Honoring the Roots of Jazz While Pioneering New Collaborations
Founded in 2025 by esteemed jazz advocate Gail W. Boyd and her visionary son Arif Gursel, ESJR Records is proud to announce its arrival as a groundbreaking force in the jazz world. The label is dedicated to honoring jazz’s rich history while embracing innovative and forward-thinking projects that push the boundaries of the genre. Its debut release, Simply Me by MzVal, produced by and featuring the legendary John Clayton, sets the tone for the label’s mission and vision.
Founders’ Background
The launch of ESJR Records brings together the unparalleled expertise and passion of two dynamic leaders: Gail W. Boyd and Arif Gursel. Gail W. Boyd, an accomplished music manager and attorney, is renowned in the jazz community for her decades-long commitment to championing artists and her profound influence on the genre. She has been a tireless advocate for jazz musicians, ensuring their voices resonate on a global stage.
Partnering with Boyd is her son, Arif Gursel, a forward-thinking executive whose background spans technology, content development, and entrepreneurship. Gursel is dedicated to supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs and building platforms that inspire innovation. Together, this mother-son duo brings a unique synergy of experience, creativity, and purpose to ESJR Records, bridging jazz’s storied past with its limitless future.
Mission and Vision
At its core, ESJR Records is committed to advancing jazz as a vital and evolving art form. The label’s mission is rooted in respect for jazz’s storied history, ensuring that its rich traditions are preserved and celebrated. At the same time, ESJR Records seeks to uplift contemporary voices and ideas that push the genre forward, ensuring jazz remains relevant and accessible to future generations. By blending tradition with innovation, the label is set to carve out a unique and lasting space within the jazz community.
Highlight of First Release
ESJR Records is proud to debut its first release, Simply Me by vocalist MzVal. This captivating album not only showcases MzVal’s vocal artistry but also features the exceptional talents of iconic bassist, composer, and arranger John Clayton, who both produces and performs on the record. Simply Me is a testament to the label’s vision: blending timeless musicianship with fresh perspectives to create something truly special.
ESJR Records is thrilled to take its first step in redefining the landscape of jazz while honoring its legacy. As the label looks to the future, it remains steadfast in its mission to amplify the voices of both legendary and emerging artists. To learn more about ESJR Records and its upcoming projects, visit [insert website or contact info here].
