Photos by Debra Rothenberg
One of the perks of being a music writer is hearing new music, often in unexpected places. Such was the case when UMG/Verve/Forecast had a holiday get-together in their lobby, on Broadway not far from the famed Christmas windows, Rockefeller Center and the tree, and just north of the Brill Building.
Tucked behind the friendly-but-firm guards, UMG keeps a large room furnished with sleek couches and a small stage. At the door, a large table filled with a dozen varieties of holiday cookies beckoned, and next to that, an open bar. Friendly people gathered—and then the really good stuff kicked in: J. S. Ondara, a Kenyan immigrant with a spectacular voice and original songs played for half an hour.
Twenty-six but looking 16, Ondara hasn’t released his first album yet, but he’s definitely got what it takes. He sang six songs and turned party-goers into fans. Nice holiday gift!
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