5 Songs I Love w/ Bernell Jones II

Following the release of his latest single 'Love Sings', Flex caught up with NYC Saxophonist and composer Bernell Jones II to discover what influences his fusion of R&B, soul, and alternative jazz sounds. If you enjoy Bernell's picks, be sure to check out 'Love Sings' at the end of the article.

1. Share My Life by Kem 

I love this track because it is the definition of a true love song — R&B in its purest form written from the heart, where every part of the song, from the lyrics, to the instrumental arrangement choices to the structure of the song all create the perfect atmosphere for the song’s message. I grew up listening to Kem, and like his music, my music isn’t jazz but there is a clear imprint of jazz’s influence in my music. 

2. Where I Go by NxWorries 

When this is whole Anderson .Paak & Knxwledge album came out I couldn’t stop listening to it. I would always bump it on my long drives to my out-of-town wedding gigs. As someone who has been critical of most mainstream music that has been released these days, this song gave me hope for future of music. Anderson .Paak is such a versatile artist and someone I strive to be like in my career as an artist. 

3. Pink Fur by Butcher Brown 

This song feels so good to listen to, and it’s paired with a beautiful album cover which is a huge selling point for me. I’ve always been intrigued with artistic and vibrant album covers because they make me want to go back to listen to the album even more. I’ve been listening to this band since I was a teenager and hearing their evolution is very inspiring. This particular track is my favorite because it’s not your typical 2020s rap song with a lazily looped pre-programmed beat. It is a soulful arrangement with a thoughtfully crafted chord progression, and I am a sucker for nice chords. 

4. New Girl by Duke Pearson

Duke Pearson will always be in my rotation. He was a wonderful pianist and arranger whose music has taught me a lot about structuring and writing songs. I listen to a lot of jazz every day and I find myself ditching my shuffle just to listen to this track specifically. Each section builds off the previous section, and after each improvised solo, the send off gets grander. Did I mention, one of my favorite tenor saxophonists George Coleman is on the song. He’s a Memphis native just like me and I was honored to meet him a few years back! 

5. All My Life by Braxton Cook

I’ve been a big fan of Braxton Cook for years and every time he releases a track, I go buy it on Bandcamp to support his artistry. When he recently listened to this song, I could not stop listening. The chord progression, the bass and drum arrangement, the Marie Dahlstrom feature, and the virtuosic but soulful saxophone playing makes this song feel like a whole journey worth traveling. This song is a masterclass on how to clearly convey what emotions you want the listener to know that you’re feeling.

Listen to Bernell Jones II 'Love Sings'

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