Elizabeth City, NC — An ECSU professor is seeing his latest project carry a sound that is traveling up the music charts. Professor of Music Douglas A. Jackson’s smooth jazz single, “Elizabeth City Grooves,” has debuted on three national smooth jazz charts—landing at No. 89 on the Smooth Jazz Network Top 100. and No. 87 and No. 79 on the RadioWaveMonitor and SmoothJazz.com charts in March.
The single “Elizabeth City Grooves” features a warm, groove-driven smooth jazz sound with a trumpet lead. The track balances a flowing rhythm with an upbeat tempo, blending lively brass, steady percussion, bass and piano performed by Elizabeth City’s own, Dennis Figgs, Jr. The music offers a sound that is both relaxing and vibrant, capturing the feel of the city it’s named for.
Jackson emphasized that while personal milestones are exciting, the real achievement lies in how the project benefits the campus and community. By discussing with students the concepts of marketing, promotion and strategy, the initiative provides them with industry insight, builds skills, and allows them to see tangible results.
“I’m thrilled that the single is gaining recognition on national charts,” Jackson said. “But this isn’t just about me or the music—it’s about showing students what’s possible when they get hands-on experience and see their work reach a real audience.”
While the single reflects Jackson’s work as a recording artist, it also extends into opportunities tied to the university’s academic programs. Kofi Kwaw, a senior and Business Administration major, is assisting the campaign, gaining experience in digital strategy, branding, and audience engagement as an intern with Nicole J & Co.—a local Elizabeth City business supporting the marketing effort and coordinating a digital campaign to expand the single’s visibility across platforms. This effort combines campus resources with local industry expertise to promote the project.
Jackson notes that initiatives like this can support recruitment and alumni engagement by highlighting real-world applications of classroom learning.
“For me, it’s important that students can be a part of something real,” Jackson said. “This project gives them a chance to contribute and see how their work translates outside of our campus walls.”
Chancellor S. Keith Hargrove stated, “Professor Jackson continues to demonstrate the talent and creativity that make ECSU such a special place. His work showcases his dedication and reflects the innovative spirit we encourage across campus.”
As “Elizabeth City Grooves” continues its run on national charts, its progress proves that a single release can carry more than a melody. It connects campus, community and industry through shared rhythm of opportunity—beyond 1704 Weeksville Road.