[Article by Janelle Harris @ Sheen Magazine]
Acclaimed vocalist and performer Elijah Rock is set to release his highly anticipated album, Memories Unleashed – Impulse 1, in April 2025.
Among the standout tracks on this project is a stunning duet of “On A Clear Day” featuring the extraordinary Antonia Bennett, daughter of the legendary Tony Bennett.
A project fueled by passion, advocacy, and the undeniable power of music, Memories Unleashed aims to bridge generations and spark critical conversations about brain health while reviving the timeless classics of The Great American Songbook.
Supported by a Pilot Award for Global Brain Health Leaders, this innovative album serves as more than just a collection of beloved standards—it is a call to action.
With “On A Clear Day,” Rock and Bennett breathe new life into the iconic song, delivering a heartfelt and soul-stirring performance that resonates with themes of hope, clarity, and limitless possibilities.
Their collaboration pays homage to Tony Bennett’s enduring legacy while offering a fresh and captivating interpretation for modern audiences.
Memories Unleashed – Album Track List
1. Route 66
2. Don’t Get Around Much Anymore
3. My Funny Valentine
4. Unforgettable
5. Here’s To Life
6. I just Found Out About love
7. Is You Is or Is You Ain’t My Baby
8. On a Clear Day (Duet with Antonia Bennett)
9. Memories Unleashed (A Word Spoken)
10. Dedicated To You
Produced by the esteemed Rayford Griffin with arrangements by Todd Hunter, Memories Unleashed – Impulse 1 masterfully bridges the rich legacy of jazz with contemporary artistry.
Beyond his musical contributions, Rock is using his platform to make a difference.
As an advocate for dementia and Alzheimer’s awareness, he has dedicated Memories Unleashed – Impulse 1 to supporting The Elijah Rock Foundation, a nonprofit committed to advancing research and providing resources to families affected by these conditions.
Proceeds from the album will directly benefit this important cause.
“Music has the power to heal and inspire,” Rock shared in a recent interview. “Through this project, we aim to celebrate the rich history of jazz while creating meaningful change in the lives of those impacted by dementia and Alzheimer’s.”
Rock recently captivated audiences with a special guest appearance where he previewed Memories Unleashed – Impulse 1 and shared his mission of advocacy.
His passion for preserving the cultural contributions of Black artists such as Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, and Louis Armstrong further underscores the significance of this album.
A deeply personal reflection of the album’s theme, Rock has also penned a powerful piece, “Memories Unleashed – Poem,” which highlights the impact of dementia and Alzheimer’s while emphasizing the healing power of music.
Dementia disproportionately affects Black, Latinx, and other underserved communities, many of whom face late diagnoses and limited access to critical resources.
Through Memories Unleashed, Rock seeks to amplify awareness and foster discussions about brain health within these communities, leveraging music as a universal language of connection.
As an Atlantic Fellow for Equity in Brain Health, Rock remains dedicated to merging music, arts, science, and technology to advance brain health research and advocacy.
With Memories Unleashed, Rock is inviting audiences to not only enjoy the beauty of these timeless songs but to also become part of a larger conversation—one that champions awareness, compassion, and progress.
Upcoming events related to the project will be free to the public, further ensuring accessibility and engagement for all.
For more information on Memories Unleashed, upcoming performances, and the mission behind the music, visit www.memoriesunleashed.org.
About Elijah Rock
Elijah Rock is an award-winning vocalist, performer, and arts advocate known for his exceptional interpretations of jazz and blues classics. With a career spanning stage and studio, Rock’s work is defined by his commitment to honoring the greats while using his platform for social impact and cultural preservation. His latest project, Memories Unleashed – Impulse 1, continues this mission by leveraging the power of music for dementia awareness and brain health advocacy.
