PR2010 Aug 25 TUES

TERRIFIC TUESDAY GETS SMOOTH KICKOFF

The impressive solo rifts and easy going artistry of guitarist Keith Williams provided a smooth kickoff for

Shelton State’s 2010-2011 Terrific Tuesday series in the Alabama Power Recital Hall on the College’s Martin

Campus.

Williams, a former Shelton State student, played a variety of smooth and traditional jazz that included covers of

contemporary songs along with numbers by Miles Davis, Duke Ellington, and Bill Withers. Nicknamed

“Cashmere” because of his fondness for playing a smooth, more commercial style of jazz, Williams said he often

preferred it because it was easiest to solo over and even referred to it as “soothing to the soul.”

“This is my job, my passion, it is what I do,” said Williams as he encouraged the many students in attendance in

their pursuits. “I never feel like I am work.”

Williams has become one of the most prominent musicians in the Southeast. He is a regular guest artist in studio

sessions and live performances, even touring with “American Idol” star Ruben Studdard from 2003 to 2006. He

began playing as a five-year-old and honed his talent to study at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, where

he produced and recorded his first self-titled CD in 1995.

He released his second CD, “Set the Mood, ” in 2000, which received rave reviews and national airplay. Since

then, Keith created his own record label (Lenoah Records) and has opened for renowned artists such as Kirk

Whalum, Ramsey Lewis, and Boney James. Williams, known for his smooth style, recently released his third CD,

“New Birth.” For more information visit his Web site, www.keithwilliams.ws.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Craig Threlkeld 205.391.5838

cthrelkeld@sheltonstate.edu