Najee's music is one of the first smooth jazz music I came in contact with. It was his album "Day By Day" released in 1988, in the time when CDs were gaining popularity as new media. Najee has performed with so many artists that I just name the most popular ones: Chaka Khan, Prince, George Duke and Lionel Richie. In the earlier time Najee's albums went platinum like "Day By Day" or gold like "Tokyo Blue" (1991) and "Just an Illusion" (1992). But nowadays it's difficult for an instrumentalist to sell such amount. Najee comments: "The missing link over the past few years has been having a great label that loves what they do, and I am excited to have a fresh new start on Heads Up. I'm ready to get out there and have fun again, sharing music from "My Point of View".

Sidewayz was written and produced by Chris "Big Dog" Davis. Some of you will know Chris by albums like "Christmas, Love And You" (Will Downing), or "Streetwize" (The Slow Jamz Album). Chris is performing keyboards and supporting Najee's solo flute act. There are many musicians showing virtuosity on sax and flute on one album. For example Dave McMurray, Greg Vail, Nelson Rangell or Zig Noda. Chris has written most tunes of this album.

3 AM is featuring Will Downing. This laid back and mellow tune is nicely tailored for this great singer. Najee is playing soprano sax setting some improvisation.

Fallin' In Love is introducing the new voice Lomon Andrews. This singer has toured with Will Downing and his next album will be produced by Chris Davis. So we have here a great family.  Lomon has performed as part of opening acts for Phyllis Hyman, Keith Washington, The Stylistics, The Chi-Lites, and the Dramatics. He has also performed on stage with Chaka Khan and Anita Baker and sang background for Melissa Morgan.

I recently wrote about Rex Rideout reviewing Mike Phillips' new album "Uncommon Denominator". Here is he again on Back In The Day. What can be a better prove for my statement: an in-demand producer and keyboardist since his collections "Forever, For Always, For Luther", "Ridin' High" and "Club 1600". Michael White (drums), Dwight Sills (guitar) are on this party again.

The same team has recorded Charm. The title says it all. A melody charming the audience.

My Point of View combines two directions of music: Modern drum programming with a classic smooth jazz interpretation. Najee sensibly feels the music and performs the potential of his instrument.

Keyboardist James Loyd of the group Pieces Of A Dream is since long time an integral part of Heads Up Records' roaster. On 2nd 2 None he lays down his own fresh signature.

Emotional is presenting the singer Sisaundra. She performed with Peabo Bryson, Celine Dione, Michael Bolton, George Duke, Kenny Lattimore, Patti LaBelle, Janet Jackson, Sheila E, Gloria Estefan and a lot more of great artists. The song was arranged by Fareed Haqq, an attractive duet of Sisaundra's vocals and Najee's soprano sax.

The slow and memorable How Lovely You Are is revealing Najee's true romantic soul.

Superb is Najee's son. He performs guitar and drum programming on the final tune Miyuki. 

Great to have Najee back in the smooth jazz circle. His personal statement of music is a worthy addition to every smooth jazz fan's portfolio.