MWO Roster

 

Aubrey Logan

Aubrey Logan, often hailed as "The Queen of Sass," stands as one of the most brilliant contemporary jazz artists of our time. With a background as a singer, trombone player, and songwriter, her musical journey is a testament to the transformative power of jazz, an art form she sees as the great leveler.

In her body of work, Aubrey Logan intricately weaves together personal and inspiring stories, showcasing an emotional depth that transcends musical boundaries. Her integrity as a performer allows her to stretch herself across a diverse musical landscape, defying easy description. Recognized globally, Aubrey is praised for her ability to deliver in both intimate club settings and colossal festival stages, making her work accessible, fresh, and dynamic.

Having achieved a number one album with 'Where the Sunshine is Expensive,' Aubrey Logan returns to the spotlight with her follow-up collection, 'STANDARD.' This album is a journey into her musical past, featuring covers of iconic tracks such as Fleetwood Mac's 'Dreams,' 'Macarthur Park,' and 'Sunny Side of the Street,' alongside her original works 'Done Pretending' and 'Louboutins 2.0.' Collaborating with legends like Quincy Jones, Burt Bacharach, Josh Groban, Smokey Robinson, Patrice Rushen, and Pharrell Williams, Aubrey brings a unique perspective to her music, showcasing her versatility and mastery.

As the world faced unprecedented challenges, Aubrey Logan continued to produce music that brings hope, joy, and a touch of fun to her audiences. Her performances, ranging from tender love songs to triumphant powerhouse renditions, reflect a woman at the top of her game. Aubrey's vocals and trombone playing effortlessly navigate between the caress of a long-lost love and triumphant powerhouse performances that leave audiences in awe.

Headlining sold-out shows and festivals, captivating audiences at symphony dates worldwide, and leaving a lasting impact in intimate club settings, Aubrey Logan remains a force to be reckoned with in the world of jazz. Her latest album, 'STANDARD,' unveils depths that go beyond the expected, proving that "The Queen of Sass" has a musical range and complexity that continues to surprise and delight her audience. Aubrey Logan is the jazz artist you need in your life—a sassy, undeniably gifted talent with the power to uplift and inspire.

 

Aubrey Logan - Videos


 

Bill Cantos

Bill Cantos, a distinguished musician, songwriter, and vocalist, has left an indelible mark on the world of jazz and contemporary music. His songs have not only resonated with audiences through his solo work but have also been covered by a plethora of esteemed artists, including Ramsey Lewis, Lea Salonga, Patti Austin, Brenda Russell & Bobby Caldwell, Cheryl Bentyne, Flora Purim, Helen Baylor, Mark Winkler, and many others. His compositions are revered for their enduring quality, and the legendary Johnny Mandel once remarked, "Bill comes up with songs I wish I had written – these songs are built to last."

Bill Cantos is no stranger to the world stage, touring and recording with iconic figures such as Herb Alpert & Lani Hall, contributing to their Grammy-winning album "STEPPIN’ OUT." His tenure with Burt Bacharach from 2011 until Burt's final live shows in 2019 further solidified his reputation as a sought-after collaborator. Notably, he served as a backing vocalist on three world tours with Phil Collins and has toured with the likes of Diane Schuur, Deniece Williams, Kirk Whalum, Freddie Hubbard, and many more.

"Sensibility," Bill's latest solo album, is a testament to his artistry, featuring a blend of originals, including new songs co-written with Bacharach and Mandel, along with surprising takes on pop and jazz standards. His deep love for the music of Brazil is evident in his work, having collaborated extensively with renowned Brazilian artists such as Sergio Mendes, Dori Caymmi, Flora Purim, Airto Moreira, and Gal Costa.

Bill Cantos' versatility extends to his contributions to the film industry, where he sang and co-wrote the main title song "All Right Day" for the film "HOME RUN SHOWDOWN." His voice graces the soundtracks of over 100 films, and he has recorded as a session player/vocalist with a diverse range of artists, including Elton John, Leon Russell, Josh Groban, Barry Manilow, Bob Dylan, Brian Bromberg, Jay Graydon, El DeBarge, and Andrae Crouch.

In addition to his musical accomplishments, Bill is a member of the commercial music faculty at Azusa Pacific University. A recipient of a Masters in Jazz Studies from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, he has been honored with their Distinguished Alumni Award.

Beyond these accolades, Bill Cantos has shown his artistic range with a project re-imagining Disney songs in classic jazz style for the Carthay Circle Restaurant at Disney California Adventure. The resulting albums, "The Carthay Circle Sessions," recorded with his trio featuring Peter Erskine, Chuck Berghofer, and Don Shelton, garnered praise for their unique and exciting energy.

In essence, Bill Cantos continues to shape the musical landscape with a trio that combines classic jazz, pop, Brazilian influences, vocal scat, and piano improv. His contributions are not only a celebration of his own remarkable talent but also a bridge connecting generations of music lovers to the timeless and universal language of jazz.

 

Bill Cantos - Videos


 

Tawanda Suessbrich-Joaquim

Jazz, with its intricate rhythms, sophistication, and ever-evolving nature, has found a true storyteller in the award-winning vocalist Tawanda Suessbrich-Joaquim. Her soulful renditions reflect a vibrant mix of cultural heritages, a rich tapestry woven from her upbringing in the deep south of New Mexico on the Texas border. As a first-generation American born to a German mother and a father from Mozambique, Tawanda's musical journey embraces the intoxicating sounds from Cuba, the South Pacific Islands, the Middle East, and France, imprinted on her heart through family gatherings featuring the likes of the Gypsy Kings and Te Vaka.

From the rhythmic beats of Sam Mangwana and Angelique Kidjo to the soul-stirring tunes of Brenda Fassie and Hugh Masekela, Tawanda's musical influences traverse continents and genres. Her eclectic taste extends to classical composers like Vivaldi and Bach, seamlessly interwoven with the melodies of Carole King and James Taylor. Each artist represents a true aspiration for Tawanda, who, armed with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Santa Fe University of Art and Design, emerged from her education under the mentorship of jazz luminaries Mirabai Daniels and Horace Alexander Young.

Firmly rooted in her identity as a strong, powerful black woman, Tawanda pays homage to jazz legends such as Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, and Anita O'Day. Her journey into the worldwide jazz scene explores the multi-genre fusion found in its paradise of riches, guided by a desire to honor not only her peers but also the origins of her name, which translates as 'we are more' in the Bantu dialect Shona.

Tawanda's music is a call for collective healing and unity in a world marked by increasing polarization. Living as a black woman in a country grappling with its oppressive history, she sings for her people—the women who sustained villages and supported families. Her music embodies their emotions and deep ancestral indigenous wisdom, becoming a powerful narrative that shapes her life.

In her quest for positive change, Tawanda champions fundamental human rights, supporting universal education, access to clean water, sustainable economic growth, and positive social change. Her powerful vocal abilities, described as breathtaking, are a force in the music industry, gaining recognition with the prestigious 2020 Sarah Vaughan Vocal Jazz competition, a testament to her hard work and talent.

Now based in Los Angeles and supported by MWO management, Tawanda Suessbrich-Joaquim is poised to soar on the wings of success. With performances that captivate audiences worldwide, she stands as a beacon in the jazz community, bringing endless joy and a profound commitment to the art form. The future promises an exciting journey as Tawanda continues to make her mark in the world of jazz.

 

Tawanda Suessbrich-Joaquim - Videos

 

The 5th Dimension

In 1967, a little-known vocal group called the 5th Dimension recorded the song “Up, Up and Away” which catapulted the group to instant stardom. Countless magazine covers, world tours and several Grammys later, the 5th Dimension is recognized as one of the most prolific soul, R&B groups in musical history.

The 5th Dimension has made over 25 million in sales with 22 Top 40 hits and five No.1 songs, including “Up, Up and Away,” “Wedding Bell Blues,” “One Less Bell to Answer,” “Last Night I Didn’t Get to Sleep At All,” and the iconic “Aquarius/ Let the Sunshine In”. They have performed on the world’s most famous stages, including Radio City Music Hall alongside Frank Sinatra and the Hollywood Bowl, and delivered unforgettable television performances on the Ed Sullivan Show, Soul Train and The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. The 5th Dimension has secured its position in the Grammy Hall of Fame, with 14 gold records, six platinum records and six Grammy Awards.

In 2015, The 5th Dimension celebrated 50 years of extraordinary entertainment. Original member Florence LaRue and company continue to deliver dynamic performances that stand the test of time and captivate audiences from Las Vegas to Manila, Philippines.

While remaining true to their original, five-part harmonic sound, The 5th Dimension remains versatile, attracting audiences of all ages and nationalities. Within the last decade, The 5th Dimension has taken the stage with several prestigious symphony orchestras, entertained at the White House and performed for families at Disneyland in California and Disney World in Florida, demonstrating the groups diverse appeal. The iconic group continues to sell out venues across the United States, Europe and Asia.

According to a recent review by White Plains Citizens, ”[The 5th Dimensions’] voices and harmony are stronger, more emotional and as meaningful, perhaps more meaningful than when they first became hits in the 1965-1975 era. Today’s Dimensions deliver a tight, personal show, as crisp as old top 40 Radio.”

 

The 5th Dimension - Videos

 

Dani Hagan

Born and raised in Grand Forks, North Dakota and now based in Los Angeles, Dani has been developing her own brand of soulful rock while selling out some of LA’s most iconic venues, including The Viper Room, Molly Malone’s and The Mint.

2021 was her breakthrough year, releasing a three-track live EP ‘Jam In the Van.’

This year she teamed up with famed producer, Mikal Blue (OneRepublic, Jason Mraz), and is gearing up to drop a series of singles and new album later this year.

Dani Hagan is just getting started. Her versatility as an artist is never predictable and always intriguing. She has a long career ahead and is paving her own unique path, transcending genres  and always delivering with complete authenticity.

 

Dani Hagan - Videos

 

DARK LADY featuring Ariana Savalas

Delivering songs of blistering emotion and operatic theatricality, Dark Lady was summoned by the glam gods to create hair-flipping beauty out of the miseries in life and love. ​ The upcoming album DRAMA is comprised of 10 songs traversing the complete narrative of romantic desire.
Harmonic stacks of guitar and spell binding vocal operatics embrace audiences in a waterfall of cascading textures and avant pop melancholia. ​ Taking the etherial circus on the road, Dark Lady's electric musicality and onstage dramatics would make Alice Cooper proud, and Shakespeare blush. From a band led by one of the most renown burlesque stars in the world, Ariana Savalas, audiences should expect nothing less.

 

DARK LADY featuring Ariana Savalas - Videos

 

C.S. Lewis starring David Payne

The year is 1963 and C.S. Lewis, the famous British author, is hosting a group of American writers at his home near Oxford. They are about to experience a captivating evening with a man whose engaging conversation and spontaneous humor made him one of the great raconteurs of his day.

Seated in his living room and he recalls the people and events that inspired his thought and shaped his life; of his friendship with J.R.R. Tolkien; why he nearly abandoned the Narnia Chronicles; how he came to embrace Christianity and of the American woman who turned his life upside down.

Described by critics as ‘Extraordinary!’ ‘A Must See!’ ‘A Master Class!’ An Evening with C.S. Lewis has proved again and again to be an enthralling theatrical experience and one which has led many thousands to discover (or rediscover) the continuing impact of a man who died over 50 years ago and whose collected works made him one of the literary giants of the 20th Century.

 

C.S. Lewis starring David Payne - Videos

 

Churchill starring David Payne

This one-man play is set in the year 1963 and follows a White House Ceremony during which President Kennedy made Churchill an honorary citizen of the United States of America. Due to health reasons, Churchill was unable to attend the ceremony so the American Oxford Society have honored Churchill with a celebration dinner. The location of the celebration dinner is Blenheim Palace, the famous stately home near Oxford and was where Churchill was born. The Society president has asked Churchill to give an informal talk on the significant events in his life including the American contribution. With his renowned reputation for oratory and humor, Churchill’s audience is enraptured as he recounts the path that led to his wartime leadership, the US influence in his life including the many US presidents he met and the man he described as ‘The most famous author in the world!’ He also reflects on the importance of two of the most important women in his life – his wife Clementine whom he called Clemmie and Queen Elizabeth 2nd who ascended the throne during his second term as British Prime Minister.

 

Churchill starring David Payne - Videos

 

Siegfried Tieber

Siegfried Tieber is a Los Angeles-based performer and sleight-of-hand magician. Born and raised in Ecuador, his first international appearance was in 2011 in Bogotá, Colombia. In 2015, Siegfried headlined at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the largest arts festival in the world, where his performance was highly praised by reviewers and critics. 2017 saw the premiere of his show See/Saw in Los Angeles and in 2018 the project was taken to New York, where Time Out NY listed it as #1 in its “The best magic shows in New York City.” Siegfried has been featured in prominent media outlets such as Huffington Post, Los Angeles Times and Forbes. Most recently he was invited to be part of Penn & Teller: Fool Us, a television series featuring the legendary performance duo (yes, he did fool them).

 

Siegfried Tieber - Videos