosened his bow tie and stepped off the opera stage for an album of love songs and duets… Quizás, Quizás, Quizás (Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps) is a punchy rendition with pop star Jennifer Lopez – they are surprisingly well-matched… it’s nice to hear the maestro in a relaxed setting and it makes for dreamy listening.”

    — Emma Rawson, NOW TO LOVE

  • ‘Quizas, Quizas, Quizas’ features Jennifer Lopez by Andrea Bocelli and include other songs… have enough soaring impact [from Kelly’s arrangement] to bolster two larger than life mega-star singers and is a favorite track.”

    — Alissa Montreaux, ANGHAMI MUSIC

  • “The 14th studio album [for Bocelli] is a beautifully recorded set of 14 traditional and popular love songs featuring duets with Jennifer Lopez and Nelly Furtado… with legendary, Grammy-winning producer David Foster on piano, arrangements by Foster… [with Kelly’s orchestrations] and Chris Botti on trumpet.”

    — Staff Review, ELUSIVE DISC

  • “Bocelli and Foster also engaged three female duet partners: Jennifer Lopez, whom Bocelli calls an “eclectic artist thanks to the charismatic power of her voice and soft sensuality” on “Quizas Quizas Quizas”

    — ‘Passione’ Liner Notes

  • ‘Quizas Quizas Quizas’ is taken from the album ‘Passione’ available on January 29th… a beautiful song [arranged by Kelly] sung by Andrea Bocelli & Jennifer Lopez. Enjoy it!”

    — Staff Review, THIS IS ITALY

  • ”Straddling classical and popular music but without irritating connoisseurs of either, Andrea Bocelli proves yet again that his voice is universal and his song choices commercially palatable. On this, his follow-up to the four million-selling ‘Amore,’ Andrea duets with a bunch of international stars… [like] Jennifer Lopez... production from multi-Grammy winner David Foster ensures a meticulously romantic collection of slushy international classics.”

    — Stephen Unwin, THE DAILY EXPRESS (UK)

  • "Renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli – synonymous with love and romance – is the most successful classical solo artist ever and one of the best-selling performers in any genre, having sold more than 80 million albums worldwide of both his classical and pop albums… Passione is in essence the second volume of Amore, with a “fil rouge” which ideally connects the albums… Jennifer Lopez is featured on the soft and sensual track “Quizás Quizás Quizás”

    — ‘Pasione’ LP (in Spanish) Linear Notes

  • ‘Quizas, Quizas, Quizas’ or, to give it is English title, ‘Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps’ is an unlikely but rather inspired choice for the singer and brilliantly orchestrated [by Kelly] with lush strings that surround and complement Bocelli and Jennifer Lopez. This arrangement sparkles to dazzling effect.”

    — Dan Walker, CLASSIC FM RADIO

  • “To say that romance is a key theme on ‘Passione’ would be something of an understatement, so Bocelli kicks off with this free-sounding little jazz number with ‘Perfidia’ before letting soaring strings rise to a sumptuous climax in [Kelly’s arrangement] of the superb, standard knock-out ‘Quizas, Quizas, Quizas’… Jennifer Lopez and Bocelli mingle seamlessly in pure ecstasy.”

    — Editorial Review, CLASSIC FM RADIO

  • “Until now, Andrea often presents duets that can be remembered for a long time. Who can forget 'Time To Say Goodbye' or 'The Prayer'... On the previous album he almost did the same thing… Therefore, he was excited to take Jennifer Lopez… to the studio to record [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Quizas'... The biggest praise goes to J.Lo who follows the musical pattern here and walks parallel to Andrea to simultaneously create a sensual atmosphere in Quizas."

    — Staff Review, CREATIVE DISC

  • “Covered by numerous artists, the Bocelli and Lopez rendition is marvelous. With distinctly different voices, Lopez’s lighter, higher vocal contrasts Bocelli’s more robust tenor sensationally. The playful nature of this duet is a big reason for its success, which seems to capture the intent of the songwriter. In addition to a strong vocal performance, and elite songwriting, the production (Kuk Harrell and David Foster) and orchestration (Nathan Kelly) deserve shout outs. This pleasant duet speaks for itself… Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps it’s worth spinning over and over again!”

    — Brent Faulkner, THE MUSICAL HYPE

  • “Guest appearances on the album include songs with Jennifer Lopez and Nelly Furtado. Lopez sings [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Quizas Quizas, Quizas’ (‘Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps’) with Bocelli and together, they dazzle and are a great pairing. The song includes a great violin solo, which impresses and it is a very catchy Latin song.”

    — Carys Jones, ENTERTAINMENT FOCUS

  • ”The best gift for Valentine's Day! On ‘Passione,’ Andrea Bocelli collected his favorite love songs. The album is a continuation of the album "Amore", but this time the Italian tenor reaches for many different musical genres. On "Passione" Bocelli performs such timeless hits… and on ‘Quizás Quizás Quizás’ Bocelli also invited pop stars to cooperate -- Jennifer Lopez and Nelly Furtado.”

    — EMPIK Review

  • “Before he became a household name, Andrea Bocelli paid his dues in bars, doing the kind of romantic repertoire that best tickled punters' palates… It's to those times that he returns with ‘Passione’… Elsewhere, his caress of a voice rides subtle samba strings on Latin American cabaret versions of [songs]… and copes manfully with duets with Jennifer Lopez [in Kelly’s arrangement].”

    — Andy Gill, THE INDEPENDENT (UK NEWS)

  • “David Foster, six languages, and love songs. Those are the three great strengths of the album ‘Passione’ from Andrea Bocelli [and Jennifer Lopez]. Not to mention its greatest strengths: soaring vocals and rich and luxurious musical accompaniment [arranged by Kelly], bringing listeners of this album to a truly pampered musical experience. The Mediterranean songs sung create a sensual and exotic feel that blends nicely into the pop compositions.”

    — Staff Review, CREATIVE DISC

  • ‘Passione,’ the latest addition to Bocelli’s internationally recognized repertoire, further proves his complete grasp of classical opera. The 7-years-delayed continuation of ‘Amore,’ this album is scattered with six different languages of love and passion… [it] is complemented by the mezzo piano accompaniment of a 63-piece orchestra. The subtle guitar and trumpet solos enrich each song in a distinctive way… featuring popular artists such as Jennifer Lopez [arranged by Kelly].”

    — Grace Kang, HIGHLANDER NEWS (2013)

  • ‘Passione’ is an album recorded mostly in Spanish of mostly “bolero” standards. There are also songs in French, Italian, English, and Portuguese. In case you don’t know, Andrea Bocelli almost reproduced the album in a “live” concert in the port village of Portofino, Italy. The Portofino concert is beautiful and this album is equal in beauty…The guest artists Andrea Bocelli brings are right on. These include Jennifer Lopez (“Quizas, Quizas, Quizas”) [arranged by Kelly].”

    — Hector Aviles, LATINO MUSIC CAFE (2019)

  • “The album 'Passione' achieved notable chart success, reaching the following positions:​ U.S. Billboard 200: #2, UK Albums Chart: #7, Norwegian Albums Chart: #2​, Dutch Albums Chart: #5, Irish Albums Chart: #3​, Italian Albums Chart: #3​, Polish Albums Chart: #1.... it appeared on 1 chart for 3 weeks, peaked at #42 in Portugal.””

    — Wikipedia, BILLBOARD TOP 10 (2013)

  • “Jennifer Lopez wowed the "Dancing With The Stars" audience with a revealing floor length black lace dress and memorable vocals Tuesday night. Taking the stage with Andrea Bocelli, she gave the first televised performance of their collaboration, ‘Quizas, Quizas, Quizas’ [arranged by Kelly]. The song appears on Bocelli's latest effort, ‘Passione.' The audience erupted into cheers as soon as Jennifer Lopez stepped onto the stage."

    — Njai Joszor, SINGERSROOM (2023)

  • “Before he became a household name, Andrea Bocelli paid his dues in bars, doing the kind of romantic repertoire that best tickled punters' palates. It's to those times that he returns with ‘Passione.’.. [his] voice rides subtle samba strings on Latin American [songs]… and copes manfully with duets with Jennifer Lopez [arranged by Kelly].”

    — Andy Gill, THE INDEPENDENT (2013)

  • “A truly hot duet for the last episode of the American talent show ‘Dancing With The Stars.’ The Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli was called to perform, in a duo with Jennifer Lopez, ‘Quizas, Quizas, Quizas,” by the Cuban singer-songwriter Osvaldo Farrés [arranged by Kelly]. The song is included in Bocelli’s album ‘Passione’ which, in the United States, debuted... at second place on the Billboard, selling almost one hundred thousand copies in a week... The performance was judged by the spectators to be passionate and exciting, and was performed while two very good dancers danced a very sensual tango in the center of the stage."

    — Gabriella Salmon, LAXSTYLE (2013)

  • “Jennifer Lopez and Andrea Bocelli have recorded a duet that will be included in the Italian tenor's new production. A new video gives us a brief preview of the new single, which is a cover of the famous song ‘Quizás, Quizás, Quizás.’ After more than 20 years of career, the renowned opera singer is looking for a new crossover to the pop world market with his production ‘Passione,’ which will be released on January 29 and includes songs in six different languages. In addition to J.Lo, it includes collaborations with Nelly Furtado and even Edith Piaf.”

    — Staff, THE HUFFINGTON POST (2013)

  • “A surprising duet with Jennifer Lope [and] a great return for Andrea Bocelli who, with a surprising duet with superstar Jennifer Lopez, reinterprets a passionate and sensual version of ‘Quisaz, Quisaz, Quisaz’… ‘Jennifer is an eclectic artist: thanks to the charismatic strength of her voice, to her soft sensuality, she has managed to make this song truly special and to ensure that the duet can find space in the register of interpretations, without blushing, alongside Nat King Cole, Doris Day and other names now consigned to history,’ said Bocelli.”

    — Staff, EAR ONE (2013)

  • “Jennifer Lopez confirmed for 'Dancing with the Stars' results show… Jennifer Lopez will perform on this week's Dancing with the Stars results show. The former ‘American Idol’  judge will perform a duet with Andrea Bocelli, ABC has confirmed. Lopez will perform alongside Bocelli on April 9's results show, singing the classic Latin song, 'Quizas, Quizas, Quizas.’ The song is taken from the classical singer's fourteenth studio album ‘Passione,’ which was released on January 29.”

    — Sarah Luoma, DIGITAL SPY (2013)

  • “Lopez collaborated with Bocelli on a new song, 'Quizas, Quizas, Quizas' (Spanish for 'Maybe, Maybe, Maybe') [arranged by Kelly], reported Access Hollywood. The ballad will be included on Andrea's upcoming album, 'Passione', along with a duet with pop sensation Nelly Furtado. The album will hit stores on Tuesday. Lopez released a Spanish album, 'Coma Ama una Mujer', in 2007, and sang a Spanish ballad, 'No Me Ames', with now-ex-husband Marc Anthony on her 1999 debut album, 'On the 6'.”

    — Staff, BUSINESS STANDARD, (2013)

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“Nathan is a
knowledgable
and imaginative
orchestrator.”

— Stephen Schwartz

Album Reviews

  • “One of the most fascinating pieces is ‘Jester’ – a work full of energy and bluesy influences, from the opening riff to its ebullient, upward-moving rhythmic shifts, noting similar to Bernstein or one of those bouncing balls that hop across song lyrics in time with the beat of the music.”

    — Daniel Joffe, NEW YORK STATE MUSIC (2025)

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Bryan Adams

  • “With more than four decades of career behind him, Bryan Adams remains an indisputable reference in rock music. The Canadian, known for his energy on stage, has built a career that combines great hits and memorable tours. From the iconic Summer of '69 to the most recent songs from his album So Happy It Hurts (nominated for a Grammy), Adams continues to reinvent himself without losing his essence… With more than 75 million albums sold and number 1 in more than 40 countries, among her achievements is having achieved three Oscar nominations, five Golden Globe nominations, a Grammy and 20 Juno awards, thus endorsing her legacy.”

    — Juan Francisco Corredera, RADIO ALICANTE (2024)

  • “If you were a teenager in the 1980s, there is a good chance that your first slow dance was to a song by Bryan Adams. (‘Heaven’ was my senior prom theme.) And there is also a good chance you rocked out to some of his harder hits like ‘Summer of 69,’ ‘Cuts Like a Knife’ and ‘Somebody.’ The Canadian rocker with the American sound knows how to do it all, with close to 100 million albums sold worldwide. But unlike a lot of musicians who hit in the 1980s and now play the nostalgia circuit, Mr. Adams continues to make vital new music. His latest album, [‘Tracks of My Years’ produced by David Foster contains an arrangement by Kelly].”

    — Keith Valcourt, THE WASHINGTON TIMES (2015)

  • “I was asked to go the nostalgia route, as you would call it, on the last album, ‘Tracks of My Years,’ [with an arrangement by Kelly] which I was reluctant to do. I would literally leave one studio where I was recording the covers with David Foster [Kelly was assisting Foster during this time], and go to another studio where I was working on the new album with Jeff. That gave me the impetus to get through the Foster record, because I didn’t enjoy that at all. I did it because my management and record company wanted me to. I got into it in the end. And David is a brilliant producer — nothing against him. It just wasn’t something I really wanted to do.”

    — THE WASHINGTON TIMES (2014)

  • “Bryan Adams is the man behind classic songs like ‘Summer of '69’ and ‘Heaven,’ and on his next album – exclusively premiering on Billboard below – he's taking other artists' classics and making them. ‘Tracks of My Years,’ due Tuesday and streaming below, includes 10 cover songs by Ray Charles, the Beatles and more, plus one brand-new track, ‘She Knows Me’ [and bonus song arranged by Kelly]. We already premiered Adams’ version of Chuck Berry‘s ‘Rock & Roll Music,’ but now you can listen to that and the other 10 tracks below.”

    — Staff, BILLBOARD (2014)

  • “On deck for the fourth quarter: a virtual avalanche of all-covers albums. From the divas (Aretha Franklin, Annie Lennox, Bette Midler and just-released LPs by Barbara Streisand and Lady Gaga) to the showmen (Barry Manilow‘s ‘My Dream Duets,’ out Sept. 16), rock radio vets (Bryan Adams‘ ‘Tracks of My Years,’ [arranged by Kelly] out Sept. 30) to hipsters du jour (She & Him‘s ‘Classics,’ out Nov. 10), it seems established artists have found a new safe haven for full-length releases, a role that holiday ­collections have served in the past. And it’s no wonder: Covers offer a low-risk alternative for an artist not only to take a creative break while maintaining their public presence, but also to have the potential for big returns.”

    — Ed Christman, BILLBOARD (2014)

  • “Adams has mentioned that this record is a list of songs that are reflective of the time period when he was growing up and aspiring to be a musician. They are, unusually for the Canadian singer, all entirely covers, produced and arranged in a uniquely Bryan Adams-esque way. In many ways, this album [‘Tracks of My Years’ arranged by Kelly] is one dedicated to the feeling of nostalgia and it doesn’t make any illusion otherwise. The album hits out with the distinctive pop energies…Adams’ distinctively sultry voice suiting the song brilliantly. All things considered, it would be safe to say that the right songs have been chosen for this album, carefully done to suit Adams’ style.”

    — Franklin, RENOWNED SOUND (2014)

  • “For ‘Tracks of My Years’ (Verve) [arranged by Kelly], Bryan Adams‘ first record in six years, the Canadian pop-rock star, 54, says he ‘fumbled my way through a bunch of covers.’ The LP, which also includes one original, is an homage to the classics that influenced the hitmaker — whose legacy includes four No. 1s on the Billboard Hot 100 and 17 million U.S. album sales, according to the RIAA — as a child. Adams, who is releasing a 30th-anniversary edition of his ‘Reckless’ album on Nov. 24 and is also working on a new studio set, took Billboard on a tour through some of ‘Tracks‘ best, well, tracks.”

    — Gary Graff, BILLBOARD (2014)

  • “It’s always nice to see five debuts in the top ten (and hey, three from Canadian artists), week-over-week sales took at 5% jump. However, year-to-date album sales are down 5% over the same period in 2013... Track-equivalent album sales are up 4.8% over last week. Bryan Adams’ covers album entitled ‘Tracks Of My Years’ [Kelly arranged] debuts at number one on the Top Albums chart with 14,000 units sold.

    — Alan Cross, A JOURNAL OF MUSICAL THINGS (2014)

  • Adams: '“I decided I wanted nothing on my voice. I wanted no harmonies. I didn’t want any reverb. I didn’t want any echo. I wanted my voice to sound just like I’m talking to you on the telephone, really really raw and really clear. That would be the glue that would unify all of the different types of songs and would be the glue that would unify the different productions. That would be the key to making this record sound like it does. It was kind of a fight. I really had to fight for it, but in the end I’m happy with it.”

    — Bryan Adams on THE AQUARIAN WEEKLY (2014)

  • “On his latest studio work, Tracks Of My Years [Kelly orchestrated on] Adams is in new territory as he interprets classics such as “Sunny,” “Rock And Roll Music,” and “God Only Knows.” The album’s original track, “She Knows Me,” showcases (yet again) the unparalleled collaboration shared between Adams and longtime songwriting partner Jim Vallance.”

    —  Andrea Seastrand, THE AQUARIAN WEEKLY (2014)

  • “Bryan Adams has had a 35-plus year music career, helping to make him one of the world’s most enduring and successful artists with worldwide sales of more than 65 million albums. In 2014 and 2015, the singer celebrated the 30th anniversary of ‘Reckless’ — which boasted hits like ‘Summer of 69,’ ‘Heaven’ and ‘Run to You’ — with a special reissue of the album and tours of the U.K./Europe, Canada and U.S. He also released a covers album, ‘Tracks of My Years,’ [arranged by Kelly] which included one original…”

    — Karen Bliss, BILLBOARD (2016)

  • ‘Tracks of My Years’ is the twelfth studio album by Canadian singer-songwriter Bryan Adams, released by Polydor Records. The track list features 10 covers… Adams said, ‘Making the selection of the songs for the album took a long time. We recorded all kinds of songs until the songs sort of presented themselves, or sounded different enough from the originals. We did about three months of recording, spread out over the course of two years.’“

    — Wikipedia

  • “Making the selection of the songs for the album took a long time,’ noted Adams. ‘We recorded all kinds of songs until the songs sort of presented themselves, or sounded different enough from the originals. We did about three months of recording, spread out over the course of two years.’ ‘Tracks Of My Years’ is Adams' first studio album since 2008's ‘Eleven,’ which hit No. 80 on the U.S. charts, but soared to No. 1 in Canada, his home country.”

    — Staff, MUSIC TIMES (2014)

  • “Bryan Adams is back after a six-year studio hiatus. The man responsible for megahits such as ‘Summer of '69’ and ‘(Everything I Do) I Do It For You’ is prepping the cover-heavy Tracks Of My Years for a September release. The tracklist features 10 covers, including ‘Lay Lady Lay’ (Bob Dylan), and ‘Let It Be Me’ [arranged by Kelly].”

    — ​Music Times, NYC (2014)

  • “I had nothing to do with the arrangement[s]; that was all [co-producer and Verve chairman] David Foster [Kelly assisted at his studios in Malibu]. I don’t think he even knew the song [‘Down on the Corner’], but that’s OK. He has a different musical background than me, and maybe that helped us get a more original take on the songs, [Adams said].”

    — Gary Graff, BILLBOARD (2014)

  • “This is an eclectic collection of songs like what AM radio was doing at the time. AM Radio was king in the ’70s, you would get a mix of songs from The Beatles to Ray Charles to a Beach Boys song to The Manhattans. You would get that mixture because they were hit songs. So that is what I decided to do, make a collection of cool songs that fit my voice. ‘Tracks of My Years’ [arranged by Kelly] drops Sept. 30 and is available for pre-order at iTunes”

    — Staff, BILLBOARD EXCLUSIVE PREMIERE (2014)

  • “For Bryan Adams and longtime songwriting partner Jim Vallance, having Jeff Lynne produce his latest album, ‘Get Up!,’ is ‘dream come true stuff.’ [It’s] the follow-up to last year’s covers set ‘Tracks of My Years,’ [arranged by Kelly] comes out Oct. 30 and is Adams’ first of all-original material since ‘11 ‘in 2008.”

    — Graff, BILLBOARD (2015)

  • “Even with that wide selection of memorable music, the 20-time Juno-award winner says the hardest part of making the album was finding songs. ‘A lot of [the songs], the really important ones for me, you couldn’t record them because they’re too popular, I wouldn’t want to touch them,’ said Adams…Instead, Adams says he decided to cover songs that he wasn’t necessarily inspired by, but just songs that he liked to listen to, such as [‘Let It Be Me’ arranged by Kelly].”

    — CBC (CANADIAN BROADCASTING COMPANY), (2014)

  • “At No.61 by Bryan Adams with his covers album ‘Tracks of My Years,’ [arranged by Kelly, co-produced by David Foster] which is his first new entry in just over three years, as he last charted with a live album ‘Bare Bones’ (HP-38) in 2011.”

    — Gary Ryan, NOISE 11 (Australia), (2014)

  • “With his upcoming release ‘Tracks of My Years,’ [arranged by Kelly] Bryan Adams is looking back on the music that inspired him to become an artist in his own right. And on his cover of Chuck Berry’s immortal ‘Rock and Roll Music,’ Adams proves nostalgia isn’t always quiet and reflective — it can rock hard, too… ‘The album is about songs that were around at the time when I decided music was what I wanted do,’ Adams tells Billboard.”

    — Staff, BILLBOARD EXCLUSIVE PREMIERE (2014)

  • ‘Tracks of My Years,’ Adams’ first studio album in six years, is a scrapbook of musical memories that define the man and his tastes. Here, the Canadian legend’s influences run the gamut from the archetypal Beatles (“Any Time at All”) and Chuck Berry (“Rock And Roll Music”) to the genius of Ray Charles (“I Can’t Stop Loving You”) to the swoon of Smokey Robinson (“The Tracks of My Tears”)…[and ‘Let It Be Me’ arranged by Kelly].”

    — Ira Kantor, ELMORE MAGAZINE (2014)

  • “The album ‘Tracks of My Years’ [arranged by Kelly] debuted at number one on the Canadian Albums Chart, selling 14,000 copies in its first wee and at number 22 in Italy. In the US, the album debuted at number 89 on the ‘Billboard 200,’ selling 4,000 copies in its first week. The album has sold 14,000 copies in the US as of September 2015”

    — Wikipedia

  • “In 2014, Adams released ‘Tracks of My Years,’ an album featuring covers of classic songs [arranged by Kelly] from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s, along with one original track. The album showcases Adams' interpretations of songs by artists such as Bob Dylan, Ray Charles, and The Beatles. ‘Tracks of My Years’ achieved commercial success, earning a Gold certification from Music Canada on January 30, 2015.”

    — Gold/Platinum Certification Program,, MUSIC CANADA (2015)

  • “Bryan Adams’ ‘Tracks of My Years’ [arranged by Kelly] spent 1 week in the Top 20, 2 weeks in the Top 40, 3 weeks in the Top 75, and 3 weeks in the Top 100 in the UK alone.”

    — OFFICIAL CHARTS COMPANY, (UK) (2014)

  • “The fact that at no point on this album does he resort to stadium-pleasing full-on rocking means there is never a wall of guitars to hide behind. The sparse arrangements therefore have the dual effect of letting the song shine and his voice sparkle. 4 out of 5 stars.”

    — Neil Jeffries, CLASSIC ROCK (2014)

  • “Six years after a 10th album called 11, Bryan Adams releases his 11th album... ‘Tracks Of My Years’ [arranged by Kelly] containing 10 classic covers (plus one of his own)… Bryan Adams is not a man to make an album of covers just for the hell of it...In fact, his sleevenotes tell us that he thought long and hard about the concept – spawned by a proposal from the project’s producer, Canada’s musical polymath David Foster – of re-recording US Top 10 hits from his formative years. You’ve got to respect Adams for that. His contemporaries have been falling over themselves to treat such albums as handy stopgaps, but not our Bryan.”

    — Neil Jeffries, CLASSIC ROCK (2014)

  • ‘Let It Be Me’ is a 1960 single by The Everly Brothers. The song is an English-language cover of ‘Je t'appartiens,’ which had been released as a single in France by Gilbert Bécaud in 1955. The song was a top ten hit for The Everly Brothers on the US Billboard Hot 100 and spawned many additional cover versions… The song is covered on Bryan Adams’ ‘Tracks of My Years’ [arranged by Kelly].”

    — Wikipedia

  • “During his earlier years, Bryan Adams released some great albums… From that point on, although his output has been scant… As it is, the remaining nine tracks from ‘Tracks of My Years’ [arranged by Kelly] finds him tackling that tricky beast – the covers album… Although the arrangement sounds moderately tough and the arrangement comes with a relatively rollocking piano part… ‘Tracks of My Years’ is a record that’s only for the most devoted Bryan Adams fans.”

    — REAL GONE ROCKS (2014)

  • “Bryan Adams goes way back in new album ‘Tracks of my Years’ [arranged by Kelly]. 'You can't do a version of Hey Jude or Smoke on the Water' says the Canadian rocker… The collection of cover songs, on sale Tuesday, is the Canadian rocker's first studio album in six years. As the title suggests, the tracks were drawn from Adams's teen years when he decided he wanted to be a musician.”

    — Staff, CANADIAN BROADCASTING COMPANY, (2014)

  • “Adams current album, ‘Tracks of My Years,’ [arranged by Kelly] is his first studio release in six years, and features a wide range of musical styles reflective of a time when rock was played alongside pop, country and R&B. PBS ‘Great Performances’ captures Adams in peak performance during his current world tour, performing favorites from the new album as well as his own chart-topping hits. The performance… was filmed at Toronto’s Elgin Theater in July 2014, and marks the singer’s PBS debut.”

    — PBS: GREAT PERFORMANCES (S42 Ep21), (2015)

  • “Forty years in, Bryan Adams is one of Canada’s most iconic rock exports… with Prism drummer Jim Vallance that would soon produce hits for the likes of Bachman-Turner Overdrive, KISS and Joe Cocker. He has won 18 JUNOs, a Grammy, two Ivor Novello songwriting awards, and was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 2006. He is also an Officer of both the Order of Canada and British Columbia, and won the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Artistic Achievement in 2010. Bryan Adams continues to record and tour. His most recent album, [‘Tracks of My Years’ is arranged by Kelly].”

    — CANADIAN MUSIC HALL OF FAME

  • ‘Tracks of My Years,’ Adams’ first studio album in six years [arranged by Kelly], is a scrapbook of musical memories that define the man and his tastes. Here, the Canadian legend’s influences run the gamut... Thinking about his younger years has caused Bryan Adams to produce this keeper of an album. Like its cover, you’ll just want to let your hair down and soak up the sounds.”

    — Ira Kantor, ELMORE MAGAZINE (2014)

  • “The youthful, long-haired Bryan Adams that appears on the cover of his latest album seems a total about-face from the spiky-haired, leather-clad incarnation that first lit up American airwaves more than 30 years ago… But Adams’ goal here isn’t to duplicate the original recordings; rather, it’s to inject his ‘18 Til I Die’ vigor into tunes that clearly inspired him to pick up his first six-string, play it until his fingers bled and get behind a microphone with the true passion of a rock star. Sure, the rasp may have gone down an octave over the years, but the musical fire inside Adams still burns strong.”

    — Ira Kantor, ELMORE MAGAZINE (2014)

  • “The vintage arrangements from the glorious days when AM radio provided devoted listeners with a diverse soundtrack certainly make for an entertaining mixture of varying musical styles. For the most part, Adams honors these carefully selected classics with sincere love and respect… [it] is a charming effort…Five additional tracks are featured on the deluxe edition [Kelly arranged].”

    — Clint Rhodes, THE HERALD-STANDARD (Pennsylvania), (2014)

  • “Bryan Adams, ladies and gentlemen. The very same man who has sold over 100 million records worldwide and is one of the biggest-selling artists of all time. He’s the hitmaker who has produced such memorable songs such as ‘Summer of 69’ and ‘Everything I Do (I’ll Do It for You).’ Yet, his latest effort shows signs of a musician whose best years are well and truly behind him. Not that ‘Tracks of My Years’ [arranged by Kelly] is a terrible album by any means; it just suffers from a weighty sense of averageness that fails to live up against what the Canadian singer-songwriter has done before.”

    — Nathan Franklin, RENOWNED FOR SOUND (2014)

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“Nathan’s orchestrations are wonderful.”

 

— André Previn 

"I first met Nathan when he arrived in L.A. while attending USC. He immediately showed a keen interest and genuine excitement in all things orchestration-related, particularly in film scores. With a strong interest to study past scores and to assist me on various music projects, from film scores to singers, I've found his contributions, passion, and professionalism distinguish him as an individual consistently committed to delivering the highest quality in orchestrations. His versatility in meeting the diverse demands of my film, television, and video game projects, along with his adaptability in fostering a collaborative spirit and willingness to go above and beyond, have greatly contributed to the quality of our work."

— Patrick Russ, orchestrator

Dionne Warwick

  • “[Warwick] has charted 69 times on the US ‘Billboard Hot 100’ singles chart, making her the second-most charted female vocalist during the rock era (1955–2010), after Aretha Franklin. Warwick has sold over 100 million records worldwide. She has charted 18 songs in the top 20 of the US Hot 100 and charted several more hits inside the top 40. Dionne Warwick reached the number one spot twice on the ‘Billboard Hot 100,’ both times for collaborations… Warwick's ‘Only Trust Your Heart’ [orchestrated by Kelly] peaked at #10 on the ‘Billboard Jazz Albums’ chart on April 2, 2011, and remained on the chart for nine weeks.”

    — Wikipedia

  • “Dionne Warwick is a legendary American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her soulful ballads and pop hits… she released her studio album ‘Only Trust Your Heart,’ which featured a collection of jazz standards and new songs. As a fan of Warwick's music, I was excited to dive into this album and see what it had to offer. I must say, it left me pleasantly surprised… The album's genre is mainly jazz, with elements of soul and pop thrown in. The instrumentation is primarily piano, saxophone, bass, and drums, with Warwick's vocals front and center.”

    — STAI MUSIC FORM (2011)

  • ‘Only Trust Your Heart’ is a testament to Warwick's versatility and songwriting skills. The album's fusion of jazz and pop is a departure from her prior works, but one worth exploring. Its strengths lie in the new material and Warwick's soulful voice, which breathe new life into the jazz standards, making them fresh and exciting. The record's weakness is in the arrangements, which are too predictable. Yet, the album feels like an ode to love, with its emotional ballads and catchy tunes. It's an album that's easy to listen to, and it's perfect for jazz enthusiasts and casual listeners.”

    — Review, STAIMUSIC (2011)

  • “Warwick ranks second behind only Aretha Franklin (who has a total of 88 charted Billboard singles) as the most-charted female vocalist of all time with 56 of Dionne’s singles making the Billboard Hot 100 between 1962 and 1998. Known as the artist who “bridged the gap,” Warwick’s soulful blend of pop, gospel and R&B music transcended racial, cultural, national, and musical boundaries. [Her] new jazz album, ‘Only Trust Your Heart,’ a soulful collection of standards, celebrating the music of legendary composer Sammy Cahn for Sony Red / MPCA Records.”

    — Staff Review, VOGUE

  • “She is one of the most recognizable voices in American music and after 50 years in entertainment, Grammy award-winning singer Dionne Warwick is showing no signs of slowing down… and now she’s back with a new album of classic tunes from ‘Only Trust Your Heart.’ Now, here’s a song I wanted to play a short piece from: ‘I’m a Fool to Want You’ [featuring Kelly’s orchestrations]."

    — Michael Martin, N.P.R. [Radio Interview]

  • “This collection is perfection by a woman who skillfully masters with talent, nuance, and wonderful musical arrangements [by Kelly]; musical perfection.I'm a Fool to Love You is my absolute favorite but the entire collection is lovely. As mentioned by others, I sure hope this sells well and there is a follow up. Miss Warwick is indeed a singer of standards. This is a must have for all Dionne fans and a treasure to everyone.”

    — Reviewer, AMAZON MUSIC (2012)

  • ”Warwick gives the songs a variety of musical settings, starting with the bossa nova arrangement of the title song and going on to small jazz bands, big string orchestras, solo piano accompaniments, and even a blues reading… She ignores previous interpretations, making each song her own… [Kelly’s orchestrations for] 'I'm a Fool to Want You' [give] Warwick, with her understated alto, some of her typical sense of empowerment”

    — William Ruhlmann, ALL MUSIC

  • “Her most recent release, 'Only Trust Your Heart' — a collection of standards and rarities with lyrics mostly penned by songwriter/raconteur Sammy Cahn — takes yet another, rather unexpected direction... Recorded live in the studio… [with Kelly’s orchestrations], crafting arrangements ranging from bossa nova to big band jazz, banks of strings, and a jazz piano trio, this is Warwick’s first attempt at what could be called a jazz album.”

    — Richard S. Ginell, VARIETY [Warwick’s 'Heart' Gives Penchant for Jazz]

  • “These songs display Warwick's versatility as she transitions from upbeat jazz to emotional ballads seamlessly. The songs are arranged in a way that tells a story… which breathe new life into the jazz standards, making them fresh and exciting… the album feels like an ode to love, with its emotional ballads and catchy tunes. It's an album that's easy to listen to, and it's perfect for jazz enthusiasts and casual listeners.”

    — Staff Review, STAI MUSIC

  • "An orchestrated set of standards, mostly by Sammy Cahn… the mood turns boisterous… [and with] big band swagger. The grandiose strings on [Kelly’s orchestrations on] “I'm A Fool To Want You" - contrasting with Warwick's delicate reading - provide the set's greatest pleasures.”

    — Wilson & Alroy, RECORD REVIEWS

  • “Her voice is in great form, and her emotional and nuanced interpretation of these timeless songs is excellent. In addition to what Dionne brings to the table, the musical arrangements [by Kelly] are gorgeous… This is such a top-notch production, that one can't help but want to hear Dionne wrap her velvety voice around another collection of standards. This amazing album, from one of the greatest vocalists of all time, is definitely a must-buy for jazz and pop music lovers alike.”

    — Michael Cavacini, AMAZON MUSIC (2012)

  • “Warwick recorded… a new jazz album m, ”Only Trust Your Heart,” a collection of standards, celebrating the music of legendary composer Sammy Cahn… scintillating, soothing and sensual best describe the familiar and legendary voice of five time Grammy Award winning music legend, Dionne Warwick, who has become a cornerstone of American pop music and culture.”

    — Staff, SOUTH ORANGE PERFORMING ARTS

  • Varga: “In 2019, you made “Only Trust Your Heart,” featuring 13 Great American Songbook classics by Sammy Cahn…" Warwick: "It was a privilege to be in the same room with those icons and to perform with them. I was over the moon... It’s the same notes we all sing or play; it’s just a matter of how we decide to voice them.”

    — George Varga Interview, SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE (2022)

  • “Today at 70, the five-time Grammy Award-winner is celebrating her golden anniversary in showbusiness by releasing a new CD, “Only Trust Your Heart.” The project predominately features the songs of American composer Sammy Cahn… There are some wonderful lyrics and incredible melodies.“

    — Dustin Fitzharris, ESSENCE Magazine (2020)

  • “From the current collection, she put a soft-spoken spin on ‘Only Trust Your Heart’ [orchestrated by Kelly] and demonstrated her elegant jazz stylings throughout… Such cuts served as classy bookends to several more gems that have contributed to her personal history”

    — Andy Argyrakis, CONCERT LIVE WIRE (2011)

  • “More album-oriented, reflective of her past and influences, whether spotlighting the legacies of Cole Porter and Sammy Cahn [which include Kelly's orchestrations], her love for the music of Brazil, or updating her own classics with duet partners of younger generations… five-time Grammy-winner, Warwick was handed a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019, and she has continued recording into the 2020s, partnering with rappers and singers for the occasional single.”

    — William Ruhlmann & Andy Kellman, QUOBUZ

  • “Warwick is celebrating her 50th year in show business with a new album of Sammy Cahn standards, ‘Only Trust Your Heart’… Warwick’s huge list of hits, including ‘Alfie,’ ‘I Say a Little Prayer,’ ‘Then Came You,’ ‘Walk On By,’ ‘Heartbreaker,’ and ‘Do You Know the Way to San Jose’ securely places her among popular music’s most enduring giants.”

    — Greg Braxton, LOS ANGELES TIMES

  • “Warwick calms [her album] down, working only with a piano and strings, reflecting on the theme of aging. If she never really put both feet into any one genre of music, that has turned out to serve her well on a late album like this, on which she demonstrates a mastery of several classic pop styles, just as Cahn was able to switch gears as a lyricist-for-hire throughout his distinguished (if often unheralded) career.”

    — Staff Review, ERUCE

  • “The redone versions of 'Reach Out for Me' and 'Do You Know the Way to San Jose?' on 1998's ‘Dionne Sings Dionne’ were fun and the Sammy Cahn tribute album ‘Only Trust Your Heart’ [orchestrated by Kelly] was good.”

    — Review, POPJUSTICE (2014)

  • “Recorded live in the studio… [orchestrated by Kelly] crafting arrangements ranging from bossa nova to big band jazz, banks of strings and a jazz piano trio, this is Warwick’s first attempt at what could be called a jazz album. Although the flexibility of her phrasing, particularly on her Bacharach/David records, suggests that she might have a jazz background, she doesn’t. It all stems from gospel.”

    — Ginell, VARIETY MAGAZINE (2011)

  • “This album reminds me a lot of her 60s material, it has a very easy going sound to it (from her voice to the songs themselves) that creates a pleasant listening experience. It's amazing after all these years how great her voice still sounds. Highlights: ‘Only Trust Your Heart,’ ‘I'm a Fool to Want You’ [both orchestrated by Kelly].”

    — ALBUM OF THE YEAR (2011)

  • “[Warwick gives] Cahn's better-known works… a variety of musical settings, starting with the bossa nova arrangement of the title song and going on to small jazz bands, big string orchestras, solo piano accompaniments, and even a blues reading [orchestrated by Kelly]...she demonstrates a mastery of several classic pop styles. 3½ out of 4 stars."

    — William Ruhlmann, ALL MUSIC Reviews (2014)

  • ‘Only Trust Your Heart’ is a studio album [co-orchestrated by Kelly] by American singer Dionne Warwick. It was released by MPCA Records and RED Music on March 15, 2011. A specialty album that is devoted to the work of lyricist Sammy Cahn, it reached the top ten of the US Billboard Top Jazz Albums.”

    — Wikipedia

  • “In 2008, Warwick began recording an album of songs from the Sammy Cahn and Jack Wolf songbooks. The finished recording, entitled Only Trust Your Heart, was released in 2011... In 2011, the New Jazz style CD ‘Only Trust Your Heart’ was released [orchestrated by Kelly], featuring many Sammy Cahn songs… In 2019 she was awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.”

    — Wikipedia

  • “Dionne Warwick's ‘Only Trust Your Heart’ [orchestrated by Kelly] debuted on the Billboard Jazz Albums chart on April 2, 2011, peaking at #10 on the same date. The album remained on the chart for nine weeks.”

    — BILLBOARD (2011)

  • “The words ‘legendary’ and ‘iconic’ are often overused these days, but in Dionne Warwick’s case, they truly apply.... Now, the intimate setting of Dionne’s new Las Vegas show is offering fans the chance to see her up close [with orchestrations by Kelly]… All you have to hear is one word from her mellifluous speaking voice, and you know you are talking to a star…. You are a best friend of the Great American Songbook. The standards—in your hands and, of course, your voice—are magical. Two of your albums that immediately come to mind are the ones devoted, respectively, to the music of Cole Porter (‘Dionne Warwick Sings Cole Porter’) and Sammy Cahn (‘Only Trust Your Heart’) [orchestrated by Kelly].”

    — Todd Sussman, CABARET SCENES MAGAZINE (2019)

  • “In her fifth decade in the music industry, she’s been applying her classic voice to styles of music that she’s previously drawn from, but never fully embraced… ‘Only Trust Your Heart,’ released earlier this year, is her first true jazz set devoted to interpretations of Sammy Cahn material, it’s a relaxed tour through the songbook of a classic American tunesmith… The performances as so assured that it’s a little hard to believe that Warwick wasn’t already a fan of Cahn.”

    — Triss McCall, NEW JERSEY NEWS

  • "The lush arrangements [by Kelly], the wonderful musicians and the Great Dionne Warwick really make you fall in love with this type of music all over again. My understanding this cd was done in the 'old style' with the musicians and the singer in the same room performing together. This is such a great way to make a record. Since I received this cd it has not left my car's cd player and I have not tired of listening to these tunes.”

    — R. L. Jones, AMAZON MUSIC (2011)

  • “This year's ‘Celebrity Apprentice’ star still cooks up a jazzy musical storm… she just finished a run on this season's ‘Celebrity Apprentice’ alongside fellow singers like Meat Loaf, Sugar Ray's Mark McGrath and LaToya Jackson. And to coincide with this particular outing, she recorded the brand new CD Only Trust Your Heart [orchestrated by Kelly], which pays tribute to various jazz, soul, blues and pop ballads from yesteryear penned by Sammy Cahn (who's credits span Frank Sinatra to Sarah Vaughan)… the 70-year-old star still possessed a velvety touch as she breezed through staples”

    — Andy Argyrakis, CONCERT LIVE WIRE (2011)

  • “Warwick’s ‘Heart’ reveals penchant for jazz… Her most recent release, 'Only Trust Your Heart' (MPCA) — a collection of standards and rarities with lyrics mostly penned by songwriter/raconteur Sammy Cahn — takes yet another, rather unexpected direction… 'I’m a Fool to Want You' [orchestrated by Kelly] is one of the CD’s two non-Cahn tunes co-credited to another MPCA songwriter, Jack Wolf... 'It was the most fun I’ve had recording in quite a while, [said Warwick]."

    — Ginell, VARIETY (2011)

  • "[Warwick’s] been applying her classic voice to styles of music that she’s previously drawn from, but never fully embraced… ‘Only Trust Your Heart,’ [orchestrated by Kelly] released earlier this year, is her first true jazz set. Devoted to interpretations of Sammy Cahn material, it’s a relaxed tour through the songbook of a classic American tunesmith.The performances as so assured that it’s a little hard to believe that Warwick wasn’t already a fan of Cahn. ‘No, I really wasn’t, but I became one,’ says Warwick. ‘Only Trust Your Heart’ was brought to me as a project, and I didn’t know all of the songs. There were a few that were in films that I’d seen as a child, and Sarah Vaughan sang quite a few of them.”

    — Tris McCall, THE STAR LEDGER (NJ), (2011)

  • Q: In 1990, you made the album ‘Dionne Warwick Sings Cole Porter.’ In 2019, you made ‘Only Trust Your Heart,’ [orchestrated by Kelly] featuring 13 Great American Songbook classics by Sammy Cahn. Earlier in your career, you sang with Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Joe Williams. What is your first memory of jazz and how has it informed the way you phrase your vocals? A: It was a privilege to be in the same room with those icons and to perform with them. I was over the moon. But I don’t categorize music. It’s the same notes we all sing or play; it’s just a matter of how we decide to voice them.”

    — George Varga, THE SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE (2022)

  • “Warwick’s musical influence has reached into multiple genres. With an album of duets… a critically acclaimed Gospel album… and a jazz album, ‘Only Trust Your Heart’—a collection of standards, celebrating the music of legendary composer Sammy Cahn [orchestrated by Kelly]. Her 2011 EP, ‘Only Trust Your Heart’ launched another prolific period of recording and touring, with the powerhouse at once picking up a slew of new of awards. Starting in 2012 with the Golden Camera for Lifetime Achievement – Music International and the Glamour Woman of The Year Award.”

    — Paul Salfen, AM FM MAGAZINE (2024)

  • “Dionne Warwick possesses the kind of noblesse that allows her to get away with lecturing her audience… of her 85-minute concert at Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier of Place des Arts Friday night… Just as two light-jazz tracks from Warwick’s latest album, ‘Only Trust Your Heart,’ [orchestrated by Kelly]… and delivered an impossibly strong finish, leaving an impression of unabashed triumph… Warwick sang the hell out of [the song]... There was no encore. None was needed.”

    — Bernard Perusse, THE MONTREAL GAZETTE (2011)

  • “Dionne Warwick is one-of-a-kind,’ declares Johnny Mathis. ‘She’s one of my favorite people in the world.’ Indeed, when the Recording Academy honored Warwick with a GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award in May, Mathis was there..Though Warwick has remained relatively prolific in the studio over the past decade, including her impeccable Sammy Cahn tribute ‘Only Trust Your Heart‘ (2011) [orchestrated by Kelly] and GRAMMY-nominated ‘Now’ (2012) album produced by Phil Ramone.”

    — Christian John Wikane, POPMATTERS (2019)

Quote Source

“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business.”

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“Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.”

CeeLo Green

  • “Cee Lo Green will get a hand from Rod Stewart, the Muppets and other guests when he performs tracks from his upcoming holiday LP… [Rod] Stewart will most likely join Green for a rendition of “Merry Christmas, Baby,” the Johnny Moore-penned classic recorded by artists like B.B. King and Elvis Presley… ““You’ll really enjoy it,” Green told Rolling Stone recently of the album. “It’s definitely a great soulful spin on a Christmas classic.”

    — ROLLING STONE (2012)

  • “The ‘avec’ Rod Stewart ‘Merry Christmas, Baby,’ [arranged by Kelly] its airlessness cementing a hallowed space on Lite FM from now until the sun swallows the Earth…not a note of Magic Moment rings false. Green sounds like he really has been waiting all year to trap unsuspecting people under the mistletoe; clawing his presents open like a wolverine. He's so motherfucking cheery he makes Burl Ives seem like Michael Gira.”

    — PITCHFORK (2012)

  • “CeeLo Green and Rod Stewart teamed up to record “Merry Christmas, Baby” [arranged by Kelly] for Green’s 2012 Christmas album, “CeeLo’s Magic Moment,” and the two reunited to sing the track as part of the “CeeLo & Friends” holiday special in Las Vegas... at the Planet Hollywood Resort."

    — Sarah Maloy, BILLBOARD (2014)

  • ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’ [arranged by Kelly] is a spirited celebration of holiday affection…it’s a lighthearted, soulful tribute to the magic of Christmas… the song's structure and delivery create a feeling of shared joy and celebration, making it a perfect holiday anthem. CeeLo Green infuses the song with his signature soulful flair, creating a vibrant and upbeat atmosphere, opening with a feeling of excitement and high spirits.”

    — TAIL ‘EM (2012)

  • “The Christmas album is, of course, perilous territory… Merry Christmas, Baby [arranged by Kelly] produced by Verve chairman David Foster… demonstrates laudable discernment in choosing the album’s 13 songs, and the same goes for the requisite cameos: Cee Lo Green and Trombone Shorty [who] provide little boosts of energy to Stewart along the way.”

    — Ted Scheinman, SLANT MAGAZINE (2012)

  • “In 2012, Cee Lo got a raspy Rod Stewart to duet with him on "Merry Christmas, Baby" [arranged by Kelly] and his fellow Voice judge Christina Aguilera to show up for "Baby It's Cold Outside," but his ideal musical partners were the Muppets. They collaborated here on "All I Need Is Love," based on the music to "Mahna Mahna." The result was pop R&B with bright colors, made out of felt and yarn – which suited this cartoonish, broadly appealing album.”

    — Gavin Edwards, ROLLING STONES (2019)

  • “This surprising Christmas album, ‘CeeLo’s Magic Moment,’ with horses pulling a red Cadillac sleigh on the cover… a compilation of holiday classics from the ‘70s to his original tracks stays true to CeeLo Green and his quirks. Without a doubt, Green’s voice and funk shines a playful light on these beloved Christmas songs.”

    — Lauren Penna, HIGHLANDER NEWSPAPER, California (2012)

  • “CeeLo Green is certainly having a pop culture moment… . The opening… kicks things off with a flourish of horns and keyboards… It's when the beat slows and the instruments are mostly stripped away that CeeLo shines. His voice soars over piano and strings”

    — Rob Merrill, YAHOO! NEWS (2012)

  • “The music world was half-expecting a new album from Green’s old hip-hop group Goodie Mob this holiday season, but instead we got ‘The Voice’ favorite’s blast of red-velvet funk (and that’s red velvet like Santa’s suit, not the sexy cake kind). Its Motown bounce recalls all the great Stevie Wonder Christmas tracks of yesteryear, and the inclusion of the Muppets is never not awesome.”

    — Kyle Anderson, ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY (2012)

  • “On Cee Lo’s Magic Moment, Cee Lo accesses his better angels without losing the hard groove or the über-weirdness… Without flaunting his influences, Cee Lo pays his dues throughout but a duet [arranged by Kelly] on “Merry Christmas, Baby” is sure to pack the dance floor at even the stodgiest office holiday party. Were all of this a signal of some new, softer direction in Cee Lo’s progression as an artist, it’d be worrisome indeed. Instead, it’s a reassuring testament to his range, his sense of fun, even his mental health.”

    — Ted Scheinman, SLANT MAGAZINE (2012)

  • The increasingly curious development of CeeLo Green’s career from R&B crooner to cuddly prime-time cartoon character takes its latest turn with the release of this, his first Christmas album. ‘Magic Moment’ veers between festive bonhomie and invoking feelings… as does Rod Stewart on Merry Christmas, Baby’ [arranged by Kelly]”

    — David Renshaw, New Musical Express, UK (2012)

  • “If anyone can make a Christmas album work in this day and age, it's Cee-Lo. And he has… He has a fantastic, old-fashioned soul voice… ‘Magic Moments’ is at its most immediately enjoyable when Green forgets his self-appointed role as a kind of vintage soul curator and goes unashamedly headfirst into tinsel and tack. 3 out of 5 stars”

    — Alexis Petridis, THE GUARDIAN (2012)

  • “Top 40 Essential Christmas Albums: ‘Magic Moments' by Cee Lo Green at Number 40 (Elektra Records). [Kelly arranged 'Merry Christmas, Baby' also featuring Trombone Shorty adding adds lively, brassy elements to the track]."

    — ROLLING STONES (2019)

  • “Grammy Award®-winning, two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Rod Stewart, hosts his first holiday special featuring Mary J. Blige, Cee-Lo Green, and Chris Botti beginning this December on PBS. Season 40 Episode 2.”

    — PBS: GREAT PERFORMANCES SPECIAL (2012)

  • “Green’s style meshes perfectly with raspy elder statesman Rod Stewart—together, this unlikely duo tag-teams “Merry Christmas Baby” with palpable gusto, trading off lines of the same verse, harmonizing effortlessly over sassy backing vocals, wah-wah and half-sighed brass… holiday cheer rarely sounds this spirited.”

    — PASTE MAGAZINE (2012)

  • “‘Magic Moment’ is probably the greatest collection of holiday songs since Dean Martin’s prime—not much of a compliment considering the dismal competition, but an achievement nonetheless. Weirdly enough, this might be Green’s most immediately satisfying album as a pure soul singer; throughout, he explores the huskiest confines of his lower and middle register, instead of relying on his typical nasal fireworks. And production-wise, Magic Moment is layered and fireside-warm: mostly eschewing Christmas-cookie-cutter blandness, flaunting plenty of deft basslines, Wurlitzer textures and sprawling percussion"

    — Ryan Reed, PASTE (2012)

  • “An album of strictly Christmas fare, it is the work of Cee Lo the entertainer, a brand extension of his pop-persona witnessed every week on ‘The Voice’… Magic Moment is the work of pop-savvy Green gunning for the kind of hits that a regular album of his would not provide. There is something here for everyone, or perhaps rather, every standardized radio format; if Green is gunning for holiday omniscience from now until the end of Christmas, he has plotted a sure and failproof course with Magic Moment.”

    — Jessica Hopper, PITCHFORK (2012)

  • “Though needless to say, CeeLo has captured this “magic moment” the one way he knows best, with nostalgic soulful 70’s style flair mixed with contemporary pop sensibility… Of course, not to be short on cameos, Green throws in one last duet with renowned adult contemporary singer Rod Stewart and the famous Trombone Shorty [arranged by Kelly]… Although there are plenty of Christmas albums that come out every year, 'CeeLo’s Magic Moment' strikes just the right balance of fresh and traditional.”

    — AMAZING RADIO GROUP, UK (2012)

  • “While Cee Lo Green is certainly not the first jolly, portly man most people associate with Christmas, his sparkly new Christmas album ‘Magic Moment’ [Nathan worked on] certainly brings the holiday cheer. With his soulful voice and a bit of Motown flavor, Green reinvents classics. The widely diverse ‘Magic Moment’ comes together as a cohesive album as Green spreads a bit of early Christmas cheer. 4/5 stars”

    — Marley Coyne, THE DAILY PENNSYLVANIAN (2012)

  • “CeeLo Green will add a little quirky soul to the holiday season with ‘CeeLo's Magic Moment,’ his debut Christmas full-length on Elektra Records… ‘The Voice’ coach has tapped a truly unique list of collaborators for the 14-track album: Rod Stewart [arranged by Kelly], who’s readying his own Christmas album…Green said in a recent interview that the album is a “soulful take on a host of Christmas classics.”

    — Jason Lipshutz, BILLBOARD (2012)

  • “Cee Lo’s Magic Moment has more to recommend it than mere novelty. Green is possessed of a magnificently rich soul voice straight out of the 1950s, which makes it a perfect fit for the adeptly curated - if at times eccentric - collection of festive standards picked out for reworking… Regardless, this is one holiday album that could be worth a revisit next year: it’s been said many times, many ways, but never quite like this.”

    — Lisa-Marie Ferla, THE ARTS DESK (UK), (2012)

  • “Green’s modern takes on the classic soul sound of the ‘60s never ceases to be endearing nor entertaining. The opening drum kick… leaves no illusions as to what kind of music Green loves; it’s 100% Motown… I have to laud Green for the selection of songs chosen for the album. It’s an entertaining mix of more recent standards… All cynicism of the holiday and theorizing aside, Green has given the listening public a treat with ‘CeeLo’s Magic Moment’.”

    — Jeff Clutterbuck, THE DAILY VAULT (2012)

  • “Cee Lo's Magic Moment is the first Christmas studio album and overall fourth studio album released by American recording artist. The album has sold 181,000 copies in the United States in 2012. It is Cee Lo Green's first solo album to not contain a Parental Advisory label. The special was filmed and premiered on Warner Music Group's YouTube channel”

    — Wikipedia

  • “In the United States, the album debuted at No. 25 on the Billboard 200 albums chart on its first week of release, selling around 43,689 copies. It also peaked at No. 4 on Billboard's Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums, and No. 6 on the Holiday Albums chart. It was ranked No. 153 on the 2013 Year End Billboard 200 chart. As of October 2015, the album has sold 225,000 copies in the US.”

    — Wikipedia

  • “Cee-Lo has become a glamorous, flamboyant male id who can follow up hits ‘Fuck You’ and ‘Cry Baby’ with a Christmas album without surprising anyone…Christmas music is an unstoppable capital force in the consumer-based American interpretation of the holiday, a genre that creeps ever further into the autumnal months with each passing year it seems. For folks who love Cee-Lo as a television personality… ‘Cee-Lo’s Magic Moment’ exists.”

    — David Amidon, POPMATTERS Online Magazine (2012)

  • “If there’s anyone equipped to tackle the diversity covered by the modern Christmas-music canon, it’s Cee Lo Green. Reflecting his omnivorous and eclectic musical palate, ‘Cee Lo’s Magic Moment’ runs the gamut: religious songs both classic and contemporary, expressions of warmhearted longing and intense sadness, material with origins in Muppetry and cartoons. It’s hard to resist… Magic Moment easily meets the primary requirement of any Christmas album, which is that it’s a worthwhile addition to his fans’ collections.”

    — Marc Hirsh, THE BOSTON GLOBE (2012)

  • “For as much love as ‘Crazy’ and ‘Fuck You’ got for slicing through pop radio with a bold, wholly unique sound… Cee Lo’s voice is still one of the most incredible in the industry. It’s also refreshing that, along with the Christmas standards, he does manage to incorporate some songs about Jesus, as well as throws in a Joni Mitchell cover for good measure… it make[s] for a nice spin or two this Christmas”

    — Chaz Kangas, SPECTRUM CULTURE (2012)

  • “There aren't many full-effort, front-to-back brilliant Christmas albums, but ‘CeeLo's Magic Moment’ is one of them. Released ahead of a televised holiday special… it covers all the bases… There's so much joyous energy in the performances that one wouldn't be surprised to learn that Green has been plotting this move since Goodie Mob signed to LaFace. Rod Stewart, Trombone Shorty, [Kelly arranged] and Green's fellow ‘Voice’ coach Christina Aguilera are also in on the fun. This is Christmas music that can be enjoyed by those who otherwise loathe it.”

    — Andy Kellman, ALLMUSIC (2012)

  • "Cee Lo openly parades his retro tastes, but his outrageous personality invests them with a contemporary edge. He has a voice rich with emotion, replete with the timbre and tone of classic gospel, blues and soul, but the sense of fun with which he infuses his music somehow puts a positive spin on [it].”

    — THE TELEGRAPH, UK (2012)

  • “The album features thirteen standard holiday songs that have all had the Rod Stewart magic sprinkled on them. The album also features a whole host of interesting and quirky duets ranging from Michael Buble to Cee Lo Green. The title song Merry Christmas, Baby [Kelly arranged] is the duet between Green and Stewart and is chock full of soul and sass, brass accompaniment and rhythm. It is such a quirky and unlikely duet but it works so well.”

    — Lisa Bentley, MORE THAN THE MUSIC (2012)

  • “If your holiday spirit needs a boost, then Cee Lo Green is here to deliver it! ‘Cee Lo’s Magic Moment’ truly does deliver a series of magic Christmas moments from the first notes to the last. Green shows a surprising range of styles, from the expected soul, to the silly, to the sensitive. There’s plenty of soul and a touch of jazz as well… ther musical guests Rod Stewart and Trombone Shorty help provide a thoroughly rocking blues on “Merry Christmas, Baby. [arranged by Kelly].”

    — Rhetta Akamatsu, BLOGCRITICS (2012)

  • “The album’s cover art features the soul star, clad in a pink fur coat, playing Santa in a convertible Rolls Royce driven by reindeer and drawn by three white horses…. Green is possessed of a magnificently rich soul voice straight out of the 1950s… This is one holiday album that could be worth a revisit next year: it’s been said many times, many ways, but never quite like this.”

    —  Lisa-Marie Ferla, THE ARTS DESK (2012)

  • “This is an amazing punchy R&B Christmas standard from 1947. In this version, both guests Cee Lo Green… and Trombone Shorty are spot on and make this among the best tracks on the album [arranged by Kelly]… and Rod and Cee Lo performed it as part of “CeeLo & Friends” holiday special live from the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. A bit more powerful than the studio version.”

    — Jan Kittelsen, ROD STEWART FAN CLUB (2012)

  • “Superstar singer CeeLo Green was in Macon to top off the Otis Redding Foundation's O'Tis The Season holiday benefit concert at the Capitol Theatre… The five-time Grammy Award winner performed some of his hits to the packed house.. including his own renditions of "Merry Christmas Baby" [arranged by Kelly].”

    — Finney & McGouirk, WGXA NEWS (2023)

  • “Mariah Carey, Cee Lo Green, and Rod Stewart help turn on Christmas lights at NYC's Rockefeller Center and belted out some classic Christmas tunes as the 45,000 LED lights of the Rockefeller Christmas tree were lit on Wednesday night. Tens of thousands of chilly spectators braved the near-freezing temperatures to watch the live performances of 'Christmas in Rockefeller Center' as the city celebrated the advent of the rundown to Christmas Day.”

    — THE DAILY MAIL (2012)

What People Are Saying

“Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”

— Quote Source

“Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”

— Quote Source

Andrea Bocelli

  • "The song “Quizàs, Quizàs, Quizàs” is a beautiful and romantic Latin ballad, originally composed by Osvaldo Farrés in 1947. Andrea Bocelli, one of the most renowned and beloved Italian tenors, performed a stunning rendition of this timeless classic [arranged by Kelly]. The song captures the essence of love and longing, taking listeners on an emotional journey filled with passion and uncertainty. With its tender lyrics and soulful melodies, “Quizàs” has become a beloved favorite among Bocelli’s fans worldwide.”

    — Beatriz Courtney, OLD TIME MUSIC (2023)

  • Bocelli: "I am honored I have performed ‘Quizas, Quizas, Quizas’ [arranged by Kelly] with Jennifer Lopez, an eclectic artist who thanks to the charismatic power of her voice and to her soft sensuality, has managed to make this song particularly convincing. Ms. Lopez’s singing penetrates the subtexts, her vocal talents are combined with the actor’s experience, and the multiplicity of her talents blends in the apparent simplicity of this melody.”

    — Leila Cbo, BILLBOARD (2013)

  • “The music of “Quizàs; Quizàs; Quizàs” perfectly complements the poignant lyrics. The orchestration [by Kelly] builds gradually throughout the song, starting with soft guitar strums and gentle piano melodies. As the song progresses, the music swells, adding layers of strings and brass instruments, evoking a sense of growing intensity. Bocelli’s powerful yet nuanced vocals soar above the orchestral arrangement, expressing raw emotions that resonate deeply with listeners.”

    — Beatriz Courtney, OLD TIME MUSIC (2023)

  • “Andrea Bocelli and Jennifer Lopez performed the classic Latin song ‘Quizas, Quizas, Quizas,’ a duet featured on the Italian singer's latest album ‘Passione,’ on ABC's ‘Dancing With The Stars’ on Tuesday, April 9… As the power duo sang… [the dancers] danced in a smoke-filled room. I think for once, no one paid attention to the routine, and only had 'eyes and ears' for Andrea and Jennifer's history-making moment.”

    — Kevin Apaza, DIRECTLYRICS NEWS

  • ”Jennifer Lopez and Andrea Bocelli have recorded a duet that will be included in the Italian tenor's new production. A new video gives us a brief preview of the new single, [arranged by Kelly] which is the cover of the very famous song ‘Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps’… After more than 20 years of career, the renowned opera singer seeks a new crossover into the pop world market with his production ‘Passione,’ which will be released on January 29 and includes songs in six different languages.”

    — Staff, THE HUFFINGTON POST

  • “When the performance [of ‘Dancing With the Stars’] begins, Andrea stands alone in front of an orchestra, impeccably dressed in a black suit. Smoke swirls about his leg adding to the drama. As he beings to sing, the crowd cheers its approval, both of his skill and choice of song. It may be in Spanish, but the tune is unmistakable. After he has sung a few lines, Jennifer [Lopez] join him… It’s a remarkable performance, which only enhances the beauty and drama of [the] duet. When the performance ends, the crowd goes wild... definitely one to watch.”

    — Claire McGregor, THE MUSIC MAN UK (2023)

  • ‘Quizàs'... is a catchy Latin song given a standout interpretation, Bocelli cleverly complementing Lopez's sparkling vocal. [Nathan's] arrangement, with a solo violin and whistle, makes for an intoxicating cocktail... David Foster's production, with a 63-piece orchestra, is as smooth as Bocelli's delivery. The employment of instrumental colours from saxophone, guitar, flute and accordion across the palette, played by distinguished instrumentalists, adds variety to deft arrangements…”

    — Adrian Edwards, BBC NEWS

  • “We all know that Andrea Bocelli's first love is performing opera, but he also loves to do pop music and when it comes down to it he is more well know for his pop albums… than he is for many of his opera albums. This new recording ‘Passione’ is a pop recording of Italian, Neapolitan (an Italian Dialect), Spanish, Portuguese and English songs and is his third album with David Foster doing the producing [with some of Kelly’s orchestrations]… ‘Passione’ is really a part two of the album ‘Amore.’

    — Editorial Review, BIBLE IN MY LANGUAGE

  • “Bocelli also had opportunity to wrk with pop stars Jennifer Lopez… He teamed up with the former ‘American Idol’ judge fort he Cuban classic ‘Quizas, Quizas, Quizas,’ better known to American audiences as the Nat King Cole standard ‘Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps’… Though Bocelli has certainly collaborated with his share of big names… he says he was thrilled to work with both J.Lo… ‘The thing about these artists is that their voices, they have a great sensuality,’ he says. ‘They ennobled my record with their sensuality.’”

    — Kelli Skye Fadroski, ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

  • “Yes, ‘Quizàs; Quizàs; Quizàs’ is a beloved favorite among Andrea Bocelli’s repertoire, and he often performs it during his live concerts. The song’s emotional depth and relatability make it a highlight of his performances, captivating audiences with its beauty. It elicits a multitude of emotions, including longing, desire, hope, and hesitation… [and] showcase his incredible ability to convey the heartfelt emotions in the Spanish language.”

    — Beatriz Courtney, OLD TIME MUSIC (2023)

  • [Nathan’s arrangement of] ‘Quizas,’ is the eigth most played and most popular Andrea Bocelli music video posted online on YouTube. It has over 62 million views on one music video from Universal Music Group alone.

    — CNN Chile

  • ‘Quizas, Quizas, Quizas’ features Jennifer Lopez by Andrea Bocelli and include other songs… have enough soaring impact [from Kelly’s arrangement] to bolster two larger than life mega-star singers and is a favorite track.”

    — Alissa Montreaux, ANGHAMI MUSIC

  • ‘Passione,’ Andrea Bocelli’s ode to romance, completed its second week in the top 10 of the Billboard 200, even as its Spanish-language version, ‘Pasión (UMLE), ‘remained at No. 1 on the Top Latin Albums chart."

    — Leila Cobo, BILLBOARD (2013)

  • “Bocelli and Foster also engaged three female duet partners: Jennifer Lopez, whom Bocelli calls an “eclectic artist thanks to the charismatic power of her voice and soft sensuality” on “Quizas Quizas Quizas;”

    — ‘Passione’ Liner Notes

  • ‘Quizas Quizas Quizas’ is taken from the album ‘Passione’ available on January 29th… a beautiful song [arranged by Kelly] sung by Andrea Bocelli & Jennifer Lopez. Enjoy it!

    — Staff Review, THIS IS ITALY

  • ”Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli has loosened his bow tie and stepped off the opera stage for an album of love songs and duets… Quizás Quizás Quizás (Perhaps Perhaps Perhaps) is a punchy rendition with pop star Jennifer Lopez – they are surprisingly well-matched… it’s nice to hear the maestro in a relaxed setting and it makes for dreamy listening.”

    — Emma Rawson, NOW TO LOVE

  • “The 14th studio album is a beautifully recorded set of 14 traditional and popular love songs featuring duets with Jennifer Lopez and Nelly Furtado… with legendary, Grammy-winning producer David Foster on piano, arrangements by Foster and [with Kelly’s orchestrations] and Chris Botti on trumpet.”

    — Staff Review, ELUSIVE DISC

  • ”Bocelli’s delivery is irresistible, and these arrangements can be intoxicating… [and] adds variety to deft arrangements [featuring Kelly’s orchestrations] of some very familiar songs. Many of which have been newly minted to suit Bocelli's vocals.”

    — Adrian Edwards, BBC NEWS

  • ‘Quizas, Quizas, Quizas’ or, to give it is English title, ‘Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps’ is an unlikely but rather inspired choice for the singer and brilliantly orchestrated [by Kelly] with lush strings that surround and complement Bocelli and Jennifer Lopez. This arrangement sparkles to dazzling effect."

    — Dan Walker, CLASSIC FM RADIO

  • “The effect is transporting... the sensual sound is rounded out by Cuban, Brazilian, & Portuguese rhythms and a 63-piece orchestra that Foster assembled and recorded in London. ‘David has a fantastic feeling for finding the right arrangements and orchestration,’ Bocelli says. ‘The best result is not from those who have the most sophisticated technology, but from those who have the most brilliant ideas.’

    — 'Passione' album Linear Notes

  • “Credit must be given to the producer – David Foster, who takes Bocelli from the classical, through to the ‘pop’ songs… Although these ‘pop’ songs don’t stretch his vocals too much – his relaxing tone is a pleasure to listen to. We feel as if these songs will divide opinion and may not be to the taste of Bocelli’s hard-core fan base, but we think it’s refreshing to see him try something a little different and we feel that they really work.”

    — Carys Jones, ENTERTAINMENT FOCUS

  • "Renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli – synonymous with love and romance – is the most successful classical solo artist ever and one of the best-selling performers in any genre, having sold more than 80 million albums worldwide of both his classical and pop albums… Passione is in essence the second volume of Amore, with a “fil rouge” which ideally connects the albums… Jennifer Lopez is featured on the soft and sensual track “Quizás Quizás Quizás”

    — ‘Pasione’ LP (in Spanish) Linear Notes

  • “To say that romance is a key theme on ‘Passione’ would be something of an understatement, so Bocelli kicks off with this free-sounding little jazz number with ‘Perfidia’ before letting soaring strings rise to a sumptuous climax in [Kelly’s arrangement] of the superb, standard knock-out ‘Quizas, Quizas, Quizas’… Jennifer Lopez and Bocelli mingle seamlessly in pure ecstasy.”

    — Editorial Review, CLASSIC FM RADIO

  • “Until now, Andrea often presents duets that can be remembered for a long time. Who can forget 'Time To Say Goodbye' or 'The Prayer'... On the previous album he almost did the same thing… Therefore, he was excited to take Jennifer Lopez… to the studio to record [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Quizas'... The biggest praise goes to J.Lo who follows the musical pattern here and walks parallel to Andrea to simultaneously create a sensual atmosphere in Quizas."

    — Staff Review, CREATIVE DISC

  • ”Straddling classical and popular music but without irritating connoisseurs of either, Andrea Bocelli proves yet again that his voice is universal and his song choices commercially palatable. On this, his follow-up to the four million-selling ‘Amore,’ Andrea duets with a bunch of international stars… [like] Jennifer Lopez... production from multi-Grammy winner David Foster ensures a meticulously romantic collection of slushy international classics.”

    — Stephen Unwin, THE DAILY EXPRESS (UK)

  • “Guest appearances on the album include songs with Jennifer Lopez and Nelly Furtado. Lopez sings [Kelly’s arrangement of] ‘Quizas Quizas, Quizas’ (‘Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps’) with Bocelli and together, they dazzle and are a great pairing. The song includes a great violin solo, which impresses and it is a very catchy Latin song.”

    — Carys Jones, ENTERTAINMENT FOCUS

  • “Looking for a little romantic enhancement? Andrea Bocelli's got you covered. The Italian tenor is targeting the Valentine's Day market with his new ‘Passione’ album… The collection of Mediterranean love songs, plus a smattering of smoochy covers… reunites Bocelli with David Foster, who produced the singer's like-minded 2006 album, ‘Amore.’”

    — Kim Willis, USA TODAY

  • “Bocelli is back and his newest album is more glorious than its former sister album ‘Amore’… It is not exclusively romantic but… soars with lush arrangements [by Kelly] and Foster’s lush strings and Bocelli’s soothing timbre and masterful vocal pyrotechnics…”

    — Critian De Sardes, UNIV OF CALIFORNIA NEWS

  • “Andrea Bocelli – The Adventure of a Voice” airs tonight at 9.00 pm on Rai2. It will tell the life of the famous tenor between memories, notes and emotions together with… the new album [featuring Kelly’s arrangements] “Passione ” currently at the top of the world rankings.”

    — Davide Maggio, ITALIAN REVIEW

  • “Before he became a household name, Andrea Bocelli paid his dues in bars, doing the kind of romantic repertoire that best tickled punters' palates… It's to those times that he returns with ‘Passione’… Elsewhere, his caress of a voice rides subtle samba strings on Latin American cabaret versions of [songs]… and copes manfully with duets with Jennifer Lopez [in Kelly’s arrangement].”

    — Andy Gill, THE INDEPENDENT (UK NEWS)

  • “While the accompany of guest artists such as… Jennifer Lopez on ‘Quizàs'… all set a groundwork to Bocelli’s beautiful interpretation, let us not forget the arrangement endeavour of David Foster and [Kelly with] the match of [an] 63-piece orchestra - such background varieties, with violins, guitars, flutes, saxophones, and syrupy strings, are well-suited to Bocelli’s high-ranged vocals… If you would also like to experience sweet sensation of romance and relieve yourself with charismatic power of Bocelli’s voice, do plunge into his musical world..."

    — Bauhinia Esther, VARIETY SPICE (2015)

  • ”Joining us now is the Producer, a 16-time Grammy-winner David Foster with Andrea who has a new album coming out called ‘Passione.’ One of the things I love to hear about, Andrea, is the early stories about how you got started and how this influenced this new album that's full of passion...”

    — GOOD MORNING AMERICA, ABC NEWS

  • “Covered by numerous artists, the Bocelli and Lopez rendition is marvelous. With distinctly different voices, Lopez’s lighter, higher vocal contrasts Bocelli’s more robust tenor sensationally. The playful nature of this duet is a big reason for its success, which seems to capture the intent of the songwriter. In addition to a strong vocal performance, and elite songwriting, the production (Kuk Harrell and David Foster) and orchestration (Nathan Kelly) deserve shout outs. This pleasant duet speaks for itself… Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps it’s worth spinning over and over again!”

    — Brent Faulkner, THE MUSICAL HYPE

  • ”The best gift for Valentine's Day! On ‘Passione,’ Andrea Bocelli collected his favorite love songs. The album is a continuation of the album "Amore", but this time the Italian tenor reaches for many different musical genres. On "Passione" Bocelli performs such timeless hits… and on ‘Quizás Quizás Quizás’ Bocelli also invited pop stars to cooperate -- Jennifer Lopez and Nelly Furtado.”

    — EMPIK Review

  • “David Foster, six languages, and love songs. Those are the three great strengths of the album ‘Passione’ from Andrea Bocelli. Not to mention its greatest strengths: soaring vocals and rich and luxurious musical accompaniment, bringing listeners of this album to a truly pampered musical experience. The Mediterranean songs sung create a sensual and exotic feel that blends nicely into the pop compositions.”

    — Staff Review, CREATIVE DISC

“Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”

— Quote Source

“Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”

— Quote Source

"Nathan was an essential part of my music team, handling things with skill, enthusiasm, and a good attitude.”

— Marc Shaiman

  • “Composer Nathan Kelly's music reflects his eclectic mix of musical experiences, from playing piano in Broadway pit orchestras in New York City to working in Hollywood with music producers and film composers. Nathan was selected for the EarShot Philharmonic Readings for his piece ‘Redwood,’ which will be workshopped and conducted by Music Director Andrew Constantine.”

    — Staff, SOUNDADVICE (2019)

  • “The National Orchestral Composition Discovery Network, EarShot, and The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra will present ‘New Music Readings.’ Four composers, selected from a national call for scores, will hear their works read by the BPO under the baton of conductor Matthew Kraemer, and will receive feedback from mentor composers David Felder, Steven Stucky, and Robert Beaser, and the conductor and BPO principal musicians. Composers selected are... Nathan Kelly (NYC).”

    — Staff, AMERICAN COMPOSERS ORCHESTRA (2020)

  • ‘The Concert Album’ explores the full expressive range of the piano across various styles, atmospheres, and moods. These compositions originated during Kelly’s graduate studies in Music Composition at Julliard, where he kept a musical notebook filled with everything from harmonies to melodic fragments to quotes, lists of techniques to try, and even drawings that might influence a piece.”

    — Daniel Joffe, NEW YORK STATE MUSIC (2025)

Trombone Shorty

  • “Since the release of the ‘For True,’ which spent 12 weeks atop Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz Chart, Andrews has recorded with an eclectic assortment of artist ranging from Zac Brown to Rod Stewart to Cee Lo Green [music arranged by Kelly], while taking the time to initiate a mentoring program at Tulane University via his ‘Trombone Shorty Foundation.’ He’s appeared on the covers of ‘Downbeat’ and ‘Jazziz’ magazines, performed on ‘Conan,’ ‘The Tonight Show,’ ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live’ and ‘Late Night With Jimmy Fallon,’ and the band was chosen to play the closing set at this year’s ‘New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival,’ a huge honor in the world of true music lovers.”

    — GASPARILLA MUSIC FESTIVAL (2025)

  • “There aren't many full-effort, front-to-back brilliant Christmas albums, but ‘CeeLo's Magic Moment’ is one of them. Released ahead of a televised holiday special… it covers all the bases… There's so much joyous energy in the performances that one wouldn't be surprised to learn that Green has been plotting this move since Goodie Mob signed to LaFace. Rod Stewart, Trombone Shorty, [Kelly arranged] and Green's fellow ‘Voice’ coach Christina Aguilera are also in on the fun. This is Christmas music that can be enjoyed by those who otherwise loathe it.”

    — Andy Kellman, ALLMUSIC (2012)

  • “Producer David Foster is a supreme schmaltzmeister, and I've pretty much zoned out during Rod the Bod's 'Great American Songbook'...but despite my pre-quease on this one, it's actually a rather pleasant listen, with the 67-year-old casually, but sincerely, delivering a handful of brush-stroked standards, good-enough new cuts... and a lush reading[s]. ('Merry Christmas, Baby,' a smooth duet with Cee Lo, [features Trombone Shorty and arranged by Kelly]... I had the pleasure of seeing Stewart perform a Christmas set at HSN recently, and the live versions were much warmer... Nevertheless, this is a solid one to share"

    — Sean Daily, THE TAMPA BAY TIMES (2012)

  • “CeeLo and Rod Stewart team up for a blue-eyed soul meets neo-soul version of 'Merry Christmas, Baby' [arranged by Kelly]. The singers trade verses in a pop-influenced rendition of the R&B classic, with backing from New Orleans jazz virtuoso Trombone Shorty. And although Stewart recently said he’s “always been tempted to do a Christmas album,” we bet he never imagined it would help make him the largest-selling musician on the Home Shopping Network.”

    — Kelly Conniff, TIME Magazine (2012)

  • “If your holiday spirit needs a boost, then Cee Lo Green is here to deliver it! ‘Cee Lo’s Magic Moment’ truly does deliver a series of magic Christmas moments from the first notes to the last. Green shows a surprising range of styles, from the expected soul, to the silly, to the sensitive. There’s plenty of soul and a touch of jazz as well… ther musical guests Rod Stewart and Trombone Shorty help provide a thoroughly rocking blues on ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’ [arranged by Kelly].”

    — Rhetta Akamatsu, BLOGCRITICS (2012)

  • “Troy 'Trombone Shorty' Andrews and CeeLo Green join Rod Stewart for the album’s namesake song, ‘Merry Christmas, Baby. [arranged by Kelly]. The curious and uplifting mix of this trio enjoys a classic if slightly understated treatment with the strongest sense of enthusiasm within the song not coming until roughly two-minutes into the song. Playing ‘Auld Lang Syne’ from later in this album as a lead into the song ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’ did my heart good in appreciating this tune.

    — MATT LYNN DIGITAL (2020)

  • “The Christmas album is, of course, perilous territory… Merry Christmas, Baby [arranged by Kelly] produced by Verve chairman David Foster… demonstrates laudable discernment in choosing the album’s 13 songs, and the same goes for the requisite cameos: Cee Lo Green and Trombone Shorty [who] provide little boosts of energy to Stewart along the way.”

    — Ted Scheinman, SLANT MAGAZINE (2012)

  • “As a solo act, Trombone Shorty both sings and plays trombone to showcase his versatile musical skills. As a sideman, he has become one of the premier trombone acts for other musicians looking for Jazz collaborations…. [He] has been nominated for a Grammy four times… Among those who Trombone Shorty has played with includes Eric Clapton, Lenny Kravitz, the Zac Brown Band, Ringo Starr and Cee Lo Green [arranged by Kelly].”

    — Daniel Chavkin, THE SPORTING NEWS (2025)

  • “Throughout the special, Stewart is joined by an incredible array of superstar artists, including Michael Bublé on ‘Winter Wonderland.’ He is united with Mary J. Blige on ‘We Three Kings’ and Cee Lo Green on the title tune ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’ [arranged by Kelly] featuring New Orleans’ favorite son, Trombone Shorty.”

    — PBS: GREAT PERFORMANCES (2012)

  • ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’ [arranged by Kelly] featuring Trombone Shorty): With energetic and playful exchanges, this version is a festive celebration that showcases both artists' charismatic styles… Rod’s vocal prowess with Trombone Shorty's energetic brass, leaving listeners feeling uplifted and festive.”

    — NEVER DIE MEDIA (2012)

  • “When you've made it big in the pop-music world, a Christmas album is practically a rite of passage… but Rod Stewart also wants to stuff your stocking. The title track, which features Cee Lo Green and Trombone Shorty [arranged by Kelly]. The album's 13 holiday staples range… The [PBS} special was filmed at a lavish Los Angeles villa overlooking the Pacific Ocean and will feature the album's guest stars.”

    — Marco R. della Cava, USA TODAY (2012)”

  • “Whether you listen to Christmas music year-round or only during the holiday season, Merry Christmas, Baby (feat. Rod Stewart & Trombone Shorty) is a great song... Trombone Shorty makes your holiday merry and bright no matter what Christmas music mood you're in. Watch holiday videos and listen to our Christmas music playlists, songs, and albums."

    — CHRISTMASMUSIC.COM

  • “Top 40 Essential Christmas Albums: ‘Magic Moments' by Cee Lo Green at Number 40 (Elektra Records). [Kelly arranged 'Merry Christmas, Baby' also featuring Trombone Shorty adding adds lively, brassy elements to the track]."

    — ROLLING STONES (2019)

  • “Rod Stewart's first full-length foray into Christmas fare, ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’ [arranged by Kelly] is highlighted by duets with a wide range of his fellow stars. Mary J. Blige guests on ‘We Three Kings,’ while Trombone Shorty makes appearances on the Cee-Lo Green collab ‘Merry Christmas, Baby.’

    — ACOUSTIC SOUNDS

  • “28th studio album from the British singer-songwriter. Featuring 'Winter Wonderland', 'Silent Night' and 'White Christmas'… and ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’ (Feat. Cee-Lo Green and Trombone Shorty) [and arranged by Kelly]… Rod Stewart uses his famous husky tones to interpret these classic Christmas tunes. This anniversary edition includes three bonus tracks.”

    — THE RECORD HUB

  • “Though needless to say, CeeLo has captured this “magic moment” the one way he knows best, with nostalgic soulful 70’s style flair mixed with contemporary pop sensibility… Of course, not to be short on cameos, Green throws in one last duet with renowned adult contemporary singer Rod Stewart and the famous Trombone Shorty [arranged by Kelly]… Although there are plenty of Christmas albums that come out every year, ‘CeeLo’s Magic Moment’ strikes just the right balance of fresh and traditional.”

    — AMAZING RADIO GROUP, UK (2012)

  • “Trombone Shorty is featured on Rod Stewart's Christmas TV Special, ‘Rod Stewart: Merry Christmas, Baby’ [with arrangements by Kelly]. The special begins airing on PBS… Trombone Shorty is also featured on Rod Stewart's and Cee-Lo Green's new Christmas albums respectively. Stewart's Christmas special will be Trombone Shorty's fourth television appearance in the last week alone”

    — ROSEBUD AGENCY (2012)

  • “The album’s high point is ‘Merry Christmas, Baby,’ [arranged by Kelly] a paean to December spending that Cee Lo enlivens considerably over brass and well-mixed wah-guitar. Stewart’s Cooke playacting is very effective here, while Trombone Shorty adds helpful riffs and vocals alike. (Say what you will of Shorty’s cameo promiscuity, he’s rarely an unwelcome presence.)”

    — Ted Scheinman, SLANT Magazine (2012)

  • ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’… by [Rod] Stewart… and featuring Trombone Shorty... is a light-hearted, fun tune worthy to be included among all of these gems…If you’re looking to add some joyful sound to your Christmas festivities, or if you have a Christmas music junkie in your circle of friends, this is worth the investment.”

    — Emmanuel Fonte, MUSICBLOG (2012)

  • Rod Stewart, the newest world-class megastar to join the roster of the Verve Music Group, a division of Universal Music Group... "I have always been tempted to do a Christmas album," said Rod Stewart... joined by a number of A-list guests... and the title tune "Merry Christmas, Baby" is a duet with Cee-Lo Green featuring New Orleans' favorite son, Trombone Shorty [arranged by Kelly]."

    — Hannah Kampf, PR NEWSWIRE (2012)

  • “Rod Stewart’s… first Christmas album features easy-listening takes on seasonal standards…and traditional carols. The album does its job – the 67-year-old's husky rasp sounds as Christmassy as a log fire and, when the lush instrumentation creates a warm glow...There are one or two surprises, not least a new original song… featuring ‘Trombone Shorty,’ is a swinging, horns-blasting rocker that suggests Santa has bought Stewart a dram of the elixir of his youth. Elsewhere, Cee Lo Green brings an uptempo soulfulness to ‘Merry Christmas Baby,’ [arranged by Kelly and also featuring Trombone Shorty.]”

    — Dave Simpson, THE GUARDIAN (2012)

  • “This is an amazing punchy R&B Christmas standard from 1947. In this version, both guests Cee Lo Green… and Trombone Shorty are spot on and make this among the best tracks on the album [arranged by Kelly]… and Rod and Cee Lo performed it as part of “CeeLo & Friends” holiday special live from the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. A bit more powerful than the studio version.”

    — Jan Kittelsen, ROD STEWART FAN CLUB (2012)

  • “Superstar singer CeeLo Green was in Macon to top off the Otis Redding Foundation's O'Tis The Season holiday benefit concert at the Capitol Theatre… The five-time Grammy Award winner performed some of his hits to the packed house.. including his own renditions of "Merry Christmas Baby" [featuring 'Trombone Shorty' and arranged by Kelly].”

    — Finney & McGouirk, WGXA NEWS (2023)

  • “I was pretty excited that Rod’s record label, Verve Music Group, gave me the chance to review his brand spankin’ new holiday album, ‘Merry Christmas, Baby!’ As soon as it arrived in the mail I put it in… the dance party in the kitchen commenced.  The album includes duets ... with ‘Trombone Shorty’ [arranged by Kelly.]”

    — Lindsay Frank, SEEMOMCLICK (2012)

  • “Stewart’s voice is a crumbling, crackled thing, ideal for fireside serenades, so it’s not surprising to find the former Faces frontman finally turning in a Christmas collection….[but] is unlikely to join the pantheon of Christmas greats. The Trombone Shorty-starring cut [arranged by Kelly] is at least swaggering, offering contrast to the more studious readings surrounding it.”

    — Mike Diver, BBC NEWS (2012)

  • 'Merry Christmas Baby's' tracks may have a jazzy sheen but deep down they fit that bill. Its cover photo – Rod dressed in a white pimp-suit in front of a snowy bauble-laden tree - says all you need to know about what sort of crooning he's been up to here…Who wouldn't enjoy a well-executed mix of warm and fuzzy easy-listening seasonal standards and carols? Vocally there’s the trademark mix of silk and gravel and the arrangements are lovely and cosy… Rod seeks help from his friends to mix things up. Cee Lo Green puts a pair of low slung trousers on “Merry Christmas, Baby” [featuring Trombone Shorty and arranged by Kelly].”

    — Russ Coffey, THE ARTS DESK (2012)

  • “CeeLo Green fires up his space Cadillac for a genre-jumping ride… the downright toasty ‘Cee Lo’s Magic Moment’ is the most natural outlet yet for his soul-kissed talents. Borrowing a ‘60s R&B vibe from all those chiming Motown and Phil Spector Christmas classics, the husky loverboy… is fully engaged for 14 tracks… Rod Stewart and Trombone Shorty show up for a nice ‘n’ easy ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’ [arranged by Kelly]... This is more than just a great holiday record: It's also one of the best albums of the year. 5 out of 5 snowballs (the highest).".

    — Sean Daily, THE TAMPA BAY TIMES, (2012)

  • “You'll have heard tracks from Rod's Christmas debut on the M&S and Westfield ads; rest assured, it's perfect music to buy socks to… Humbugness aside, though, it's a serviceable collection of jazzy covers [featuring Trombone Shorty on ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’] and duets, whose syrupy production works better on, say, "Let It Snow!" than "Silent Night". Though that husk of a voice rather too obviously strains for reverence;

    — Hugh Montgomery, THE INDEPENDENT (UK), (2012)

  • “This year’s top Christmas pick is Rod Stewart’s ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’ [arranged by Kelly]… The flamboyant Cee-Lo Green joins Stewart on the title track adding a Motown flavor to the Christmas classic. While, producer, David Foster plays the Rhodes piano, adding to the retro vibe… Stewart’s first-ever Christmas album is my top choice to make spirits bright come December. Just like he did for the ‘American Songbook,’ the two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, adds his raspy, well-seasoned voice to holiday classics.”

    — Emmanuel Fonte, MUSICBLOG (2012)

  • ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’ is very much of a piece with Rod's ongoing ‘Great American Songbook’ series, with Stewart not straying from the familiar form of these songs and producer David Foster laying on all manner of soft, soothing sounds. Very rarely does this hint at the Rod of the '70s -- and when it does… [as on the title song featuring Trombone Shorty] its intro [is] given a spare folky treatment reminiscent of his Mercury work, it's a bracing, effective reminder of Stewart's skill as a singer.”

    — Erlewine, ALLMUSIC Reviews (2012)

  • “The album’s cover art features the soul star, clad in a pink fur coat, playing Santa in a convertible Rolls Royce driven by reindeer and drawn by three white horses…. Green is possessed of a magnificently rich soul voice straight out of the 1950s… This is one holiday album [featuring Trombone Shorty and arranged by Kelly] that could be worth a revisit next year: it’s been said many times, many ways, but never quite like this.”

    —  Lisa-Marie Ferla, THE ARTS DESK (2012)

  • “In fact, it's hard not to wish some more of the Dungeon Family spirit had seeped into Magic Moments: the appearance of Rod Stewart [and Trombone Shorty arranged by Kelly] might have been enlivened had he been obliged to do his thing against a lurid backdrop of Funkadelic-inspired yowling.”

    — Alexis Petridis, THE GUARDIAN (2012)

  • “While the album has some great holiday classics, I particularly enjoyed ‘Merry Christmas, Baby’ (the title song of the album) featuring Trombone Shorty and CeeLo Green [arranged by Kelly]. It’s fun, uplifting vibe really swings with a smooth retro feel. That arrangement is worth the price of the entire album."

    — Ashley Swift, MOMMA RAMBLES BLOG (2012)

  • “Rod’s soulful remakes of creaky old favourites like… [featuring Trombone Shorty and arranged by Kelly] glide along on twinkly, jazzy, silken arrangements that provide mellifluous counterpoint to his agreeably unpolished vocal approximations of Louis Armstrong or Bing Crosby.”

    — Stephen Dalton, CLASSIC ROCK MAGAZINE (2012)

  • “What’s the Christmas Mood? Intergalactic groovy, with the North Pole horn section sitting in [featuring Trombone Shorty and arranged by Kelly]… genuinely reverent. 3½ trees out of 4.”

    — Staff, ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY (2012)

"I remember when Nate first showed up in NYC; he managed to reach out to the best arrangers and orchestrators and was able to study with them. I was very impressed, as some of these heavy cats never took students. That took great determination and a commitment to learning the craft, which is sadly overlooked in today’s scene."

— Russ Anixter, arranger & copyist

Joss Stone

  • “Joss Stone's 2003 debut, The Soul Sessions, made her an international star and multimillionaire at the age of 16. Almost a decade on… she is older and presumably wiser. She's certainly returned to her debut's soul covers format in more mature and superb voice. Stone has always been a tremendous shouter, but has acquired a vulnerability and ability to truly inhabit emotional songs.”

    — Dave Simpson, THE GUARDIAN (2012)

  • “A heroic, no-holds barred makeover that’s as sensual as it is spiritual…. Stone’s take builds imperiously and brims with rue… [Kelly's orchestration of] ’Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye’ has a string arrangement that avoids the saccharine trap... but Stone radiates pain with a conviction and believability she’s never quite summoned before.”

    — John Aizlewood, BBC NEWS

  • “A decade removed from [Volume 1’s] five-million-selling debut that put her on the music map, Stone returns to that well with a similarly styled batch of generally obscure 60s soul tunes brought up to date with contemporary production… Stone brings her throaty R&B… in one of this album’s finest performances.”

    — Hal Horowitz, AMERICAN SONGWRITER

  • “Her confidence and grit have increased, though that's a double-edged sword. She's become especially reliant on a yowling vibrato that's a terrific fit for the brush-off of "(1-2-3-4-5-6-7) Count the Days" (a special edition bonus track) [orchestrated by Kelly] but doesn't leave much room for vulnerability.”

    — Critic Review, THE BOSTON GLOBE (JULY 31, 2012)

  • “A "revisitation" of the idea which launched Stone into the crossover jetstream: ballsy, mannered reconstructions… Girl's got taste. And, as ever, she convinces most at the blowtorch end of her range. [Kelly orchestrated 4 tracks on the album]”

    — Nick Coleman, THE INDEPENDENT (UK)

  • “Stone’s strict adherence to formula plays against her here, as Vol. 2 feels overly familiar from the very first notes of opener [of Kelly’s orchestrations of] “I Got The Blues” There’s certainly no faulting any of the arrangements, performed with slick professionalism by a small army of veteran session musicians.”

    — Jonathan Keefe, SLANT MAGAZINE (2012)

  • "It may have been conceived as a time-buying stopgap, but 'The Soul Sessions: Vol 2' is Stone’s most focused and rewarding album since Vol 1. When she starts writing for herself again, she'll have to really up her game."

    — John Aizlewood, BBC MUSIC (2012)

  • “In 2012 the purpose of The Soul Sessions, Vol. 2 is to signal how she's done messing around with fleeting fashions and is getting back down to the real business… giving these smooth tunes a bit of a polished Southern spin."

    — Stephen Thomas Erlewine, ALL MUSIC REVIEW

  • “[Stone’s ‘Soul Sessions, Voi. 2’] is given a startling, spirited remodel. Presumably now with the freedom to record whatever she wants… [and] suggest an aficionado of soul. After some so-so self-penned album… this is a powerful, heartfelt and classy comeback.” (4 out of 5 stars)

    — Dave Simpson, THE GUARDIAN (2012)

  • "Professional" is the operative word here: this is the work of seasoned veterans who play with every note falling neatly into place, stretching just enough to show off their chops but never enough to alter the DNA of a song… [the album] does feel right: it has the form and sound of classic soul… for an audience that agrees with that thesis, this is fun.”

    — Stephen Thomas Erlewine, ALL MUSIC REVIEW

  • "I really had fun revisiting 'The Soul Sessions' idea and I'm really pleased with the results," Joss says. "I've committed long term to my label Stone'd Records, but it felt right to team up with Steve Greenberg and S-Curve again for this release. I think there are some great songs on the album and I loved performing them with such brilliant musicians [playing the orchestrations by Kelly].”

    — BILLBOARD MAGAZINE (JUNE 4, 2012)

  • “As long as the original recordings by the Chi-Lites and the Rolling Stones continue to exists, Sessions' covers are passionately pointless… still, the arrangements are well-conceived and the slick orchestration [by Kelly] do off r much in contributing energy.”

    — ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY [3 Aug 2012, p.74]

  • “The 25 year old British singer has compiled a handsome collection of seventies and eighties covers, some more well know than others, to make up this stellar album… The headline however, has got to be the highly polished version Womack & Womack’s famous ‘Teardrops’ [orchestrated by Kelly]... The hour long compilation is an admiral one, and comes with a strong recommendation.”

    — ROSS CAMPBELL JOURNALIST

  • ”Her sixth album, ‘The Soul Sessions Vol 2,’ attempts to relive the success of her debut with nice… covers of songs by the likes of Linda Lewis and The Chi-Lites…. The best tracks, ‘Teardrops’ [which Kelly orchestrated] and ‘Pillow Talk,’ are great because she restrains herself.”

    — Emma Rowson, NOW TO LOVE (New Zealand)

  • “Just under a decade ago the then 16-year-old chanteuse Joss Stone released ‘The Soul Sessions,’ making her a global success almost overnight… Cuts… all benefit from her warm and honeyed croon and the production by Steve Greenberg [and orchestrations by Kelly] effectively classic yet modern… Fans will love hearing the old school sounds getting a bit of a polish.”

    — Edwin McFee, HOT PRESS (Ireland)

  • “Joss Stone is back on form now, after a rough period blighted by cons, contracts and hair colour… The album shifted more than five million copies - which could have been a hard act for her to follow but Stone went on to score a UK number one and US number 11 with 2004's hip-hop imbued follow-up… Teamed with such simpatico musicians as The Isley Brothers'… and the keyboardist Clinton Ivey… she dazzles on cover versions of the ‘While You're Out Looking for Sugar’ and ‘I Don't Want to be With Nobody But You.’ 4 out of 5 stars.”

    — James McNair, NATIONAL NEWS - ARTS & CULTURE

  • “Stone’s in fine, strutting voice but the sensitive hesitation of a new singer tackling soul gems ten years ago is replaced by confidence that leads to a tendency to oversing as her star has risen. Still, with seldom-covered nuggets from Labi Siffre and Linda Lewis getting the Stone treatment, she and her producers have structured a pretty terrific hour-long, 15-track listen that proves the UK singer is serious about her classic American R&B.”

    — Hal Horowitz, AMERICAN SONGWRITER

  • “Stone's sixth album is a counterpart to her first – 2003's multi-platinum debut of 60s and 70s covers on which the then 16-year-old sagely aligned herself with old-timer luminaries such as Betty Wright and Benny Latimore. This time… it's the 70s and 80s that have been mined… and though her mighty voice is technically irreproachable throughout, every track is attacked with all the timidity of a tsunami.”

    — Hermione Hoby, THE OBSERVER (UK)

  • “Joss Stone has returned to the format which initially brought her attention: a set of soul-based covers, helmed by producer Steve Greenberg, with a talented backing band. Womack & Womack's ‘Teardrops’ [orchestrated by Kelly] is given a swoony string-laden rework… and a couple of others… is an interesting proposition, like her early White Stripes cover ‘Fell In Love With A Boy.’ It's a striking, modern original that sounds entirely different as a soul song, but she makes it accomplished and appealing, if not quite genius.”

    — NEW ZEALAND HERALD

  • “Recorded over two live recording sessions with a band, Stone sticks to what she does best — performing 11 tracks sonically reminiscent of the ’60s Motown vibe (Pillow Talk) or the classic R&B of the ’70 and ’80s (Teardrops) [orchestrated by Kelly]… Stone shines most in her soulful ballads… she offers incredibly controlled and relaxed coos; and the album finishes nicely with [Kelly’s orchestration of] ‘Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye,’ a stripped-down and unrestrained version that showcases Stone’s effortless voice. The album more than satisfies.”

    — Vincent Lee, TODAY ONLNE

  • “Many reviewers have highlighted the old-meets-new aesthetic of ‘Volume Two,’ which sees Stone and her ace band giving authentic and stomping and heart-rending renditions of classic songs like The Chi-Lites' 'Give More Power To The People', Womack & Womack's 'Teardrops' [orchestrated by Kelly], Sylvia's 'Pillow Talk', and an old-style reinterpretation of a modern song, the Broken Bells' 'The High Road', all set in a sound-image that's distinctly modern.”

    — Pal Tingen, SOUND ON SOUND MAGAZINE

  • “During a recent visit to Rolling Stone’s studio, Stone reflected on her growth since her first album and how working on Volume 2 was quite different than the first time around… Though recording the first Soul Sessions was a little more straightforward, Stone admitted her new, looser style had a big influence on the recordings. “Now, I’m kind of a little bit more spontaneous. I like to get everyone together and we just basically have a jam, and have a little laugh, play some music,” she said.

    — Patrick Doyle, ROLLING STONE MAGAZINE (2012)

  • “For someone so musically addicted to re-introductions… she's going back… How does she commence? By covering the esteemed Labi Siffre, only to giggle when his “I Got The [Blues]” [orchestrated by Kelly] lifts to a familiar bridge — one Dr. Dre famously sampled for Eminem's “My Name Is.”

    — Justin Strout, SAN ANTONIO CURRENT

  • “The singer's gravelly-yet-dulcet voice has lost none of its power, and at the ripe old age of 25… now sounds as though she's lived a bit... Blaxploitation guitars, funky clavinet and acid-jazz flute all figure on a lithe, Issac Hayes-like arrangement of Linda Lewis's ‘Sideway Shuffle,’ and there's sweet soul organ galore on Womack & Womack's ‘Teardrops’ [orchestrated by Kelly]… This is tasteful, beautifully-framed soul music. Stone sounds completely at home and at the top of her game. EMI must be kicking themselves.”

    — James McNair, THE NATIONAL NEWS (UAE)

  • “It’s a little bit old-school, full of soul, and ultimately focused on the music. Spontaneous Stone, who can record a brilliant album in a matter of days… Stone electrifies again with the sequel to her debut, ‘The Soul Sessions Volume 2,’ out July 31st… The album includes 11 soul covers and in June was previewed… to sold-out audiences.”

    — Madison Moore, INTERVIEW MAGAZINE

  • “The second installment of ‘The Soul Sessions’ is everything that we've hoped from the singer… Joss opts for a few of soul's decades old, lesser known gems this time around… Cruising through the catalogs of Womack & Womack [orchestrated by Kelly]… a now 25-year-old Stone is much more self-assured in her talent and ready to tackle these songs with the respect and soul they deserve… Not only does she do the songs here justice, she finally delivers on the promise that her debut foretold.”

    — D-Money, SOUL BOUNCE (2012)

  • “The 25-year-old English singer rose to fame as a teen with her debut album of cover songs. Nine years later, she's released a hit sequel… Interviewer: “Do you have a favorite song on the album?” Stone: 'I Got the Blues;' [orchestrated by Kelly] ‘I love the strings, the organ, the whole thing. I really like how it changes pace halfway through. 'Teardrops' [also by Kelly] and 'I Don't Want to Be With Nobody But You' are good ones, too."

    — Sierra Tishgart, TEEN VOGUE (2012)

  • ‘The Soul Sessions: Vol. 2’ debuted at #6 six on the UK Albums Chart, Stone's first top-10 album in the United Kingdom since ‘Mind Body & Soul.’ In the U.S., the album debuted at number 10 on the Billboard 200, with first-week sales becoming her fourth Top-10 album on the chart. In continental Europe, it reached the Top 5 in the Netherlands and Switzerland, and the top 10 in Austria and Germany.”

    — Statistics, BILLBOARD MAGAZINE

  • “This time Stone has done the near impossible: she has caught lightning in a bottle twice… [The musicians and Kelly’s orchestrations] ground Stone in a sense of time and place and authenticity in a way that more modern players likely could not… A revamp of soul and country classic “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye,” [orchestrated by Kelly] with just acoustic guitar and strings, shows off her softer side.”

    — Melinda Newman, UPROXX

  • “A powerful, heartfelt and classy comeback. 5 out of 5 stars. I’ve always been a fan of Stone; even before I listened to her new single I knew that I wouldn’t be disappointed… You can almost feel the fire fuelled behind her powerful vocals. The original is a terrific song but Joss Stone’s interpretation blows it out of the water… Soul Sessions, Volume 2 has already gathered positive reviews from the likes of ‘The Guardian’ and ‘The Sunday Times.’”

    — Emma Barlow, EMALE FIRST (2013)

  • “Album Producer: I went… to record a 30-piece string orchestra... [and] Joss also sing two lead vocals in Prague, for good reason. The songs were 'Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye' [by Kelly] and 'One Love In My Lifetime.’ She had sung overdubs on these in Nashville, but she wasn't really feeling them, and was not happy with her interpretation. Once the strings had been overdubbed, she immediately knew how she wanted to sing these songs, and so, in typical Joss Stone fashion, she went in the next day, did three takes of each. She goes in, she warms up with the first take, then does it again and it's really good, and the third take is even better and that's it.”

    — Paul Tingen, SOUND ON SOUND (2012)

  • “Joss Stone returns with a second volume to her blue eyes soul interpretation chosen carefully and executed with beauty layered around Joss’s fine grit vocals.”

    — WMTD Baltimore Radio (2016)

  • “On her sixth album Joss Stone does what she does very well… Whether ripping into The Chi-Lites’… or rendering a smoochy, simple take of ‘Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye,’ [orchestrated by Kelly] the latter perhaps the album’s finest moment, her voice delivers the songs with more southern US sass than a girl from Devon has any right to possess… This ensemble has lots of fun delivering requisite funk, Hammond, wah-wah, and groove on songs such as Womack & Womack’s ‘Teardrops’ [also orchestrated by Kelly] Given the multi-millions Stone has sold, there’s clearly a huge market for these.”

    — Thomas H. Green, THE ARTS DESK (UK)

  • “[Volume 2's ] gems include a half-tempo version of the Womacks' "Teardrops"and a stately reading of Eddie Floyd's "Nobody But You” [both songs being orchestrated by Kelly].”

    — Staff Review, UNCUT MAGAZINE [Sep 2012, p.86]

  • “The original ‘Soul Sessions’ sold 5 million copies worldwide and peaked at No. 39 on The Billboard 200. The 2012 sessions, recorded in April in Nashville, features a seasoned lineup of musicians including Ernie Isley, Delbert McClinton, Muscle Shoals’ Swamper Clayton Ivey and soul singer Betty Wright… [and feature Kelly’s orchestrations]. Stone has been quite prolific since in recent years. Since ending her contract with EMI in 2009… she self-released… “LP1” last summer and has recorded at least two more additional albums.”

    — Andrew Hampp, BILLBOARD MAGAZINE

Make it stand out.

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.

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  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.

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  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.

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Jackie Evancho

  • “Without doubt, she knows her strengths and played to them by combining well-rehearsed pop songs with an intriguing variety of inspirational Broadway numbers… Evancho made it a point to include a lot of current Broadway material along with classics… [Evancho said,] “If I were to pick a single best performance of the evening, it’d have to be one of the classics and the choice would be between ‘The Impossible Dream” and “Somewhere,’ [‘Somewhere’ was arranged by Kelly]. When she sang ‘some day a time for us from the latter,’ it was as if she had spoken to the whole crowd and told them that their ‘54 Below’ rendezvous was as secretive as Tony and Maria’s.”

    — Chris Struck, CABARET SCENES (2019)

  • “In December 2011, Evancho made talk show appearances on all the major television networks to promote ‘Heavenly Christmas,’ singing "The First Noël" [featuring Kelly’s orchestrations] on ‘The View’ and ‘The Talk’… as well as giving solo concerts in Buffalo, New York; Atlantic City, New Jersey; and Pittsburgh, in mid-December 2011… on 20-city tour. The album entered the Billboard Classical Albums chart at No. 1, the Holiday Albums chart at No. 3, and the Billboard 200 at No. 16, peaking at No. 11 there in its sixth week of release.[5][17] It rose to No. 9 on the Canadian Albums chart in its fifth week.”

    — Evancho, WIKIPEDIA

  • “The small blond girl in a pink dress made quite the first impression [on ‘America’s Got Talent’]. She went on to place second on the reality TV show… She poured through a long list of Broadway songs — looking for lyrics she resonated with and melodies she liked — before selecting 10 to cover. All of the songs on ‘The Debut’ are from the 21st century. Covers come from ‘Hamilton,’ ‘The Greatest Showman’ and [Kelly’s arrangement from ‘West Side Story.’]

    — Amanda Hancock, THE DENVER GAZETTE (2019)

  • “Nearly a decade after America’s Got Talent turned her into an overnight sensation, the former child prodigy returned once again compete on ‘America’s Got Talent: The Champions Finals’… For her performance, Jackie chose the song “Somewhere” from the Broadway Musical West Side Story that was released in 1957. It’s still one of the most powerful songs ever written in the theater world, but Jackie brings it to a whole new level. “That song is absolutely one of my favorites to sing live, and I really just wanted to kind of show everybody my favorite songs and a new way of presenting myself,” said Evancho.”

    — Review, MADLY ODD

  • “When Sharon Osbourne reconnected with 11-year-old Jackie Evancho this week on 'The Talk,' she acted more like an adoring grandmother than a talk show host. The 'America's Got Talent' judge kept hugging Jackie, looking at her proudly, then hugging her again after Jackie sang "The First Noel" [orchestrated by Kelly]... The singing star's performance gave Osbourne "goosebumps all over," she said. Osbourne was first smitten with Jackie when she was a contestant on AGT. 'It makes me tearful. And you’re not meant to cry at songs like that. But it’s just so beautiful,' said Osbourne, who co-hosts the CBS show with four other women."

    — Cindy Cusic Micco, PINE-RICHLAND NEWS (2011)

  • “In late 2011, Evancho's sophomore album, ‘Heavenly Christmas,’ [which features three orchestrations by Kelly] was released exclusively through American retailer Walmart. The album debuted at number one on the Classical album chart, becoming her fourth consecutive work to do so. It also debuted in the top 20 of the Billboard 200 albums.”

    — LAST FM (2019)

  • ”Evancho is set to perform at the famed Feinstein’s/54 Below in New York’s Theater District on April 23 in support of her new album [Kelly arranged and co-orchestrated]. She’s already sold out the venue, which she describes as a ‘pretty cool’ experience.”

    — Peter Sblendorio, DAILY NEWS (2019)

  • “‘The Debut’ (2019), [is] her eighth consecutive release to reach No. 1 on the US classical albums chart). [Kelly was copyist for all arrangements and additional orchestrator on several tracks, and solo arranger and orchestrator on 'Somewhere']”

    — TUNEFIND (2019)

  • “Evancho: [“Somewhere” arranged by Kelly] is absolutely one of my favorites to sing live, and I really just wanted to kind of show everybody my favorite songs and a new way of presenting myself.”

    — Glenn Rowley, BILLBOARD (2019)

  • “Aged 23, Evancho has certainly ‘made it.’ In 2019, she released her eighth studio album, “The Debut,” focusing on songs from 21st century Broadway musicals and musical films. The album was Evancho’s eighth consecutive release on the Billboard Classical Albums chart to reach No. 1.”

    — Jason Blake, LIMELIGHT (2023)

  • “On her 2019 album ‘The Debut,’ Jackie turns her attention to Broadway. Jackie has matured into a wholly unique vocalist. She knows where to apply softness and where to apply strength in her delivery… While most of the tracks are commonly referred to as New Broadway, there is a genuine classic in amongst these new gems: “Somewhere” from West Side Story [arranged by Kelly]... Technically, it is a ‘Broadway’ album but it could just as well be classified as Pop, Classical Crossover, or even Adult Contemporary.

    — Steve Schnee, AMPED DIGITAL MAGAZINE (2019)

  • “Her most recent album is titled ‘The Debut’ [Kelly arranged and co-orchestrated] and is comprised entirely of contemporary theater music. Talking to her, it's evident that she is eager to spread her wings as she more fully explores musical theater opportunities. She retains her girl-next-door approachability even as she's become a seasoned professional with clear ideas.”

    — Jim Munson, BROADWAY WORLD (2019)

  • “Jackie Evancho’s performance of ‘Somewhere’ [arranged by Kelly] on ‘America’s Got Talent: The Champions’ finale will leave you speechless. 18-year-old opera singer returned to the stage on Monday’s season finale and performed a breathtaking rendition of “Somewhere” while donning a blue ballgown. Jackie’s performance left judges Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Mel B and Heidi Klum all speechless as they watched in awe. Check out the powerful video."

    — Marcus James Dixon, GOLD DERBY (2019)

  • “In 2019, the world saw the emergence of a grown-up Evancho starting with her much anticipated return to ‘America’s Got Talent - Champions,’ where she stunned the audience with her rendition of [Kelly’s arrangement of] “Somewhere.” She also released The Debut [arranged by Kelly], matching her extraordinary voice with one of the most exciting re-emerging genres in popular music today: Broadway’s New American Songbook.”

    — THE WILTON BULLETIN (2024)

  • “The multi-platinum recording artist’s new album, “The Debut,” takes on a re-emerging genre in popular music, Broadway’s New American Songbook. In addition to “Burn” from “Hamilton,” her album includes other Broadway musical hits, including “A Million Dreams” (“The Greatest Showman”), [orchestrated by Kelly] “Somewhere” (“West Side Story”), [arranged by Kelly] “Requiem” (“Dear Evan Hansen”) [orchestrated by Kelly], and “I’m Not that Girl” (“Wicked”).”

    — Candy Williams, PITTSBURGH TRIBUNE REVIEW (2019)

  • “With a strong organ/piano/strings presence, there’s a sense of a ‘winter-y’ atmosphere as whistles, bells, and an operatic voice from Jackie authenticate the atmosphere that a lot of Christmas songs have over the years. [“Heavenly Christmas” Kelly co-orchestrated] isn’t your ‘modern’ Christmas album, it’s traditional through and through. And to be reminded of the music and style of a lot of these carols, is a great reminder to understand where these songs came from.”

    — Jonathan Andre, 365 INSPIRING MEDIA (2022)

  • “It's a soprano that deftly traverses the musical scales with power and grace. Though she may not be ready for the operatic stage, she effortlessly sings songs like "Nessun Dorma" and "Somewhere" [arranged by Kelly] on her album debut.”

    — Nekesa Mumbi Moody, BACKSTAGE (2019)

  • “Nineteen-year-old Jackie Evancho stunned an audience of all ages as she performed at the Eccles Theater in Salt Lake City this past Thursday. At an early age of 10, she made her first appearance to the world on America’s Got Talent season 5 where she finished with a 2nd place medal. No longer a child, Jackie sang songs from her newest broadway album, [Kelly arranged] “The Debut.”

    — Kinsi Cook, UTAH CONCERT REVIEW (2020)

  • "This little girl is absolutely incredible…. Last June Jackie released her first album, "Dream With Me", and hit the top of the charts. She then released a Christmas album called “Heavenly Christmas” [Kelly co-orchestrated]. She is currently touring the U.S. and appearing with some big names like Tony Bennett at the ripe old age of...12.”

    — KEAN West Texas, 105.1 FM (2012)

  • “Acts returned to the ‘America’s Got Talent’ stage to perform tricks and songs to entertain the studio audience. The show aired an interesting little video recounting the origins of the show and looking back at the past 14 seasons of talent. Jackie Evancho returned to perform an enormously moving rendition of “Somewhere” [arranged by Kelly] from West Side Story.”

    — Carolyn Lipka, FORBES (2019)

  • “The album entered the Billboard Classical Albums chart at No. 1, the Holiday Albums chart at No. 3, and the Billboard 200 at No. 16, peaking at No. 11 in its sixth week. Billboard ranked "Heavenly Christmas" [Kelly orchestrated] as the No. 2 Classical album in the U.S. in 2012.”

    — BILLBOARD (2012)

  • The 11-year-old from [Evancho] appeared on ABC’s “The View” show Tuesday morning and performed "The First Noel" [orchestrated by Kelly] as she promotes her “Heavenly Christmas” album.

    — Cindy Cusic Micco, North Hills, PA, PATCH NEWS (2011)

  • “Somewhere” from "West Side Story," [arranged by Kelly]… hit the rafters and was spellbinding… and musicians were at the top of their game. Evancho’s voice was flawless.”

    — Suzanna Bowling, TIMES SQUARE chronicles (2019)

  • "She brings a certain poignancy to 'The First Noel' [orchestrated by Kelly] with delightfully uplifting musical arrangements... The child's voice is a wonder."

    — Subhadra Devan, NEW STRAITS TIMES (2011)

  • “Jackie’s style has now become so distinct… the effect is warm and lyrical. It helps that though fully orchestrated [by Kelly] and complemented with a big chorus, the arrangements never detract from her voice.”

    — THE PHILLIPPINE STAR (2015)

  • “Interviewer: ‘What’s the tweak that you love most on one of the songs [from the album ‘The Debut’?] Evancho: “I’m Not That Girl” [orchestrated by Kelly] because that song is very uppity Broadway-esque… and [it’s] slowed down to a poppy ballad. So that’s the one that sounds the most different to me.”

    — Jeremy Parsons, PEOPLE TV (2019)

  • “Jackie Evancho's album, Heavenly Christmas, is an album just as nice… Her song O Little Town Of Bethlehem [orchestrated by Kelly]… has an orchestration that's as lush as a lush thing that graduated from the university of lush with a masters in lushness.”

    — Christopher Toh, SINGAPORE TODAY (2013)

  • “Pop opera prodigy Jackie Evancho stopped by the Wall Street Journal Cafe to sing and talk about her new album "Heavenly Christmas," [co-orchestrated by Kelly]… [she] sounds like she's channeling a past life, a future self, or possibly an actual angel.”

    — Christopher John Farley, WALL STREET JOURNAL (2011)

  • “I chose ‘Burn’ for the album [orchestrated by Kelly] because I wanted to include a song from Hamilton - it is such an important ground breaking musical of our time…” Evancho said. "When I first heard it I absolutely adored the passion… and it just spoke to me in a profound way.”

    — Jared Eng JJ STAFF (2019)

  • “Jackie Evancho has had a career most singers would love to have. Her fast-moving career pulls into the Lancaster Grand Theatre on Saturday night, where she will perform with members of the University of Kentucky Symphony Orchestra [and orchestrations by Kelly].”

    — Copley, LEXINGTON HERALD-LEADER (2015)

  • “Justin Bieber isn’t the only teen sensation set to release a holiday album this year… former America’s Got Talent contestant Jackie Evancho will release a Christmas album… The 11-year-old previously debuted her first major EP… was a platinum seller in the U.S. and moved more than 3 million copies worldwide. According to an insider, its success prompted Evancho’s label, Syco/Columbia, to put into action an immediate follow-up plan… to be produced by Idina Menzel's musical director [and orchestrated by Kelly].”

    — Halperin & Schillaci, THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER (2011)

  • “She has since made quite an impressive mark in the crossover world of Classical and Pop. With a series of albums already released, including a million-selling holiday set, “Heavenly Christmas” [orchestrated by Kelly], Jackie Evancho is quickly – and early – setting herself on firm foundation for a rich and long career.”

    — Rowe, MUSIC TAP (2014)

  • “Michael [Feinstein] closed out his engagement creating a full circle moment by bringing the newest of his hit making friends to the final week. Classical cross-over artist Jackie Evancho showcased her now fully young adult style to the NYC crowd of club goers. Ms. Evancho has moved far beyond her pre-teen America's Got Talent wunderkind days. She now showcases her vocal maturity… closing with a soaring "Somewhere" [arranged by Kelly].”

    — Kevin Alvey, BROADWAY WORLD (2019)

  • “She released her first Christmas album, "Heavenly Christmas", with 12 songs in total… the record features some traditional Christmas carols like "The First Noel" and "O Little Town of Bethlehem" [both orchestrated by Kelly]. The album debuted at No. 1 on Billboard's Classical Albums chart, while it peaked at No. 11 on the Billboard 200 chart.”

    — ACE SHOW BIZ (2016)

  • “Released just a few months after her first full-length outing, ‘Dream of Me,’ ‘Heavenly Christmas’ revisits the yuletide splendor of ‘O Holy Night’. At ten songs, it manages to expand her seasonal repertoire… ("The First Noel,” “O Come All Ye Faithful,” “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” [all three orchestrated by Kelly]… Evancho's vocals are impressive as always, and the arrangements… tasteful.”

    — James Christopher Monger, ALL MUSIC

Jim Brickman, pianist

“Nathan wrote the arrangement for my ‘Nutcracker Suite,’ and did many terrific orchestrations.”

Marc Shaiman, composer

“Nathan worked on multiple projects (‘Catch Me If You Can,’ ‘Smash,’ and Bette Midler album demos), handling everything from score prep to orchestration tweaks.”

“Nathan is truly one of those artists continually seeking to learn.”

— William David Brohn

Make it

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sounds like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest.

Lea Salonga

  • “She made her London debut as Kim in ‘Miss Saigon’ winning an Olivier Award for Best Actress. Two years later she made her Broadway debut when the show transferred to New York, winning herself a Tony Award. Two decades later she's sung on the soundtrack to successful films, performed in two different anniversary records of ‘Les Misérables’ and continues to sing beautifully as one of the sweetest soprano singers on Broadway. A condensed version of what makes Lea Salonga would not do her justice... she'll be quick to perform unavoidable theatre songs with aplomb like she does with ‘Defying Gravity’ [at Carnegie Hall arranged by Kelly].”

    — Andrew Kendall, STAGE BUDDY (2015)

  • “There are few singers in the musical theatre who boast a voice as beautiful as Lea Salonga's. The former ‘Miss Saigon’ star possesses a pure, rich, creamy tone and exquisite control of her instrument throughout its entire, impressive range… The evening concluded with Salonga's renditions of two songs from ‘Wicked’... with a rousing version of ‘Defying Gravity’ [arranged and orchestrated by Kelly[that spectacularly ended the evening and spontaneously brought the crowd to its feet.”

    — Andrew Gans, PLAYBILL

  • “Best known for her Tony Award winning role in Miss Saigon, she was also the first Asian to play Eponine in Les Misérables on Broadway and returned as Fantine in the 2006 revival. Lea was the singing voice of Princess Jasmine from Aladdin, and Fa Mulan for Mulan and Mulan II, earning the honor of “Disney Legend"... Lea served as a judge on the Philippines hit version of “The Voice” including the ratings juggernaut “The Voice Kids"… Lea has toured all over the world, performing sold out concerts in such locations as… Carnegie Hall [arranged by Kelly] in New York.”

    — Staff, MAYO PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (2023)

  • “Tony-Winner Lea Salonga wowed a SOLD OUT crowd at Carnegie Hall on Monday night… During the two-act, glamour filled show, they traversed the worlds of Broadway, Jazz, Filipino music and several pop hits. Some of the night's many showstopping moments included… and a 'Defying Gravity' [arranged by Kelly] - which was performed like no one else has sung it yet! The night was full of standing ovations, and anyone who was there to witness the physically and vocally ravishing Salonga, will never forget... at Carnegie Hall.”

    — Ben Strothmann, BROADWAY WORLD

  • “Salonga and friends wow Carnegie Hall: When Lea Salonga made her Broadway debut in ‘Miss Saigon’ in 1991, she instantly established herself as a big theater star. Since then, Salonga has moved on, appearing on television and in other theater shows (including ‘Les Miserables’ and ‘Flower Drum Song’ on Broadway) and touring around the world. On November 7, Salonga stopped her tour at Carnegie Hall, making her solo concert debut on the renowned stage [with arrangements by Kelly]. Her big show… featured special guests Liz Callaway, Andrea McArdle and Paolo Montalban.”

    — BROADWAY WORLD

  • “The Tony Award-winning star of ‘Miss Saigon,’ Lea Salonga, continues to captivate audiences worldwide. On November 7, she sold out Carnegie Hall in an all new show directed by Richard Jay-Alexander and, just prior to that, launched her first major U.S. city concert tour with performances in San Francisco, Atlantic City, Honolulu, Maui, Chicago, Norfolk, Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles, grossing over one million dollars in ticket sales.”

    — SAN FRANCISCO MEDIA EVENTS

  • “Lea Salonga… will perform in concert at Carnegie Hall (57th St. and Seventh Ave.) on November 7th at 7 PM.  It will be the petite performer's debut at the landmark concert hall, and proceeds will benefit Diversity City Theatre [with arrangements by Kelly]… She can be seen as Eponine on the 10th anniversary concert video of the same team's ‘Les Miserables;’ she also played the lovelorn waif on Broadway.  To non-theatregoers, she is best known for providing the singing voices to two Disney heroines — as Jasmine in ‘Aladdin’ and Mulan.”

    — Staff, BROADWAY NEWS DESK

  • “Salonga’s talents extend to the screen where she can be seen on HBO Max, Sony, and Netflix… She has released 14 albums and toured all over the globe, performing sold-out concerts in landmark venues such as… Carnegie Hall [with Kelly’s arrangements] in New York City... In addition to being the first Asian actress to win a Tony Award, Salonga has received numerous accolades for her contributions in the field of musical theater, including Olivier, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, and Theatre World Awards; the honor of ‘Disney Legend’…”

    — Susan Graziano, GEORGE MASON NEWS (2024)

  • “Known across the world for her powerful voice and perfect pitch, Lea Salonga is a singer and actress… Later that year, she performed a critically celebrated cabaret run… at Carnegie Hall [with orchestrations and arrangements by Kelly]… In her 37-year career, Lea has performed for six Philippine presidents, three American Presidents, and for Diana, Princess of Wales and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.”

    — James Marino, BROADWAY RADIO

  • “Tony Winner Lea Salonga Makes Carnegie Hall Debut… Lea Salonga, the Broadway actress who won a Tony for Miss Saigon, made her performing debut at New York City’s legendary Carnegie Hall on Nov. 7... Salonga, who also won a Theatre World and Drama Desk Award in 1991 for ‘Miss Saigon,’ was last seen on the Broadway stage in the 2002 revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s ‘Flower Drum Song…. Salonga and [musical guests]… are seen at a party after her Carnegie Hall debut [featuring Kelly’s arrangement and orchestrations of the finale number].”

    — Morgan Allen, PLAYBILL

  • “Award-winning Singer and Actress Lea Salonga to Perform... Tony Award-winning singer and actress Lea Salonga will bring her powerful voice to… Malibu on Tuesday… As part of her residency at Pepperdine University, Salonga will also teach a master class with Pepperdine musical theatre students… Salonga has toured the world performing in sold out concerts in such locations as the Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, Singapore’s Esplanade, Kuala Lumpur Convention Center, Hong Kong Cultural Center, Bangkok Convention Center, and Carnegie Hall in New York City [featuring Kelly’s arrangements]”

    — PEPPERDINE UNIVERSITY (2017)

  • “Was a thrill to be one of Lea Salonga’s special guests at her Carnegie Hall debut concert [featuring Kelly’s arrangements]. We sang 2 duets that night… Lea had told the audience she was pregnant, and started singing the song. Halfway through, she announced me as her surprise guest and we finished the song together. The audience went crazy. Thanks Lea… for an unforgettable night.”

    — Liz Callaway, FACEBOOK (2020)

  • “Multi-Award winning Broadway legend and Disney sensation Lea Salonga set to perform… Best known for originating the role of Kim in the musical ‘Miss Saigon,’ Lea Salonga is also a bona fide ‘Disney Princess.’ Salonga is the glorious singing voices of Princess Jasmine and Fa Mulan in the blockbuster Disney movies ‘Aladdin,’ ‘Mulan I,’ and ‘Mulan II.’ Originally from the Philippines, Lea Salonga continues to captivate audiences worldwide with her breathtaking performances… She sold out Carnegie Hall in an all new show and, just prior to that, launched her first major U.S. city concert tour… grossing over one million dollars in ticket sales.”

    — Christiana Cheon, LOS ANGELES ARTS & CULTURE (2008)

  • “Lea's talents extend beyond the stage and recording studio. She has appeared in television shows and films… Lea's live performances are nothing short of mesmerizing. She has embarked on numerous sold-out concert tours, thrilling audiences in iconic venues worldwide. From the Sydney Opera House to Carnegie Hall [with arrangements by Kelly], her performances have left a lasting impact on all who have had the privilege of witnessing her exceptional talent.”

    — The Philippine Advocate (2023)

  • “During the two-act, glamour filled show, they traversed the worlds of Broadway, Jazz, Filipino music and several pop hits. Some of the night's many show-stopping moments included… 'Popular,' and a 'Defying Gravity' [arranged by Kelly] — which was performed like no one else has sung it yet! The night was full of standing ovations, and anyone who was there to witness the physically and vocally ravishing Salonga, will never forget this powerhouse night at Carnegie Hall.”

    — Ben Strothmann, BROADWAY WORLD

  • “Lea will make her debut at the prestigious Carnegie Hall's Isaac Stern Auditorium, the premier classical music performance space in the United States, in New York City… Performing one night only, Salonga's concert will be an intimate show with a mix of show tunes, jazz standards and other popular favorites [with the concert finale arranged by Kelly]. Excited about her first solo concert at Carnegie Hall.”

    — US ASIANS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT JOURNAL

  • “Lea Salonga, the Tony Award winning star of Miss Saigon, makes her Carnegie Hall debut in the Isaac Stern Auditorium, in New York on Monday [with arrangements by Kelly]… Excited about her first solo concert at Carnegie Hall, she comments: ‘It has always been my dream to take my turn at the most respected concert hall in the world.’

    — Lisa Chang, ASIAN CONNECTIONS MEDIA

  • “Tony and Olivier Award winner Lea Salonga in her sold-out Carnegie Hall debut at Isaac Stern Auditorium. Cast: Lea Salonga , Liz Callaway, Andrea McArdle, Paolo Montalban in Playbill's Top 10 Best of The Year.”

    — PLAYBILL

  • “Lea Salonga, who shot to fame in the original London and Broadway productions of ‘Miss Saigon’—winning Tony and Olivier Awards for her haunting, heartbreaking (and thrillingly sung) performance… is back on Broadway… From Carnegie Hall [arrangements by Kelly] to Miss Saigon and the Oscars, Tony Winner Lea Salonga… reflects on her theatrical journey so far.”

    — Andrew Cans, PLAYBILL (2018)

  • “Salonga, the Tony Award winning star of ‘Miss Saigon,’ makes her Carnegie Hall debut in the Isaac Stern Auditorium, in New York on Monday [with arrangements by Kelly]… Richard Jay-Alexander, best known for directing and producing Bernadette Peters… and the concert tours of Bette Midler… and Barbra Streisand… will direct Salonga's Carnegie Hall debut”

    — Lia Chang, ASIAN CONNECTIONS MEDIA

  • “Salonga returned to Broadway in 2002, starring in the revival of ‘Flower Drum Song.’.. She played her first U.S concert tour, culminating with a sold-out evening at Carnegie Hall [with arrangements by Kelly]. She has released several albums and served as the singing voice of the title character in Disney's ‘Mulan’ and as Jasmine in Disney's ‘Aladdin.’ Her U.S television appearances include ‘Redwood Curtain with Jeff Daniels, a guest-starring role on ‘ER ‘ and a recurring role on ‘As the World Turns’.”

    — Staff Review, BROADWAY.COM

  • “Lea Salonga continues to expand her artistic journey, exploring new roles such as coaching while redefining her impact in the industry. Her performances consistently captivate audiences, earning standing ovations at prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall [with Kelly’s arrangements]. In a historic concert, she once again demonstrated her unparalleled artistry, drawing widespread acclaim.”

    — Ruben Nepales,PHILIPPINE DAILY INQUIRER

  • Salonga: “Almost immediately I fell in love with New York… Playing venues such as Carnegie Hall [with arrangements by Kelly] is still a big thrill for me. I walked past there with my daughter a few nights ago and she asked if I had ever sung there. I laughed and told her we both had, as I was three months pregnant with her when I performed my show there."

    — Shelley Rubenstein, THE TIMES (UK), (2022)

  • “Philippine native Lea Salonga became an international stage star when she was chosen to play the lead role in the 1989 London world premiere of… ‘Miss Saigon.’.. She also recently made her triumphant solo debut at a sold-out concert at Carnegie Hall [featuring Kelly’s arrangements]. Salonga's voice has been described as ‘hopeful as daybreak,’ and her interpretation of music ‘pure.’”

    — Noel Y. Calingasan, NY ARTS & CULTURE JOURNAL

  • “In the four years since Lea Salonga's last Honolulu concert, she's sold out Carnegie Hall [with arrangements by Kelly], given birth to her first child, and returned to Broadway to star as Fantine in the revival of ‘Les Miserables.’ Coming up this summer is a 39-week tour of Asia in the title role of Rodgers & Hammerstein's ‘Cinderella.’ Salonga will do two shows in Honolulu -- tickets for a Sunday matinee went on sale this week.”

    — John Berger, HONOLULU STAR-BULLETIN

  • “In her book ‘Playlist,’ Lea talks about her first 35 years in the music business. The book reveals an artist who didn’t reach stratospheric heights in her career by sheer talent alone (she has won Tony, Olivier, Outer Critics Circle, Drama Desk and Theatre World Awards). Lots of hard work, determination and sacrifices were involved… she started from the ground up, singing at family parties when she was five or six, to Carnegie Hall [featuring Kelly’s arrangements] and a host of prestigious venues around the world.”

    — Michelle Baltazar, AUSTRALIAN FILIPINA MAGAZINE (2015)

  • “Elegantly dressed in a black pantsuit by Rajo Laurel (Carmen Marc Valvo designed Salonga's second-act gown), the Tony Award-winning actress was visibly moved as she made her entrance onto the famed Carnegie Hall stage amid a throng of cheers from the packed house… The evening concluded with Salonga's renditions of two songs from ‘Wicked,’ the Stephen Schwartz musical that the actress said she would love to appear in at some point…. It was a truly spirit-raising finale to a wonderful evening, and the crowd was once again on its feet cheering.”

    — Andrew Gans, PLAYBILL

  • “There are few singers in the musical theatre who boast a voice as beautiful as Lea Salonga's. The former Miss Saigon star possesses a pure, rich, creamy tone and exquisite control of her instrument throughout its entire, impressive range. And, on that Monday night, in an evening benefiting Diverse City Theater Company, Salonga proved her mettle in a three-hour evening… that featured songs mostly drawn from the musical theatre's past few decades [with musical arrangements by Kelly].”

    — Andrew Gans, THE PHILIPPINE STAR

  • “Lea will make her debut at the prestigious Carnegie Hall's Isaac Stern Auditorium, the premier classical music performance space in the United States, in New York City on Monday… Performing one night only, Salonga's concert will be an intimate show with a mix of show tunes, jazz standards and other popular favorites [arranged by Kelly]. Excited about her first solo concert at Carnegie Hall.. [she] will kick off her first U.S. concert tour in four major cities beginning February 12 [in] San Francisco.”

    — US ASIANS MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT JOURNAL

  • “[Salonga’s] new comeback International CD ‘The Journey So Far’ is now available in iTunes and will drop in stores… [In Novemeber] she sold out Carnegie Hall in an all new show [with Kelly’s arrangements] directed by Richard Jay-Alexander… grossing over one million dollars in ticket sales… Lea is originally from the Philippines and she currently maintains residences in New York, Los Angeles and Manila. Her proudest production to date is her daughter Nicole”

    — LAST.FM

“The NYU/ASCAP Foundation Film Scoring Workshop is a 'vibrant centerpiece [that fosters] great chemistry' between 'inventive young composers of stylistic breadth and the inspired and dedicated efforts of diverse faculty guidance.' As a selected composer, Kelly conducted his original score in a live recording session with top New York musicians."

— ASCAP Playback Magazine [Vol. 17, Is. 3]

“A great balance of spontaneity with structure, ‘The Concert Album’ allows each piece to unfold naturally while maintaining a strong narrative thread, constantly keeping the listener in mind to keep them perpetually entertained, engaged, and connected to the unfolding narratives of ideas. Each piece inhabits a distinct atmosphere, soundscape, and emotional terrain.”

— Daniel Joffe, NEW YORK STATE MUSIC (2025)

Chris Botti

  • “Botti has become the largest-selling American instrumental artist.  His success has crossed over to audiences usually reserved for pop muisc and his ongoing association with PBS has led to four #1 jazz albums, as well as multiple Gold, Platinum and Grammy Awards.  Most recently, his latest album Impressions won the Grammy for Best Pop Instrumental.  Performing worldwide and selling more than four million albums, he has found a form of creative expression that begins in jazz and expands beyond the limits of any single genre.”

    — TROY MUSIC HALL (2022)

  • “International superstar Andrea Bocelli returns to ‘Great Perforances’ once again to delight fans with a new concert special of classical favorites, pop standards and Brazilian jazz… Bocelli is joined by trumpeter Chris Botti [on ‘When I Fall in Love’ co-arranged by Kelly] to perform a select collection of the world's most famous love songs.”

    — WTTW, PBS (2012)

  • “Renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli belt out an impressive range of sweet love songs at his ‘Love in Portofino’ concert, plus chat about his life while being filmed in his Italian home. On stage, he will be supported by… Chris Botti on the trumpet [on ‘When I Fall in Love’ co-arranged by Kelly] and Bocelli's lovely fiancée Veronica Berti on vocals… as well as a 40-piece orchestra and rhythm section. What's more, you'll be able to view this entire spectacle from the comfort of your seat in a Golden Village theatre”

    — TIME OUT MAGAZINE (2013)

  • “Romance fills the air... with 16-time Grammy-winner David Foster as both music director and keyboard accompanist, Bocelli is also joined by trumpeter Chris Botti [on ‘When I Fall in Love’ co-arranged by Kelly]. Under the stars, beside the shimmering harbor waters, and with a rapt audience including Paul Anka, Sir Michael Caine, and Italian actress Ornella Muti, Bocelli performs some of the world’s most famous love songs…The sensual sound is rounded out by Cuban, Brazilian, and Portuguese rhythms.”

    — Mia Laurenzo, WLRN PUBLIC MEDIA (2012)

  • “[The] tenor returns to ‘Great Performances’ once again to delight fans with ‘Andrea Bocelli: Love in Portofino,’ a new concert special in which he puts classical music aside for an evening of international favorites inspired by the breathtaking coastal setting of Portofino, Italy… Bocelli is also joined by trumpeter Chris Botti [co-arranged by Kelly].”

    — PBS Great Performances (2013)

  • “The movie is of a Bocelli concert in Portofino, Italy, recorded in August 2012, where he performed songs from ‘Passione,’ with an ensemble of supporting artists, including… trumpeter Chris Botti [on ‘When I Fall in Love’ strings arranged by Kelly]… all backed by a 40 piece orchestra. The world premiere of the release, with Andrea Bocelli in attendance, took place in London…. the film aired continuously on PBS stations nationwide as part of ‘Great Performances.’

    — Wikipedia

  • “In December 2012, Bocelli performed ‘When I Fall in Love’ and ‘The Prayer’ with Helene Fischer on her German show, and on RTL (Radio Télévision Luxembourg) ‘Die Ultimative Chart Show’ is a long-running German television music program, hosted by Oliver Geissen.”

    — Wikipedia

  • “His mesmerizing performances with a stunning array of legends such as… Andrea Bocelli [in the duet ‘When I Fall in Love’ co-arranged by Kelly] have cemented his place as one of the most brilliant and inspiring forces of the contemporary music scene. Whether he’s performing with illustrious symphonies or at renowned venues around the globe, his unparalleled crystalline and poetic sound transcends musical boundaries.”

    — Staff, GARDE ARTS CENTER (2023)

  • ‘Love in Portofino,’ assembles many hits previously released on his album Passione with bonus tracks from a live performance in Portofino…He’s also joined, as he is throughout the album, by an orchestra that brings first-rate musicianship and provides Bocelli with the background sound to accentuate his beautiful vocals. Showing that he can branch out into the standards, Bocelli has a go at ‘When I Fall in Love,’ [strings arranged by Kelly] originally popularized by Doris Day, though his version owes more to Nat King Cole’s. The timeless song features Chris Botti on trumpet.”

    — Greg Jameson, ​ENTERTAINMENT FOCUS (2013)

  • “Bocelli show off his linguistic as well as his vocal range, since, taking inspiration from around the world, he sings in his native Italian as well as Spanish, Portuguese, English and French. There are a number of duets on the album with notable guest vocalists, and he combines his staple mellow classical melancholy with some upbeat numbers and surprising standards, even covering… ‘When I Fall in Love,’ [string arrangements by Kelly]… the timeless song features Chris Botti on trumpet.”

    — Greg Jameson, ENTERTAINMENT FOCUS (2013)

  • “Bocelli’s boldly angelic voice, which is complemented by the mezzo piano accompaniment of a 63-piece orchestra. The subtle guitar and trumpet solos enrich each song in a distinctive way; ergo, ‘Passione’ is a beautiful album that is more than just Andrea Bocelli showcasing his talent… In order to pique the interest of a broader audience, Bocelli has begun to collaborate with numerous contemporary artists, amongst whom are [Botti on Kelly’s arrangement of ‘When I Fall in Love]. 4 stars.”

    — Grace Kang, HIGHLANDER NEWS (2013)

  • ‘Andrea Bocelli: 'Love in Portofino’ is, in essence, a sequel to his earlier ‘Great Performances’ special, ‘Amore’… , Bocelli is also joined by trumpeter Chris Botti [on ‘When I Fall in Love’ arranged by Kelly]… a new concert special in which he puts classical music aside for an evening of international Favorites inspired by the breathtaking coastal setting of Portofino, Italy.”

    — TV News Desk, BROADWAY WORLD (2013)

  • “In December 2012, Bocelli performed ‘When I Fall in Love’ [arranged by Kelly] with Helene Fischer on her German show, and on RTL's ‘Ultimative Chart Show.’ Fans on Facebook commented, ‘This is my absolute favorite song sung by Andrea Bocelli. It makes me cry it's so beautiful.’”

    — Germany's national public television broadcaster, ZDF (Zweites Deutsches Fernsehen), (2013)

  • “Foster's production, with a 63-piece orchestra, is as smooth as Bocelli's delivery. The employment of instrumental colours from saxophone, guitar, flute and accordion across the palette, played by distinguished instrumentalists, adds variety to deft arrangements of some very familiar songs [with ‘When I Fall in Love’ with Botti arranged by Kelly’]. Many of which have been newly minted to suit Bocelli's vocals.”

    — Adrian Edwards, BBC NEWS (2013)

  • “Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli's 14th studio album, 2013's ‘Passione’ features a selection of romantic Mediterranean love songs. Produced by David Foster, the album features several duets including tracks with Jennifer Lopez [arranged by Kelly] and Chris Botti [also arranged by Kelly].”

    — Matt Collar, ALLMUSIC (2014)

  • “As I am a member of PBS, I naturally fell in love with most of the great performances on PBS… There are a few beautiful songs that I know, including ‘Quizàs, Quizàs, Quizàs’ collaborated with Jennifer Lopez [arranged by Kelly]… and ‘When I Fall In Love’ [a duet with Botti also arranged by Kelly].”

    — Denise, MUSIC BLOG (MY NOTEBOOK), (2013)

  • “Straddling classical and popular music but without irritating connoisseurs of either, Andrea Bocelli proves yet again that his voice is universal and his song choices commercially palatable…Andrea duets with a bunch of international stars [such as Botti on ‘When I Fall in Love’] arranged by Kelly]… [it] ensures a meticulously romantic collection of slushy international classics. 4 out of 5 stars.”

    — Stephen Unwin, DAILY EXPRRESS (2013)

  • “Released earlier this year, this is Andrea’s fourteenth studio album. It features romantic Mediterranean love songs, many of which are duets performed with the likes of Jennifer Lopez [arranged by Kelly]… and Grammy-nominated trumpeter Chris Botti [also arranged by Kelly]... So, if you’re also a fan of Chris Botti, this Bocelli-Botti tag team is one you shouldn’t miss. 5 out of 5”

    — Lynette Tan, ‘PASSIONE’ Review (2013)

  • “This is good, as almost all of Andrea's solo albums are… this album has a handful of surprises; I particularly liked the timbale and harmonica riffs on 'Tristeza' and the trumpet solo by Chris Botti on the 'When I Fall in Love' remake [arranged by Kelly]. 4 out of 5 stars”

    — Customer Reviews, BARNES AND NOBLE (2013)

  • “On his 14th studio album Andrea Bocelli proves that, even with arguably the finest producer in the world… his voice never gets out of first gear… [while] Chris Botti duets on ‘When I Fall in Love’ that is beautiful [arranged by Kelly].”

    — Staff, THE AUSTRALIAN (2013)

  • Botti: “I love doing shows with just my band, without the symphony, but every time we play with an orchestra, I just come back and think there just isn’t anything like it. The texture of standing there and playing in front of an orchestra is the greatest feeling ever. Because you get this three dimensional quality and you know, it’s very sophisticated and we really have put a lot of effort into hiring the best arrangers [Kelly arranged ‘When I Fall in Love’ on Bocelli’s ‘Passione’ album'] and having kind of a real romantic-ish night of music.”

    — UTAH SYMPHONY Q&A (2014)

  • “Kicking off his world tour in Denver, Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli mixed Verdi with Sinatra in a night of music as diverse as the age and attire of his audience…. There were no real surprises on this night at the ]pop-era.’ Bocelli’s fame has hinged upon a heavy accent, good looks and an ability to deliver some of the most beautiful music ever written in any language he wants to… Fantasia sang…and then teamed up with Bocelli for a soundtrack-worthy ‘When I Fall in Love’ [arranged by Kelly].”

    — Evan Semón, THE DENVER POST (2013)

  • “If you don’t fall in love with Portofino, you had better check your pulse. The centuries old buildings along the waterfront look as if they’ve been sculpted by Bernini. Boats bob up and down in the shimmering water. It’s a perfect night for romance. Bocelli’s wondrous voice and brilliant musical accompaniments from pianist David Foster, trumpeter Chris Botti [in ‘When I Fall in Love,’ with string arrangements by Kelly.]…Each love song is a highlight.”

    — Jim Campanini, REVIEWS (2013)

  • “Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli has loosened his bow tie and stepped off the opera stage for an album of love songs and duets…’Quizás, Quizás, Quizás’ (‘Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps’) is a punchy rendition with pop star Jennifer Lopez – they are surprisingly well-matched [arranged by Kelly]… with [Botti on ‘When I Fall in Love’ also arranged by Kelly]… it’s nice to hear the maestro in a relaxed setting and it makes for dreamy listening.”

    — Emma Rawson, THE AUSTRALIAN WOMEN'S WEEKLY (New Zealand), (2013)

  • “Bocelli's vocal prowess in both sacred repertoire and popular ballads is undeniable. His powerful, heroic timbre, along with his range, profound control… makes for a profound experience… Fantasia first took the stage [for ‘When I Fall in Love’ [arranged by Kelly]. Although her voice possesses great agility… the two looked like the odd couple… next to the full-voiced, refined opera legend. Aleida joined Bocelli for the first encore song, ‘Quizás, Quizás, Quizás,’ also from ‘Passione’ [and arranged by Kelly].”

    — Heather Youmans, ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER (2013)

  • “The final performance of Andrea Bocelli's ‘Passion’ [in his] Australia & New Zealand Tour was held at Perth Arena last night... Having a maximum capacity of 15,500 audience for concerts…The Diamond and Platinum seatings (tickets are priced at $499 and $349 respectively) were almost full up, if not totally sold out. A rather clear indication of the tenor's artistic brilliance that have pulled such a crowd of that magnitude… A well-deserved standing ovation that lasted until Bocelli has left the stage was overwhelming!”

    — Miyan, WEEKEND NOTES (Perth, Australia), (2014)

  • Bocelli: “It was fabulous to be able to stage my Love In Portofino concert right in the harbour at the heart of this charming town. And as all of the songs have a strong romantic theme, it was a very special romantic occasion… In recording the album - and also at the concert - I had an opportunity to perform duets featuring wonderful singers and instrumentalists including… Chris Botti [‘When I Fall in Love', strings arrangement by Kelly].”

    — THE DAILY MAIL (2013)

  • “Looking for a little romantic enhancement? Andrea Bocelli’s got you covered. The Italian tenor is targeting the Valentine’s Day market with his new ‘Passione’ album, out in stores this week and streaming at usatoday.com. The collection of Mediterranean love songs, plus a smattering of smoochy covers… and duets with Jennifer Lopez (“Quizás, Quizás, Quizás”) [arranged by Kelly].The album also features Grammy Award nominee Chris Botti (‘When I Fall In Love’).

    — Kim Willis, USA TODAY (2013)

  • “The 14th studio album is a beautifully recorded set of 14 traditional and popular love songs featuring duets with Jennifer Lopez [arranged by Kelly]… with legendary, grammy-winning producer David Foster on piano, arrangements by Foster and [Kelly]… and Chris Botti on trumpet [on ‘When I Fall in Love’ also arranged by Kelly].”

    — ELUSIVE DISC (2013)

  • “Bocelli's guest artists include… [Botti on ‘When I Fall in Love,’ arranged by Kelly] and… David Foster's production, with a 63-piece orchestra, is as smooth as Bocelli's delivery. The employment of instrumental colours from saxophone, guitar, flute and accordion across the palette, played by distinguished instrumentalists, adds variety to deft arrangements of some very familiar songs. Many of which have been newly minted to suit Bocelli's vocals.

    — Adrian Edwards, BBC (2013)

  • “When it comes to singing songs about love, Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli takes it very seriously. Not only does he powerfully deliver each track on his appropriately titled 14th studio album, ‘Passione,’ he says he feels each lyric deeply. The collection of romantic Mediterranean songs… finds Bocelli singing in six different languages… Bocelli also had the opportunity to work with Jennifer Lopez [arranged by Kelly] and… [Chris Botti on ‘When I Fall in Love’ also arranged by Kelly.]”

    — Kelli Skye Fadorski, THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER (2013)

  • “Romance fills the air with Andrea Bocelli… The tenor returns to ‘Great Performances’ once again to delight fans with ‘Andrea Bocelli: Love in Portofino,’ a new concert special…Bocelli is also joined by trumpeter Chris Botti.. The sensual sound is rounded out by Cuban, Brazilian, and Portuguese rhythms.”

    — Mia Laurenzo, WUSF Public Media (2013)

  • “In addition to his inspiring live performances, it is [Botti’s] recorded output that has firmly established him as a clarion voice in the American contemporary music scene. Playing with his uniquely expressive sound and soaring musical imagination, Botti also showcases his softer side, in a warm, intimate celebration of melodic balladry.”

    — DAKOTA COOKS (2023)

  • ‘When I Fall In Love’ (with Chris Botti) [arranged by Kelly], features Andrea Bocelli as the artist, with Chris Botti on vocals and Andrea Bocelli as the tenor, from the album ‘Andrea Bocelli: The Complete Pop Albums [Remastered],’ with a runtime of 4'41"."

    — NHN Entertainment, (South Korea), (2013)

  • “THIRTEEN's Great Performances Production of Andrea Bocelli: Love in Portofino Blooms in March on PBS… With 16-time Grammy-winner David Foster as both music director and keyboard accompanist, Bocelli is also joined by trumpeter Chris Botti…. Program includes: ‘When I Fall in Love’ (with Helene Fischer & Chris Botti) [string arrangements by Kelly.]”

    — WNET Public Media (2013)

What People Are Saying

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“Nathan has worked as my assistant on quite a few projects in New York City. He understands the pressures & personalities of real-world deadlines and demands.”

— Danny Troob

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

“Mr Kelly is an intelligent, amiable, and very dedicated musician.”

— Jonathan Tunick

“At the Earshot ‘New Music Readings,’ to be held on February 7… audiences will have access to three young composers on the brink of major careers. They will be invited to listen to live readings of three new works by Nathan Kelly (“Redwood”)… At the readings, to be conducted by the Ft. Wayne Philharmonic’s music director Andrew Constantine, the composers will interact with moderators, the orchestra, and audience. In a Q&A session, the audience will come to understand more fully the compositional process, how inspiration leads to notes on a page, and what motivates composers to create works for audiences in the 21st century.”

— FT. WAYNE PHILHARMONIC NEWS (2018)

“Kelly’s The Concert Album is a blend of contrasting tempos, timbres, and soundscapes into a vast collage of music, music that is harmonically and melodically rich while maintaining the collection as a cohesive statement of what the modern pianist can achieve. Some pieces naturally reflect cinematic, dramatic storytelling, offering a nod to the film music Kelly had studied extensively before Julliard.”

— Daniel Joffe, NY STATE MUSIC (2025)

“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”

— Quote Source

"Nathan knows the orchestra well — his musical brain is awesome.”

— David Foster

Make it

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world.

Celtic Thunder

  • “As a key member of Celtic Thunder, the blond singer from Derry, Northern Ireland, already has millions of devoted [fans] behind him… But his self-titled album with Verve Music Group - Keith was one of the first signings to David Foster's new label - is showcasing this unique voice to a wider audience. It features half wonderful originals and half covers [arranged by Kelly], interpreted with a Celtic twist by a singer with a sweetly beautiful voice - as that saying goes, Harkin could sing the phone book and we'd be sighing and weeping at that clear, unique sound.”

    — Susan Hartland, COURIER MAIL (2012)

  • “With airing of their first Public Television special… ‘Celtic Thunder’ consistently remains one of the most popular musical shows… Hailed as Billboard's Top World Music Artist, Album & Imprint… the phenomenon that is ‘Celtic Thunder’ has achieved sales of over two million copies and 500,000 ticket sales… Their mass appeal and devoted fan base continues to grow with impressive statistics… [their] official YouTube channel… has seen over 15 million views since the channel's inception”

    — REVERBNATION (2021)

  • “This album [with Kelly's arrangement] is gentler, a sweet, easy listening journey from a tremendous young singer songwriter who is bound to win even more fans. And those of us who've been there from the beginning will just have to share him.”

    — Susan Hartland, COURIER MAIL (2012)

  • “From the moment the first note was struck in rehearsals to the final gloss put on each track in the studio… We had the finest singers, musicians and engineers on the project that we could find, and they have all contributed greatly to what you hear [featuring Kelly’s arrangement and orchestration]. The ‘Celtic Thunder’ tradition has always been to bring to you the best possible version of music that you know and love and so continuing the tradition is no easy matter.”

    — Munro, ‘MYTHOLOGY’ LINEAR NOTES (2013)

  • ‘Mythology’ presents the perfect blend of entertainment, ideology and Gaelic spirituality, providing a modern twist on the old Celtic storytelling tradition. Celtic Thunder’s six male soloists… are known for performing an eclectic mix of songs [featuring arrangements by Kelly], ranging from traditional Irish fare… to international hits… Haunting soundtracks from the movies are also featured in ‘Mythology’.”

    — ‘MYTHOLOGY’ DVD (2013)

  • “Celtic Thunder returned to Chicago theatre last Friday… [it] was a well polished, nicely sung and tightly produced concert that played to a packed house.. For those new to the group, Celtic Thunder is an Irish import musical show performed by six accomplished Irish and Scottish vocalists… filled with both ensemble and solo numbers, and backed by the tuneful Celtic Thunder Band. They are talented, amazing… and the ensemble numbers were most enjoyable. Rocky Road to Dublin, usually my favorite group song, kicked off the second half of the evening with amazing energy. It’s fast paced and it’s just exciting to watch and listen to [and]… really a lot of fun. Theses guys are fans favorites in Chicago.”

    — Tom Williams, THE CHICAGO CRITIC (2013)

  • ‘Mythology,’ the tenth studio outing from the popular Celtic pop theater troupe ‘Celtic Thunder,’ offers up a musical odyssey (with the usual internationally touring stage production) that charts the history of the Celts in Ireland [with Kelly’s arrangement]. [The album] leans harder on tradition than previous outings, yet still finds time to toss in a few contemporary selections for good measure… all of which are handled with great care by their respective soloists, and the musical sections sigh, swell, bellow, and blow at all of the right moments”

    — Monger, ALLMUSIC (2019)

  • ‘Mythology’ is the latest show from ‘Celtic Thunder’ and the show's 9th special for Public Television [featuring Kelly’s arrangement]. Filmed on location at the Helix Theater in Dublin (where they filmed their debut show), it's fitting that ‘Celtic Thunder’ have chosen to return to their roots in order to film this musical odyssey back to the heart of the Celt.”

    — MUSIC MILLENNIUM (2025)

  • ‘Celtic Thunder’ has played such illustrious venues in… Los Angeles, Radio City Music Hall and the Beacon Theatre in NY, the Agganis Arena and Wang Center in Boston and has performed at the White House… Billboard hails ‘Celtic Thunder’ as top ‘World Album,’ artist and imprint of 2009 & 2011, and is their latest release 'Mythology' [featuring Kelly’s arrangement] has consistently held a number one position on the charts, since released in February 2013.”

    — REVERBNATION (2019)

  • “Mythology is the eighth show that Celtic Thunder made. It's a show with a bunch of different song styles in it from old Celtic songs till rock songs from modern times... They sing a mix of songs from ensembles with all of the members to solo songs for each of them to duets. For this show the group decided to go back to their roots and performed at the Helix in Dublin where they performed their very first show at… Some of their solo songs include… "Tears of Hercules by Keith," [arranged by Kelly]…I loved all of the stage lighting, their clothes, the song choices, how they sang, and the music”

    — TEEN INK (2015)

  • “The spectacular ‘Mythology’ tour will be covering an extensive 22 dates across capital city and regional markets throughout Australia… The ‘Mythology’ DVD debuted at #1 on the ARIA chart and remained on the chart for 25 weeks. Following on from ‘Mythology’ and to coincide with the tour Universal Music Australia… ‘Mythology’ is without a doubt Celtic Thunder's most extravagant and spectacular show to date. Taking you through the history of the Celtic people, this show looks back at the heritage and influences of the Celtic community.”

    — Staff, BROADWAY WORLD (2014)

  • “Like the Celts, ‘Mythology’ is bold, challenging, strong, proud and steeped in history. On the set… the old and the new combine, modern catalyst images are projected onto ancient standing stones… All six Celtic Thunder principals feature prominently in ‘Mythology,’ from haunting solo numbers to rousing ensembles and great original tracks that were written especially for [the TV special].”

    — Twin Cities PBS (St. Paul, MN)

  • “The audience were obviously well pleased. They had got what they came for“ — a slickly presented show, with engaging performers, presenting a mix of myth, Celtic twilight, hard rock and pop, backed by superb musicians... And certainly these young men had what it took to wow their audience.”

    — John Andrew, WEEKEND NOTES (Australia), (2013)

  • “Five Time Billboard Winning World Music Ensemble… Showcases the Rich Legacy & Heritage of Irish Music… [it] has earned them impressive recognition, including being named Billboard’s  Top World Music Artist five times, while their YouTube channel Thunder Tube has garnered over 300 million views since its inception in 2008, with over a million followers on their official Facebook page.” 

    — Robert E. Martin, REVIEW MAGAZINE (Michigan), (2023)

  • "The ‘Celtic Thunder’ repertoire is nothing if not eclectic, ranging from Irish Gaelic numbers like ‘Dúlamán’ and ‘Buachaill ón Éirne’ and [‘Tears of Hercules’ arranged by Kelly]… [Music director] Munro says he’ll ‘take Celtic music and perhaps dress it up with a little more theater than normal.’.. He adds, ‘I’ll take inspiration from anywhere. Simon and Garfunkel weren’t Celtic, but there’s a Simon and Garfunkel song in the “Mythology” show, so that works as well.” ​​

    — Jeffrey Gantz, THE BOSTON GLOBE (2013)

  • “Renowned the world over, Celtic Thunder is one of the most prominent Irish live music acts on the planet… Established in Dublin in 2007, Celtic Thunder has garnered global acclaim for emotionally charged performances and cutting-edge productions. Billboard magazine has awarded them Top World Album Artist five times, solidifying their position as a musical powerhouse.”

    — Shane O’Brien, IRISH CENTRAL (2024)

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Audra McDonald

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The O’Jays

  • “As a key member of Celtic Thunder, the blond singer from Derry, Northern Ireland, already has millions of devoted [fans] behind him… But his self-titled album with Verve Music Group - Keith was one of the first signings to David Foster's new label - is showcasing this unique voice to a wider audience. It features half wonderful originals and half covers [arranged by Kelly], interpreted with a Celtic twist by a singer with a sweetly beautiful voice - as that saying goes, Harkin could sing the phone book and we'd be sighing and weeping at that clear, unique sound.”

    — Susan Hartland, COURIER MAIL (2012)

  • “This album [co-arranged by Kelly] is gentler, a sweet, easy listening journey from a tremendous young singer songwriter who is bound to win even more fans. And those of us who've been there from the beginning will just have to share him.”

    — Susan Hartland, COURIER MAIL (2012)

“Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”

— Quote Source

“Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”

— Quote Source

“The orchestrations in Nathan’s compositions are done expertly.”

— Steven Stucky

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“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business.”

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“Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.”

Keith Harkin

  • “As a key member of Celtic Thunder, the blond singer from Derry, Northern Ireland, already has millions of devoted [fans] behind him… But his self-titled album with Verve Music Group - Keith was one of the first signings to David Foster's new label - is showcasing this unique voice to a wider audience. It features half wonderful originals and half covers [arranged by Kelly], interpreted with a Celtic twist by a singer with a sweetly beautiful voice - as that saying goes, Harkin could sing the phone book and we'd be sighing and weeping at that clear, unique sound.”

    — Susan Hartland, COURIER MAIL (2012)

  • “This album [co-arranged by Kelly] is gentler, a sweet, easy listening journey from a tremendous young singer songwriter who is bound to win even more fans. And those of us who've been there from the beginning will just have to share him.”

    — Susan Hartland, COURIER MAIL (2012)

“Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”

— Quote Source

Karol G.

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  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.

    Quote Source

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.

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  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.

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Michael Bublé

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