On The Sofa With Esther: Where Legends and Stars Hang Out
By Esther Austin
Through heartfelt conversations, she explores the journeys that shaped these individual, the challenges, failures, and pivotal moments that define their legacies. From inspiring untold tales to deep reflections on passion and purpose, this podcast celebrates and honours music pioneers and legends.
On the Sofa with Esther: Little Anthony from The Imperials
"On the Sofa with Esther" takes a trip down memory lane with a special interview with the legendary Little Anthony from The Imperials, originally recorded in 2018 .
Little Anthony, born Jerome Anthony Gourdine on January 8, 1941, is a legendary American singer and the lead vocalist of the iconic R&B group Little Anthony and The Imperials. Known for his smooth falsetto and emotionally charged performances, Little Anthony helped the group rise to fame in the late 1950s and 1960s.
The group gained prominence with hits like "Tears on My Pillow," "Goin' Out of My Head," and "Hurt So Bad." Their music blended heartfelt lyrics with rich harmonies, becoming staples of the golden age of R&B.
Little Anthony and The Imperials were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2009, a testament to their lasting influence on music history. Anthony's unique voice and the group's timeless classics continue to inspire audiences worldwide.
This captivating conversation offers a heartfelt glimpse into the group that brought us timeless classics like:
Tears on My Pillow" (1958) "Shimmy, Shimmy, Ko-Ko-Bop" (1960) "Goin' Out of My Head" (1964) "Hurt So Bad" (1965) "I'm on the Outside (Looking In)" (1964) "Two People in the World" (1958) "Take Me Back" (1965) "Better Use Your Head" (1966) "I Miss You So" (1965) "Out of Sight, Out of Mind" (1959)Don't miss this opportunity to delve into the story of one of music's most iconic acts.
On the Sofa with Esther: Felton Pilate and Michael Cooper from Confunkshun
'On the Sofa with Esther' is a talk show hosted by Esther Austin, featuring interviews with various personalities.
In this episode, she interviewed Felton Pilate and Michael Cooper, members of the legendary funk band Con Funk Shun. During the interview, they discussed their musical journey, the evolution of the band, and their experiences in the music industry.
Con Funk Shun, formed in the early 1970s, is renowned for hits like "Ffun" and "Love's Train." Felton Pilate and Michael Cooper have been pivotal in shaping the band's distinctive sound, blending funk, R&B, and soul.
To watch the full interview, you can visit the official Esther Austin Global "On the Sofa with Esther" YouTube channel.
This episode provides an in-depth look into the lives and careers of these influential musicians and talks about their latest single.
On the Sofa with Esther Multi-Instrumentalist, Performer, Trumpeter Basil Bankston
On the Sofa with Esther: Basil Bankston
Join Esther as she sits down with the talented Basil Bankston, a multi-instrumentalist, performer, and renowned trumpeter. Discover the stories behind his music, his journey through the world of performance, performing with some of the top lead Tribute Bands i.e The Dynamics, The Platters etc and the inspiration fueling his artistry.
Whether you're a music enthusiast or simply curious about the creative process, this conversation offers an intimate look into the life of a true musical virtuoso.
Intro Voice Over Credit: Darnel Alexander
Intro Music Credit: Antron Haile from Tronzy Productions
On the Sofa with Esther: Sarah Brown Discusses Her New Album 'Sarah Brown Sings Mahalia Jackson
Here's a refined, engaging introduction for Sarah Brown's appearance on On the Sofa with Esther:
Joining On the Sofa with Esther is the extraordinary Sarah Brown, who released her debut album Sarah Brown Sings Mahalia Jackson in 2023.
This heartfelt collection showcases Sarah's unique interpretations of timeless classics by Mahalia Jackson, one of the most iconic gospel singers of the 20th century.
“For as long as I can remember, Mahalia Jackson’s fever-pitched performances have been a soothing note to my tapestry,” Sarah shares. “I chose these songs because they tell my story. My style draws from early jazz, blues, and spirituals.”
While you may not instantly recognize Sarah Brown’s name, her voice has graced countless stages and albums through collaborations with legends like George Michael, Stevie Wonder, Duran Duran, Simply Red, Roxy Music, Pink Floyd, and Simple Minds. As one of the most sought-after vocalists in the world, Sarah Brown's talent and passion are truly unmatched.
Tune in as Sarah joins Esther Austin for a very deep, passionate and intimate conversation, as she celebrates the Soul of her Ancestors and Slaves through the music of Mahalia Jackson
Intro Credit Voice Over: Darnel Alexander
Intro Credit Music: Antron Haile, Tronzy Productions
Outro Credit Music: Antron Haile, Tronzy Productions
On the Sofa with Esther Capri Compton and Dre Infinite: Where HipHop Meets Opera
Joining 'On the Sofa with Esther is Opera Singer Capri Compton with her first single 'The Song of the Butterfly' from her HipHopera album, where she collaborates with rapper Dre infinite where she sings Opera Arias, which has been released on Enthrone Records Ent. Capri's love for opera and wanting to find a way to share the beauty of the music with mainstream audiences lead her to create the Hip Hop Opera music.
Dre Infinite, was raised in Long Beach ,Ca. by way of Cleveland, Ohio. Dre has been doing music since he was 15 years old. He started off as a dancer and worked his way up the ladder until he got a record deal with Ruthless Records at the age of 17. Unfortunately before his release his mentor and Executive Producer "Eazy e" died as well as his opportunity. However, Dre Infinite Producer/Songwriter is West Coast Hip Hop. And his collaboration with Capri Compton on ‘ The Song of the Butterfly’ is a wonderful fusion of Opera and HopHop. Intro Credits Voice Over: Darnel Alexander
Intro Credit Music: Antron Haile, Tronzy Productions
On the Sofa with Esther: Shirley Jones of The Jones Girls
On the Sofa with Esther: Shirley Jones, of the iconic group The Jones Girls, joins me to share the heartfelt story behind her tribute album Reflections: In Loving Memory. This deeply personal album honors the legacy of her two late sisters, blending nostalgia and love into every track. Tune in for an intimate conversation about music, family, and remembrance.
Intro Voice Over: Darnel Alexander
Intro & Outro Music: Antron Haile of Tronzy Productions
On the Sofa with Esther is Calvin Alston aka C.A.L
On the Sofa with Esther: C.A.L Alston, son of music legend Gerald Alston, joins me to discuss his eclectic album Rebirth and Reverberation. In this deep and insightful conversation, C.A.L, son of legend Gerald Alston of The Manhattans, shares the story of his personal growth and how it profoundly shaped his creative journey and this transformative album. Tune in for an inspiring exploration of music, life, and self-discovery.
Intro VoiceOver: Darnel Alexander
Intro Music: Antron Haile, Tronzy Productions
On the Sofa with Esther in a heartfelt conversation with June Carryl, Playwriter of BLUE
On the Sofa with Esther: Join me in a heartfelt conversation with June Carryl, a talented USA actor and playwriter, as we delve into the inspiration behind her bold and thought-provoking play Blue, which tackles the complexities of policing. Tune in for insights, powerful storytelling, and a glimpse into her creative journey.
June Carryl, the playwright behind BLUE, also takes on the role of Detective Parker, delivering a performance rich in authenticity and depth. Her portrayal, alongside John Colella as Boyd Sully, has been widely praised for its emotional intensity and the compelling chemistry between the two act Intro Voice Over: Darnel Alexander
Intro and Outro Music: Antron Haile of Tronzy Productions
On the Sofa with Esther Trailer
Welcome to On the Sofa with Esther Podcast with Voice Over by Diane Mathis, Singer, Actor, Songwriter and featuring music legends The Late Sonny Turner from The Original Platters and Lamont McLemore from The Fifth Dimension; Roy Hamilton Jr, the son of Roy Hamilton who was known as The Golden Boy of Song; Wayne Vaughn Producer and Keyboardist and husband of Wanda Vaughn of The Emotions; William 'Mickey' Stevenson Motown's first A&R Man; Actor Cullen Chambers; Howard Hewett (Shalamar); 4 time Grammy Award Winner Deniece Williams; Jeffrey Daniels from Shalamar; Heather Hayes - Daughter of Isaac Hayes; Actor Danny Glover.
A podcast that captures and honours legends and pioneers and upports upcoming artists
On the Sofa with Esther - Freda Payne Pays Tribute to the late Lamont Dozier
Legend Freda Payne, known for 'Band of Gold' talks about her friendship with the late Lamont Dozier, (June 16, 1941 – August 8, 2022) was an American singer, songwriter, and record producer from Detroit, Michigan, known as the Motown master craftsman who created miracles under pressure. Freda shares about his influence in her life and her career.
On the Sofa with Esther - The Brand New Heavies
On the Sofa with Esther Formed in London, UK, Brand New Heavies are a pioneering jazz collective who helped create the sound of acid jazz, fusing funk, soul and hip hop production ... Here Esther talks to Andrew Levy, Founding member from Brand New Heavies ahead of their live stream gig at The Jazz Café in February 2021 about their album TBNH.
Esther's Espurational Message -Introspection and Authenticity of Self
Esther interviews artist Marshayne Formerly Known as Wayne 'G-Spot' Marshall About his Latest Single
On Wednesday 18th August 2021, all roads led to the the Odeon Luxe and Dine in Islington, as members of the Press congregated to celebrate the launch of Marshayne's latest single 'I Kneel for You' (formerly known as Wayne 'G-Spot' Marshall). Another sassy, sexy track of pure sexual indulgence that could make anyone grow weak at the knees and which also came with a titillating video, full of niceness and naughtiness, taking us back to those moments and memories of Marshayene's 90's timeless tune 'G-Spot' and what this man truly stood for. Sex. Touch. Intimacy and lots of Lurving.......
I managed to grab 5 minutes with Wayne to talk about his latest single and a little more.........
On the Sofa with Esther is Shirley Jones from The Jones Girls
"The Jones Girls were an American R&B vocal trio of sisters from Detroit, Michigan, United States. Consisting of Brenda, Shirley and Valorie Jones, The Jones Girls first signed and recorded for GM Records in 1970. The trio were best known for their singles during the late–1970s through the 1980s; most notably 1979's "You Gonna Make Me Love Somebody Else." Wikipedia
The Legendary Shirley Jones, surviving member of the Jones Girls talks to Esther about life growing up with her sisters Valerie and Brenda, she shares about what she is doing now and about the remakes of - 'Who Can I run to?'
Remember: Nights over Egypt, 'You Gonna Make Me Love Somebody Else,' 'At Peace with Woman'
A fabulous interview with a living legend.
On the Sofa with Esther is Whittington Still - Soul/Rnb/Jazz Artist
Whittington Still is one of the most incredible Soul/Rnb/Jazz Singers/Songwriters I have come across in a long time.
Her velvety, sultry, deeply rich vocals is able to take you on a journey beyond yourself. Likened to Phyllis Hyman, Whittington takes you on an incredible journey. Whittington has been crafting her art for a long time and has produced some incredible tracks such as:
Missing You, The Chase, Don't Be Afraid and more.......
WHITTINGTON'S MUSIC IS AVAILABLE ON PANDORA, SPOTIFY, ITUNES, AMAZON MUSIC, YOUTUBE & MORE.
Whittington also has her very own bespoke jewellery range called The Whittington Still Collection
Visit: www.whittingtonstill.com for more details
On the Sofa with Esther is Jon Batiste
Esther talks to Jon about his upcoming album 'We Are' to be released on 19th March. Jon and his band are performing live at The Brooklyn Bowl on March 11th. Jon is an American musician, bandleader, and television personality.
'We Are' is an eclectic mix of a compilation of various genres of song and music, along with Jon's deeply rich, melodic voice of consciousness - as he ranges from the sounds of gospel through to pop, infused with a touch of soul.
This interview provides an insight into an incredibly deep man whose has been used as a vehicle to create music of hope and joy with messages to support us all in standing in that place of contemplation and reflection in order to birth something different, new and even better within our lives, especially during the times we are in. His track 'I Need You' is cheerful, playful and fun-filled - one of optimism and longing for better days, subtly and enticingly asking us all to find fun in the moments of the music, to let our souls ride with the rhythm of the beat and our feet to tap out those tunes.
SOUL is on Digital from 23rd March and on Blu-Ray™ and DVD from 29th March
I Need You: (3) jon batiste i need you - YouTube
On the Sofa with Esther is John 'The Bossman' Hall
John 'The Bossman' Hall joins me on the sofa with an eclectic story of his life in the entertainment industry and all the amazing artists and legends he has worked and performed with.
John 'The Bossman' Hall is from Philadelphia and is a performer, singer, dancer and actor who has had an eclectic career in the entertainment industry. He comes from a family of entertainers. He is an incredibly talented, driven and focussed individual, always one for pushing forwards towards bigger and greater heights.
I have watched John conduct a James Brown performance and he is incredible. John also once toured with James Brown and he also met Michael Jackson as well as produced a single for Michael Jackson called 'Let's Do The Michael Jackson' by The Broadway Thrillers. That was the first song John did in 1984.
John was also a member of Philly Cream who sang on 'Love Can't turn around' by Philly Cream and his new song by Fyrestorm is called 'I'm The Bossman'
John has also recently starred in a film called Erie Planet Live.
Interview on 21st February 2021
On the Sofa with Esther is Chris Amoo from The Real Thing
Another great conversation with an incredible person. Apt for celebrating Valentine's Day. Here Chris talks about his late brother Eddie, his passion for music. He gives an insight into the journey of The Real Thing and more.
Remember tunes such as: Can you Feel the Force? Children of the Ghetto? You to me Are Everything?
Also you will hear Five Minutes of Health Motivation from Tray Ann from Inside-Out Lifestyle . Tray Ann joins me every week on the show to give the audience tips about healthy eating, fitness and well-being.
For more information visit: https://www.facebook.com/insideouthealthylifestyles/
On the Sofa with Esther is Freda Payne
Freda Payne is an American singer and actress and is best known for her career in music during the mid–1960s through the mid–1980s. Her most notable record is “Band of Gold“ her 1970 hit single. Freda was also an actress in musicals and film, as well as the host of a TV talk show and she is the older sister of Scherrie Payne, a former singer with the American vocal group The Supremes.
On the Sofa, Freda shares some great insights into her life as a vocalist and actress. Freda is a woman who has toured the world and worked with an eclectic array of renowned artists and people including Quincy Jones, Pearl Bailey, and Bill Cosby. She is a woman who has a love of life, her music and aspires to do so much more. Freda also talks about the passing of the great late Mary Wilson, one of the co-founders of The Supremes.
Freda was inducted into the 2017 class of the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame, in her hometown of Detroit.
In November 2020, Freda recorded a duet with Johnny Mathis called 'They Can't Take That Away From Me'.
https://www.fredapayne.com
On the Sofa with Esther is Zeola Gaye
Valentine's Day has been celebrated for centuries. The music of Marvin Gaye is legendary for that of love and sensuality. On today's show I talk to his sister the wonderful Zeola Gaye who has written a book 'My Brother Marvin.' Zeola Gaye shares candidly brief excerpts of her life growing up and what her father was like as well as Marvin. She touches briefly on the relationship between each family member. Zeola doesn't give much away in our interview about the book, but just enough to whet our appetite of curiosity, an inspiration for us all to purchase a copy of her book.
The interview with Zeola was affirming, refreshing and incredibly open and authentic. Zeola shares about her struggles, her failures, her weaknesses and yet with introspection and self-reflection she has come through her journey stronger, wiser garnering a spirit of contentedness and an appreciation for life.
My Brother Marvin can be purchased at:
https://www.amazon.com/Brother-Marvin-Memoir-Zeola-Gaye/dp/0615518761
You will also hear 10 minutes of Fine Dining Inspiration by the delightful Tony Jazz, Bespoke Lifestyle Manager/ Public Speaker on Hospitality Careers. Here he shares Fine Dining Etiquette at home with a loved one. To book Tony Jazz for your VIP Private Function visit:
https://www.facebook.com/tony.jazz.370/
On the Sofa with Esther - The Three Degrees
Esther interviews The Three Degrees, Valerie Holiday, Helen Scott and Freddie Pool who are a female Philadelphia soul and disco vocal musical group, formed in 1963 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The threesome have retained all three of their major qualities — their beauty, their sparkling choreography and their precise vocal qualities. The Three Degrees have been in the business for over 50 years.
They are best known for their chart topping hits such as: "When Will I see you Again" , “Dirty Ol’ Man”, “Take Good Care Of Yourself”. They shared about their love for music and performing, they shared about the lock down and how it has affected them and they also shared about their latest album STRATEGY - Their tribute to Philadelphia all in between lots of laughter and giggles. It was an absolute pleasure talking to them.
Interview conducted on 7th February 2021on www.lnsoulradio.com
The Three Degrees
To view other interviews with legends and artists visit: www.estheraustinglobal.biz
On the Sofa with Esther - Benidito King
Benidito King is the eldest son of Legend Ben E King. Benidito is a Singer, Songwriter, Producer, Musician at Torrienti's Enterprises. Ben E. King was Famous for his songs Stand By Me, Spanish Harlem, and I Who Have Nothing. Here we talk briefly about his father, Ben E King and memories from his childhood.
A fabulous discussion with an incredible artist about his music, his partnership with his son who is also a famous rapper. He also shares his outlook on life and lots of giggles with his wonderful wife Kim.
Benidito also shares briefly about his upcoming book: Son of A King
Interview Conducted on 24th January 2021
On the Sofa with Esther - Darryl F Walker
Darryl F. Walker is a Singer/Saxophonist/Percussionist/Songwriter and International Recording Artist. I've had the pleasure of interviewing Darryl on several occasions. Darryl is an incredible artists with stunning vocals. In this interview he talks about wisdom gained from his journey and his passion for music. Listen to this interview and some of his tracks such as 'Hold Me' and 'You Send Me'. Mellow madness at its best.
On the Sofa with Esther on www.lnsoulradio.com
http://www.darrylfwalker.com/
Interview conducted on 24th January 2021
On the Sofa with Esther - Andrew Levy from The Brand New Heavies Talking about Their Valentine Livestream Gig on Sunday 14th February 2021
"The Brand New Heavies’ debut album first strutted its way into the public eye with a winning funky formula that would go on to earn them sixteen Top 40 hits and three million worldwide album sales, not to mention two UK Platinum albums? Emerging at the heart of the Acid Jazz scene, they made an instant impact with audiences on both sides of the Atlantic, and over the last three decades the band have not let up releasing enduring classics such as ‘Never Stop’. 'You Are The Universe', 'Midnight At The Oasis' and 'Dream Come True'.The Brand New Heavies will be performing a livestream gig at the London Jazz Cafe for Valentines Day on Sunday 14th February 2021 at 8pm.
For the first time ever, and in their first performance since last year’s lockdown, TBNH, led by Andrew Levy and Simon Bartholomew and featuring stunning vocalist Angela Ricci, take to the stage on Valentine’s Day to stream live to their worldwide fans and lovers of stylish, good-time grooves direct from London’s Jazz Café on Sunday 14th February at 8.00pm UK time. Get ready for some of the best in-close-up funk and soul right in your home!"
Tickets £20 available from www.streamzy.co.uk and the Jazz Cafe website www.jazzcafelondon.com
On the Sofa with Esther - Gregory Williams from SWITCH
On the Sofa with Esther - R&B/Soul Artist KENYA
On the Sofa with Esther - Sonny Turner from The Platters
Here Sonny talks about how he became a singer, about his aspirations and dreams. The Platters produced songs such as Blue Moon, With this Ring, Smoke Gets in Your Eyes, Twilight Times, Only You and many more....
On the Sofa with Esther - Robert Upchurch from legendary Disco Group The Trammps
Original Boney M Lead Singer Liz Mitchell Celebrates 50 Year Career
The free live performance on Monday December 21 (7pm UK/8pm CET) will be on the official Liz Mitchell Facebook page.....It will also be streamed via Instagram and Youtube on Liz Mitchell Official. Further details can be found at..https://estheraustinglobal.wixsite.com/estheraustinglobal
On the Sofa with Esther - Jamaica's King of Comedy Oliver Samuels
On the Sofa with Director Peter Murimi of the Documentary ' I Am Samuel'
' Here Esther Austin talks to Peter Murimi about the film and further explores issues around understanding, compassion, culture and tradition and societal beliefs around homosexuality. @IAmSamuel
On the sofa with Tiny Tavares from Tavares
On the Sofa with Cynthia Scott Award Winning Jazz, Blues, R&B and Gospel Vocalist
Esther's Espirational Message - Nana and the Little People: How to Remain Calm Out on the Street
Esther's Espirational Message - How to Know If you Are Being Authentic to YOU?
Esther's Espirational Message - The Difference Between an Abundance Mindset and a Scarcity Mindset
Financial Planning, Education, Legacy Building and Wealth. Time to knowledge Up. Protect Your Family
On the Sofa with Esther - Young Voices: How to Manage Life in this Current Situation
On the Sofa wih Owen Alexander-Ffrench - How to find your Freedom of Choice
Esther's Espirational Message - Fan the Flames with Peace
On the Sofa with Jo Billingslea from The Contours
Esthers Espirational Message - Silence and Wisdom of The Soul
Esther's Espirational Message - Mis-guided That I Am by
On the Sofa with Daphne Maxwell Reid, Actress
On the Sofa with Roy Ayres re his Ubiquity 'Mystic Voyage' 45th Anniversary UK Tour
On the sofa with Brenda Wilson Daughter of Jackie Wilson
Esther talks to award winning Motivational Speaker and Shine Strategist Clara Rufai
On the Sofa with Jewel Carter, The King of Funk
