May 2018

MAY 2018 | 3 Rainbow Promotions, LLC and Payne Pest Management Present SATURDAY, JUne 30, 2018 eRiC BRiAn JAzz FUnk SoUL ft. The SAx PACk ft. STeve DARiUS CULBeRTSon JeFF LoRBeR, eveReTTe hARP JeFF kAShiwA, STeve CoLe oLiveR AnD PAUL JACkSon JR. AnD JACkieM JoYneR DAve koz SUMMeR hoRnS hiRoShiMA PeTeR whiTe neSToR ToRReS MARCUS AnDeRSon ft. GeRALD ALBRiGhT, RiCk BRAUn, RiChARD eLLioT and inTRoDUCinG AUBReY LoGAn SUnDAY, JULY 1, 2018 Benoit Entertainment Group, llc hosted by eric Darius embarcadero Marina Park north | 400 kettner Blvd | San Diego, CA 92101 FRiDAY, JUne 29, 2018 An i ntimate e vening of Smooth Jazz with Monty Seward and Jessy J h osted by e ric Darius All acts and times are subject to change without prior notice. 2n D Ann UAL For Tickets and information: Rainbow Promotions, LLC (562) 424-0013 | www.sandiegosmoothjazzfestival.com

4 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS I want Smooth Jazz News delivered to my mailbox (seven issues per year) Complete this form, and send it with a check or money order for $25* (or use the credit card option) to Smooth Jazz News, 5519 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., #134, San Diego, CA 92117. Home delivery is available to U.S. addresses only. *Price effective through May 31, 2018 CityAddressName State ZIP Phone Email Credit card option (MasterCard, Visa and American Express) Card no. CVC Exp. date Exact name on card Billing Signatureaddress GET HOME DELIVERY! •ONLINE at www.smoothjazznews.com •CALL 858-541-1919 to charge by phone •MAIL the form on this page •AT OUR BOOTH DURING Brian Culbertson’s Napa Valley Jazz Getaway June 9-10 Oxbow Commons, Napa, California Festival website: www.jazzgetaway.com 2018May

From San Diego County and Riverside County: Take I-15 to Hwy 76, go east 5 miles. From Orange County and Los Angeles County: Take I-5 South to Hwy 76, go east 23 miles. Please Gamble Responsibly. Gambling Helpline 1-800-522-4700

PALACASINO.COM | 1-877-WIN-PALA (1-877-946-7252)

For tickets visit the Pala Casino Box Office, call 1-877-WIN-PALA (1-877-946-7252), or go to StarTickets.com to buy them online. To charge by phone, call 1-800-585-3737.

MAY 19 Sammy Hagar & The Circle Hottest Summer Concerts! Take a leap into pure fun at our sparkling new adults-only pool experience. Catch some rays, cool off, and unwind with your favorite cocktail. Relax in the refreshing pools complete with waterfalls, fire pits, whirlpools and cushy daybeds, making Pala your perfect getaway for fun in the sun. And after the sun sets, live entertainment takes the stage at the outdoor Starlight Theater. OCT 6 | Billy Ocean JUNE 2 | Brian Setzer’s Rockabilly Riot! JUNE 9 | The Isley Brothers JUNE 30 | Russell Peters JULY 6 | Kenny Loggins JULY 14 | Cheech And Chong JULY 28 | Toga Party with Otis Day & The Knights AUG 4 | TajMo: The Taj Mahal and Keb’ Mo’ Band AUG 18 | Starlight Food & Wine Festival SEP 7 | Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds AUG 25 | Jo Koy (second show added Aug 26) OPENING MAY 19 More Pools, More Cabanas, More Parking Than Ever Before GorgeousNEW POOL EXPERIENCE

NaikRajPhoto:

6 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS Publisher and Managing Editor Melanie Maxwell Operations & Distribution Manager Craig Collier Copy Editors JoAnn Armke Kerri De Rosier Barbara Knox Brad Sondak Contributors Ken Capobianco Graphic Design Gina Mancini Contributing Photographers Pat Benter Chyna Photography Ellis Moore Photography David Hopley Raj DemetriusDanielNaikRayRobinson

©2018, Smooth Jazz News | All rights reserved. Smooth-Jazz @SmoothJazzNewsNews/123513291125001

CONTENTS Smooth Jazz News home delivery Subscribe today! 8 Notes from the Publisher 10 Brian Culbertson’s 7th Annual Napa Valley Jazz Getaway meticulously planned musical retreat harvests a perfect pitch DISCover New Music What’s new and hot! 14 Norman Brown Teams up with vocalist Bobby Caldwell for a new summer tour 17 Stay connected to the smooth jazz lifestyle At www.smoothjazznews.com 18 Calendar of smooth jazz events Concerts, cruises, festivals and brunches nationwide and beyond 28 Annual Jazz Festival and Cruise Guide It’s the happiest time of year for genre enthusiasts. Festival season presents global options galore! 39 Cool concert apparel Smooth Jazz News fleece jackets, golf shirts, T-shirts, tank tops, hats and guitar shirts. And, check out our special festival promotions!

Jackiem Joyner is hosting a night of wine tasting, fine dining, live jazz and a meet-and-greet at Wilson Creek Winery in Temecula, California, on Sunday, May 6. For details on this event, which is presented by Rainbow Promotions and Payne Pest Management, and other fun stuff happening this month, check out our calendar section, beginning on page 18.

Smooth Jazz News 5519 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., #134 San Diego, CA www.smoothjazznews.comsmoothjazznews@aol.com858-541-191992117

A

No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publisher.

Smooth Jazz News is published seven times annually: Monthly: April and May; Bimonthly: June-July, August-September, October-November, December-January and February-March.

The publisher assumes no responsibility for claims or actions of its advertisers. Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher, staff or advertisers.

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MAY 2018 | 7 Tickets On Sale Now! www.capitaljazz.com PLUS, MANY MORE ARTISTS! The Jazz Festival with Soul! JUNE 1–3, 2018 COLUMBIA, MARYLAND OVER 25 JAZZ AND SOUL ARTISTS ON TWO BIG STAGES! Anita Baker: “The Farewell Tour” Joss Stone Smokey Robinson Earth, Wind & Fire DianaLedisiKrall Keiko Matsui Lizz WrightDamien “AsEscobarYou Are”: A Tribute to Phyllis Hyman “Luther Re-Lives”: A Tribute to LutherMichaelVandrossFranksBoney James Bob KeithJamesSweat BrandyFantasiaLarry Graham & Graham Central Station Snarky Puppy

8 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS

Ironic, because I was in Panama City Beach for the 20th Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival, which, for the first time, was a complete sell-out before the fence was erected around the perimeter of the 7,500-seat Aaron Bessant Park, where the event is held.

Until now, advance sell-outs for jazz festivals seemed to have been on hiatus for nearly a decade. Jazz-themed cruises, however, are another story.

Saxophonist Warren Hill, who was onboard with the production of some of the original jazz-themed cruises, now hosts Warren Hill’s Cancun Jazz Festival, an all-inclusive event at the Hard Rock Hotel in Riviera Maya, Mexico.

Saxophonist Elan Trotman has been sharing his musical talents and Barbadian heritage at his Barbados Jazz Excursion and Golf Weekend, which he’s hosted on the Eastern Caribbean island for the past five years. Sax man Michael Paulo has revived his Temecula Wine & Music Festival at a new venue this month.

Dave Koz has also sold out each of the two, back-to-back, seven-day sailings on his Dave Koz & Friends at Sea full-ship charters through 2019. And, the saxophonist’s success has inspired other artists to tap into their entrepreneurial spirits by launching their own events. One of them is trumpeter Rick Braun, who, on the heels of his popular New Year’s Eve Getaway in Arizona, which sells out every year, decided to test the waters with a European River Cruise. The seven-day, full-ship charter to Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Hungary, scheduled for August 2018 sold out quickly. So, he and his business partner, Sandy Riser, added a 2019 sailing down the Rhine River. As of press time, there was only one cabin left.

RentalsVacationWyndhamPhoto:

Last month, while I was working on this issue of Smooth Jazz News and adoring the emerald green Gulf view from a 21st floor beachfront condo in Panama City Beach, Florida, I received an email from the promoter of the Capital Jazz Fest saying he had completely sold-out Saturday night. He also thought tickets for Friday and Sunday at his Columbia, Maryland, venue––which holds more than 20,000 people––would be gone before his ad in the May edition rolled off our printing press.

Calypso Resort & Towers in Panama City Beach, Florida, during the Seabreeze Jazz Festival

Cliff Hunte, producer of the Capital Jazz Fest and Capital Jazz SuperCruise, is accustomed to his sailings selling out quickly, but it’s been a while since his land-based extravaganza in the forest-like setting of the Merriweather Post Pavilion, now in its 26th year, has had a sold-out button on his online ticketing website this early.

Full-ship charters sell out months, sometimes years, before any of the 2,000-plus passengers arrive for a week of music, pampering, poolside parties, round-the-clock dining and souvenir shopping at a variety of dream destinations.

Eric Roberson Stanley Clarke Kirk Whalum Keiko Matsui

MAY 2018 | 9

|Benoit Entertainment Group, llc

For inspiration in planning your next jazz vacation, check out our Annual Jazz Festival & Cruise Guide beginning on page 28.

And, like the lyrics of the Brenda Russell-penned song, there is an array of ways to “Get There.” You can reach them by railway, sail boat, caravan or plane. “I don’t care how you get here. Just get here if you can.” But when you do, just hope they’re not sold out.

David Benoit & Marc Antoine Brian Simpson & Jazmin Ghent Maysa Kim Waters & Marion Meadows Marcus Miller 31st

And, Michigan-based saxophonist Phil Denny produced his first Armory Smooth Jazz Fete in his hometown of Lansing last year. It was so well received, he’s doing it again this summer.

The smooth jazz lifestyle has certainly transcended simply driving to a local concert in your hometown. Thesse days, there is an abundance of interesting venues in which to enjoy live smooth jazz around the globe. For fun festival outings, you can take a road trip, fly across the country, board a boat to Catalina, be passport-ready for an overseas flight, enjoy a brunch or dinner cruise, or sail away into international waters on a week-long charter.

I was starting to think this was just a thing horn players were doing, but then there’s the impressive success story of multi-instrumentalist Brian Culbertson’s Napa Valley Jazz Getaway. Culbertson, a top touring headliner, has grown his weekend Getaway for a few hundred fans into a five-day musical and culinary vacation for thousands of people in the Northern California Wine Country. And, after seven years of perfecting his festival-producer role, he’s branching out with a new Getaway in his hometown of Chicago later this year.

RAINBOW LAGOON PARK East Shoreline Drive • Long Beach, California Everette Harp Chante Moore Doc Powell Nick Colionne

Annual and many more! Acts and Times subject to change without notice #LBJazzFest Cabanas available! For tickets and information, contact: Rainbow Promotions, LLC (562) 424-0013 www.longbeachjazzfestival.com

ANNUAL

PhotographyChynaPhotos:

SEVENTH BRIANJAZZNAPACULBERTSON’SVALLEYGETAWAY

Culbertson and his team truly listen to the feedback they receive from their patrons, and they make adjustments as needed. When traffic congestion, transportation and parking issues become less than ideal to accommodate the growing crowds at Jamieson Ranch Vineyards, the main weekend festival venue, they found a solution. Last year, they moved it to the newly developed Oxbow Commons Park, mere steps from The Westin Verasa Napa, the host hotel.

That “format” starts with the Welcome Dinner & Jam Session featuring Culbertson, Marcus Anderson, Adam Hawley and Cecil Ramirez at The Westin Verasa’s Solera Courtyard on Wednesday, June 6.

“The fans loved the change,” said Culbertson. “It’s by far way more convenient for everyone since many of the fans staying in downtown Napa can simply walk over.”

Napa, California

10 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS

Celebrity chefs, who pluck fresh produce and herbs from local gardens to craft unique culinary creations to serve at their Michelin Star-rated restaurants, are also an attraction. And, when Brian Culbertson comes to the heart of Northern California’s Wine Country for his annual Napa Valley Jazz Getaway each June, he curates a musical lineup to accompany a boutique festival experience unlike any other to pair it all with.

Culbertson, an admitted perfectionist, demands excellence in all he does. From the music he composes and the CDs he records to the stage shows he choreographs, everything must be timed and executed flawlessly. Just like his latest “Colors of Love” tour––with impressive lighting, a carefully crafted succession of song choices and a few surprises––the Napa Valley Jazz Getaway has his fingerprints meticulously embedded in each detail as though they were pressed against the keys of his Roland grand piano during an encore.

By Melanie Maxwell Napa is known for award-winning wine made from grapes grown on nearby vines.

“I just want everyone to have a good time,” said Culbertson during a recent phone interview. “I am also big on customer service and communication with the fans. If people feel they are being heard and taken care of, then everyone has a great time. I hate when large events don’t communicate well.”

“Wine Down” at Brian Culbertson’s 2017 Napa Valley Jazz Getaway Brian Culbertson playing keyboards backward at Oxbow Commons Park, the new weekend venue for the Napa Valley Jazz Getaway

Another improvement this year will be the addition of much larger video screens at Oxbow Commons Park. “We’ll be ‘flying’ them up high so the views will be better,” the 45-year-old Illinois native explained. He added, “There will not be a second stage this year, as it proved to be too far of a walk within the 30-minute main stage intermissions. Other than that, the format of the week remains the same.”

• June 6-10

PhotographyChynaPhoto: RayDanielPhoto:

The five-day Diamond VIP and Platinum Packages (which also include the Welcome Dinner, wine reception and silent auction, private parties, wine tasting, choice seating at the four main concert events, shuttle service to the various venues and activities, local discounts and more) always sellout early. However, as of press time, some Gold and Silver packages––which also include preferred concert seating, “Wine Downs” and After-Parties––and general admission tickets for the weekend festival, as well as Lincoln Theater shows, were available. Exclusivity of the weekday events for Platinum and Gold ticket holders turns inclusive for the weekend festival at Oxbow Commons Park, where there is abundant seating. The grassy grounds are spread out from the banks of the Napa River to the Wine Train, and between The Westin Verasa and Oxbow Public Market, a 40,000-square-foot marketplace featuring a diverse mixture of local food vendors, artisan cafes, organic produce, bakeries and gifts.

Now in its seventh year, the Getaway––which, for the inaugural event in February 2012, sold-out the 450 tickets for two nights of concerts at the Napa Valley Opera House (nearly the number of attendees at this year’s Welcome Dinner & Jam Session)––boasts five days of

MAY 2018 | 11

“Of course, we are conscious about who will sell tickets, but for me it’s more than that,” the multi-instrumentalist explained. “Bottom line, I look for great entertainers who I’ve worked with before and who will be fun to hang out with while in Napa!”

In the same outdoor space, Culbertson hosts “Wine Downs” that feature wine tasting from a variety of local vineyards and live musical performances, which are held on Thursday and Friday afternoons for 800 Platinum and Gold access cardholders. On those evenings, the shows move indoors and down the road to the 1,200-seat Lincoln Theater in the neighboring town of Yountville.

Although there will be a variety of onsite food trucks, wine stations and beverage booths on the festival grounds, patrons can also visit the marketplace throughout the day. Most fans, however, won’t want to be away from the music when there’s a band onstage, but they can explore the marketplace during intermissions.

Culbertson’s “Colors of Love” concert and a solo acoustic performance by South African guitarist-vocalist Jonathan Butler are scheduled for Thursday night. On Friday, a wine reception and silent auction benefiting The GRAMMY Foundation will be held prior to comedian Sinbad and the Al McKay All-Stars (performing the music of Earth, Wind & Fire) taking the Thursdaystage.through Sunday, After-Parties are happening at The Westin with a cigar lounge and DJs spinning dance music. Entrance to these private parties is reserved for Platinum and Gold cardholders on Thursday and Friday; and Platinum, Gold and Silver level patrons on Saturday and Sunday.

Music is still the catalyst for which all of the other fun revolves around. While Culbertson works year-round with a five-person team and countless other festival workers to plan this event, all of the decisions for the lineup are exclusively his. When booking the acts, he dons both his “artist” and “producer” hats.

From the music he composes and the CDs he records to the stage shows heeverythingchoreographs,mustbetimedand executed flawlessly.

Brian Culbertson performing during his 2017 Welcome Dinner & Jam Session

Brian Culbertson toasting Platinum VIP patrons during a private performance at a winery during his Napa Valley Jazz Getaway continued on page 12

The Westin Verasa, Solera Courtyard (for Platinum and Gold Access card holders)

After-Party featuring DJs The World Famous Rick & Russ Show with CJ Flash and Cigar Party 8 p.m. Sunday, June 10 (gates open at 11 a.m.)

.......................................................................

Lincoln Theater “Colors of Love” featuring Brian Culbertson, plus solo acoustic performance by Jonathan Butler 7:30 p.m.

After-Party featuring DJs The World Famous Rick & Russ Show with CJ Flash and a Cigar Party hosted by Cecil Ramirez 10:30 p.m. Friday, June 8

The Westin Verasa, Solera Courtyard Welcome Dinner & Jam Session hosted by Brian Culbertson, featuring Cecil Ramirez, Marcus Anderson, Adam Hawley and more ....... 7 p.m. Thursday, June 7

The Westin Verasa (for Platinum and Gold Access card holders)

“Wine Down” featuring complimentary wine tasting and performances by Marcus Anderson and Adam Hawley 2 p.m.

Oxbow Commons Park Nick Colionne with Eric Darius 1 p.m. Kirk Whalum 2:30 p.m. Norman Brown and Bobby Caldwell 4 p.m. Brian Culbertson with Lindsey Webster 5:45 p.m. DJs The World Famous Rick & Russ Show with CJ Flash between all sets

The Westin Verasa, Solera Courtyard (for Platinum and Gold Access card holders)

The host hotel, The Westin Verasa, is sold out. Visit www.jazzgetaway.com/ hotels for other accommodation options.

The Westin Verasa (for Platinum, Gold and Silver Access card holders)

PhotographyChynaPhoto:

12 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS

The success of this signature event is quite exciting for Culbertson, especially because the location has special meaning for him. He and his wife, Michelle, celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary in Napa after she returned from a trip to Tuscany, where she immersed herself in the wine culture. That experience evolved into a shared passion for the couple.

The Westin Verasa (for Platinum and Gold Access card holders)

Oxbow Commons Park Avery*Sunshine 1 p.m. Peter White 2:30 p.m. Brian Culbertson with Faith Evans 4 p.m. The Commodores 5:45 p.m. DJs The World Famous Rick & Russ Show with CJ Flash between all sets

Wednesday,LINEUP: June 6

After-Party featuring DJs The World Famous Rick & Russ Show with CJ Flash, and Cigar Party hosted by Cecil Ramirez ...... 10:30 p.m. Saturday, June 9 (gates open at 11 a.m.)

“If you’ve never been to Napa Valley, I can’t say enough great things about the area. It’s just so beautiful, coupled with some of the best restaurants and wine in the world. And when you add great music on top of all that, it’s the perfect pairing,” Culbertson concluded.

The Westin Verasa (for Platinum, Gold and Silver Access card holders)

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PARKING Valet parking at The Westin is available to hotel guests only, and is included in the daily hotel resort fee. Prepaid valet parking passes for the Lincoln Theater concerts, or self-parking on the day of the show, can be purchased. Several parking options are available for the weekend festival venue, including paid offsite lot and shuttle service at the Napa Valley College, 2277 Napa Vallejo Hwy. in Napa, which can be purchased on the festival website, where information on additional parking options is available. Visit www.jazzgetaway.com/parking for details and additional options.

“The Napa lifestyle is something that I’ve just fallen in love with, and I want to share that with all of my fans,” said Culbertson. “Most people tell me how personal they feel the event is. They can tell that my stamp is definitely on every detail as much as possible. I equate this event with throwing a giant party with great music, food, wine, scenery and people.

Farewell After-Party featuring DJs The World Famous Rick & Russ Show with CJ Flash 8 p.m.Brian Culbertson chatting with patrons during his 2017 Welcome Dinner at The Westin Verasa Solera Courtyard continued from page 11 concerts, wine tasting and culinary adventures for more than 4,000 jazz enthusiasts per day at the weekend venue alone.

STAYING THERE

Lincoln Theater Wine reception and silent auction benefiting The GRAMMY Foundation 6 p.m. “Friday Night Funk Night” featuring comedian Sinbad, plus the Al McKay All-Stars performing the music of Earth, Wind & Fire 7:30 p.m.

“Wine Down” featuring complimentary wine tasting and performances by artists TBA 2 p.m.

TICKETS AND INFORMATION www.jazzgetaway.com

GETTING THERE Flights are available into the Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport in Santa Rosa (STS), Oakland International Airport (OAK), San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Sacramento International Airport (SMF). Distance to the venue is approximately 50 miles from STS, 51 miles from OAK, 57 miles from SFO and 64 miles from SMF.

WHEN June 6-10 WHERE The Westin Verasa Napa, 1314 McKinstry St., and Oxbow Commons Park, 1268 McKinstry St., Napa, California; Lincoln Theater, 100 California Dr., Yountville, California

Patrick Bradley • (PatricksIntangibleSongFactory)

Dan Siegel

On the softer side, “Lil Jazzy” is a song dedicated to the saxophonist’s first child, Jazmine. “Creating another life did blow my mind. The comparison is the feeling of being happy, excited, nervous, energetic and emotional. I wanted to capture these feelings in one song and share it with fans.”

AdAm HAwley

After Adam Hawley’s first CD, JustThe Beginning, achieved three No. 1 singles, to say this second offering was highly anticipated is an understatement. Double Visioncomes packed with fresh grooves, legendary guest artists, and has already spawned a hit single of its own, “Can You Feel It?,” featuring Marcus Anderson.

AvAilAble At: www.justinyoungsax.com Website: www.justinyoungsax.com

This mix of diverse musicians has been performing locally for years, delivering a smooth jazz sound with a Latin flair and a funky vibe. Catch The Groove’s debut CD, Smilin’ in Paradise, was recorded to reflect the high energy, sensual and soulful magic the group is known for. Their single “Shaken Not Stirred” spent three months on the Billboard Top 30 chart.

• Double Vision (Kalimba Records)

• Smilin’ in Paradise (CTG Music Productions LLC)

AvAilAble At: iTunes, www.amazon.com Website: www.adamhawley.com

• Blue (JustntimeSoulRecords)

AvAilAble At: www.amazon.com, www.cdbaby.com, iTunes Website: www.Jarezmusic.com

Justin Young

MAY 2018 | 13

Advertisement: To inquire about placement, call 858-541-1919 or email smoothjazzads@aol.com.

AvAilAble At: iTunes, www.amazon.com, www.cdbaby.com Website: www.patrickbradleymusic.com

• (DSMOrigins7777)

This is what Dave Koz said about saxophonist Justin Young’s new CD: “I’ve known Justin a long time and have watched his development for many years now. With his new album, Blue Soul, he confidently steps up to center stage with something meaningful to say, and the results are undeniable. Justin Young is certainly a new voice to be heard on the saxophone.”

Jarez • “LIL JazzY” (single, from the album Blow Your Mind) (J Star Entertainment)

Catch Patrick Bradley’s show at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach Jazz Festival on June 2.

With a discography of 21 solo albums and hun dreds of other producing, arranging, composing and performing credits, Dan Siegel has had a notable career in contemporary jazz. With the release of his new album, Origins, the veteran pianist and composer takes you on an elevating musical journey inspired by classical harmony, Latin rhythms and American blues. Musicians include Brian Bromberg, Vinnie Colaiuta, Lenny Castro, Allen Hinds, Ramon Stagnaro, Craig Fundyga and Rogerio Jardim. Catch Siegel at the Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival, Oct. 19.

AvAilAble At: iTunes, www.cdbaby.com, www.amazon.com Website: www.dansiegelmusic.com

CatCh the Groove

Keyboardist Patrick Bradley is embarking upon his fourth album, Intangible, with 10 original compositions produced by Jeff Lorber. Prepare for a groove-a-thon of trilingual takeoff via Bradley’s Hammond B3-organ, Moog synthesizer and electric piano stylings that coolly cross rock, fusion, jazz and R&B with fiery, funky mastery … and purpose.

AvAilAble At: iTunes, www.cdbaby.com, www.amazon.com Website: www.catchthegroovemusic.com

GRAMMY-winning guitarist riffs on multiple touring ensembles and inspires a new generation of musicians globally

14 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS

“We all need to look within to find our truth and our spirit voice, which we often don’t pay attention to,” Brown said recently via phone. “It’s something I’ve been doing in my own life, and my music reflects this. It’s all part of a process, and the music is a product of what I’ve been thinking about over the past few years.”

Jazz guitarist Norman Brown has been on a journey toward spiritual enlightenment over the past few years, and he is determined to take his listeners along as he continues to grow and learn more about the meaning of the universe and his place in it.

His last album from 2017, Let It Go was a carefully crafted and executed song cycle about personal development and understanding. It featured Brown’s unmistakable lucid and breezy guitar work, fluid melodies and richly conceived songs. With guests Chante Moore and his daughters, collectively known as Sisters of Unbreakable Love (S.O.U.L.), Brown weaved together tracks that trace an individual’s spiritual development and movement toward greater self-awareness. It was an outgrowth of the guitarist’s own search for truth, purpose and spiritual renewal.

“Let It Go really was a pivotal record for me, and there’s a lot that went into it. Let It Go the title is based on the idea of sacrifice the lesser for the greater. There are so many little things going on, and we get caught up in that, and we find ourselves in a corner, so we need to concentrate on what is the greater or the bigger picture in our lives. We need to understand how we grow and develop, and part of that is by letting things go. We do that by listening to our spirit voice.”

By Ken Capobianco

BROWNNORMAN

The voluble guitarist expounded enthusiastically about how important it is for each individual to pay attention to his or her spirit voice. Brown spoke with the same passion he pours into his music. He is one of the elite jazz guitarists of his generation and a genuine creative force to be reckoned with. As with most musical virtuosos, his music goes in the direction his muse takes him, and right now, he’s focused on continuing on the path set out on Let It Go. His next album, The Highest Act of Love, will be released

The 47-year-old GRAMMY winner, who also plays with Kirk Whalum and Rick Braun in the supergroup BWB, said Let It Go, his ninth solo studio album, had special meaning for him as he continues his quest for personal growth and spiritual insight.

Very few artists these days release backto-back records in such close succession. This is the kind of pace Elton John used to keep in his go-go ’70s days. Brown laughed in acknowledgment of the timeframe.

“It’s a process of inspiration. My desire is to communicate in a way fans can relate.”

MAY 2018 | 15 continued on page 16 this summer (he believes in July), and it comes just a year after its predecessor. The guitarist sees it as part of a continuum as he works through themes and musical ideas that have preoccupied him since he discovered an ancient Egyptian religion to which he now closely adheres. “The new record will be an extension of the last one. It’s something I believe in, and I think fans will appreciate the direction,” he said before pausing to explain the foundation of the record’s philosophical themes. His impressive knowledge and understanding of the concepts of his religious philosophy were so detailed and intricate, it should be interesting to hear how he translates some of them into the framework of jazz. No doubt if anyone can, it is Brown.

“It’s a process of inspiration. My desire is to communicate in a way fans can relate. The idea is to strike a common chord— something we have or will experience.

He explained that his new music will be accessible to his listeners despite the highly philosophical theories behind it. For him, the bottom line is connecting with his audience.

The goal is to bring comfort and joy with inspiration through the music that flows throughBrownme.”added that part of the compositional process is conveying core emotions and feelings to listeners while tapping into our shared humanity. “I’ve always translated my feelings into music, even before I became a recording artist and was just a listener. By remembering how music made me feel as I listened to all types of music growing up, it helps to ensure the music is formatted in a way that can be understood.”

For more information on Brown, including his complete tour schedule with his band—Gail Jhonson, music director, on keyboards and vocals; Rob McDonald on bass guitar and vocals; L.J. Holyfield on drums; and Travis Milner on keyboards and vocals—visit www.normanbrown.com.

The guitarist, who loves to build model cars in his downtime and practices Tai Chi for relaxation, said he tries to give back as often as he can and lead by example. He wants to encourage more young people to pick up the guitar. “As a guitar player, I look at it as setting an example. We need more guitarists. We have too many sax players these days,” he said, laughing. “I’m on a mission to get more guitar players in the game. Guitar is not in the band class in school, so it’s not taught there. Most of us learn by ear. We hear the guitarists who inspire us and try to copy that. We then develop our own sound. I think more young people need to be pushed along the way, so I’m doing my part the best I can.”

Oct. (plus17a solo show on the weekend) Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival Vila Vita Parc Algarve, Porches, www.algarve.smoothjazzfestival.dePortugal (+49) 821 2292711

16 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS

Dave Koz and Friends at Sea: Scandinavia and the Baltic

Seven-day full-ship charter aboard Royal Caribbean Serenade of the Seas Ports of Call at Copenhagen, Denmark; Stockholm, Sweden; Tallinn, Estonia; St. Petersburg, Russia; Helsinki, Finland www.davekozcruise.com

Jan. 18-20, 2019 The Florida Smooth Jazz Weekend

continued from page 15 “The record company asked for the record really fast. They came to me in December and said, ‘We want a new record from you, and we want to have it out by May.’ I thought to myself, ‘OK, there’s just not enough time to write the material between January and May with all the traveling I’m doing.’ I did three cruises, concerts and my personal life. But I was prepared because I knew what I wanted to do after the last record. The music just came to me. The spirit comes through and manifests itself in these songs. It speaks through my music.” He stopped in mid-thought and let out another laugh. “I’ve been calling my guitar my ‘spirit catcher.’” Brown has a busy summer ahead. Along with the new record, he will be playing select shows with Richard Elliot and Rick Braun for the West Coast Jam (“I’m looking forward to that,” he said. “They are always a good time.”) and touring with vocalist Bobby Caldwell. “Bobby and I did a Christmas show and had a great time. It was a sold-out show, so we decided to extend that to the summer. I think that’s going to be a fun night for everyone. Fans will love it.” The duo is scheduled to perform at Brian Culbertson’s Napa Valley Jazz Getaway on June 10, in Napa, California. While there are no plans for a new BWB record, the band remains active. They recently played two shows in Africa, where they also did work with children from the local communities. The group played a show at Safari Com, an annual jazz festival in Nairobi, Kenya. Safari Com is a telecommunications company that sponsors the event.

Nov. 1-4

The Plaza Resort & Spa, Daytona Beach’s Grand Resort Daytona Beach, www.FloridaSmoothJazzWeekend.comFlorida 321-783-9004

ON TOUR

June 10 (with Bobby Caldwell) Seventh Annual Brian Culbertson’s Napa Valley Jazz Getaway Oxbow Commons Park Napa, www.jazzgetaway.comCalifornia July Lake14Arbor Jazz Festival Lake Arbor Community Center Mitchellville, www.lakearborjazz.comMaryland

The trio participated in a program titled Ghetto Classics, which helps underprivileged children in the area. The students received instruction from the musicians and were able to perform at the festival. Brown taught them rhythm techniques and theory, as well as guitar, drums, bass guitar and vocal work. He is very proud of what the band accomplished with the children, and believes they made a difference.

“The spirit comes through and manifests itself in these songs. It speaks through my music ... I’ve been calling my guitar my ‘spirit catcher.’”

“The Ghetto Classics program is geared to keep underprivileged children off the streets, so we spent time with the children over two days and taught master classes with them. Each one of us did something based around our instruments. It was a great experience and so rewarding. It was important for the children because they got a chance to think about music the way we do—they were exposed to techniques and ideas to help them tap into their creativity. When you see these children it’s amazing because they are so inspired and excited by the music. It helps change their lives.”

Life Luxe Jazz Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort San Jose del Cabo, www.lifeluxejazz.comMexico

May 13-20 and May 20-27

HopleyDavidPhoto:

MAY 2018 | 17 3 Cruises 3 Contests 3 Jazz Buzz 3 Festival and concert lineups stay connected TO The laTesT On The smOOTh jazz scene Smooth Jazz News Links you to updates and breaking news! www.smoothjazznews.com engage with us! Comment on our posts

13

18 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS

Euge Groove, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com, 11 DOTSERO, 9:30pm, Live at Jack’s, 500 16th St., #320, Denver, Colorado, www.liveatjacks.com, 303-433-1000 16th Annual Jazz on the Vine featuring Greg Adams & East Bay Soul, 5:15pm; Nick Colionne, 7:15pm; Jazz Funk Soul (featuring Jeff Lorber, Paul Jackson Jr. & Everette Harp), 9:15pm, The Osthoff Resort, 101 Osthoff Ave., Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, www.jazzonthevine.net, 877-496-4113

Dave Koz &Friends at Sea: Scandinavia & the Baltic, May 13-20 & May 20-27, 7-day full-ship charter, featuring Mindi Abair,

DW3, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199

CONCERTS AND FESTIVALS MAY3

Earl Klugh, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com, 4 DOTSERO, 9pm, Live at Jack’s, 500 16th St., #320, Denver, Colorado, www.liveatjacks.com, 303-433-1000 Darryl Walker, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

Earl Klugh, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729

5 Gregg Karukas, 8 & 10pm, Scullers Jazz Club, DoubleTree Suites by Hilton, 400 Soldiers Field Road, Boston, Massachusetts, www.

Justin Young, 6pm, Lauren Ashton Cellars, 14545 148th Ave. N.E., Suite 211, Woodinville, www.justinyoungsax.comWashington, 6 Danny Kusz CD-Release, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199

Vincent Ingala with special guest Adam Hawley, 8pm, John Lyman Center for the Performing Arts, Southern Connecticut State University, 501 Crescent St., New Haven, Connecticut, https://tickets. southernct.edu/ Earl Klugh, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729

Euge Groove, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, DOTSERO, 9pm, Live at Jack’s, 500 16th St., #320, Denver, Colorado, www.liveatjacks.com, 303-433-1000 16th Annual Jazz on the Vine featuring Terra Guitarrar, 2:15pm; Grace Kelly, 4pm; Rick Braun, 6pm; Gerald Albright, 8:15pm, The Osthoff Resort, 101 Osthoff Ave., Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, 877-496-4113www.jazzonthevine.net, Chris Standring, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,(sold-out)

Euge Groove, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729 Justin Young, 5pm, Obelisco at Apple Farm Village, 14525 148th Ave. N.E., Suite 121, Woodinville, Washington, http://obelisco.com/, 425-485-2472

Earl Klugh, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com, WEIB 106.3 Smooth Jazz FM Jazz Series featuring Marion Meadows & Marc Antoine, 5pm, City Stage, Winery, 35960 Rancho California Road, Temecula, 562-424-0013www.sandiegosmoothjazzfestival.com,California, 10 DW3, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199

Jacksonville Jazz Festival Jazz Clinic, master-class formatted clinic offers musicians of all ages and skill sets the opportunity to learn from some of the best jazz musicians in the business, 10am, Ritz Theater & Museum, 829 N. Davis St., Jacksonville, (freewww.JacksonvilleJazzFest.comFlorida,admission)

Jacksonville Jazz Festival Piano Competition, 7pm, The Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville, www.jacksonvillejazzfest.comFlorida, DW3, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199

19 Lake Chelan Wine and Jazz Festival featuring Justin Young, 2pm, Lake Chelan Wine Valley, Chelan, Washington, www.justinyoungsax.com

22 Naturally 7, 8pm, Rams Head Tavern, 33 West St., Annapolis, 410-268-4545www.ramsheadonstage.com,Maryland,

Brian Culbertson “Colors of Love” Tour, 7 & 10pm, Soiled Dove Underground, 7401 E. 1st Ave., Denver, Colorado, www.soileddove.com, 303-830-9214

DOTSERO, 9:30pm, Live at Jack’s, 500 16th St., #320, Denver, Colorado, www.liveatjacks.com, 303-433-1000

DOTSERO, 9:15pm, Live at Jack’s, 500 16th St., #320, Denver, Colorado, www.liveatjacks.com, 303-433-1000

Blake Aaron with special surprise guest saxophonist, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,

Sammy Hagar & The Circle, 7:30pm, Pala Casino Spa & Resort, Starlight Theater, 11154 Hwy. 76, Pala, California, www.palacasino.com

3rd Annual Music City Jazz Festival featuring Happy Hour with Dee Lucas & special guest U-NAM, 5pm; Euge Groove, 5:50pm; Maysa, 7:10pm; MCJF All-Stars featuring Nick Colionne, Steve Cole & Brian Simpson with special guest Peabo Bryson, 8:25pm, Public Square Park, 10 Public Square, Nashville, 205-705-3131www.musiccityjazzfest.com,Tennessee, DW3 Tribute to the Legends of Music, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199

Bobby Caldwell, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com, 25 Rahsaan Patterson, 7:30pm, The Birchmere, 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, www.birchmere.com,Virginia,703-549-7500

18 Happy Hour with DOTSERO, 5:30pm, Live at Jack’s, 500 16th St., #320, Denver, www.liveatjacks.com,Colorado,303-433-1000

23 Will Downing, 8pm, Rams Head Tavern, 33 West St., Annapolis, Maryland, 410-268-4545www.ramsheadonstage.com,

Nothing But The Sax featuring Dee Lucas, Tony Exum Jr. & Danny Kusz, 8pm, Soiled Dove Underground, 7401 E. 1st Ave., Denver, Colorado, www.soileddove.com, 303-830-9214

MAY 2018 | 19 continued on page 20 Brian Culbertson “Colors of Love” Tour, 7 & 10pm, Soiled Dove Underground, 7401 E. 1st Ave., Denver, Colorado, www.soileddove.com, 303-830-9214 24

Chris Standring, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,

17 DW3, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199

Jacksonville Jazz Festival featuring Grace Kelly, Champian Fulton Quartet, Lohai, The Chris Thomas Band & more, 5-11pm; Swingin’ Stage: located in front of the Duval County Courthouse on Pearl St. facing west; Groovin’ Stage: on the north end of Hemming Park facing south; Breezin’ Stage: located at the corner of Main and Adams streets facing north, Jacksonville, (freewww.JacksonvilleJazzFest.comFlorida,admission)

Euge Groove, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com,

& more, aboard Royal Caribbean Serenade of the Seas, embarkation at Copenhagen, Denmark, ports of call at Copenhagen, Denmark; Stockholm, Sweden; Tallinn, Estonia; St. Petersburg, Russia; Helsinki, Finland, 800-225-5759www.davekozcruise.com,

1, continued

page 19AugustFRIDAY 10 AugustSATURDAY11 Blake Aaron Tim Cunningham Nik MaestroJazminAltheaWestRene’GhentJ

20 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS

ChrisLinWillKimMarionRichardBaldwinRandolphMeadowsWatersDowningRountreeMiskel3rd Annual Derby City Jazz Festival 2018 Churchill August“TurningLouisville,DownsKYforHome”10th&11th *Limited Early Bird Ticket Sales: Expires June 10, 2018* General: $80.00/2 Nights ($60.00 per Night) Preferred: $100/2 Nights ($75.00 per Night) Derbycityjazzfest.comRainorShine

Bob

Bobby Caldwell, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729 26 Walter Beasley, 7:30pm, The Birchmere, 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, Virginia, 703-549-7500www.birchmere.com, Jacksonville Jazz Festival featuring Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Sheila E., The Bad Plus, Euge Groove, Pete Escovedo Orchestra with special guests Jimmy Bosch & Chembo Corniel, The 4 Korners, Vijay Iyer Sextet, Jonathan Baptiste & The Urban Intellectuals, The Russell Malone Quartet, Ottmar Liebert & Luna Negra, Mica Bethea Big Band, Zach Bartholomew Trio & more, 2-11pm; Swingin’ Stage: located in front of the Duval County Courthouse on Pearl St. facing west; Groovin’ Stage: on the north end of Hemming Park facing south; Breezin’ Stage: located at the corner of Main and Adams streets facing north, Jacksonville, (freewww.JacksonvilleJazzFest.comFlorida,admission)

3rd Annual Music City Jazz Festival featuring Doc Powell, noon; Family Affair with Kim Waters & Kayla Waters, 1:15pm; Hiroshima, 2:35pm; Damien Escobar, 3:50pm; Rachelle Ferrell, 5:20pm; Boney James, 7pm, Public Square Park, 10 Public Square, Nashville, Tennessee, 205-705-3131www.musiccityjazzfest.com, M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records Inc. presents the 7th Annual Jazz at the Creek featuring Ray Parker Jr., Kevin Toney with special guest Dominique Toney, Reggie Calloway & Julian Vaughn, 3pm, Market Creek Plaza Amphitheater, 310 Euclid Ave., San Diego, California, www.jazzatthecreeksd.com, 858-650-3190 Al Williams Jazz Society, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199 Bobby Caldwell, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729 27 Jacksonville Jazz Festival featuring Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Maysa, Jane Bunnett & Maqueque, Ulysses Owens Jr. “Three,” Linda Cole & The Joshua Bowlus Quartet, Jeffery Broussard & The Creole Cowboys, Jazz Ensemble from

UNF

29 Grace Kelly, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199 31 107.3

Spyro Gyra, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com, JUNE1 26th Annual Capital Jazz Fest Friday Night Soul featuring Earth, Wind & Fire; Ledisi; & introducing Butterscotch, gates open at 6:30pm, Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia,

Jacksonville Landing Seafood & Jazz Fest featuring Catch The Groove, 4:30pm, Sleiman Riverfront Stage, 2 W. Independent Dr., Jacksonville, Florida, (freecom/event/seafood-jazz-fest/www.jacksonvillelanding.admission)

Rebecca Jade, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

The WAVE Wine & Jazz Cruise featuring Russell Thompson & The Free Agent Band, 7-9:30pm, aboard Nautica Queen, boarding at 1153 Main Ave., Cleveland, 216-828-1073k2/item/2242-wine-jazz-cruise,https://1073thewave.net/component/Ohio,

Douglas Anderson School of the Arts Jazz Ensemble 1 & more, 2-11pm; Swingin’ Stage: located in front of the Duval County Courthouse on Pearl St. facing west; Groovin’ Stage: on the north end of Hemming Park facing south; Breezin’ Stage: located at the corner of Main and Adams streets facing north, Jacksonville, (freewww.jacksonvillejazzfest.comFlorida,admission)

14th Annual Temecula Wine & Music Festival featuring Michael Paulo & Friends with Gregg Karukas, Paul Brown, Blake Aaron, Gail Jhonson, Kanzaki, BenjaSoul, Kimaya Seward, Rene Paulo & Hawaii’s legendary band Kalapana, benefiting the Boys & Girls Club of Southwest County, gates open at 2pm, Hawk Ranch, 42149 Elm St., Murrieta, www.tix.com,www.temeculawineandmusicfestival.com,California,951-696-0184

Bobby Caldwell, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com,

MAY 2018 | 21 continued on page 22

Brian Setzer’s Rockabilly Riot, 7:30pm, Pala Casino Spa & Resort, Starlight Theater, 11154 Hwy. 76, Pala, California, www.palacasino.com 3 26th Annual Capital Jazz Fest, on the Pavilion Stage, hosted by Marcus Miller, featuring Anita Baker “The Farewell Tour,” Bob James, Damien Escobar, Lizz Wright, Michael Franks, “As You Are”: A Tribute to Phyllis Hyman, Moonchild; and on the Symphony Woods Stage, hosted by Cayman Kelly, featuring Larry Graham & Graham Central Station, Brandy, Joss Stone, Tevin Campbell, “Luther Re-Lives:” A Tribute to Luther Vandross, The Hamiltones, gates open at 10am, Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia, Maryland, www.capitaljazz.com, www.ticketfly.com, 877-987-6487

continuedinformation.frompage 21 continued on page 24 Tickets, Hotel

26th Annual Capital Jazz Fest Late-Night Jam Session hosted by Marcus Miller (Official After-Party of the Capital Jazz Fest), 11:30pm-2am (doors open at 11pm), BWI Airport Marriott, 1743 W. Nursery Road, Linthicum, Maryland, www.capitaljazz.com (sold-out)

26th Annual Capital Jazz Fest Old-School Dance Party (Official After-Party of the Capital Jazz Fest), plus live performance by E.U., 10:30pm-3am, BWI Airport Marriott, 1743 W. Nursery Road, Linthicum, Maryland, www.capitaljazz.com, www.ticketfly.com, 877-987-6487

866-Traxwww.JazzTrax.cominformation Tix (866-872-9849) Get the 1 hour across the Sea on board CatalinaExpress.com Opening Weekend: October 11-14 Closing Weekend: October 18-21 Candy dulfEr najEE pEtEr whitE damiEn EsCobar hiroshimajEssE Cook Also Richard Elliot, David Benoit & Marc Antoine, Tim Bowman, Marcus Anderson, Jazmin Ghent, Urban Jazz Coalition, Skinny Hightower, Vincent Ingala & Lindsey Webster, Dan Siegel, Jonathan Fritzén, Peter ‘Peet’ Ferencz from Peet Project and Keiko Matsui AND MORE !

NOTE: Artists, events, venues, dates and show times are subject to change without notice. Smooth Jazz News is not responsible for any cancellations or changes or the accuracy of any concert or festival information contained in this magazine in advertisements and/or editorial, which has been provided by outside sources. Please contact each venue directly to confirm all and Boat

22 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS Maryland, www.capitaljazz.com, www.ticketfly.com, 877-987-6487

2 26th Annual Capital Jazz Fest, on the Pavilion Stage, hosted by Marcus Miller, featuring Diana Krall, Boney James, Rachelle Ferrell, Snarky Puppy, “Lean on Me:” A Tribute to Bill Withers featuring José James, Keiko Matsui, Jeff Bradshaw & Friends; & on the Symphony Woods Stage, hosted by Cayman Kelly, featuring Smokey Robinson, Fantasia, Keith Sweat, After 7, Dave Hollister, Liv Warfield & The NPG Hornz, gates open at 10am, Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia, Maryland, www.capitaljazz.com, www.ticketfly.com, 877-987-6487

MAY 2018 | 23 Do you work at an office with more than 100 employees, half of whom are smooth jazz and travel enthusiasts? If you would like to have Smooth Jazz News delivered to your office, please contact us for details on our FREE delivery service to select San Diego-based companies! SAN SmoothDIEGOJazz News readersATTENTION Call 858-541-1919 or email smoothjazznews@aol.com Keep the beat with SMooth Jazz NeWs!

SUNDAY, MAY 6

Hornblower San Diego Champagne Brunch Cruise, sails 11am-1pm, boards at 10:30am from Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego, California, www.hornblower.com, 619-686-8700 94.7 The WAVE welcomes Spaghettini’s Legendary Champagne Brunch with live broadcast and performances by DW3, 10am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

KJAZZ Champagne Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring performances by Mat Gurman, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from Fisherman’s Village Marina, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, California, www.hornblower.com, 310-301-9900, 888-HORNBLOWER KJAZZ Champagne Jazz Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring performances by Michael Whitman, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, www.hornblower.com, 949-650-2412, 888-HORNBLOWER

Hornblower Mother’s Day Brunch Cruises, 3 sailings: 9:30-11:30am, 11am-1pm, 2-4pm, boards at 9am, 10:30am & 1:30pm, respectively, from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, www.hornblower.com,California,949-650-2412, 888-HORNBLOWER

Cinco De Mayo KJAZZ Champagne Jazz Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring performances by Mat Gurman, sails noon2pm, boards at 11:30am from Fisherman’s Village, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, 888-HORNBLOWERwww.hornblower.com,California,310-301-9900, KJAZZ Champagne Jazz Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring performances by Michael Whitman, sails 11am-1pm, boards at 10:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, (sold-out)949-650-2412,www.hornblower.com,888-HORNBLOWER

continued from page

Hornblower Mother’s Day Brunch Cruises, 3 sailings: 9:30-11:30am, 11am-1pm, 2-4pm, boards at 9am, 10:30am & 1:30pm, respectively, from Fisherman’s Village Marina, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, California, 310-301-9900,www.hornblower.com,888-HORNBLOWER

11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, www.hornblower.com, 949-650-2412, 888-HORNBLOWER

94.7 The WAVE welcomes Spaghettini’s Legendary Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch with live broadcast and performances by DW3, 10am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

SATURDAY, MAY 19

KJAZZ Champagne Jazz Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring performances by Michael Whitman, sails noon-2pm, boards at

Hornblower San Diego Champagne Brunch Cruise, sails 11am-1pm, boards at 10:30am from Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 N.

continued on page 26

MAY SATURDAY, MAY 5

Hornblower San Diego Champagne Brunch Cruise, sails 11am-1pm, boards at 10:30am from Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego, California, 619-686-8700www.hornblower.com,

24 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS

KJAZZ Champagne Jazz Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring performances by Mat Gurman, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from Fisherman’s Village Marina, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, 888-HORNBLOWERwww.hornblower.com,California,310-301-9900,

SATURDAY, MAY 12

16th Annual Jazz on the Vine Mother’s Day Buffet brunch featuring live performance by Marcell Guyton, 10am, The Osthoff Resort, 101 Osthoff Ave., Elkhart Lake, www.jazzonthevine.net,Wisconsin,877-496-4113

Hornblower Mother’s Day Brunch Cruises, 3 cruises: Mother’s Day Brunch Cruise with live jazz by Elliot Lawrence, 9:30-11:30am; 22 Dave trombonistreporter,meteorologistScott––KUSI-TVandfeaturewhoisalsoajazzandcomposer—isscheduledtoperformonHornblower’sSanDiegoChampagneJazzBrunchCruiseonSaturday,May12andMay26

Hornblower San Diego Champagne Jazz Brunch Cruise featuring performances by the Dave Scott Duo, sails 11am-1pm, boards at 10:30am from Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego, California, 619-686-8700www.hornblower.com, SUNDAY, MAY 13

John Wayne Birthday Champagne Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower, noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 888-HORNBLOWERwww.hornblower.com,California,949-650-2412,

Mother’s Day Brunch Cruise featuring live jazz by The Classic Jazz Trio, 11am-1pm; Mother’s Day Brunch Cruise with live jazz by Elliot Lawrence, 2:30-4:30pm; boards at 9am, 10:30am & 2pm, respectively; VIP cruise options board at 8:30am, 10am & 1:30pm, respectively. Cruises depart from Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego, California, www.hornblower.com, 619-686-8700

KJAZZ Champagne Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring performances by Mat Gurman, with KJAZZ DJ host Bubba Jackson, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from Fisherman’s Village Marina, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, California, www.hornblower.com, 310-301-9900, 888-HORNBLOWER John Wayne Birthday Champagne Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower, 11am-1pm, boards at 10:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 888-HORNBLOWERwww.hornblower.com,California,949-650-2412,

Hornblower Cruises & Events yacht sailing on San Diego Bay

MAY 2018 | 25 See Southern California. Brunch Differently. NEWPORT BEACH MARINA DEL REY LONG BEACH SAN DIEGO SAN FRANCISCO NEW YORK * Valid for up to 6 adults in San Diego, Newport Beach & Marina del Rey. Terms and conditions apply. Not valid on holidays or special events. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 11/30/18. Gather the crew and toast your bottomless bubbly to that California lifestyle; your typical weekend brunch just got a facelift. Enjoy live jazz when you come aboard any brunch in Marina del Rey, Newport Beach or San Diego. Please visit our website for featured entertainment. Use code SJN5D for $5 off* Hornblower.com • 1-888-Hornblower •    $5 OFF * ANY CRUISE USE CODE SJN5D

26 |

SUNDAY, MAY 27

Hornblower San Diego Champagne Jazz Brunch Cruise featuring performances by the Dave Scott Duo, sails 11am-1pm, boards at 10:30am from Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego, www.hornblower.com,California, 619-686-8700

94.7 The WAVE welcomes Spaghettini’s Legendary Champagne Brunch with live broadcast and performances by DW3, 10am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

KJAZZ Champagne Jazz Brunch

SUNDAY, MAY 20

Jacksonville Jazz Festival welcomes the Omni Sacred Jazz Brunch featuring Noel Freidline Quintet with Maria Howell, 10am & 12:30pm, Omni Hotels & Resorts, 245 Water St., Jacksonville, Florida, www.JaxJazzFest.com Memorial Weekend KJAZZ Champagne Jazz Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring performances by Mat Gurman, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from Fisherman’s Village Marina, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, California, www.hornblower.com, 310-301-9900, 888-HORNBLOWER

Graphic desi e ditin Writin Blo G Graphic desi G n e ditin G Graphic desi G n e ditin G Writin G Blo GG in G Tapourtalenttomakeagoodimpression! needhelpwithaproject? contact: smoothjazzads@aol.com Turn to the pros at Smooth Jazz News to custom create... ✔festival guides ✔programs ✔brochures ✔blog posts—content and images! ✔and more!

Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring performances by Mat Gurman, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from Fisherman’s Village Marina, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, 888-HORNBLOWERwww.hornblower.com,California,310-301-9900,

MONDAY, MAY 28 Memorial Day Champagne Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from Fisherman’s Village Marina, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, California, www.hornblower.com, 310-301-9900, 888-HORNBLOWER

Memorial Weekend KJAZZ Champagne Jazz Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring performances by Mat Gurman, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from Fisherman’s Village Marina, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, California, www.hornblower.com, 310-301-9900, 888-HORNBLOWER Memorial Weekend KJAZZ Champagne Jazz Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring performances by Michael Whitman, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 888-HORNBLOWERwww.hornblower.com,California,949-650-2412,

Memorial Day Champagne Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 888-HORNBLOWERwww.hornblower.com,California,949-640-2412, Memorial Day BBQ Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower, sails 11am1pm, boards at 10:30am from Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego, California, www.hornblower.com, 619-686-8700

SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS continued from page 24 Harbor Dr., San Diego, California, www.hornblower.com, 619-686-8700

94.7 The WAVE welcomes Spaghettini’s Legendary Champagne Brunch with live broadcast and performances by DW3, 10am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199

KJAZZ Champagne Jazz Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring performances by Michael Whitman, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, www.hornblower.com, 949-650-2412, 888-HORNBLOWER

Hornblower San Diego Champagne Brunch Cruise, sails 11am-1pm, boards at 10:30am from Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego, California, www.hornblower.com, 619-686-8700

SATURDAY, MAY 26

Memorial Weekend KJAZZ Champagne Jazz Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring performances by Michael Whitman, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 888-HORNBLOWERwww.hornblower.com,California,949-650-2412, Hornblower San Diego Champagne Brunch Cruise, sails 11am1pm, boards at 10:30am from Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego, California, 619-686-8700www.hornblower.com,

MAY 2018 | 27 Smooth Jazz News readers are affluent 40-plus-year-old professionals and active empty-nesters who... • Enjoy fine wine and dining • Spend money on health • Like to buy music • Travel to jazz festivals and concerts Get in front of this premium jazz crowd & advertise Be Wise Reserve your ad space today! smoothjazzads@aol.com858-541-1919

May 24-27 2018 Jacksonville Jazz Festival

jubilant jaunts

Jacksonville, Florida Lineup: Thursday, May 24, 7 p.m.: Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition, The Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St.

ANNUAL

Friday, May 25: Jazz Clinic, 10 a.m., Ritz Theater & Museum, 829 N. Davis St. (This free master-class formatted clinic offers musicians of all ages and skill sets the opportunity to learn from some of the best jazz musicians in the business.)

GET READY. GET Tap

28 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS

JAZZ FESTIVAL CRUISE GUIDEA N D

Saturday, May 26, 2-11 p.m.: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Sheila E., The Bad Plus, Euge Groove, Pete Escovedo Orchestra with special guests Jimmy Bosch and Chembo Corniel, The 4 Korners, Vijay Iyer Sextet, Jonathan Baptiste & The Urban Intellectuals, The Russell Malone Quartet, Ottmar Liebert & Luna Negra, Mica Bethea Big Band, Zach Bartholomew Trio and more Sunday, May 27: Omni Sacred Jazz Brunch, seatings at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Omni Hotels & Resorts, 245 Water St. Festival, 2-11 p.m.: Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Maysa, Jane Bunnett & Maqueque, Ulysses Owens Jr.’s “Three,” Linda Cole & The Joshua Bowlus Quartet, Jeffery Broussard & The Creole Cowboys, UNF Jazz Ensemble 1, Douglas Anderson School of the Arts Jazz Ensemble 1 and more Venues: Swingin’ Stage, presented by Jacksonville Aviation Authority, will be located in front of the Duval County Courthouse on Pearl St. facing west; Groovin’ Stage, presented by Jacksonville Acura Dealers, will remain on the north end of Hemming Park facing south; Breezin’ Stage will be located at the corner of Main and Adams streets facing north Getting there: Flights are available into the Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), approximately 14 miles from the venue Tickets and information: Admission is free to all concerts (except the Piano Competition and Omni Sacred Jazz Brunch). Details at jacksonvillejazzfest.com. those calendar apps, and book to celebrate smooth jazz season

Festival, 5-11 p.m.: Grace Kelly, Champian Fulton Quartet, Lohai, The Chris Thomas Band and more

Pavilion Stage: hosted by Marcus Miller, featuring Anita Baker “The Farewell Tour,” Bob James, Damien Escobar, Lizz Wright, Michael Franks, “As You Are:” A Tribute to Phyllis Hyman, Moonchild

Warren Hill’s 2018 Cancun Jazz Festival will be held Oct. 4-7, at the Hard Rock Hotel in Riviera Maya, Mexico

Pavilion Stage: Friday Night Soul Concert featuring Earth, Wind & Fire; Ledisi; and introducing Butterscotch Saturday, June 2, noon-10 p.m. (sold-out):

May 27 14th Annual Temecula Wine & Music Festival

2017 Capital Jazz Fest at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland

Pavilion Stage: hosted by Marcus Miller, featuring Diana Krall, Boney James, Rachelle Ferrell, Snarky Puppy, “Lean on Me:”

Lineup: Friday, May 25: Happy Hour with Dee Lucas and special guest U-NAM, 5 p.m.; Euge Groove, 5:50 p.m.; Maysa, 7:10 p.m.; MCJF All-Stars featuring Nick Colionne, Steve Cole & Brian Simpson with special guest Peabo Bryson, 8:25 p.m.

Symphony Woods Stage: hosted by Cayman Kelly, featuring Larry Graham & Graham Central Station, Brandy, Joss Stone, Tevin Campbell, “Luther Re-Lives:” A Tribute to Luther Vandross, The Hamiltones

Lineup: Michael Paulo and Friends with Gregg Karukas, Paul Brown, Blake Aaron, Gail Jhonson, Kanzaki, BenjaSoul, Kimaya Seward, Rene Paulo, 3:30 p.m., and Hawaii’s legendary band Kalapana, benefiting the Boys & Girls Club of Southwest County, 5:30 p.m. Venue: Hawk Ranch, 42149 Elm St., Murrieta, California

Tickets and information: www.capitaljazz.com, www.ticketfly.com, 877-987-6487 continued

Venue: Public Square Park, 10 Public Square, Nashville, Tennessee

Venue: Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia, Maryland

Symphony Woods Stage: hosted by Cayman Kelly, featuring Smokey Robinson, Fantasia, Keith Sweat, After 7, Dave Hollister, Liv Warfield & The NPG Hornz Old-School Dance Party (Official After-Party of the Capital Jazz Fest), plus live performance by E.U., 10:30 p.m.-3 a.m., BWI Airport Marriott, 1743 W. Nursery Road, Linthicum, Sunday,MarylandJune 3, noon-10 p.m. (gates open at 10 a.m.):

RobinsonDemetriusPhoto:

Murrieta, California

Getting there: Flights are available into the Nashville International Airport (BNA), approximately 8 miles from the venue Tickets and information: www.musiccityjazzfest.com, 205-705-3131

Nashville, Tennessee

Getting there: Flights are available into Ontario International Airport (ONT) and San Diego International Airport (SAN). The venue is approximately 50 miles from ONT and 69 miles from SAN. Tickets and information: www.temeculawineandmusicfestival.com, www.tix.com, 951-696-0184

MAY 2018 | 29

Saturday, May 26: Doc Powell, noon; Family Affair with Kim Waters & Kayla Waters, 1:15 p.m.; Hiroshima, 2:35 p.m.; Damien Escobar, 3:50 p.m.; Rachelle Ferrell, 5:20 p.m.; Boney James, 7 p.m.

June 1-3 26th Annual Capital Jazz Fest Columbia, Maryland Lineup: Friday, June 1, 7:30-11 p.m. (gates open at 6:30 p.m.):

A Tribute to Bill Withers featuring José James, Keiko Matsui, Jeff Bradshaw & Friends

on page 30

Getting there: Flights are available into the BaltimoreWashington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), approximately 19 miles from the venue

May 25-26 Third Annual Music City Jazz Festival

June 6-10

Getting there: Flights are available into the Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport in Santa Rosa (STS), Oakland International Airport (OAK), San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Sacramento International Airport (SMF). Distance to the venue is approximately 50 miles from STS, 51 miles from OAK, 57 miles from SFO and 64 miles from SMF. Tickets and information: www.jazzgetaway.com

continued from page 29

Eric Darius wowing fans in the VIP section of the 2017 San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival. Darius will be hosting the second annual event this year, which is presented by Rainbow Promotions and Payne Pest Management.

30 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS

HopleyDavidPhoto:

After-Party featuring DJs The World Famous Rick & Russ Show with CJ Flash and a Cigar Party hosted by Cecil Ramirez, 10:30 p.m., The Westin Verasa (for Platinum and Gold Access ticket holders) Friday, June 8: “Wine Down” featuring complimentary wine tasting and performances by artists TBA, 2 p.m., The Westin Verasa (for Platinum and Gold Access ticket holders) Wine reception and silent auction benefiting The GRAMMY Foundation, 6 p.m., Lincoln Theater “Friday Night Funk Night” featuring comedian Sinbad, plus the Al McKay All-Stars performing the music of Earth, Wind & Fire, 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theater

Seventh Annual Brian Culbertson’s Napa Valley Jazz Getaway Napa, California Lineup: Wednesday, June 6: Welcome Dinner & Jam Session hosted by Brian Culbertson, featuring Cecil Ramirez, Marcus Anderson, Adam Hawley and more, 7 p.m., Solera Courtyard, The Westin Verasa Thursday, June 7: “Wine Down” featuring complimentary wine tasting and performances by Marcus Anderson and Adam Hawley, 2 p.m., The Westin Verasa (for Platinum and Gold Access ticket holders)

After-Party featuring DJs The World Famous Rick & Russ Show with CJ Flash, and Cigar Party hosted by Cecil Ramirez, 10:30 p.m., The Westin Verasa (for Platinum and Gold Access ticket Saturday,holders)June 9 (gates open at 11 a.m., music starts at 1 p.m.): Avery*Sunshine, 1 p.m.; Peter White, 2:30 p.m.; Brian Culbertson with Faith Evans, 4 p.m.; The Commodores, 5:45 p.m.; plus DJs The World Famous Rick & Russ Show with CJ Flash spinning between sets, Oxbow Commons Park After-Party featuring DJs The World Famous Rick & Russ Show with CJ Flash, and a Cigar Party, 8 p.m., The Westin Verasa (for Platinum, Gold and Silver Access ticket holders) Sunday, June 10 (gates open at 11 a.m., music starts at 1 p.m.): Nick Colionne with Eric Darius, 1 p.m.; Kirk Whalum, 2:30 p.m.; Norman Brown and Bobby Caldwell, 4 p.m.; Brian Culbertson with Lindsey Webster, 5:45 p.m.; DJs The World Famous Rick & Russ Show with CJ Flash spinning between sets, Oxbow CommonsFarewellParkAfter-Party featuring Brian Culbertson & Friends, 8 p.m., The Westin Verasa (for Platinum, Gold and Silver Access ticket holders)

“Colors of Love” featuring Brian Culbertson, plus solo acoustic performance by Jonathan Butler, 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theater

June 29-July 1

The 2nd Annual San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival presented by Rainbow Promotions and Payne Pest Management San Diego, California Lineup (hosted by Eric Darius): Friday, June 29, 6 p.m.: An Intimate Evening of Smooth Jazz with Monty Seward and Jessy J, hosted by Eric Darius Saturday, June 30, 11 a.m.: Eric Darius; Brian Culbertson; Jazz

Venues: The Westin Verasa Napa, 1314 McKinstry St.; Oxbow Commons Park on McKinstry St. (next to the Westin Verasa), Napa, California; Lincoln Theater, 100 California Dr., Yountville, California

Funk Soul featuring Jeff Lorber, Everette Harp and Paul Jackson Jr.; The Sax Pack featuring Jeff Kashiwa, Steve Cole and Jackiem Joyner; Steve Oliver Sunday, July 1, 11 a.m.: Dave Koz Summer Horns featuring Gerald Albright, Rick Braun, Richard Elliot and introducing Aubrey Logan; Hiroshima; Peter White; Nestor Torres; Marcus Anderson

continued on page 32

Venue: Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club, 7719 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda, Maryland

Venue: Embarcadero Marina Park North, 400 Kettner Blvd., San Diego, California (adjacent to Seaport Village)

Aug. 10-12

July 12-15

PhotographyMooreEllisPhotos:

Getting there: Flights are available into Reagan National Airport (DCA), approximately 12 miles from the venue

Parking: Free parking is available adjacent to the festival grounds, and additional parking with free shuttle service.

Tickets and information: www.sandiegosmoothjazzfestival.com, 562-424-0013

Visit festival website for details. Tickets and information: www.lakearborjazz.com

Saturday, July 14: Norman Brown, James Lloyd, inGratitude, Rob Zinn, Bela Dona and more, 1 p.m., Lake Arbor Community Center, 10100 Lake Arbor Way, Mitchellville, Maryland Sunday, July 15: Sunday Jazz Brunch featuring Brian Simpson, Lin Rountree, David P. Stevens, Art Sherrod Jr. and Doreen Vail, 1 p.m.; and Grand Finale All-Star Jam Session hosted by Gerald Veasley, featuring Brian Simpson, James Lloyd, Marcus Mitchell, Brian Lenair, Rob Zinn, Lin Rountree, David P. Stevens and more, 7 p.m.

Parking: San Diego Convention Center, 111 W. Harbor Dr., San Diego, California, at the rate of $15 per vehicle. See festival website for complete details.

Getting there: Flights are available into the San Diego International Airport (SAN), approximately 4 miles from the venue

Getting there: Flights are available into the Long Beach Airport (LGB), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and John Wayne Airport, Orange County (SNA). Distance to the venue is approximately 6 miles from LGB, 22 miles from LAX and 23 miles from SNA.

Staying there: Manchester Grand Hyatt, located at 1 Market Pl., San Diego, California, is the hotel sponsor. Only registered hotel guests may park at the hotel. Please see the festival website for additional hotel options.

31st Annual Long Beach Jazz Festival Long Beach, California Lineup: Brian Simpson and Jazmin Ghent; David Benoit and Marc Antoine; Everette Harp, Chante Moore and Doc Powell; Kirk Whalum; Marcus Miller; Maysa; Keiko Matsui; Kim Waters and Marion Meadows; Nick Colionne; Eric Roberson; Nick Smith; Stanley Clarke and more

Venue: Rainbow Lagoon Park, E. Shoreline Dr. at Linden Ave., Long Beach, California

9th Annual Lake Arbor Jazz Festival Mitchellville, Maryland

Lineup: Thursday, July 12: Pre-Festival Jam Session featuring Cedric A. Napolean and Friends, Paula Atherton and Nia Simmons, 7 p.m., Olde Town Inn, 9421 Largo Dr. W., Largo, Maryland Friday, July 13: VIP Summer White Affair and concert featuring Eric Darius, Marcus Anderson, Selina Albright, J.J. Sansaverino, Jazz in Pink and Daniel D, 6 p.m., Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club, 7719 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda, Maryland

Tickets and information: www.longbeachjazzfestival.com, 2017 Long Beach Jazz Festival in Long Beach, California

562-424-0013

Getting there: Flights are available into the Louisville International Airport (SDF), approximately 3 miles from the venue

Tickets and information: www.derbycityjazzfest.com, 502-442-9869

Aug. 11

Lake Arbor Jazz Festival Summer Cruise on the Potomac Washington, D.C.

32 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS

Getting there: Flights are available into Reagan National Airport (DCA), approximately 3 miles from the venue

Tickets and information: www.lakearborjazz.com Sept. 1-2

Pensacola Community Maritime Park, venue for the 3rd Annual Gulf Coast Summer Fest Jazz Edition on Sept. 1, in Pensacola, Florida

Aug. 10-11

Venue: Churchill Downs, 700 Central Ave., Louisville, Kentucky

Rick Braun’s European River Cruise Getaway Germany, Austria and Hungary Seven-day full-ship charter (sold-out)

Aug. 31

Inaugural Life Luxe Jazz festival is scheduled for Nov. 1-4 at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Tickets and information: www.smoothjazzfete.com

Louisville, Kentucky Lineup (gates open at 3 p.m.): Friday, Aug. 10: Blake Aaron, Tim Cunningham, Nik West, Althea Rene, Jazmin Ghent and Maestro J

Lineup: Unit 3 Deep and Lori Williams, 7 p.m.

Venue: Armory (east lawn), 330 Marshall St., Lansing, Michigan

Venue: Aboard the Spirit of Washington, board at The Wharf, Southwest DC Waterfront, 600 Water St. S.W., Washington, D.C.

Aug. 11-18

Saturday, Aug. 11: Bob Baldwin, Richard Randolph, Marion Meadows, Kim Waters, Will Downing, Lin Rountree and Chris Miskel

Embarkation: Nuremberg, Germany

Parking: Limited onsite parking, including handicap, will be available for $10 per car. Additional free parking at Pattengill Middle School and Lansing Catholic, a brief walk from the venue.

Ports of call: Nuremberg, Regensburg and Passau, Germany; Melk and Vienna, Austria; Budapest, Hungary

10th Annual Greater Charleston Lowcountry Jazz Festival presented by Closing the Gap in Health Care Charleston, South Carolina Lineup: Saturday, Sept. 1, 7:30 p.m.: Avery*Sunshine, David Benoit, Marc Antoine, Althea Rene, Selina Albright, Jazmin Ghent Sunday, Sept. 2, 7:30 p.m.: Boney James, Nick Colionne, Brian continued from page 31

Lineup: Rick Braun, Peter White and Vincent Ingala Ship: AmaWaterways AmaCerto

Phil Denny’s Armory Smooth Jazz Fete Lansing, Michigan Lineup (gates open at 12:30 p.m.): Phil Denny, Steve Cole, David P. Stevens, Meagan McNeal, Oli Silk, Ryan Montano, music starts at 1 p.m.

Getting there: Flights are available into Capital Region International Airport (LAN) and Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW). The venue is approximately 5 miles from LAN, and 88 miles from DTW.

Third Annual Derby City Jazz Festival

View of Avalon harbor during the 2017 Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival

Getting there: Flights are available into the Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), approximately 17 miles from the venue

Venue: Oxnard Beach Park, 1601 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard, California

MAY 2018 | 33 continued on page 34

Parking: Free onsite parking

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Lineup: Friday, Sept. 7: Jonathan Michel, 6:30 p.m., Bobby Broom, 8:30 p.m.

Sept. 1

3rd Annual Gulf Coast Summer Fest Jazz Edition

Venue: Fort Hunter Park, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg,

Dauphin County Jazz & Wine Festival

3rd Annual Oxnard Jazz Festival

Saturday, Sept. 8: Carl Anderson Band featuring Ronnie Queen and Diane Wilson-Bedford, 4:30 p.m.; Mike Phillips, 6 p.m.; Nick Colionne, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 9: Oli Silk and Jackiem Joyner, 4:30 p.m.; Luther-ReLives with William Smooth Wardlaw, 6 p.m.; Peter White, 7:30 p.m.

BenterPatPhoto:

Pensacola, Florida Lineup (Gates open at 2:30 p.m.): Hosted by Nick Colionne, featuring Boney James, Jeff Lorber, Everette Harp, Paul Jackson Jr., Brian Simpson, Oli Silk, Julian Vaughn, Jay Rowe, Earnest Walker Jr.

Venue: Pensacola Community Maritime Park, 301 W. Main St., Pensacola, Florida

Getting there: Flights are available into the Charleston International Airport (CHS), approximately 11 miles from the venue

Tickets and information: www.lowcountryjazzfest.com, 843-242-3099

Getting there: Flights are available into Pensacola International Airport (PNS), approximately 7 miles from the venue

Tickets and information: www.dauphincounty.org, 717-599-5188, ext. 2117

Sept. 8

Fifth Annual Elan Trotman’s Barbados Jazz Excursion & Golf Weekend Barbados, West Indies Lineup: Thursday, Oct. 4: Welcome reception, 7:30 p.m., Comedy Night featuring Damon Williams, 9 p.m.; Pajama Karaoke (winner to perform as opening act for Sunday show), 11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 5: Brian Bromberg, Alex Bugnon, Maysa, 6 p.m.; After-Party/Jam Session, 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6: Elan Trotman’s “Taste of the Caribbean” featuring Nestor Torres, 2 p.m.; After-Party/Jam Session, 11 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 7: Charity golf tournament, 9:30 a.m.; performances by Jeff Bradshaw, Karen Briggs and Najee, 7 p.m.; After-Party/Jam Session, 11 p.m.

Simpson, Eric Darius, Matt Marshak

Venue: Charleston Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun St., Charleston, South Carolina

Getting there: Flights are available into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), approximately 65 miles from the venue Tickets and information: https://oxnardjazzfestival.com

Hilton Barbados Resort, the venue for the Fifth Annual Elan Trotman’s Barbados Jazz Excursion & Golf Weekend

Tickets and information: www.gulfcoastsummerfestjazzedition.com, 800-745-3000

Sept. 7-9

Pennsylvania

Oxnard, California Lineup (11 a.m.-7 p.m.): Con Funk Shun, Greg Adams & East Bay Soul, Kelly’s Lot, Mindi Abair & The Boneshakers, Paul Brown, Pete Escovedo, Rick Parma, Tierra

Oct. 4-7

Vila Vita Parc, the venue for the Third Annual Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival in Portugal continued from page 33

Getting there: Flights are available into the Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI), approximately 10 miles from the venue

JazzTrax Festival

Lineup: Norman Brown, Jeff Lorber Fusion, Peter White, Paul Taylor, Marc Antoine, Rocco Ventrella, Lindsey Webster, Michael Lington, Lin Rountree

Oct. 11-14 and 18-21

Oct. 4-7

Oct. 16-21

Phillips at Descanso Beach, 10:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 14: Willie Bradley, noon; Hiroshima, 2 p.m.; Adam Hawley, 7 p.m.; Candy Dulfer, 9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 18: Keiko Matsui Unplugged Under the Stars at Descanso Beach, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 19: TBA, 7 p.m.; Jonathan Fritzén, Peter “Peet” Ferencz and Marcus Anderson, 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 20: Dan Siegel, noon; Damien Escobar, 2 p.m.; Skinny Hightower, 7 p.m.; TBA, 9 p.m.; after-party featuring DJ Jonathan Phillips at Descanso Beach, 10:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 21: Urban Jazz Coalition, noon; Tim Bowman, 2 p.m.; TBA, 7 p.m.; Richard Elliot, 9 p.m.

Venues: Catalina Casino Ballroom, 1 Casino Way, Avalon, California; and Descanso Beach for Thursday Night Unplugged Getting there: Catalina Express offers the most convenient choices of round-trip, cross-channel transportation from its terminals in Long Beach, San Pedro and Dana Point, California, to Avalon. Visit www.CatalinaExpress.com, or call If877-292-3434.flyingintothe Los Angeles-Orange County areas, flights are available into Long Beach Airport (LGB), John Wayne Airport, Orange County (SNA) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Distance to the Long Beach terminal is approximately 11 miles from LGB, 22 miles from LAX and 29 miles from SNA. Tickets and information: www.jazztrax.com, 866-872-9849

Riviera Maya, Mexico Lineup: Michael McDonald, KEM, Boney James, Dave Koz & Friends Summer Horns (featuring Gerald Albright, Rick Braun, Richard Elliot and introducing Aubrey Logan), Damien Escobar, Marc Antoine and David Benoit, Kirk Whalum, Peter White, Eric Darius, Nick Colionne and special guest Nicholas Cole, Pieces of a Dream, Sax Pack (featuring Jeff Kashiwa, Steve Cole and Jackiem Joyner), Marion Meadows, Tim Bowman, Adam Hawley and Jazmin Ghent

Getting there: Flights are available into the Cancun International Airport (CUN), approximately 30 miles from the venue

Venue: Hard Rock Hotel, Riviera Maya, Mexico

32nd Annual Catalina Island

Venue: Hilton Barbados Resort, Needham’s Point St. Michael, Bridgetown, Barbados

Warren Hill’s Cancun Jazz Festival

34 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS

Tickets and information: www.barbadosjazzexcursion.com

Tickets and information: http://cancunjazz.com, 805-491-5299

Venue: Vila Vita Parc, Algarve, Porches, Portugal

Third Annual Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival Algarve, Portugal

Avalon, California Lineup: Thursday, Oct. 11: Peter White Unplugged Under the Stars at Descanso Beach, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 12: Vincent Ingala and Lindsey Webster, 7 p.m.; David Benoit and Marc Antoine, 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 13: TBA, noon; Najee, 2 p.m.; Jazmin Ghent, 7 p.m.; Jesse Cook, 9 p.m.; after-party featuring DJ Jonathan

The Florida Smooth Jazz Weekend Daytona Beach, Florida Lineup: Friday, Jan. 18: Jazz in Pink featuring Jazmin Ghent, Gail Jhonson and Althea Rene, 7:30 p.m.; Peter White, 8:45 p.m.; Euge Groove concert and Friday Night Jam, 10:15 p.m.; Artist Meet-and-Greet, 11:45 p.m.

12th Annual Capital Jazz SuperCruise

Getting there: Flights are available into the Charleston International Airport (CHS), approximately 33 miles from the venue

Lineup: to be announced

Poolside deck on the 2017 Capital Jazz SuperCruise. The 2019 SuperCruise is sold-out, but details on the 2020 sailing will be announced soon.

Eight-day full-ship charter (sold-out, waitlist)

Ports of call: Belize City, Belize; Labadee, Haiti; Roatan Island, Honduras; Cozumel, Mexico

Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Lineup: Gregory Porter; Sheila E.; Avery*Sunshine; Gerald Albright with special guest Selina Albright; Stokley; Lindsey Webster; The S.O.S. Band; Raul Midón; Maysa; Black Violin; Kenny Lattimore; The Baylor Project featuring Jean Baylor and Marcus Baylor; Jon B; Liv Warfield & The NPG Hornz; Vinx; Chantae Cann; Mike Phillips; Sy Smith; Trouble Funk; The Floacist; Take 6; Secret Society Party Band; introducing 16-year-old piano prodigy Matthew Whitaker; plus JB Smoove special guest comedian, Michael Colyar and Eric Roberson resident celebrity hosts; Tony Richards, Pat Prescott and Lenny Green, cruise hosts; a special performance by Teddy Riley & Friends featuring Guy, Blackstreet and Wreckx-N-Effect all performing in the same show, and more to be announced

Nov. 7- 10

Venue: Kiawah Island Golf Resort, 1 Sanctuary Beach Dr., Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Venue: Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Getting there: Flights are available into Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), approximately 30 miles from the venue

17-25, 2019

continued on page 36

Jan.2019

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MAY 2018 | 35

Ship: Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas Embarkation: Fort Lauderdale, Florida Booking and information: www.capitaljazz.com/ supercruise/2019/, 877-619-2929

Tickets and information: www.lifeluxejazz.com, contact@lifeluxejazz.com

Nov. 1-4 Life Luxe Jazz Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Lineup: Boney James, Norman Brown, Gregory Porter, Maysa, Mindi Abair, Keiko Matsui, Najee, Kirk Whalum, Lindsey Webster, Bobby Caldwell, Michael Manson, Meli’sa Morgan, Lin Rountree, Ernest Quarles, Zoe Wood, Darian Emory, Jessica Jolia, plus jazz workshops, VIP activities, welcome reception, sunset jazz cruise, golf tournament, health and wellness options, wind down and more

Earl Klugh’s Weekend of Jazz at Kiawah Island Golf Resort

Tickets and information: www.weekendofjazz.com/Kiawah, 800-654-2924

Tickets and information: www.algarve.smoothjazzfestival.de, (+49) 821 2292711

Getting there: Flights are available into the Faro Airport (FAO) and Lisbon Airport (LIS) in Portugal. The venue is approximately 38 miles from FAO and 168 miles from LIS.

Jan. 18-20 , 2019

Getting there: Flights are available into Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB), approximately 6 miles from the venue

Lineup: to be announced Ship: Holland America ms Noordam Embarkation: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

April 5-14 , 2019

Lineup: to be announced

Venue: Broadmoor Resort and Spa, 1 Lake Ave., Colorado Springs, Colorado

Sunday, Jan. 20: Brunch with the artists and Q&A panel, 10 a.m. Venue: The Plaza Resort & Spa, 600 N. Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach, Florida

Venue: Various venues throughout Berks County

Tickets and information: www.berksjazzfest.com, 800-745-3000

Getting there: Flights are available into the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Panama City Beach, and Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. The venue is approximately 10 miles from ECP and 55 miles from VPS.

Venue: Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa, Sa Coma, Mallorca, Spain

Getting there: Flights are available into the Palma de Mallorca View from Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa in Spain, venue for the Eighth Annual Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival

Panama City Beach, Florida, home of the Seabreeze Jazz Festival presented by ResortQuest continued from page 35

April 24-28 , 2019

Dave Koz & Friends at Sea: Australia

March 24-31 and March 31-April 7, 2019

Ports of call: Burnie, Tasmania; Melbourne, Victoria; Eden, New South Wales; Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia

Seven-day full-ship charter (sold-out, waitlist)

Eighth Annual Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival Sa Coma, Mallorca, Spain Lineup: to be announced

Staying there: ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals is the official accommodations provider. For reservations and information, visit www.seabreezejazzfestival.com/ accommodations or call 877-238-1971. Additional accommodations sponsors can also be found on the festival website.

21st Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival presented by ResortQuest Panama City Beach, Florida Lineup: to be announced Venue: Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater, 600 S. Pier Park Dr., Panama City Beach, Florida

Getting there: Flights are available into the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), approximately 70 miles from Berks County

Tickets and information: www.FloridaSmoothJazzWeekend.com, 321-557-1388

Booking and information: www.davekozcruise.com, 800-225-5759

Lineup: to be announced

Getting there: Flights are available into the Colorado Springs Airport (COS) and Denver International Airport (DEN). The venue is approximately 11 miles from COS and 93 miles from DEN. Tickets and information: www.weekendofjazz.com, 844-810-8205

36 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS

Saturday, Jan. 19: Paul Taylor, 7 p.m.; Rick Braun, 8:30 p.m.; Norman Brown and Grand Finale Jam, 10 p.m.; Artist Meet-and-Greet, 11:30 p.m.

Berks County, Pennsylvania

Colorado Springs, Colorado

29th Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest

April 4-6 , 2019

Tickets and information: On sale June 1, 2018, at www.seabreezejazzfestival.com (2019 dates to be announced)

Earl Klugh’s 16th Annual Weekend of Jazz at The Broadmoor

38 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS M, L ... $40 3X, 4X ... $45 L, XL ... $40 2X, 3X ... $50 Note: Shipping and handling are additional. California residents are charged sales tax. M ... $19 3X ... $29 Also available in black S ... $15 Also available in S, M, L ... $15 2X ... $19 | 3X ... $29 Also available in S ... $15 Also available in REDUCED PRICES on selected merchandise Black, Khaki, White $20 SHIRTS • TANKS • JACKETS • HATS JAZZ style GETON!YOUR

MAY 2018 | 39 come sayhi! Cool Festival Deals! AT OUR BrianDURINGBOOTHCulbertson’sNapaValleyJazzGetawayJune9-10 Oxbow Commons Park Napa, www.jazzgetaway.comCalifornia *This promotion is only available during the 2018 Brian Culbertson’s Napa Valley Jazz Getaway and does not apply to telephone or mail orders. HopleyDavidPhoto: CD Compliments of Justin Young WITH CLOTHING OR PURCHASE*SUBSCRIPTION FREE CD*

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