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February | March 2019 | 3 Rainbow Promotions, LLC and Payne Pest Management Present SATURDAY, JUNE 29, 2019 BONEY WEST COAST JAM: KIRK WHALUM & BRIAN SIMPSON & TONY EXUM JR. JAMES RICHARD ELLIOT, JONATHAN BUTLER JAZMIN GHENT PETER WHITE & DW3 ERIC DARIUS NORMAN BROWN SAX TO THE MAX: MICHAEL LINGTON, MONTY SEWARD MARIEA ANTOINETTE VINCENT INGALA & PAUL TAYLOR SUNDAY, JUNE 30, 2019 Hosted by Eric Darius Embarcadero Marina Park North | 400 Kettner Blvd | San Diego, CA 92101 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2019 3 hour dinner cruise aboard the Hornblower Inspiration featuring Althea Rene & Selina Albright All acts and times are subject to change without prior notice. 3RD ANNUAL For Tickets and Information: Rainbow Promotions, LLC (562) 424-0013 | www.sandiegosmoothjazzfestival.com #SDSmoothJazzFest
4 | smooth jazz news Note: Shipping and handling are additional. California residents are charged sales tax. S ... $15 Also available in REDUCED PRICES on selected merchandise SHIRTS • TANKS • JACKETS • HATS GET YOUR ON!
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“My Love Story” by Tina Turner 30 Cashmira’s Starguide February and March horoscopes
CONTENTS
Rainbow Promotions is presenting “A Smooth Jazz Valentine’s Concert for Friends & Lovers” featuring Peter White, Euge Groove and Gregory Porter on Friday, Feb. 8, at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center, Terrace Theater, in Long Beach, California. For details on this and other events happening in February and March, check out the calendar section beginning on page 20.
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 KenDarcyCashmiraCapobiancoPeters Graphic Design Gina Mancini Contributing Photographers Cover photos: Al Jarreau by Marina Chavez; Grover Washington Jr. by R. Andrew Lepley Marina Chavez David Hopley R. Andrew Lepley Caeser Lima Ambrose Martin Raj ErikLoriNaikStollUmphery Smooth Jazz News 5519 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., #134 San Diego, CA www.smoothjazznews.comsmoothjazznews@aol.com858-541-191992117 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. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publisher. ©2018/2019, Smooth Jazz News | All rights reserved Smooth-Jazz @SmoothJazzNewsNews/123513291125001 4 Smooth Jazz News merchandise Fleece jackets, classic jazz shirts, golf shirts, T-shirts, tank tops and hats 7 Notes from the Publisher A resounding time for Smooth Jazz News’ 19th Anniversary Brunch Party & Jam Session in Spaghettini’s remodeled performance lounge 10 29th Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest A variety pack of events distinguishes this 10-day extravaganza in Reading, Pennsylvania 11 Special FREE-CD with offer Receive a FREE CD when you renew or subscribe to Smooth Jazz News at the 29th Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest 12 Gerald Veasley Celebrates the music of the late Grover Washington Jr. as well as that of Nina Simone and Weather Report, plus hosts late-night jam sessions at the Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest
Spotlighting the latest sounds of smooth jazz
16 Brian Bromberg
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LimaCaeserPhoto: UmpheryErikPhoto: Euge Groove Gregory Porter Peter White
14 New Music
The bassist displays his musical chops on his new record and at a variety of concerts at the Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest Calendar of smooth jazz events Concerts, festivals, Valentine’s shows and brunches nationwide 27 Smooth Jazz News subscription: The perfect Valentine’s Day gift for yourself or a friend Win Cool Free Stuff!
Enter to win concert tickets to the Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest 30 Book Review
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GRATITUDE AND SURPRISES are my favorite ways to kick off a new year. And, I offered both at our annual Smooth Jazz News Anniversary Brunch Party & Jam Session at Spaghettini in Seal Beach, California, on Jan. 27. I showed my appreciation to our advertisers by inviting those who advertised with us in 2018 to our reserved section of Spaghettini’s performance lounge, where DW3 provided the soulful party tunes.
Trumpeter Rick Braun (and his daughter Emma) hung out with his buddies saxophonist Richard Elliot (and his wife Camella) and guitarist Peter White before jumping onstage with DW3. That inspired trumpeters Willie Bradley, Rob Zinn and Johnny Britt to join the jam; they were soon joined by keyboardist David Garfield and guitarist Nils, who plugged in and added their musical touches. After a couple of songs, Elliot was called to the stage. As his playing evolved into a sax explosion, the guest guitarist, keyboardist and trumpeters slowly stepped off the stage, allowing Elliot to blow away the audience with his superb skills and stamina. It was a nice sampling of what we can expect when Elliot takes DW3 on his West Coast Jam tour, which starts in April and also features White (plus Braun on select dates). When Elliot got back to his seat, I looked at him and said, “Richard ... um, WOW!” He humbly responded, “I guess I should have practiced more.”
And, because some of those advertisers are also genre stars, brunch-goers (many of whom are Smooth Jazz News readers) were treated to surprise appearances.
Saxophonist Michael Paulo also attended the party, but got caught up in conversations with some of our other guests: Kathy and Willie Payne (Payne Pest Management), Darius and his wife Lynn, Al Williams (founder of Rainbow Promotions), jazz harpist Mariea Antoinette (who is scheduled to perform at the San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival) and her manager James Norris, plus Kim and Ozzie Benoit of Rainbow Promotions.
I burst into laughter.
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The Benoits are producing a Valentine’s concert featuring White, Euge Groove and Gregory Porter on Feb. 8 at the Terrace Theater in Long Beach, California; and, in partnership with Payne Pest Management, the San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival, which now includes a Friday night dinner/concert cruise aboard Hornblower Cruises and Events. Fresh off the Capital Jazz SuperCruise, vocalist Lindsey Webster and her keyboardist Keith Slattery arrived just in time returns host Festival house, begged him David Garfield, Marcus Anderson, Willie Bradley, Rick Braun, Rob Zinn and Richard Elliot
continued on page 8
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Eric Darius, who returns as host of the San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival (scheduled for June 28-30), soon followed Elliot’s lead, turning the brunch into a dance party. And, with Marcus Anderson in the house, some of his fans begged him to take his sax out of the case and get busy, which, of course, he did.
OK. As of press time, he was still in the hospital, but getting the treatment and care he needed. Hopefully, we’ll be seeing him out at Spaghettini or a jazz event with his camera snapping images of this musical lifestyle we all cherish so much. Of course, two of the people who keep this genre alive, and wrapped up in a delicious dining and craft cocktail experience, are Cary Hardwick and Laurie Sisneros, co-owners of Spaghettini. And, with their recent remodel, which includes the removal of part of the wall separating the back of the bar from one of the dining rooms, views of and sounds from the performance lounge have been expanded, opening up a portion of that dining room with additional bar seating. I can’t wait to see how the entire restaurant looks with the final touches of new artwork, which is scheduled for installation next week! Certainly, this new vibe will attract even more diners and concertgoers.And,justlike the Smooth Jazz News Anniversary Brunch Party & Jam Session each year, most shows in the lounge sell out, which makes this additional space especially appreciated.Iwonder what surprises and experiencesgratitude-worthywillbein store for us when we celebrate our 20th anniversary next year, tentatively scheduled for Sunday, January 19, 2020. Stay tuned with Smooth Jazz News for details. We hope to see you (and David Hopley) there!
8 | smooth jazz news continued from page 7 to spend the last hour of this special day listening to great music, while enjoying their first land-based buffet in eight days. They also caught up with her managers Bud Harner and Steve Chapman, who attended the party with their wives, Debra Harner and Lori Stoll, respectively.PatPrescott, on-air personality for Los Angelesbased radio station 94.7 The WAVE, was on the mic introducing the band, announcing our special musical guests as they arrived, and raffling off prizes throughout the day. One of our advertisers, Angela Sanchez, director of marketing for Catalina Express (and a newlywed) was in attendance with her boat captain husband, Adam. When she heard Prescott announcing the winners, she quickly donated a pair of Catalina Express tickets.
Although many of our guest artists and musicians have performed at previous Gardena Jazz Festivals, Benjamin was assessing options for the 2019 festival, now in its 17thEarlieryear. that morning, while setting up for the party, Benjamin was there when our regular photographer, David Hopley, called us from an ambulance while being rushed from his home to the hospital. He wanted to inform us that he couldn’t make it to the brunch (obviously!), but he arranged for Ambrose Martin to take his place. Benjamin immediately offered to fetch her camera from her car to help out with photography duties just in case. Although Benjamin was a guest invited to enjoy the party along with our other advertisers, she also volunteered to assist us throughout the day. Another dose of gratitudeThankfully,administered.Hopleyis
Fans dancing to DW3 Eric Darius jammin’ with DW3 Rick Braun takes a selfie with his daughter, Emma, and Pat Prescott
Another advertiser, Evette Benjamin from the City of Gardena (which produces the Gardena Jazz Festival) was eyeing all of the amazing talent onstage.
For more information on Spaghettini, located at 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy. in Seal Beach, California, visit www.spaghettini.com, or call Note:562-596-2199.Iwouldalso like to acknowledge Brenda Madruga, who handles our hostess duties, checking in guests and working with our fabulous server Angelina Calandrino and staff to ensure that everyone receives service as exceptional as the food and music. I would also like to thank Q, Spaghettini’s entertainment director; Victor Avila, executive chef, and the managers and entire Spaghettini staff for their awesome service and hospitality!
MartinAmbrosePhotos:
Peter White, Craig Collier, Rhonda Kilpatrick, Steve Chapman, Lori Stoll and Emma Braun
DamonReel and Peter White
Joan Giddens (Kathy Payne’s mom), Kathy Payne, Willie Payne, Michael Paulo, Lynn Darius and Eric Darius
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Nils, Rob Zinn and Willie Bradley
MartinAmbrosePhotos:
Kim Benoit and Pat Prescott
Rob Zinn, Rick Braun and Marcus Anderson
Adam and Angela Sanchez (Catalina Express)
Brunchgoers vibing to the music in the lounge
Willie Bradley and Rob Zinn Marcus Anderson and Evette Benjamin Fred and Laurie Sisneros with Camella and Richard Elliot
Chris Walker, Al Jarreau’s longtime musical director, is celebrating the amazing works of the six-time GRAMMY-winning vocalist with “We’re In This Love Together: A Tribute to Al Jarreau.” The show, which features special guests Regina Belle, Rick Braun and Eric Marienthal, is scheduled for April 12.
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For the 29th annual event, Ernesto, the festival’s general manager for the past 25 years, has curated a slate of concerts that pay homage to the greats of jazz, pop and R&B with a variety of brand-new tribute shows.
By Melanie Maxwell ChavezMarinaPhoto: “We’re In This Love Together: A Tribute to Al Jarreau” concert is scheduled for April 12
reading, pennsylvania hen John Ernesto books the talent for the annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest, he always incorporates ensembles that are unique to this 10-day musical and educational extravaganza in Reading, Pennsylvania. Of course, he also includes smooth jazz headliners such as Brian Culbertson, who kicks off the fest on April 5; and Boney James, who’s scheduled to perform on April 13. He then weaves together a lineup that also features top blues acts, straight-ahead quartets, local high school and college bands, funk dance parties, orchestras and R&B and military jazz ensembles with the same care and creativity that artisan Amish women stitch pieces of handcrafted fabric into beautiful patchwork quilts in neighboring Lancaster County.
Gerald Veasley, bassist for Grover Washington Jr. for more than a decade, is directing “Remembering Grover at 75!” a tribute to the GRAMMY-winning saxophonist who died from a sudden heart attack after he and his band performed at a taping of “The Early Show” on CBS in New York City in 1999. Washington’s original band members will join Gerald Albright, Kirk Whalum, Everette Harp and Andy Snitzer onstage for this special show scheduled for April 13.
29th Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest
The Chuck Loeb Memorial All-Star Jam is scheduled for April 11 “Remembering Grover at 75!” is scheduled for April 13
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With more than 300 artists performing 120 concerts over 10 days, there will be plenty of memory-making experiences for the anticipated 40,000 attendees to engage in and cherish for years to come.
Please note that the calendar section of Smooth Jazz News’ April issue will include listings of Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest’s major shows. of Concord Music Group of Dan Siegel CD of Concord Music Group
February | March 2019 | 11 PICK 1f r e e BIG DEAL FROM SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS PICK 1f r e e BIG DEAL FROM SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS
Although nearly every show is a highlight, one of the most popular is always the Annual Berks Jazz Fest All-Star Jam, which has been rebranded as The Chuck Loeb Memorial All-Star Jam. Braun, whose performance this year marks his 24th appearance at the Berks Jazz Fest, and Veasley, a 27-time fest veteran, are co-producing this concert, which features Peter White, Richard Elliot and Phil Perry, among others, to honor the legacy of the amazing guitarist on April 11.
And, that remembrance will also carry on in the form of scholarships through the Berks Arts Council, producer of the Berks Jazz Fest, which started the scholarship fund. “It is being administrated by the Reading Musical Foundation. We have raised over $15,000 to date,” Ernesto explained. “The first recipient(s) will be announced in February, and they will perform during the fest.”
when you renew or subscribe to Smooth Jazz News at our booth during the choose one from this group of cDs
Various venues throughout Berks County, Pennsylvania April 5-14 Festival website: www.berksjazzfest.com
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The Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest is presented by the Berks Arts Council. For the complete lineup, tickets and more information, visit www. berksjazzfest.com or call 800-745-3000.
Saxophonist Art Sherrod is leading The Art Sherrod Jr. Orchestra’s Motown, Soul Revue and Aretha Franklin Tribute on April 6.
When April 5-14 Where Various venues throughout Berks County, Pennsylvania GettinG there Flights are available to the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), approximately 70 miles from Berks County.
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“My relationship with Chuck goes back 20 years,” said Ernesto. “Chuck and I worked together and had brainstorming sessions to create special performances for the fest. Chuck loved the Berks Jazz Fest, and his legacy will live on here every year.”
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Lineup With 50 ticketed shows at six major concert venues, plus 70 non-ticketed events, there are too many to list them all, but here are some of the headliners: Gerald Albright, Rick Braun, Brian Culbertson, Richard Elliot, Boney James, Eric Marienthal, Keiko Matsui, Maysa, Jeffrey Osborne, Phil Perry, The Sax Pack (Steve Cole, Jeff Kashiwa and Jackiem Joyner), Kim Waters, Kirk Whalum, Peter White and many more.
*This free-CD offer is a special promotion only available at the 2019 Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest, while supplies last, and CD selection is subject to change without notice. This offer is not available when ordering by phone, mail or online. CDs are provided compliments of record labels.
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By Ken Capobianco
One of the rare players of the six-string bass, Veasley will co-lead the Chuck Loeb Memorial All-Star Jam with Rick Braun, participate in the celebration of the music of both Grover Washington Jr. and Weather Report, which was led by Veasley’s mentor, Zawinul, and play his tribute show to Nina Simone with Carol Riddick. All this in addition to hosting his “Unscripted Midnight Jam” shows with an array of jazz’s most vital players. An expansive list of performances, indeed.
The 63-year-old bassist, who spent nearly a decade playing with both Zawinul and Washington Jr., respectively, says his appearance this year will be particularly meaningful because he will get to celebrate the lives and music of the men who helped him define his identity as a musician.
GeraldVeasle
“And I also have gotten to know the volunteers and the staff at Berks after going to the festival the last 27 or 28 years. The people who make the fest go behind the scenes, they are friends of mine, so it’s like coming home.”
JAZZ BASSIST GERALD VEASLEY
is not only one of the finest bass players of his generation, he’s also a jazz ambassador. The veteran bassist who has established a strong solo career after playing stints with the late Grover Washington Jr., the band Reverie and a variety of musicians including Joe Zawinul, will be one of the most prominent presences throughout the Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest in April, spreading his love of jazz through multiple performances and tributes.
y
The joyful jazz ambassador goes all in at the Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest
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“This year’s festival is probably above all the others for me,” he said. “To perform the music of Weather Report is beyond words. Jason Miles has done a great job of pulling musicians together and coming up with arrangements that are organic and work in a live setting. I had the pleasure of playing with the co-founder of Weather Report, Joe Zawinul, for eight years. I learned so much
“The diverse experiences the festival offers to me is second to none. This year touches on some of my major influences,” Veasley said via phone recently from his home in Philadelphia. “John Ernesto, the [festival’s] general manager, is really good at finding unique things to present in addition to the fan favorites, who are the bedrocks of a festival. He’s a risk taker who will present things you wouldn’t see anywhere else. I also love to perform with musicians who are not only my colleagues but my friends, so every year at Berks, I get to see my friends who I might not see the rest of the year.
“When you play live in front of an audience, they also inform the music with the energy they bring.”
For more information on Veasley, visit www.geraldveasley.com. For tickets or more information on the Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest, visit www.berksjazzfest.com.
building initiative Jazz Philadelphia, and serves as the artistic director and founder of Gerald Veasley’s Bass Bootcamp, an annual event geared toward educating aspiring bassists and giving them the opportunity to develop their chops in intensive sessions with professional musicians.
from him as a musician and as a person. To play this music, which has informed so much of what I do and my career, is very special to me.
“With Washington’sofcelebrationtheGrover music, we will have some great saxophonists that night—Kirk Whalum, Gerald Albright and Andy Snitzer—these are friends of mine. We are bringing together Grover’s last live band.”
While he thought the Boot Camp would be a great opportunity for younger musicians, the primary participants turned out to be much“Myolder.initial thought in founding the organization in 2002 was we’d get a lot of young players right at the precipice of becoming professional, and that’s exactly who doesn’t come,” he said. “A lot of young players are at that point in their lives where they’re too busy hustling for gigs; they don’t hit the pause button for a deeper learning experience.
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“And I can say the same thing about playing the music of Grover. With the celebration of Grover Washington’s music, we will have some great saxophonists that night––Kirk Whalum, Gerald Albright and Andy Snitzer—these are friends of mine. We are bringing together Grover’s last live band. We were all with Grover on the day he passed away. We were together in the television studio in New York. We said our goodbyes. We said, ‘See you next week’ because we had rehearsal, and then we got the news that Grover had collapsed in the dressing room, and that shifted everyone’s life forever. This show at Berks is very, very significant. It’s not really a tribute because these are people who knew and loved the artist on a deeper level.”
Veasley, who co-curates the Unscripted Jazz Series at SOUTH— a Southern-inspired supper club, bar and jazz venue in Philadelphia— with his wife Roxanne, is also president of the jazz community
The immensely articulate and friendly Veasley speaks like your favorite university professor, and, predictably, he takes part in Berks’ yearly Get JazzED program, which advances musical education and performance for young people. It’s something he looks forward to each year. “Last year I presented a workshop at some high schools. I’ll do that again, and, of course, one of the best ways a young player gets to learn is to play along with professionals. For me, those experiences go into the category of fun and Whenrewarding.”he’snotspreading his love of jazz through instruction or mentoring, Veasley does it through his artistry. He’s released 11 solo records that display his diverse musical palette, which ranges from smooth jazz to traditional jazz to funk to fusion to R&B. His latest release, the fine Live at South in 2018, is an excellent showcase for his songwriting and his band’s stellar playing as they traverse genres with vibrancy and intensity. “One of the beautiful things about having a working band is you develop a vocabulary and rapport among the players, so when you are playing or preparing to play, you don’t have to talk about what you intend to do. You just do it intuitively. I wanted to capture that great rapport and do it in front of an audience,” Veasley said about the album.“When you play live in front of an audience, they also inform the music with the energy they bring. This is my second live album. I wanted to capture the voice of my band live that you can’t necessarily do in the studio. The improvised solos tend to be more adventurous, the energy is higher. When you are in the studio making a record, you can be a little self-aware. You take more chances onstage. That’s what I wanted for that record. That said, I love being in the studio and recording with others, so a studio record will be next.”
Veasley’s desire to spread his love of music can be best summed up by something he was told by drummer Omar Hakim. “I met Omar at the North Sea Jazz Festival. I watched him play and went up and spoke to him. I didn’t know how to explain how his music moved me. He said that his approach to music is when you are experiencing joy and you share that joy with the audience, it’s beyond criticism. And that’s what I’ve come to embrace. I’m of the same mind.
“We find a lot of people who have lived their lives, raised families, built their businesses and are thinking, ‘OK, what’s next for me? What’s going to keep me satisfied?’ And, they pull out their bass or pick it up for the first time. So, we give those people something different than what I’d give a younger player. We give those folks confidence.”
“When I perform, it’s about how much can I give, because someone in the audience might have just gotten a bad diagnosis or be on the precipice of divorce or have kids in trouble, and tonight is their respite from all that. So, when you come from a space of wanting to contribute to people’s lives, it gets beyond measurement, and you are giving the best of yourself. It all comes back to joy.”
Veasley is scheduled to perform at the following shows during the 29th Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest at various venues throughout Berks County, Pennsylvania: Gerald Veasley’s “Unscripted Midnight Jam:” April 5, 6, 12, 13; “I Got Life: The Music of Nina Simone” featuring Veasley and Carol Riddick, April 6; RMF Project Penske Jazz Jam, April 8; Chuck Loeb Memorial All-Star Jam, April 11; Celebrating the Music of Weather Report, April 12; and “Remembering Grover at 75,” April 13.
JOHNNY BRITT • So Hot (J-Jams Records) Johnny Britt has penned three No. 1 Billboard hit singles for Boney James, and he has also written for Rick Braun, among others. The title track from this singer-trumpeter’s new breakthrough CD, So Hot, was one of the most added on the charts. Recently featured on “The Dave Koz Radio Show,” So Hot features Najee, Nils and Paul Brown.
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American R&B-jazz singer-songwriter Phil Perry is celebrating 50 years in the music business. With a dozen solo CDs to his credit, the soulful icon—whose career includes numerous studio recordings, stage performances, film, TV, commercials, jingles and voice-overs—is scheduled to perform a Valentine’s concert at Suite Food Lounge in Atlanta, as well as two shows at the Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest (Chuck Loeb Memorial All-Star Jam on April 11; and Chris “Big Dog” Davis & Friends on April 13) in Reading, Pennsylvania; and a performance at the August Wilson Center in Pittsburgh on May 11.
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February | March 2019 | 15 made in the usa since 1946 call or visit online to build your own custom guitar
If music listeners want to try and define jazz bassist Brian Bromberg’s style, they’re going to need an extremely thick dictionary. The bassist extraordinaire is one of jazz’s most ambitious and adventurous explorers who refuses to repeat himself, and consistently challenges his audience with new sounds.
However, Bromberg’s gift of versatility has made it a bit difficult for him to reach the kind of stardom some of his smooth jazz peers have achieved and kept him from turning into a household name.
As Bromberg spoke about music and his career, his words reflected the same enthusiasm, verve and vitality of his work. “My voice is my uniqueness, and I probably would have had more commercial success if I stuck to one thing but knowing that I still need to explore different sounds. The interesting thing is, while it may be difficult to build a bigger audience that way, the people who are into me love the diversity and want to go on a musical journey each time out. They respect you more as an artist, and it makes me feel like a valid recording artist and not just some guy making a record of covers or Bromberg’sstandards.”mostrecent record, Thicker Than Water (Mack Avenue Records/Artistry Music), is a predictably unpredictable venture into uncut funk featuring an array of talent, including Everette Harp, Randy Brecker, Najee, Paul Jackson Jr. and one of the last unreleased recordings from the late jazz icon George Duke. It’s a vibrant set of songs that look backward to classic ’70s funk and the mid-’80s Minneapolis funk laid down by Prince and The Time, while also nodding to contemporary hip-hop thanks to loops and beats created by Bromberg’s nephew, Zach Bromberg.
NaikRajPhoto:
By Ken Capobianco
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“I guess you can say one of the problems with my career is I’m blessed with the curse of diversity,” said the gregarious 58-yearold bassist-composer via phone recently from his home in the mountainous artist colony community of Ojai, located between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, California. “As a recording artist, if you have a style and a sound, and that’s what you do, you can build a better career by doing one thing well because people gravitate toward that and count on it. James Taylor sounds like James Taylor, and you know what you are going to get with a James Taylor record.
Over the course of his 40-year career, Bromberg has effortlessly crossed genres after establishing his reputation in both the smooth jazz and traditional jazz worlds.
BRIAN BROMBERG Faithfully follows his wandering muse
While he has had success in smooth jazz with a number of albums, including the best-selling You Know That Feeling, the restless musician has also made bold moves into rock-influenced projects with his inspired, audacious homage to Jimi Hendrix, Bromberg Plays Hendrix, and flexed his thrilling chops on a progressive rock fusion effort, Metal Bromberg. got his start in traditional jazz with Stan Getz when he was a mere 19-year-old, and went on to record numerous acoustic and electric jazz records featuring his versatile playing on both upright and different variations of the electric bass. A one-of-a-kind talent with one of the most diverse resumes in pop music, Bromberg is impossible to categorize, as he is unwilling to compromise his artistry while following his muse into the unknown. This is terrific news for jazz’s more adventurous fans and for a music world in desperate need of creativity and imagination.
“Richard Elliot sounds like Richard Elliot because he has a sound and a vibe and his records reflect that. For me, that’s not what I do, and it’s been a hindrance because I do so many diverse things so people are unsure about what they’re going to get. All my different records are very important to me, and that diversity is part of who I am, so I can’t not do different things. I love pizza, but I’m not going to eat pizza three meals a day every day. I like to change things up.”
In April, the Tucson, Arizona, native will showcase his high energy songs from the album at the 29th Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest, which he has a great fondness for because of its wildly diverse lineup and open-minded audiences. “Berks is a great festival––one of the best in the world. The audience is phenomenal because they get all the music. John Ernesto [festival producer] is great because he books all kinds of musicians and spreads the genres out and caters to a lot of different types of jazz and creativity. It’s very cool and wonderful to play. When we play live—with this band, I have a 10-piece band, five-piece horn section—the energy is incredible, and I know the festival audience is going to love it.” He maintained that he likes playing festivals more these days, as he’s having a difficult time getting gigs in clubs because bookers narrowly define his aesthetic. “The booking agents are having a tough time with me because the clubs that do jazz think I’m too smooth, and the clubs that do smooth jazz think I’m too jazz, so it’s a problem. I sit in the middle sometimes thinking, ‘OK, what now?’”
Brian Bromberg is scheduled to perform seven shows during the 29th Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest in Reading, Pennsylvania (Gerald Veasley’s Unscripted Midnight Jam: April 5, 6, 12, 13; RMF Project Penske Jazz Jam, April 8; Chuck Loeb Memorial All-Star Jam, April 11; and Smooth Jazz JJZ Sunday Brunch featuring Brian Bromberg’s Unapologetically Funky Big Bombastic Band, April 14). For information and tickets on these concerts, visit www.berksjazzfest.com. For more information on Bromberg, visit www.brianbromberg.net.
“ When we are making music and improvising, you are singing through your instrument. The whole point of creating music that has feeling and emotion is it’s a window into who you are. ”
Ultimately, Bromberg is just happy to be playing at all after he broke his back, which left him on the floor of his home unable to move at all for more than an hour. He was eventually rescued by the police who broke through his door after being alerted by his fiancee. The accident and grueling period of recovery gave him a fresh perspective on life and music.
“I’ve always loved funk,” Bromberg said. “For a bass player, it’s just fun, especially if you are a band that’s really grooving. It’s infectious, and you can’t stop moving. I love that. I dabbled in it in the past on the record It Is What It Is, which had a similar vibe, but this takes it to a new level. Groove is important. I’m a bass player and a drummer, so groove is my life. People respond to the music––their bodies are moving, and they are connected to it. If people are standing around, they are just listening to the music, but they’re not connecting. I wanted to really connect with people with this record––have fun but make music with integrity.”
“I’ve been wanting to make a funky record like Thicker Than Water for years,” Bromberg said. “Half of the songs go back awhile, and half are new. The label is much more of a jazz label, and they wanted me to do more jazz or another acoustic bass record because that’s what I do and what I love. Full Circle just kind of happened––it was very personal for me conceptually, and with me playing upright bass and drums, but all along I wanted to do Thicker Than Water, and it just sat for years. But finally I realized this was the record I really needed to make, and I was determined to get it done whether the label liked it or not.” He explained that he had Duke record for a previous session but couldn’t use the performance, and finally had the opportunity to integrate the legend’s playing with his own. “George was such a beautiful guy and a great musician. It’s wonderful to have him on the record. I realized I had this part that George had played and no one had heard, and realized it worked here, so it was perfect.”
The title of the record refers to Bromberg’s collaboration on two songs with his nephew, who is steeped in hip-hop and electronic music. “Zach is much younger than me and into different music like hip-hop, and grooves and loops are his thing,” Bromberg explained. “With that music, there’s a primal groove that’s, of course, related to funk, and you feel it, you don’t just hear it. Now he’s not a jazz musician, but he does write some really great vibes, hooks and melody ideas and knows how to create atmosphere.”
Thicker Than Water comes after the deeply personal, sweetly swinging acoustic album Full Circle, which he recorded after he broke his back in two places during a career-threatening accident.
The highly introspective musician added that the experience––combined with having to flee his home with his fiancee, Wendy Frank, and evacuate their four horses twice during two separate Southern California wildfires––deepened his music and refocused his art.
Brian Bromberg’s 4-string B24 bass, one of the models in his Signature Series Basses from the Kiesel Guitars Custom Shop
“When we are making music and improvising, you are singing through your instrument. The whole point of creating music that has feeling and emotion is it’s a window into who you are. Whatever you are going through as a person comes out in your playing, so I hope it made me a better musician and allowed me to express more emotionally through my music, and people can relate to it more. Things like this come out through your art. And that’s always powerful.”
February | March 2019 | 17
“To say it was a life-changing event would be an understatement,” he said with a deep breath. “I’m lucky because I could have been crippled and lost the ability to walk, so it was the universe and God’s way to say pay attention and never take anything or anyone for granted. Never underestimate how fragile you are. It took me months before I could play. I couldn’t put my arms around the acoustic bass. The doctor said, ‘you can’t play an instrument for a few months because you could do permanent damage.’ When you can’t do something, it’s humbling, and it makes your music mean even more because I’m so gratified to still be able to do it. I’m in pain every day, but I experienced it for a reason.”
18 | smooth jazz news 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.comconcertContestslineups engage with us! Comment on our posts HopleyDavidPhoto:
February | March 2019 | 19 DINNER AND A SHOW NEVER SOUNDED SO GOOD. Our Full Menu is available in the Performance Lounge before and during every show. When you purchase your tickets online, just tell us what time you’ll be arriving before the show and we’ll make sure your table is ready for you! No need to make a dining room reservation - your ticket is your reservation. Now you can start enjoying your experience even before the show starts. 3005 Old Ranch Parkway, Seal Beach, California 90740 HameisterEricphoto: .com562.596.2199
9 Jeff Kashiwa, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199
Sara Gazarek + Horns, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729
Sara Gazarek + Horns, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729
Lindsey Webster, 7:30pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
10 Sway Collective Tribute to Frank Sinatra & Friends featuring DamonReel, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199
2 Saturday Afternoon Live featuring Terry Steele, lunch & a show, 11am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch
FEBrUarY 1 DOTSERO, 9:30pm, Live at Jack’s, 500 16th St., #320, Denver, Colorado, 303-433-1000www.liveatjacks.com,
7 Ray Fuller, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199
CONCERTS AND
13 David Sanborn, 7:30pm, The Birchmere, 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, www.birchmere.com,Virginia,703-549-7500
8 Rainbow Promotions presents a Smooth Jazz Valentine’s Concert for Friends & Lovers featuring Gregory Porter, Euge Groove & Peter White; dinner (for VIP ticket holders), 5:30pm; concert, 8:30pm, Long Beach Performing Arts Center, Terrace Theater, 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, 562-424-0013www.rainbowpromotions.com,California, Darryl Walker: A Tribute to Al Jarreau, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199
3 Jeff Lorber Trio featuring Jimmy Haslip, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199
Keiko Matsui, 7:30pm, King Center for the Performing Arts, Studio Theatre, 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne, www.kingcenter.com,Florida,321-242-2219
Adam Hawley, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com, Sara Gazarek + Horns, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729
FESTIVALS
20 | smooth jazz news Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
14
Tickets also available through Ticketmaster.com or 1-800-745-3000 Connect with us: FEBRUARY 8, 2019, 8:30pm TERRACE THEATER Long Beach Performing Arts Center 300 East Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, CA 90802 A Smooth JazzValentine’s Concert For Friends & Lovers RAINBOW PROMOTIONS, LLC PRESENTS Gregory Porter Euge Groove Peter White
Phil Perry Suite Valentine Concert, 7:30pm, VIP dinner seating also available, Suite Food Lounge, 375 Luckie St. N.W., Atlanta, Georgia, http://suiteatl.com, 404-577-2500
Marcus Anderson & Adam Hawley, 8pm, Rhythms Live Music Hall, 2020 Chapel Hill Road, Durham, North Carolina, https:// rhythmslivenc.com, 984-219-1594 16 Keiko Matsui, 8pm, Boca Black Box, 8221 Glades Road, Boca Raton, Florida, 561-483-9036www.bocablackbox.com, David Sanborn, 8 & 10pm, Scullers Jazz Club, DoubleTree Suites by Hilton, 400 Soldiers Field Road, Boston, www.scullersjazz.com,Massachusetts,866-777-8932
continued on page 22
Marcus Johnson: 88 Lessons in Love: A Smooth Jazz Valentine’s Day Concert with special guest Mike Phillips, 8pm, Rams Head Tavern, 33 West St., Annapolis, Maryland, 410-268-4545www.ramsheadonstage.com, “Valentine Concert” featuring Marcus Anderson & Adam Hawley, 8pm, St. James LIVE!, 3220 Butner Road, Suite 240, Atlanta, Georgia, www.stjamesliveatl.com, 404-254-3561
Saturday Afternoon Live featuring Selina Albright, lunch & a show, 11am; evening show, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
17 Marcus Anderson, 5pm, Jerry Green & Friends, 2800 Breckenridge Lane, Louisville, Kentucky, 502-451-0706www.marcusanderson.net, Ilya Serov, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199 21 DW3, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
Marcus Anderson & Adam Hawley, 8pm, The Tin Pan, 8982 Quioccasin Road, Richmond, www.tinpanrva.com,Virginia,804-447-8189
Keiko Matsui, 8pm, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach, www.pvconcerthall.com,Florida,904-209-0399
AND INFORMATION: Rainbow Promotions LLC
22 Johnny Britt, 7pm, South Mountain Community College Jazz Festival, Pac Hall, 7050 S. 24th St., Phoenix, Arizona, 602-243-8000www.johnnybritt.com, 23 Jeffrey Osborne, 7:30pm, The Birchmere, 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, www.birchmere.com,Virginia,703-549-7500 Fitz’s Jazz Café at the McCallum featuring Keiko Matsui, 8pm, McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert, 760-340-2787www.mccallumtheatre.com/,California, Michael Paulo, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com, 24 Jeffrey Osborne, 7:30pm, The Birchmere, 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, www.birchmere.com,Virginia,703-549-7500 Gregory Porter, 7pm, Balboa Theatre, 868 4th Ave., San Diego, California, 619-570-1100https://sandiegotheatres.org, Marcus Anderson, 4pm, CNY Jazz Cabaret Series, Marriott Syracuse Downtown, 100 E. Onondaga St., Syracuse, New York, 315-479-5299www.marcusanderson.net, 28 Joey Alexander, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com,
February | March 2019 | 21
TICKETS 562.424.0013 www.rainbowpromotions.com
15 An Evening with Keiko Matsui, 8pm, Boca Black Box Center for the Arts, 8221 Glades Road, #10, Boca Raton, Florida, 561-483-9036www.bocablackbox.com, David Sanborn, 8 & 10pm, Scullers Jazz Club, DoubleTree Suites by Hilton, 400 Soldiers Field Road, Boston, www.scullersjazz.com,Massachusetts,866-777-8932
17 Aubrey Logan Album-Release, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
10 Norman Brown, 7pm, Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa & Convention Center, 7 Hope Blvd., Galveston, Texas, www.normanbrown.com
21 DW3, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch
2 Jackiem Joyner, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com, Joey Alexander, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729
Jackiem Joyner, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com, Joey Alexander, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com, 8 Greg Adams & East Bay Soul, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
Smooth Jazz News salutes the pathfinders of African-American equality Black History Month is celebrated each February in the United States with concerts, rallies, parades, parties and other festivities to commemorate the contributions African-Americansofwhochangedtheworld.
continued from page 21 March 1 Johnny Britt, 8:30pm, Club Allure Truth, 21530 Gratiot, Eastpointe, Michigan, 586-778-9010www.johnnybritt.com, Greg Manning, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com, Joey Alexander, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729
16
22 | smooth jazz news
9 Greg Adams & East Bay Soul, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
3
Marcus Johnson, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com, 14 DW3, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
Saturday Afternoon Live featuring Eric Marienthal, lunch & a show, 11am; evening show, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
magazine in advertisements and/or editorial,
24 The Rippingtons featuring Russ Freeman, 5:30 & 8:30pm, Rams Head Tavern, 33 West St., Annapolis, Maryland, 410-268-4545www.ramsheadonstage.com, 25 The Rippingtons featuring Russ Freeman, 7:30pm, The Birchmere, 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, Virginia, 703-549-7500www.birchmere.com, 28 DW3, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
February | March 2019 | 23 www.jazzandcoffee-escape.net MARCUS ANDERSON LIN ROUNTREEMARCEL ANDERSONPHIL DENNYADRIAN CRUTCHFIELD LINDSEY WEBSTER JULIAN VAUGHN ADAM “SHOWCASE”DARNELLHAWLEYTAYLOR NICK COLIONNE JAMES LLOYD , October 10-14 | October 17-20 CELEBRATING THE 90TH ANNIVERSARY OF 1929 AVALON BALLROOM www.JazzTrax.com & 866-Trax Tix (866-872-9849) 33RD ANNUAL Boney James • Damien Escobar • Acoustic Alchemy Rick Braun • Euge Groove • Peter White • Nick Colionne and many more to be announced! continued on page 24 Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
22 Paul Brown, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199 23 Paul Brown, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199
confirm all information.
29 DW3: A Tribute to Legends of Music, 8pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199
cancellations or changes or the accuracy of
been provided by outside sources. Please contact each venue directly
concert or festival information contained in
Smooth
NOTE: Artists, events, venues, dates and show times are subject to change without notice. Jazz News is not responsible for any any this which has to
30 Saturday Afternoon Live featuring DW3, USC Equestrian Team Benefit, 11am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199
31 Keith McKelley, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,
sUnDaY, FeB. 17
KJAZZ Cupid’s 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, 888-HORNBLOWER310-301-9900, Cruises & events yacht sailing on san diego Bay
continued from page 23 continued on page 26 hornblower
Hornblower San Diego Champagne Brunch Cruise, sails 11am-1pm, boards at 10:30am from Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 N.
KJAZZ Cupid’s Champagne Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring live jazz music, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 888-HORNBLOWERwww.hornblower.com,California,949-650-2412, Hornblower Valentine’s Weekend Champagne Brunch Cruise, sails 11am-1pm, boards at 10:30am from Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego, California, 855-627-8482www.hornblower.com, 94.7 The WAVE welcomes Spaghettini’s Legendary Champagne Brunch with performances by DW3, 10am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199 satURDaY, FeB. 23 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, 888-HORNBLOWER310-301-9900, KJAZZ Champagne Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring live jazz music, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 888-HORNBLOWERwww.hornblower.com,California,949-650-2412, Harbor Dr., San Diego, California, www.hornblower.com, 855-627-8482 94.7 The WAVE welcomes Spaghettini’s Legendary Champagne Brunch with performances by DW3, 10am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199 satURDaY, FeB. 16 KJAZZ Cupid’s 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, 888-HORNBLOWER310-301-9900, KJAZZ Cupid’s Champagne Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring live jazz music, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, 949-650-2412,www.hornblower.com,888-HORNBLOWER Hornblower Valentine’s Weekend 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, 855-627-8482
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, 855-627-8482 94.7 The WAVE welcomes Spaghettini’s Legendary Champagne Brunch with performances by Erin Stevenson, 10am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199 satURDaY, FeB. 9 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 Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring live jazz music, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, 949-650-2412,www.hornblower.com,888-HORNBLOWER sUnDaY, FeB. 10 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 Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring live jazz music, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, 949-650-2412,www.hornblower.com,888-HORNBLOWER
24 | smooth jazz news satURDaY, FeB. 2 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 Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring live jazz music, with special guest appearance by KJAZZ radio host Bubba Jackson, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, 949-650-2412,www.hornblower.com,888-HORNBLOWER sUnDaY, FeB. 3 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 Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring live jazz music, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, 949-650-2412,www.hornblower.com,888-HORNBLOWER
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 step aboard select brunch cruises in Marina del Rey, Newport Beach, or San Diego. *$ 5 OFF promo with code SJN5D. Expires 11/30/19. Visit Hornblower.com or call (855) 627-8482 FOLLOW US * 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 11/30/19. See Southern California. Brunch Di erently. 2-HOUR CRUISE. INDULGENT BUFFET. FREE-FLOWING CHAMPAGNE. LIVE JAZZ. NEWPORT BEACH MARINA DEL REY LONG BEACH SAN DIEGO SAN FRANCISCO NEW YORK
live jazz music, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, 949-650-2412,www.hornblower.com,888-HORNBLOWER
KJAZZ Champagne Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring live jazz music, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, 949-650-2412,www.hornblower.com,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, www.hornblower.com,California,855-627-8482
Hornblower San Diego Champagne Brunch Cruise, sails 11am-1pm, boards at 10:30am from Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego, www.hornblower.com,California,855-627-8482 94.7 The WAVE welcomes Spaghettini’s Legendary Champagne Brunch with performances by DW3, 10am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199 satURDaY, maRCh 16 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 Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring
94.7 The WAVE welcomes Spaghettini’s Legendary Champagne Brunch with performances by Erin Stevenson, 10am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199 satURDaY, maRCh 9 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 Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring live jazz music, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, 949-650-2412,www.hornblower.com,888-HORNBLOWER sUnDaY, maRCh 10 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 Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring live jazz music, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, 949-650-2412,www.hornblower.com,888-HORNBLOWER
sUnDaY, maRCh 17 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 Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring live jazz music, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, 949-650-2412,www.hornblower.com,888-HORNBLOWER
satURDaY, maRCh 30 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 Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring live jazz music, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, 949-650-2412,www.hornblower.com,888-HORNBLOWER sUnDaY, maRCh 31 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 Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring live jazz music, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, 949-650-2412,www.hornblower.com,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, 855-627-8482 94.7 The WAVE welcomes Spaghettini’s Legendary Champagne Brunch with performances by artist TBA, 10am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
26 | smooth jazz news continued from page 24 sUnDaY, FeB. 24 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
94.7 The WAVE welcomes Spaghettini’s Legendary St. Patrick’s Day Champagne Brunch with performances by DW3, 10am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199 satURDaY, maRCh 23 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 Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring live jazz music, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, 949-650-2412,www.hornblower.com,888-HORNBLOWER sUnDaY, maRCh 24 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 Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring live jazz music, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, 949-650-2412,www.hornblower.com,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, 855-627-8482 94.7 The WAVE welcomes Spaghettini’s Legendary Champagne Brunch with performances by DW3, 10am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
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, 855-627-8482 94.7 The WAVE welcomes Spaghettini’s Legendary Champagne Brunch with performances by Erin Stevenson, 10am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199 satURDaY, maRCh 2 KJAZZ Champagne Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring performances by Mat Gurman, with special guest appearance by KJAZZ radio 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 KJAZZ Champagne Brunch Cruise aboard Hornblower featuring live jazz music, sails noon-2pm, boards at 11:30am from 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, California, 949-650-2412,www.hornblower.com,888-HORNBLOWER sUnDaY, maRCh 3 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 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, 855-627-8482
February | March 2019 | 27 Give the sweetest gift to a friend or yourself a subscription to SMooth Jazz NeWs Sign up for home delivery and receive seven issues annually for only *$25. Online at www.smoothjazznews.com Mail in the subscription form below Call 858-541-1919 to charge by phone At our booth during the 29th Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest (various venues throughout Berks County, Pennsylvania, April 5-14) and receive a FREE CD See page 11 for details Yes! I want Smooth Jazz News delivered to my mailbox (seven issues per year)Yes! 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 March 31, 2019 CityAddressName State ZIP Phone Email Credit card option (MasterCard, Visa and American Express) Card no. CVC Exp. date Exact name on card Billing Signatureaddress 2019March|February
28 | smooth jazz news 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
Florida April
Aaron Bessant Park, Panama City Beach, 25-28
February | March 2019 | 29 at www.smoothjazznews.com Enter to win FREE cool stuff from Smooth Jazz News and our participating advertisers and vendors! Each month we offer our readers the chance to win tickets* to concerts and festivals, othermerchandiseCDs,orfunthings. To enter, simply visit www.smoothjazznews.com and complete the form on the “FREE Cool Stuff” page (one entry per person). We will draw one entry per prize each month. Must have a valid email address and telephone number to enter. Please note that Smooth Jazz News DOES NOT sell or share its email database or information with any other organizations. Please see contest rules posted on *Concertwww.smoothjazznews.com.ticketsonly;doesnotincludetransportation,accommodations,etc. 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. Please contact each venue directly to confirm all information. ENTER TO WIN or A pair of tickets* to select shows at the 29th Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest at various venuses throughout Berks County, Pennsylvania April 5-14 (www.berksjazzfest.com) A pair of four-day passes* to the 21st Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival
(www.seabreezejazzfestival.com)
lepleyAndrewR.Photo:
aries March 21 - april 19 Things are definitely looking up for your career. You may even be up for a promotion or a change in job altogether. Any way you look at it, the signs are good that you will be successful and happy with all the new changes.
Libra Sept. 23 - Oct. 22 Make the most of your networking opportunities now. You will find that relationships you create will become important to your career. Try your best to be sincere, and don’t come across as fake. Count on your own personality to sell yourself.
A new job may soon bring obstacles for you. Give yourself some time to learn the ropes of a new workplace. You have the knowledge and talent to succeed; don’t let small details bring you down. Step confidently into the new phase in your life.
Reviewed by Darcy Peters
Taurus april 20 - May 20 Now is a lucky time for your finances. Looks like you may be generating some extra cash with a side hustle, or be asked to speak or write for a professional organization. Make sure you pay attention to all the offers coming your way.
You are a well-known loner, but it’s time to bring your tribe in close. Your friends and family can affect your life in many profound ways. Let them in, and you will find a much deeper connection than you have had in the past.
cancer June 22 - July 22
Sagittarius Nov. 22 - Dec. 21 You currently have luck on your side. You really can’t lose unless you are not clear in your goals. Make sure you know what you desire, and the opportunities will arise. Use your best judgment to make sure you use these for the best. capricorn Dec. 22 - Jan. 19 Now is a good time to re-evaluate the directions your life has taken. You have the power to make big changes for yourself and your loved ones. Be daring. See what comes from taking a chance on a new course of action.
“my Love story”
Scorpio Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
Love is in the air. Have some fun with your loved one, and be creative in your relationships. All this happiness may include potential children coming into your life. Be ready to accept and appreciate the gift.
By Tina Turner
Leo July 23 - aug. 22
Gemini May 21 - June 21 Now is a good time to concentrate on partnership. This may mean your personal or professional partner. Either one needs some attention so that all parties can benefit. It isn’t always easy to take the time to work on your relationships, but try to make it a priority.
Virgo aug. 23 - Sept. 22 It looks like there will soon be a change in your home base. You may be moving or sharing a home with others. Take the opportunity to make your real estate profitable if you end up being out of town for any length of time.
Tina Turner’s life has been covered in a previous book and movie (which she admits she didn’t see in its entirety), but she intends this memoir to illustrate life after Ike Turner. The iconic multi-GRAMMYAward-winner touches on her relationship with Ike in this new book, but she focuses more on her recovery from that abusive maritalAfterexperience.escapingfrom her husband Ike, where she ran barefoot across a highway in traffic to safety, she made the decision to start a new life without her co-star of the Ike and Tina Turner Revue. She embarked on a solo career, starting out with cabaret performances, then later, into gigs as the opening act for her friends such as Mick Jagger and David Bowie. When her Private Dancer record became a smash, she began touring extensively for each new record, and acted in movies. She didn’t have much time for romance during this period. Plus, she felt insecure about always wearing wigs. “What would a new man think of that?” sheAfterwondered.herninth solo tour (commemorating her 50th anniversary in the music business), she decided to truly retire. She and her then-boyfriend, Erwin Bach, a German businessman, settled in Switzerland, where she eventually became a Swiss citizen. After nearly three decades together, Turner decided to finally say yes to Bach’s original marriage proposal. She was 73, and he was 57, which was never a problem for her.
The book begins with details of her lavish wedding to Bach. She micromanaged the ceremony to make it perfect for her, as she considered this her first real wedding. Then, just months after walking down the aisle, she suffered a stroke. While recovering, she was struck down by a serious case of vertigo. After enduring rigorous treatment for the vertigo, it was discovered she had cancer. She underwent several cancer treatments, including a homeopathic remedy that harmed her kidney, causing her to undergo months of dialysis. She was on a transplant list, but worried she would not qualify because of her age. Her husband, a medical match, donated one of his kidneys to her. Thankfully, the operation was successful. Although recovery from all of these devastating illnesses took a long time, Turner was able to attend the premiere of “Tina: The Tina Turner Musical,” and even managed a dance for the audience. In the afterword, Turner writes sadly about the 2018 suicide of her eldest son, Craig Raymond Turner. She wished her son had some of her“Istrength.diddangerous things and dangerous thing were done to me, but in the eleventh hours, something always told me when to run, how to survive. No matter what happened to me, I came through it every time. I decided, well, maybe I’m supposed to live. Maybe I’m here for a reason. And maybe that reason is to share my story with you.”
Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
Atria Books • 2018 • 272 pages • $28
February|March 2019 aquarius
Pisces Feb. 19 - March 20 Make some new career plans for yourself now. You will finally be presented with many opportunities that promise success. Be wise with which course you choose, and the reward will be both monetarily and personally enriching.
It’s time to really pay attention to your health. Now is a perfect time for you to create a course of action for yourself. You know the practical things to change. Your physical and mental health are important so that you can maintain emotional stability. Think about it.
30 | smooth jazz news
Cashmira’sstarguide
February | March 2019 | 31 GRAPHIC DESIGN EDITING WRITING BLOGGING GRAPHIC DESIGN EDITING WRITING BLOGGINGsmoothjazzads@aol.comcontact: Tapourtalenttomakeagoodimpression! NEEDHELPWITHAPROJECT? Turn to the pros at Smooth Jazz News to custom create... ✔ festival guides ✔ programs ✔ brochures ✔ blog contentposts—andimages! ✔ and more!
