Impromp2 brings uplifting music and vision to ASU Downtown Phoenix campus

PHOENIX - Impromp2 is a world apart from other musical groups in terms of their artistic vision. Through their uplifting song, “You’re a Queen,” Johnny “Johnny B” Britt and Sean “Sean E. Mac” Thomas refute demeaning stereotypes cast on women through the music industry.

The duo will bring their vision to the third free Arizona State University Downtown Phoenix campus Jazz Lecture Series on Oct. 10. They’ll discuss “negative stereotyping of women in music and why it must stop.” ASU’s Downtown Phoenix campus, in conjunction with the Phoenix Brain Team and NxTHorizon.com, are sponsors of the lecture and subsequent happy hour at noon and 5 p.m. on Oct. 10. 

Since the release of their 1995 album, “You’re Gonna Love It,” Impromp2 has gained a worldwide fan base of people who see beauty in the memorably smooth music that defines the duo’s sound. Three albums later, they have crafted a new musical set called IT IS WHAT IT IS that will truly entertain their many listeners with exciting collaborations with artists like George Duke, Marcus Miller and Boney James. 

With so many musical influences, Impromp2 is sure to inspire future jazz musicians with their unique sound. Johnny B emphasizes that the duo is “working hard on this new record. We’re absolutely on the same page, spiritually, mentally, musically.” 

After spending three years as a musical director for The Temptations and singing background vocals and trumpet for performers such as Luther Vandross and Maxwell, Johnny found his musical match in Sean Thomas, who along with his brother, had formed the group Rappinstine of the Ruthless Records label. 

After forming Impromp2, the duo became one of the first to be signed to the well-known MoJazz record label before quickly proving themselves with their radio hits like 1995’s “Enjoy Yourself” and “Summer Nights.”

After their sophomore release, Can’t Get Enough, the duo performed for various audiences including President Bill Clinton at the White House and attendees of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. They have also performed at the Essence Music Festival and Magic Johnson’s Mardi Gras Celebration. 

Now, with the start of their own JCS label, the group sees limitless possibilities. With the release of IT IS WHAT IT IS, they are definitely on the right track to providing limitless entertainment that carries a message of hope. Storyteller and mentor Fatimah Halim will also offer her perspective at the event.

The free jazz lecture runs from noon to 2 p.m. on Oct. 10 at the Herberger Theater Stage West, 222 E. Monroe St. Happy hour featuring a performance by Impromp2 is also free and it runs from 5 to 7:30 p.m. on the same day. RSVP for the happy hour only at RSVP@nxthorizon.com