The A-Beez is a Boston-based music collective with roots in soul, funk and R&B. At its core are keyboardist Amy Bellamy and bassist Aaron Bellamy. The two began their musical collaboration in the early 2000s as members of the Sam Kininger band (BMG Japan recording artists). This relationship would blossom as they would go on to work as sidemen and studio/session musicians, backing up artists including Chaka Khan, Beyoncé, Terri Lyne Carrington, Elan Trotman, Martin Luther, Cody Chestnut, CeeLo Green and many more. In addition to touring nationally and internationally, the Bellamys are staples of the local Boston scene, hosting a long-standing residency at Boston’s renowned Wally’s Café (over 14 years and still running) and performing in clubs and venues throughout New England and the East Coast. Their debut album, “Never Going Back,” was released in April 2015. Though it can be loosely classified as “soul,” The A-Beez have an eclectic and original sound which draws from the traditions of funk and R&B, and is heavily influenced by jazz as well as hip hop. You may detect hints of rock, country and even classical if you listen closely. The lyrics are deeply personal and honest, and the music grooves while remaining melodically elegant and full of subtle complexity. The production is pure and simple without the gloss and fakeness all too prevalent these days. Read more about them on their official website or here.

Native to Dover, Delaware, Charles M. Murrell III is an AfriClassical musician, composer, civil rights activist and active member and composer for both Sotto Voce Saxophone Duo and Kaya Wind Ensemble. He is also the founder and director of The BEAT (Black Experimental Arts Theatre) Company. Murrell’s primary studies were with saxophonist Tim Green at Morgan State University. He has also worked with woodwind clinician Stephanie Sanders, artistic coach Larry Williams and composer Dr. James Lee III. He holds a composition residency with the American Studio Orchestra in Baltimore, MD and has written works for The Boston Conservatory Saxophone Ensemble, Delaware State University Music Programs and the R.E.A.L. Orchestra in Raleigh, North Carolina. Currently, Murrell resides in Boston, performing, composing and volunteering. He is a teaching artist at the Epiphany School and continuing studies under saxophonist Kenneth Radnofsky. Image courtesy of Castle of Our Skins.