Renowned inspirational saxophonist Merlon Devine just inked a record deal with new record label Jonre Music Group. Known for his spirited instrumental performances and appearances at the Potter’s House, Daystar and TBN, Merlon Devine became Jonre Music Group’s first official artist. Hot off the Top 30 on the Billboard Smooth Jazz Chart, Devine is putting the finishing touches on a brand new release; the new CD will be his first with the new inspirational record label.
Lyn Johnson, CEO and Founder of Jonre Music Group, is thrilled to have Devine on her artist roster. “Merlon, will be the face and cornerstone of Jonre,” shares Johnson. “His excellence in music ministry and his amazing spirit are two things that really stand out to me. When Richard T. Davis, VP of Label Operations and Director of A&R for Jonre mentioned him to me, I knew he would be a great artist to have on our label. His dedication and drive for excellence will be the key to his success and longevity.”
Merlon is excited about the partnership as well. He says, “I learned about Jonre from a good friend of mine, Richard T. Davis, producer and the Minister of Music at Strong Tower Ministries, a church that I have ministered at several times. He felt I would be a good fit for what they were looking for, specifically Christian instrumentalists. When I met the group’s CEO, Lyn Johnson, she spoke about her mission of taking established artists and giving them a springboard and a bigger platform for ministry; with those words, I knew Jonre was the perfect home for me.”
A brand new record label, located in the Nation’s Capital, Jonre Music Group’s mission is to expose the ministries of Christian and Gospel instrumentalists, mimes and comedians. Jonre’s goal is to tap into aspects of the Christian entertainment industry that are underserved. “The underserved artists getting an opportunity to excel in their gifts, is my passion,” says Johnson. “There are not enough avenues or venues for talented Christian musicians to be heard, in both sacred and secular platforms; we’re changing that.” Johnson believes in partnering with artists and Jonre provides the much-needed support to expand their ministry. In addition to readying the label’s debut release from Merlon Devine, the label will be adding more artists to its roster.
A premiere saxophonist, Merlon has presented a number of recordings to the music world. His latest CD releaseLove Divine saw its lead single, “Same Thing”, peak at #22 on the Billboard Smooth Jazz Songs Chart. Love Divine is comprised of songs written and inspired by the love of God. With classic interpretation and soulful execution, Merlon received rave reviews for the release. Previously, he recorded five other CDs including Due Season, Breathe, Unwrap the Gift and Set the Atmosphere: Volume 1. To connect with Jonre Music Group, log on to their Facebook, Twitter (@TherealJMG) and Instagram (@JonreMusicGroup) pages. The label can be reached by phone at703.798.7079. Artists interested in auditioning or finding out about the submission process should contact Richard T. Davis at rdavisjonreAR@gmail.com.