What's Happening?
Jon Lampley, a trumpeter, sousaphone player, singer, and long-time member of 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert' house band, has released his sophomore solo album, 'Notes To Self'. The album features a reimagining of Otis Redding’s 'Dock of the Bay'
and includes collaborations with Lawrence and Louis Cato. The lead single, 'Greener,' released in March, notably features an appearance from Stephen Colbert. Written by Lampley and Clyde Lawrence, 'Greener' explores the tension between personal success and appreciating others' achievements. Lampley's decision to record 'Dock of the Bay' was a personal tribute to his father, who loved the song. The album combines jazz, soul, gospel, and contemporary roots music, showcasing Lampley's instrumental abilities and a more personal approach to songwriting across its 10 tracks. Recording sessions took place at The Lighthouse and Bistro 586 in Brooklyn.
Why It's Important?
This release marks a significant step for Jon Lampley as he transitions from a prominent sideman to a solo artist, leveraging his extensive experience from 'The Late Show'. His ability to attract high-profile collaborators like Stephen Colbert and other 'Late Show' musicians underscores the respect and connections he has built within the industry. The album's blend of genres and personal storytelling could resonate with a broad audience, potentially establishing Lampley as a significant voice in contemporary soul and jazz. For fans of 'The Late Show', it offers a new dimension to an artist they've seen perform nightly. The album's themes of ambition, relationships, and self-discovery are universally relatable, giving it potential for widespread appeal beyond his existing fanbase. This move also highlights the career trajectory of talented musicians who gain national exposure through late-night television.
What's Next?
Lampley's album 'Notes To Self' is now available, and he aims to establish himself as a front-facing artist rather than a side project. The accompanying music video for 'Greener,' directed by Warren Tyler Ward, visually explores the competing emotions of ambition and gratitude, which will likely continue to promote the album. With the end of 'The Late Show' creating a natural transition point, Lampley is poised to focus on his solo career, with ambitions to create music that fosters a sense of community. Future endeavors may include touring to support the album and further collaborations, building on the network of musicians he developed during his time on television. The album's success will be a key indicator of his ability to translate his sideman success into a thriving solo career.
Beyond the Headlines
Lampley's journey from a long-standing member of a national television house band to a solo artist reflects a broader trend in the music industry where session musicians and sidemen increasingly step into the spotlight. This transition often involves navigating the balance between established professional relationships and forging a unique artistic identity. The personal nature of his tribute to his father through 'Dock of the Bay' adds an emotional depth that can connect with listeners on a more profound level, moving beyond mere musical performance to shared human experience. His emphasis on creating music that fosters community also speaks to the evolving role of artists in society, using their platform to build connections and address universal themes. This shift highlights the artistic growth and ambition often cultivated behind the scenes in high-profile musical environments.
