Motivation

With Take It to the Sky, producer Michael Simard delivers a vibrant, full-throttle celebration of the music that has inspired him for a lifetime. Backed by a powerhouse 21-piece ensemble, the album reimagines classics by Earth, Wind & Fire, George Duke, The Crusaders, and Eumir Deodato with fresh arrangements, lush horn and string sections, and an irresistible sense of groove. It’s a project years in the making — a joyful revival of the jazz-funk and soul sounds that fueled Simard’s creativity from his earliest days.

The recording took place over four days in December at Vancouver’s Monarch and Hipposonic Studios. Guided by arranger and producer Bill Runge and contractor John Korsrud, the all-star lineup included some of Canada’s finest jazz musicians, among them Brad Turner, André Lachance, and Randall Stoll, with standout vocal turns from Rebecca Shoichet and Marcus Mosely. Simard’s vision was clear: revive the spirit of these timeless tracks, but do it bigger — with real strings where there were once synthesizers, a full horn section bringing extra punch, and arrangements that breathe new life into every note.

For Simard, Take It to the Sky is more than just an album; it’s a celebration of achievement, collaboration, and the enduring power of music. Funded entirely through his own entrepreneurial and investment success, the project reflects a lifelong commitment to the arts and a deep respect for the musicians who bring these arrangements to life.

Dynamic, polished, and overflowing with heart, Take It to the Sky is a love letter to the jazz-funk greats and a testament to what can happen when passion, vision, and artistry converge in the studio. Whether you’re a devoted jazz listener or a newcomer to this timeless sound, Simard’s debut promises to move your feet and lift your spirits.

Release Date: Friday, September 26th 2025