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Appearing on Smooth Jazz Island 32 Stars of Smooth Jazz will step off Boats in the tiny seaport village of Avalon this October. 5 are Women. The international flavor includes one coming from Japan. 1 originally from Denmark who just became a U.S. citizen. 3 are British. 1 Frenchman, but who lives in Spain. 1 born and raised in Puerto Rico who is also a former New York Yankee outfielder. 1 is German. 2 from Canada. 7 are making their 1st ever JazzTrax Festival appearances. 5 we’d never heard of before when Summer began. 1 the son of a world famous Astrophysicist. Guitarist outnumber Saxophonist this time 13 to 9. There are 7 Keyboardists. 1 Drummer. 1 Trumpet/ Flugelhornist. 1 Bassist who is also the only son on the line-up of a famous actor and movie producer/ director. Since Los Angeles is the Music Capital of the Universe many come from right across the sea from our Smooth Jazz Island, but other cities represented on stage this fall include Washington D.C., New York, New York, Tampa, Detroit, Chicago, Philadelphia, Youngstown, Tokyo, Madrid, Toronto, Paris, Atlanta, Orlando, and Sacramento. Enjoy MINDI ABAIR Debut year 2003 www.MindiAbair.com Raised the child of a jazz saxophonist in St. Petersburg, Florida. Her styling forged in part by the long list of artists she has toured & recorded with. Backstreet Boys, Duran Duran, Mandy Moore, Josh Groban, Adam Sandler, Keb Mo, Lalah Hathaway, Teena Marie, John Tesh, Bobby Lyle, Jonathan Butler, Lee Ritenour, Peter White, Rick Braun…and Her Dad. Having spent much of her early life, including as a baby in a bassinet, on the road with her father’s band. Watching Dad onstage. Spending time with her grandmother, an opera singer while herself playing piano at age 5, but then copying her father by making her primary, the Sax. Host of her own syndicated radio show “Chill with Mindi Abair.” Also busy as Guest Host for a week from Hawaii on Seattle’s Smooth Jazz Radio affiliate and from Las Vegas with Dallas ‘The Oasis.’ Her songs were featured in the Robin Williams/ Mandy Moore movie “License to Wed” and Aaron Spelling’s “Summerland.” She appeared on the JazzTrax Island stage 1st in 1994, then going all those ways above before turning the Smooth Jazz World on it’s Ear as the JazzTrax 2003 Debut Artist of the Year. Included was “Lucy’s” which went to No. 1 for 8 consecutive weeks. 2 more Number 1 Songs followed, “True Blue’ and ‘Bloom.’ Then honored with the 2006 JazzTrax Album of the Year. She is the most recent Smoother to Cross-Over to the Pop Charts hitting Top 30 AC a year ago (alongside John Mayer) with Her vocal title track to ‘Stars.’ Music was always her normal, even as she has lives a ‘Life Less Ordinary.’ JazzTrax.com MARC ANTOINE Debut year 1994 www.MarcAntoine.com The Frenchman who brought European Guitar Flair to Smooth Jazz with his Mid 90’s entrance to the genre. Originally from Paris, he moved to London in the late 80’s where he became a touring guitar sideman for Basia as she broke in 1987. He then moved to Los Angeles for a decade where he had every street memorized as he “jobbed” as a messenger, delivering all over L.A. and the San Fernando valley before he broke in 1994 and began delivering his own messages by song on stages everywhere as one of the 90’s hottest and most unique Stars of Smooth Jazz. After marrying an actual Ms. Madrid they moved there. Where he and Rebecca raise their 5 year old son Allesandro in SPAIN. No one saw this year’s collaboration with Paul Brown coming, but The 2 famed guitarists have known one another for 20 years. Both men have sons named Alex. Marc and Paul both credit the JazzTrax Live Performance Stage in the Avalon Ballroom as having given each of them individually their Major Solo Stage Debuts. Marc’s back in the Mid 90’s when he was named Smooth Jazz Debut Artist of the Year in 1995 and 1998’s Best Smooth Jazz Artist of the Year. 80th Anniversary Avalon Ballroom...Since 1929...23rd Annual JazzTrax Festival...Since 1987 continued on page 2 1 Appearing on Smooth Jazz Island... continued from page 1 JazzTrax.com Phoenix to record her spectacular debut with such guests as Marion Meadows & Tim Bowman. Bringing on this year’s newest female Smooth Jazz Star and get this…..playing Trumpet & Flugelhorn! TIM BOWMAN CINDY BRADLEY Debut Year 1996 www.TimBowman.com Debut Year 2009 www.CindyBradley.com Some leave their home country to make it in Los Angeles and then wind up in Places like Madrid. Most never leave Los Angeles where Chris Botti is even once again trying to settle down somewhat by purchasing a home. Only a handful Stay put an entire career right where they were born, and brewed. Even native Earl Klugh eventually left Detroit, leaving the instrumental SOUL of the Motor City to only Tim who has traveled as extensively as any, but will not change his forever home base. In May, Jeff Lunt, Vice President of Artist Development for the Paul Hardcastle record label ‘Trippin’N Rhythm’ Records finally unloaded his secret to Art Good that he’d been hinting about since Christmas. Arriving for lunch at the Clubhouse at PGA West east of Palm Springs in the Southern California Desert in La Quinta. Simply handing over a CD with pictures and instructing, “Just Listen.” It’d be a strong bet to suggest Art had just been handed the JazzTrax 2009 Debut Artist of the Year. A total complete unknown. The only artist who will perform on multiple JazzTrax Weekends this October. Detroit and his Church and thus really hitting his stride this past year as his monster hit single “Sweet Sundays” was No. l on the Smooth Jazz Chart as 2008 went away and 2009 arrived. He brings the Detroit Grab to the Guitar to the Genre. His style refined by 6 years with the Gospel Singing Winan Family including stints as their Music Director. Giving that up though for the domestic life of family and kids, until Wanda suggested a solo career which he accomplished while never having to move from his hometown. With family now even on his latest self titled release. Son Tim Jr. featured on one of it’s tracks. Tim Senior had kept hidden his Golf Swing and Putt until this October he hosts Weekend 2 of The Brand New ‘Sunday Morning JazzTrax Golf at the Historic Catalina Country Club.’ Raised in the 33,262 populace town of North Tonawanda, located midway between Buffalo and Niagara Falls. Loves the Hockey Sabres. Her chops now long heard in the studio’s of Manhattan after settling just across the Hudson River in New Jersey. While still playing with the Sly Geralds Band (bassist to Maceo Parker), June 2009 marked her Solo Debut on the label of The Jazzmasters. Trippin’ N Rhythm Records set her up with producer Michael Broenig (Michael B, who produced George Benson to a Grammy Winner). She spent 2 long winter weekends at his studio in NORMAN BROWN Debut Year 1991 www.NormanBrown.com He’s Chillin’. He’s Coolin’. He’s from Kansas City (originally Shreveport, Louisiana.) He came to L.A. straight outa high school. He’s a Grammy Winner in the prestigious Best Pop Instrumental 2002 Category for his critically acclaimed album ‘Just Chillin’. What turned him? His Wes Montgomery loving steelworker Dad. (‘Pop’s Cool Groove” off his most recent CD ‘Stay With Me’.) All punctuated by a quote you’ll hear on an October JazzTrax radio show by George Benson. George saying Norman’s One Song Collaboration on Benson’s new End of Summer CD ‘Songs and Stories,’ done with Norman might make him (George) want to do an entire Collaboration ALBUM with Brown. Years ago (early 90’s) (George) stated on the JazzTrax Microphone when told everyone was comparing the emerging young Norman to Benson, replied, (George) “What’s Wrong with That!” continued on page 3 2 80th Anniversary Avalon Ballroom...Since 1929...23rd Annual JazzTrax Festival...Since 1987 Appearing on Smooth Jazz Island... continued from page 2 Benson said HE was told repeatedly early on he shouldn’t try singing, just stick to his guitar. Norman’s heard the exact same throughout his career, but finally he ain’t listening. His fans keep shouting for him to SING TOO. Even Art Good almost a decade ago sitting on the JazzTrax Christmas Tour Bus rolling across America told him he shouldn’t hesitate to SING MORE. His Singing is Growing even as his Guitaring is Continuing. Look for a Brand New Norman in early 2010. PAUL BROWN In the meantime he continues to add a huge variety of all stars like Peabo Bryson, Patti Austin, Eric Darius to his ongoing Norman Brown Summer Storm Tour. And Mindi Abair to the upcoming Norman Brown All Star Christmas Tour. Debut Year 2004 www.PaulBrown.com Kind’ve Quiet and Unassuming on stage. Even in person. But in Studio as THE Most Successful Producer in Smooth Jazz, Most Imposing and Unquestioned. Originally a Session Guitarist and to us, Guitarist in Sam Riney’s band. Then he began produc- ing Young James Oppenheim (Boney James.) Together they created the most successful careers of the 90’s (Artist-Boney…Producer-Paul) and into the 00’s before parting just a few Boney projects back. Adding in the No. l’s he produced for the likes of Peter White, Richard Elliot, Euge Groove, Norman Brown, Larry Carlton, George Benson, and on and on and on, and now after beginning his own Solo Career just shy of 50 years of age, add in his own No. l songs including “Winelight,” “24/7,” “The Rhythm Method.” Now add in “Tequila Moon,” which he produced, which took Jessy J to No. l for months as she broke in 2008. Paul now owns over 50 Number 1 Radio Hits as Producer and Guitarist. And now a 1st ever Collaboration (although he produced the Rick Braun/ Boney James 2000 ‘Shake It continued on page 4 Luau Larry’s Where the Bar Meets the Bay! • Harbor View Dining • Live Music & Happy Hour Friday & Sat. Nights LIVE MUSIC • Open daily for lunch & dinner 11am - 10pm Breakfast Buffet Steaks, Seafood, Pasta, Gourmet Pizza All you can eat - 8am - 12pm Saturday & Sunday Rthe El Encanto, where the Artists Dine For reservations, please call 510-1474 or just come in! 80th Anniversary Avalon Ballroom...Since 1929...23rd Annual JazzTrax Festival...Since 1987 3 Appearing on Smooth Jazz Island... continued from page 3 Up’ CD). After Marc Antoine joined up for 2008’s Paul Brown’s Guitar night. A 30 date tour of both the East and West Coasts that included a final stop in October ‘08 here in Avalon. Paul literally made a right turn from doing his next solo album. After inviting Marc in to guest on just 1 track, he liked their combined combo of marc’s cosmopolitan nylon string vibe to Paul’s funky and soulful electric Gibson L-5, so Much he changed to making it a full collaboration with Marc. Paul said,” when we were done with the track, we looked at each other and felt that maybe we had the kernel of a whole project here”. Paul began writing in L.A. marc in Madrid. Their True Smooth Jazz Global Cooperation brings the live Foreign Exchange to our October JazzTrax stage. Paul shows off his Golf Chops Weekend 1, Sunday Morning. Join him at the Catalina Country Club for 9 holes. JESSE COOK Debut Year 1995 www.JesseCook.com Just what narrow strip of land did this French Canadian make his 1995 U.S. concert debut upon? That would be Catalina Island when we were talked by Narada Records into introducing him at JazzTrax to America. He explains the memory on his own website. “The 1995 Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival was a turning point. I had just made ‘Tempest,” (his debut album released just weeks before.) Within a month we signed with Narada and they booked us into the Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival. Originally the band was to perform during the 20 minute intermissions in a little bar downstairs from the main stage. But the room quickly filled and the appreciative and by now expanding crowd wouldn’t let me leave. They coerced me into extending my set well past an hour.” He took this festival by Storm! Scheduled only the 1st of our then 2 consecutive weekends, the national conversation and sales it stirred up caused Narada Records to turn him around at their headquarters in Milwaukee and return him for a 2nd weekend encore. Inevitably Cook was invited onto the main Stage. Shortly afterwards Tempest entered the American Billboard Charts at #14. “Mario Takes a Walk” has been voted by Canadian citizens one of the 49 songs that best represent them ‘up there north of the 49th parallel’ in a vote to see which 49 pieces of music get to the heart of ‘Who They Are’. After a 5 year hiatus from recording to marry and have 2 children, 2008’s ‘Frontiers’ was nominated again for World Music Album of the year at the Canadian Juno Awards (equivalent to our Grammy’s after he’d. won his first in 2000. Toronto based, he was born in Paris in 1964. After his parents separated, Jesse accompanied his mom and sis to Canada, his mother’s birthplace. In a region of France known as the Camargue, Arles, his father, a retired film director lived the last l0 years of his life with Jesse spending summers there, wandering the streets among the Gypsies, soaking up things and listening to the likes of Nicolas Reyes, lead singer of the Gipsy Kings who lived next door. His style is Rumba Flamenco…. ‘The Rumba Foundation,’ released the week again that he arrives on the Island, Just like 1995, but whereas an unknown then, now world renowned. JazzTrax.com NICK COLIONNE Debut Year 1994 www.NickColionne.com He is The Big Windy Cat (title of his newest radio single) having blasted out of the Big Windy (Chicago) onto the National Smooth Jazz Scene in 2003 with his first hit single ‘High Flyin’ peaking on the Charts at No. 2 and included in the 2003 Top 10. Culminating at the 2007 Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards where he succeeded Chris Botti as ‘International Instrumental Artist of the Year.’ On stage his “natural comedic flair” attached to his “crisply tailored, colorful outfits” have earned him raves as “The Best Dressed Man in Jazz” with a clothing endorsement from prestigious men’s clothier Stacy Adams. Chicago’s WGN-TV proclaimed him “Wes” with a New Millennium Twist even as Nick has made friends with Wes son Robert Montgomery. It all follows years of honing his chops at the clubs throughout Chicago after coming of age on Chicago’s West Side. As powerful a presence as he is on the airwaves, the real Colionne Magic happens onstage, where his live performances defy categorization. He goes into every live performance, “like it’s the last time I’ll ever play.” Including one classic Unplugged Moment at Midnight on the JazzTrax Baseball Train heading Memphis to Chicago overnight. Fishing is Nick’s getaway, going so far as to spot fishing spots from airplanes. Catching Bass & Cat Fish on his favorite…the Fox River. continued on page 5 4 80th Anniversary Avalon Ballroom...Since 1929...23rd Annual JazzTrax Festival...Since 1987 Appearing on Smooth Jazz Island... continued from page 4 Premium Jeans in select stores and print publications. Says Catalina Island is kind’ve his Homecoming because Catalina 2004 was his Introduction to the World. dad from Age 5 at Baltimore’s Pier 6. Being affected directly at the earliest of ages by seeing on stage live Etta James, Ray Charles, and BB King. One of his biggest accomplishments was losing 60 pounds after learning the secret of “Surrendering.” But his biggest service was his Naval Tour in Desert Storm in 1991. ERIC DARIUS Debut Year 2004 www.EricDarius.com Just barely inside his 20’s when he first arrived 5 years ago on Catalina Island. His spectacular raging live show witnessed by Smooth Jazz News Publisher Melanie Maxwell which got him that mags 2004 Debut Artist of the Year Honors. It was his major label debut with Narada, but followed his first self produced CD a bit earlier at the tender age of 17. He studied Business at the University of South Florida and now finds himself, still in his mid 20’s, recording for the legendary Blue Note Record label. 2008 saw him earn JazzTrax “Best Live Performance of the Year” honors for the Friday Night Frenzy he created here at JazzTrax. Entering the Ballroom with a Blazing Inferno of Pure Body Rockin’ and Soul Stirrin’ mixed to a Galvanizing Assault of sax, organ, crashing beats and literally Diving into the Audience with Saxophone and Style. Never giving the festival audience a chance to cool off until well after he’s left the stage. At home in Wesley Chapel, just outside Tampa, FL, he listens to pop radio and goes to clubs to see what people are into. Both parents are from the Caribbean Islands. David Aldridge of ESPN’s Sports Center is a fan of Eric’s while Eric is a huge fan of NBA Star Lebron James of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Eric now models PRVCY DREW DAVIDSEN Debut Year 2007 www.DrewDavidsen.com This Towson, Maryland (15 minutes outside Baltimore) Guitarist was unknown even to JazzTrax when Summer began. His unnoticed, (at least on the West Coast) 2007 solo debut didn’t faze him as he quickly prepared what to many appears to be his debut CD. ‘Around Again’ released in August, but already he had one of his biggest dates calendared in. Opening for George Duke on Catalina Island in the Fall. His heritage story had his Norwegian born Grandmother immigrating to America where his Grandfather worked on barges that each day went to the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor. But it was Drew’s Dad who stole the show as a World Renowned Astrophysicist, from which comes his first single to radio, ‘Astro.’ Arthur Davidsen was the principal investigator for Hopkins Ultraviolet Telescopes in Baltimore at Johns Hopkins University. When his Dad died 7 years ago, the NY Times spread his Obituary over 2 pages. Drew began going to concert after concert with his jazz and blues loving GEORGE DUKE Debut Year 1966 www.GeorgeDuke.com The Godfather of Smooth Jazz finally makes his way to the Island where he thinks maybe 25 to 30 years ago he played outdoor, maybe at Descanso Beach and maybe, with Stanley Clarke. His studio the Mecca for so many he helped break into their own smooth jazz stardom. He makes it easy for those wanting a stake in his time, posting not just his tour schedule, but his entire day by day schedule on his website. Look there and see that 2009 began with 10 days of In Studio Lead Vocal Recording with Grace Decca in his studio. Later it was 12 days of Mixing that album. Listed right there at GeorgeDuke.com. Next a bunch of days at the State Department in India at the Thelonius Monk Institute with Herbie Hancock and Chaka Khan. A Day in the Life of George Duke offered all year long on his website Even rehearsal dates are listed there. His massive festivals including North Sea in Holland and Montreaux in Switzerland . 80th Anniversary Avalon Ballroom...Since 1929...23rd Annual JazzTrax Festival...Since 1987 continued on page 6 5 Appearing on Smooth Jazz Island... continued from page 5 He even lists his travel days. And of course at long last his first ever appearance on the JazzTrax Live Performance Stage here on Catalina Island. Raised in the San Francisco East Bay city of San Rafael in his younger years he formed a group with a young singer named Al Jarreau. They became the house band at San Francisco’s Half Note Club. Alumni of San Francisco State University. The George Duke Trio emerged in the late 60’s. From his piano work with Jean Luc Ponty he toured a year with Frank Zappa and found himself on a PSA jet flying to Los Angeles in the morning and home the same night, so often, he finally turned to his wife and said, might as well move to L.A Then came 2 years with Cannonball Adderly who introduced him to Stanley Clarke. And thus the famous Clarke/ Duke Project that gave us the huge 1983 pop hit “Sweet Baby” which George composed. Finally starting his own solo career in 1976. Producing became his next forte, including 3 albums for Jeffrey Osborne including the hits “On the Wings of Love” and “Stay with me Tonight .“ And 2 Best Sellers for Deniece Williams. Also a Grammy winner for Diane Reeves and Rachelle Ferrell. Film, TV, Awards Shows, appearances with Presidents, the list goes on and on and on and on and on and……….his massive discography spans 5 decades. SATURDAY NIGHT AFTER PARTY After Party at Descanso Beach Each Weekend - dj Jonathan Phillips & dancing on the beach 'till 1am - KYLE EASTWOOD Debut Year 1998 www.KyleEastwood.com Resides full time in Paris, l5 minute walk from the Eiffel Tower, although you’re just as likely to see him eating Lobster Taco’s at the Sunset Towers Hotel in Hollywood. Grew up the eldest son with Dad in Carmel and Mom in Santa Monica. With his Cool Frame and Great Name he has assembled one of the Cream of today’s musicians, including his musical composing partner Mike Stevens. Their sound sitting almost exactly halfway between traditional and contemporary jazz. Kyle is increasing his work with his famous actor father on the music for Clint Eastwood’s motion pictures. Kyle “instrumental” in the most recent highly acclaimed movie ‘Gran Torino’. His film scores also include ‘Letters from Iwo Jima’ 2006, ‘Rails & Ties’ (2007), ‘An Unlikely Weapon’ (2008), ‘Flags of our Fathers’ 2006, ‘Million Dollar Baby’ 2004, ‘Mystic River’ 2003, and ‘The Rookie’ 1990. On the long flights between Europe and the States he’s likely reading scripts for his Dad’s upcoming motion pictures. Summer’s newest project was co- produced by Erin Davis, son of the late Miles Davis. Come out to Art Good’s neck of the woods in Old La Quinta, to the Hogsbreath Inn, 30 minutes east of Palm Springs. The floor to ceiling Murals of a young actor dressed as Dirty Harry, TODAY look just like His JazzTrax.com son Kyle. The Monterrey Jazz Festival which his Dad began attending since it began in 1958 was a family outing. Kyle’s childhood had jazz as its soundtrack and he credits his father with introducing him to the joys of the bass line. He remembers his dad teaching him how to play the left hand bass line of “Boogie Woogie” while he played the right hand solo over the top. “Paris Blue’ his 2nd release climbed to No. l on the French Jazz Charts in 2004. In recent years the Kyle Eastwood Band has performed to live audiences on 3 Continents receiving the highest critical acclaim. FOUR 80 EAST Debut Year 1997 www.Four80East.com Their Live Stage Debut…… 2003 right here in the Avalon Ballroom. Always an in studio project until talked into coming to Smooth Jazz Island. They are Rob DeBoar and Tony Grace. Canadian Smooth Jazz. Internationally known for their indie label/ production house. They are also The BoomTang Boys of club music fame in England. Musical Partners for 18 years they joke that they met through E Harmony. Their most recent hit “Noodle Soup” was actually one of the first things they did together upon meeting in the early 90’s. Their Toronto studio, named after 2 addresses ago….480 East ‘something’ street, their plate is full with other projects. continued on page 7 6 80th Anniversary Avalon Ballroom...Since 1929...23rd Annual JazzTrax Festival...Since 1987 Appearing on Smooth Jazz Island... continued from page 6 Film, TV including the pop culture show SWITCH and scoring a Lions gate feature film, “Death Warrior”. Originally conceived in studio in 1997 as a side project from the more commercial pop music they had been working on. The debut Four80East project was first released in England and simply called ‘The Album.’ Begun on a whim. The song “Eastside” became the 7th most played track on contemporary jazz radio in America that year. Stylish set of late night grooves. Big Time Dads. They have 5 children (all Boys) between the 2 of them. After their 3rd CD, ‘Round 3’ gave forth the JazzTrax most played song “Last Flight to L.A.” the band started a transition from only being a studio project to Live on Stage Act. Their world on stage live debut coming when Art Good talked them into performing at the 2003 JazzTrax Festival. Their studio has moved again. New studio address ... 181 Suite 300A in East Toronto. They’ll stick with simply being Four 80 East. JESSY J Debut Year 2008 www.JessyJ.com 1st appeared here October 2006. 2 years before being named the 2008 JazzTrax Debut Artist of the Year. But 1st time in the Avalon Ballroom, October 1994, having come to JazzTrax still in Middle School, as a teen-ager with her mom. Remembers watching Rick Braun and Mindi Abair on stage. When she arrived in 2006, assuming since no one knew who she was that she’d be performing on some side stage or in some bar. Only when she got to the Casino did she realize she would be…on the Main Stage. It all began by talking her way BackStage to meet and try and talk Paul Brown into Producing her. He did, but he did one better by putting her, on sax, into His Band. Next was Singer Michael Bolton selecting her for His Band. And then Guitars & Saxes. A Whirlwind which she froze for a moment earlier this year when she bought a New Old School Selma Mark 6 Tenor Sax from the 1950’s. Sister Sax to what Boney James uses. Found it through Manny the Sax Repairman for her and Boney. Uses 3 different saxes. A tenor and 2 sopranos. She still has her 1st sax, named Henry for her 3rd grade crush. Tequila Moon recorded on it. Listens to I Pod on planes to go to sleep. Mexican American by heritage, born in the Portland, Oregon suburb of Milwaukee. Then growing up in Southern California Cow Country, in Hemet. She has now played extensively with 2 of Mexico’s most popular artists, Gloria Trevi the Madonna of Mexico and Armando Manzanero… the Mancini of Mexico. Her extraneous passion is Swimming. Has a pool near the Rose Bowl she commutes to when she can or on the road Summer’s with Michael Bolton she finds beaches in Greece or Spain or Seas, the Aegean Sea to swim in Croatia. That combined with being named the 2008 JazzTrax Debut Artist of the Year got her tagged last year’s Smooth Jazz SPLASH. In August releasing her 2nd CD, titled ‘True Love.’ JazzTrax asked if that meant a new romantic love. No. A new dog? No. True Love being her passion…..Music. GAIL JHONSON Debut Year 2004 www.GailJhonson.com From hometown Philadelphia to music career in L.A. Her Solo Debut ‘Keep the Music Playing’ released in 2004. But the opportunity knocked in 2005 when Norman Brown asked for not only her keys (keyboards in his band) but to be his Music Director for the Summer Storm Tour. That’s what 1st brought her to Smooth Jazz Island. 2008 brought her 2nd and most current CD. This Summer’s Storm included Gail, Chante Moore, Alex Bugnon, Paul Taylor & of course Norman the Man. At the same time having created the concept JAZZ IN PINK with Flautist Althea Rene, and featuring some of the top female instrumentalists with Violinist Karen Briggs, Guitarist Darlene Moreno, Harpist Mariea Antoinette, and more. She will wrap the year on a Christmas Tour with Norman Brown & Mindi Abair. There’s more. She coaches her teen daughter in vocals and keys plus the Praise & Glory Youth Band. She’s written 2 books, ‘Funk Keyboards’ & ‘Dictionary of Keyboard Grooves.‘ continued on page 8 80th Anniversary Avalon Ballroom...Since 1929...23rd Annual JazzTrax Festival...Since 1987 7 Appearing on Smooth Jazz Island... continued from page 7 JazzTrax.com Door for artists he would later work extensively with when he moved west like Russell Ferrante of the Yellowjackets. His solo career matched the start of this festival, 1987. JACKIEM JOYNER GREGG KARUKAS Debut Year 2007 www.JackiemJoyner.com Debut Year 1987 www.Karukas.com The JazzTrax 2007 Debut Artist of the Year. But it’s what he did from that solo Debut to his Double JazzTrax 2008 live performances June in Big Bear Lake/ October here on the Island that had everybody talking. From a fairly green ‘BabySoul’ one year to a 180% improvement in showmanship and style the next. Just one year that seemed in growth to be 5. The title to his 2009 CD,’Lil Man Soul’ coming from his touring days in the early 00’s when Bobby Lyle or Marcus Johnson would shout out “Give it Up for Lil Man Soul.” Those were his East Coast Days after being born in Norfolk, Virginia and growing up in Buffalo in up- state New York. Trivia Question. When the Rippingtons helped open the very first Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival in 1987 who was on keys? You’re reading his bio. When Boney James arrived to play the Avalon Ballroom who was on keys? You’re good. He has arrived here with countless artists. He even Music Directed the only performances of Paul Hardcastle & The Jazzmasters Music ever performed live on stage. Along with countless times his own name on the marquee. And this year, just his initials, ‘GK’ on the latest CD. Having traveled with everything in the car including young wife, to try and make it in L.A., after settling just east in the burb of Rancho Cucamonga, Richard Elliot & Rick Braun took first notice, signing him to their recently creNext Japanese ated record label. Keyboardist Keiko Matsui hired him on to fill her sax man shoes. Forging a solo career, simultaneous with still traveling the world with Keiko lends towards some “wild scheduling.” Since early 2007, coinciding with the start to his own solo career also playing Keiko dates in the Ukraine, Moscow, Istanbul, Bucharest, Tokyo and elsewhere which led him to title one new track, “Round the World.” 8 Writes his music on a Disclavier. Simply then pushes a button and the thing plays back what he’s just recorded. Recently moved to Thousand Oaks, closer to the ocean where his family loves to camp and above a canyon filled with Coyotes. He, Yvonne and the boys do much Hiking, right out the back of their new home. Oldest son Alex now nearly 15 and playing…..Guitar. A quarter century now in the L.A. area after growing up in Maryland/ Washington D.C. where his early influences were The Beatles to Motown coming outa the Jukebox in his father’s roadside tavern. At age l7, right out of Bowie High School he joined with Tim Eyermann to form “East Coast Offering” often the opening show at the famous Cellar EARL KLUGH Debut Year 1978 www.EarlKlugh.com He was one of the first Stars of Smooth Jazz ever booked for this Island. He and Spyro Gyra the 2 Saturday/ Sunday Headliners that Opening JazzTrax year of 1987 and until this fall of ’09 Earl had not returned. True Statesman of Contemporary Jazz. Grammy nominated This Year under Best Pop Instrumental for last year’s ‘The Spice of Life.’ His 12th career Grammy nomination after winning a Grammy in 1980 with Bob James for their ‘One on One’ collaboration. Another famous collaboration in 1988 (titled ‘Collaboration’) with George Benson was certified GOLD. That followed having worked in Benson’s Band for a year…..at age 17. Which followed his teen-age job working in a local Detroit Music Shop and haunting the Detroit Jazz Landmark, Baker’s Keyboard Lounge (remember the Fabulous Baker Boys movie with Jeff Bridges & Michelle Pfeiffer), accompanied on piano by….his mother. He’s back after breaking a six year recording hiatus in 2005 and a 9 year break from full scale album production continued on page 9 80th Anniversary Avalon Ballroom...Since 1929...23rd Annual JazzTrax Festival...Since 1987 Appearing on Smooth Jazz Island... continued from page 8 last year.. 33 albums in just 25 years. Earl captures the Biggest Picture possible with his famed guitar while in his spare time watching lots of ‘Law & Order’ reruns and downloading movies to watch on his I-Pod. Departing his long time hometown of Detroit to reform his life in Atlanta in 2001 He starts each Atlanta day with the Today Show Then walks his dog, a Toy Poodle…then mailbox errands just like everyone else. Then into his home studio over the garage to play, and write. Culbertson Opening for AC royalty….Barry Manilow. Having begun playing clarinet at age seven he remembers spending time as a young boy learning about the music industry from his grandfather Otto Lington, a Danish jazz pioneer and bandleader for Shirley Bassey, Josephine Baker and Fats Waller. That to This. Launching his own Cigar company in 2006, ‘MICHAEL LINGTON CIGARS.’ In August he signed with Wine and Jazz Magazine to write his own Cigar Column….”Cigar Stories”. He can light one up having earned the highest of all JazzTrax Honors with his latest release, “HEAT.” Named the JazzTrax 2008 Album of the Year. MICHAEL LINGTON Debut Year 1997 www.MichaelLington.com Debonair Looks and Charisma to Burn. 18 years after emigrating from Denmark to America at Age 21, he became a U.S. Citizen in March 2008. His major breakthrough coming with singer Bobby Caldwell, whom he played with from 1994 to 1998. Sense something Regal about him…. well… his stepfather was a drum major for the Queen’s guard and recently knighted….Michael performed at the Queen of Denmark’s celebration in 50th birthday Copenhagen. And at the wedding of Crown Prince Frederick, the country’s future King, at Fredensborg Castle. He played before His King. JazzTrax.com PHILLIP ‘DOC’ MARTIN Debut Year 2003 www.PhillipMartin.net Born in Indianapolis. Schooled in South Florida where he and Eric Darius became acquainted. Introduced to the saxophone by the Florida School System. He added on a biology degree from the University of Central Florida. Then completing a degree at Howard University College of Dentistry. Upon graduation the decision to be made was whether to do music full time or dentistry full time. Even his Dad told him he had to choose. Instead he said, No, I can do both. Thus the Doc in the middle of his name. MATT MARSHAK Debut Year 2001 www.MattMarshak.com Native of Long Island who grew up on Rock ‘N’ Roll music in a house full of musicians. Passing guitarists inspired his muse through high school into a lifelong commitment to his craft. Live Shows, the Recording Studio and writing TV jingles (his guitar featured on the New York Mets’ Mets Zone on Fox Sports) and he conducts guitar clinics. A supporter of multiple sclerosis and autism awareness, he visits countless schools to help spread the joy of music to kids of all ages. Washington D.C. gave him his best opportunity to have a Dentistry Practice AND do Music. It also gave him the opportunity to meet Marcus Johnson and end up on Marcus ‘Three Keys’ record label for his last CD. Still in his mid 20’s and just wrapping up his first year as a Dentist. And coming to Catalina Island to show the ‘Left Coast’ his stuff. continued on page 10 Speaking of playing for Royalty he’s been this past summer with Brian 80th Anniversary Avalon Ballroom...Since 1929...23rd Annual JazzTrax Festival...Since 1987 9 Appearing on Smooth Jazz Island... continued from page 9 JazzTrax.com tination. October 1994 Art Good ran into the pair standing in the back of the Ballroom watching Jeff Lorber. They’d paid to get in. Keiko asked Art who the saxophonist was in Lorber’s band. She met him backstage and Paul Taylor then blended into Keiko’s band and sound for several years, returning for the saxophone melody on her huge 2007 radio hit “Black River.” KEIKO MATSUI Debut Year 1987 www.KeikoMatsui.com There’s something new in Keiko’s life. Oh, she did step out on her own as a single mother a few years ago, but also added “Professor” to her titles. Having in August celebrated her 3rd anniversary as part of the faculty at the Tsuruga College in Tokyo. Keiko is now …a Professor. 21 Albums Deep after her stunning 1987 solo debut ‘A Drop of Water’ floored the emerging U.S. smooth jazz world. Keiko first came to the JazzTrax Island in 1989 and then along with their Tokyo home, because her “married days” she and husband kept a 2nd home in Huntington Harbor on the Southern California Coastline, which included a Sailboat, they and their young daughter Maya, began sailing to Avalon as their getaway des- 10 Keiko accepted JazzTrax invitation to stay a week in Summer and then a week at Christmas 2008 at Hamilton Cove on vacation. She still has a standing JazzTrax offer to return anytime and if she wants to compose on the JazzTrax Grand Piano, alone in the Avalon Ballroom with no one around. That’s how ‘Moyo” came to be which included ‘When I Close My Eyes,’ the JazzTrax 2007 Song of the Year. Going to Johannesburg, and each day being driven 30 minutes out into the countryside to compose all day, each day on a different piano, in a South African piano factory. While continuing to tour All Over the World, her full home time base now Tokyo where daughter Maya is now grown and into ‘dance’ and Mako is still growing up….Keiko’s mind often wanders to the ocean breezes of her favorite “other” Island, her Adopted Island and the sound of the ocean waves breaking up on Hamilton Cove’s rocks. NAJEE Debut Year 1986 www.NajeeOnLine.com No State Taxes sounded good enough to get him to relocate permanently to Orlando 7 years ago. Working from a cozy home studio with closed windows because of the strong Eastward Sun and good reason to stay inside writing and recording with wild critters sometimes wandering out and about. Like Wild Turkeys, Wild Boar, Peacocks, Wild Bear……and Alligators. After first working with the likes of Chaka Khan and then blowing everything loose with his 1st 2 solo projects going platinum in the late 80’s, followed by 4 Gold….including a Grammy….. after being born Jerome Najee Rasheed in Queens, New York. With the first half of his continued on page 12 80th Anniversary Avalon Ballroom...Since 1929...23rd Annual JazzTrax Festival...Since 1987 Catalina Islands Finest Family Run, Smoke Free Resort Hotel Jazz Trax Weekend Packages starting at $249 per person Including: • Room for 3 nights • Roundtrip boat to/from Catalina Island Shuttle to hotel on arrival • Welcome Champagne • Hot Breakfast The Seaport Village Inn is Catalina Islands finest Family Run, Smoke Free resort hotel, with a modern Mediterranean feel, the friendliest, most welcoming staff, and a great Location less than a block from the Beach. HOTEL AMENITIES INCLUDE: • Smoke Free environment • Outdoor Spa • Sauna • Sunning Lawn • In-room massage • Wireless internet • Cable TV • Telephone • Hot Breakfast Daily • Friendliest Staff in Town For more information & online reservations visit our website at www.catalinacatalina.com or to contact us by Phone 310 510 0344 or 800 2 CATALINA 800 222 8254, Fax 310 510 1156 Package price is per person based on double occupancy. Some restrictions apply. Appearing on Smooth Jazz Island... continued from page 10 career produced by his own brother Fareed. Couple years on sax in the early 00’s in Prince’s band…The “Hit & Run” Tour. Talk about tasty flavoring to what will be one of this year’s finest new effort. Eric Benet singing and composing ‘We Gone Ride,” on Najee’s late summer release as well as Gary Taylor, and R&B singer songwriter for Anita Baker and Will Downing on ‘Moon Over Carolina. Also a couple tunes with Jeff Lorber “One More Thing,” and “Stolen Glances,” something that never hurts any project. Plus the rising Smooth Jazz Star Producer everyone seems to be going to now, Darren Rhan (Denver saxophonist appearing on the Island with Tim Bowman) producing the hit single “Sweet Summer Nights.” Najee is as Silky Smooth as ever on a ‘Sweet Autumn Island Night.’ Probably gonna make you want to Dance at Midnight on a nearby Beach. JazzTrax.com Recording Artist in 2005 was the song that served as his 2nd title track. “Pacific Coast Highway” not only soared to No. 1, but became one of the year’s biggest radio hits. 7 weeks at No. l. Written for the stretch of Highway 1 leaving L.A. and headed up through Malibu to Ventura, Santa Barbara and Beyond. Or perhaps the stretch of highway that takes a previously unnoticed career and sends it skyward. As Producer, Nils has created music for TV (Weeds – Showtime, Undeclared – Fox, Film Independent Spirit Awards – IFC) as well as Transmuteo and Journey to Eden for Violinist DOV and produced the forthcoming CD of AC/Pop/R&B group Gravity180 in collaboration with Eddie Brown. He created the Walk Ons and Walk Offs for the recent Spirit Awards, the Independent Oscars held in Santa Monica before the Academy Awards. He has started something for Radio called Backstage with Nils. All coming just a handful of years since one of Los Angeles massive brushfires came within a mile of wiping out his home studio. He moved it all, came to the Island and performed, then moved it all back. Now he has created a “moveable studio” to help alleviate such future headache possibilities. PIECES OF A DREAM Debut Year 1979 www.PiecesMusic.com These were Grover’s young dudes. They still look to the late Grover Washington Jr. As much more than their direct mentor. Pieces Keyboardist James Lloyd began his piano lessons at Age 6 from 89 year old Virginia Elizabeth Griffith. Practice, Practice, Practice. Hard work? He doesn’t view it that way. Considering other folks 9 to 5 jobs he considers this a blessing, a dream job. James met Drummer Curtis Harmon at age 11. Same band room and they remember the moment. Teacher was Tony Williams. Based their name on cover tune by Stanley Turrentine as they emerged out of Philadelphia’s 15 minutes away from Catalina Island NILS Debut Years 1998 and 2005 www.NilsMusic.com This German Guitarist flew into Los Angeles (and boy were his arms tired) from Germany in the late 80’s. Working for years as a Session Guitarist with George Benson, Rick Braun, and The Temptations, to name a few.) He recorded a solo album in 1988 and then it appeared nothing would change when it didn’t get noticed. What did get noticed and what changed his vocation to Solo 12 Services Include: • • • • • Air Tours Photo Flight Charters Day Packages LA Dinner Tours Call NOW for reservations: Toll-Free 1-800-2-AVALON Fax (310) 510-9671 * Travel Agent Commission • HELICOPTER SERVICE• Daily flights available between Long Beach, next to the Queen Mary, San Pedro and Catalina Island. We land minutes from Avalon. 80th Anniversary Avalon Ballroom...Since 1929...23rd Annual JazzTrax Festival...Since 1987 Appearing on Smooth Jazz Island... continued from page 12 music scene in 1976. Pieces back then also included bassist Cedric Napoleon. Count Basie once proclaimed them “a tough act to follow.” Teenagers that were “swinging hard.” But it was the late Grover Wash. Jr. who lived in Philly who first heard them playing backup on a Philly TV show called ‘City Lights.’ One night while still teenagers, playing at the Bijou (where Grover recorded his ‘Live at the Bijou’ album, Grover sat in with them to play “Mr. Magic.” The most legendary sax man then made them his first act for his new production company while James Lloyd was still a senior in high school. He then made Pieces his own back-up band. They found themselves IN GROVER’S BAND. Curtis is an avid pool shooter, in the top 20% of shooters in Philly’s AP.A. league. 10 years now in Youngstown, Ohio, James wrote and produced half this year’s Walter Beasley CD and 2007’s Najee. CRAIG SHARMAT Debut Year 2009 www.scoredog.tv “I can’t imagine making a film without Craig Sharmat. He’s a brilliant composer, a tremendous collaborator and a constant pleasure. I adore working with him.” So says Dori Bernstein. Academy Award Nominated Director. With your computer audio on, take a visit through the Music of Craig at www.ScoreDog.TV From music created for Orchestral TV Themes, including Spiderman Universal City, and ABC’s Home Makeover Promo to Drama, to Comedy, Jazz, Kids & Adventure, Trailers/Ads and Promo’s for TS, Romance, News, including NBC, CBS and the WPRI Morning Theme, even Dog Bones. Migrating West from his hometown of New York City, Vegas showrooms were included along the way. Conducting for Ronnie Laws and playing guitar for Randy Crawford to finally becoming a Hollywood film and television composer. First major gig was with the Disney series “Kids Incorporated. He has since scored sports specials including ABC’s Greatest Moments of the U.S. Open and NBC’s Champions on Ice with Dick Enberg, as well as ‘Men in Black,’ ‘ Dragon Tales’, ‘CatDog,’ ‘The Adventures of Jackie Chan.’ Craig stepped into the smooth jazz world arranging and programming for Rick Braun’s ‘Yours Truly’ and arranging strings for the Rick, Peter White, Mindi Abair 2007 Christmas Album. Now he’s ventured into composing music for games, having written for 3 Sony Playstation titles through Game Audio Ltd. Scoring music most recently for the Top rated show ‘The Real Housewives of New Jersey’ and ‘Gotta Dance.’ He’s also arranged for Yanni’s ‘Voices’ live tour and written jingles for Disney, promo music for ABC, and played guitar on Disney’s America Idol commercials. He has recorded for five private orchestra libraries and played on over a thousand TV episodes and movies. He runs and operates the Scoredog Music Library containing over 2000 original pieces for media. Craig has also co-authored 3 children’s books for the ‘Nate the Great Series.’ He has also achieved professional tennis instructor status from the U.S.P.T.A. Now he wants to add on ‘Smooth Jazz Artist’ and has released the song “Southern California Drivin” with a full album to follow in the coming months. WHEW!!! OLI SILK Debut Year 2006 www.OliSilk.com His first ticket to Catalina Island came in 2004 as Music Director and Keyboardist for British Saxophonist James Vargas. What happened to James? But look what’s happened to Sir Oli. Named the JazzTrax 2006 Debut Artist of the Year with his 2008 follow-up last fall birthing his first Top 5 single….”Chill or Be Chilled.” Peaking at No. 3. Subsequently we all gave letters to sponsor this British Keyboardist to spend half a year here in the States. Arriving in May with no place to stay, Peter White offered a bedroom at his place in Sherman Oaks! Most smooth jazz stars offer an up and comer a chance to maybe play on a song or in their band. Guess Brits stick together cause from Peter, Oli got a bedroom. A famed trumpeter did that one time for a future famed keyboardist and couldn’t wait for the guest’s plane to return him home. Quite the opposite here as Peter says Oli’s stay has been simply delightful. Born in 1979 in West London. He was half of the UK’s ‘Sugar and Silk” releasing 2 albums in the early 00’s under that name. Wears a Producer’s Hat with James Vargas and Jaared. October 2006, Catalina Island’s JazzTrax Live Performance Stage, as has been the case so many times over our 23 year history, was again, this time for Oli, his DEBUT showcase to America. For this young man still in his 20’s….the Limit appears to truly be only the sky! continued on page 14 80th Anniversary Avalon Ballroom...Since 1929...23rd Annual JazzTrax Festival...Since 1987 13 Appearing on Smooth Jazz Island... continued from page 13 80’s. He’d originally switched, to better tackle the Acid Jazz grooves, but in switching back he says it was like playing Violin and then picking up a Cello.. For his forthcoming early 2010 already completed CD he goes Orchestral and Cinematic. With chilled out, a jazz trio setting, orchestra and Chris Guitar right down the middle. But can’t open…. Till AFTER Christmas. Although he is bringing it’s elements and Songs, yet unheard, to the JazzTrax Live Performance Stage. CHRIS STANDRING Debut Year 1998 www.ChrisStandring.com Initially spotted as Guitar Sideman for Rick Braun and Marc Antoine. Simultaneously coming forth in 1996 as part of the project SolarSystem. This year releasing ‘Main Course’ which he recorded in 1989. His tunes from ‘Velvet’ were his first to be aired on the JazzTrax Weekend Airwaves and then Outa Nowhere honored with the 2000 JazzTrax Album of the year for ‘Hip Sway’. His next, ‘Blue Bolero,’ done and coming early 2010. Grew up on a farm in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, England. Moving to Los Angeles permanently in the early 90’s because he was such a bad farmer. His Farmer Dad actually kept cows because he didn’t like the price of buying milk. In the early 00’s he founded A&R Online (aandronline.com) a place for aspiring musicians to get their music heard and to learn about the industry. His websites PlayJazzGuitar.com and GuitarMadeSimple.com sell his popular interactive CD-ROM educational guitar courses. For guitar aficionado’s on his recent ‘Love & Paragraphs’ CD who’s title track gave Chris by far his biggest hit ever….riding the charts for much of a full year and peaking at No. 2, he put aside his longtime arch top Benedetto and brought forth 2 Fender Strats for the first time since the 14 JazzTrax.com Storm. Now this Summer having formed with Michael Lington and Marion Meadows, the triple Sax Burnin’ “Gentlemen of the Night’ Tour. Even as his 2007 hit “Ladies Choice’ was riding the Top 10 charts for months, another track, “How Did You Know” featuring R&B Singer Regina Belle, crossed over to the Top 20 Urban AC chart. ‘Burnin’ chosen for his new summer CD title because no other word better represented what Paul’s Saxophone does. Follow-up to his 2007 first ever No. l on the Billboard Contemporary Sales Chart. And the first to be recorded primarily with his Tenor Saxophone, simply because his Alto Sax got banged up during the flight to New York. Damn baggage handlers or perhaps ‘they knew.’ PAUL TAYLOR Debut Year 1996 www.PaulTaylorSax.com Discovered here in the Avalon Ballroom in 1994 by Keiko Matsui. Jeff Lorber hired Paul to play sax for him on Jeff’s Catalina Island JazzTrax date after using him for one recording session. They rehearsed, did the gig and then never worked together again until the recent Groovin’ for Grover Tours. But that one evening in the Avalon Ballroom was all it took to propel Paul into Smooth Jazz Stardom. By pure coincidence Keiko Matsui was in the room that night as a festival goer. From his Denver high school garage band “Mixed Company.” To having lived now in Las Vegas since graduating as a Music Major from UNLV. Since his years in Keiko Matsui’s Band he’s also served briefly with the Rippingtons. Done ‘Groovin’ for Grover.’ Norman Brown’s Summer KIM WATERS Debut year 1989 www.KimWaters.net Along with his sax work he has announced that he is the co-owner and Vice President of a new cognac brand, “Celebrity Jazz Cognac.” Being imported from France and distributed by Republic Distribution Company. An award-winning Cognac available since August in 27 states. continued on page 15 80th Anniversary Avalon Ballroom...Since 1929...23rd Annual JazzTrax Festival...Since 1987 Appearing on Smooth Jazz Island... continued from page 14 However Al hired Peter in 1975 initially as a keyboardist. Suddenly he found himself opening with Al for the likes of Linda Ronstadt, Billy Joel and Queen at age 20. Al and Peter cowrote ’Time Passages’ together. The music of fellow Brits Acoustic Alchemy inspired Peter to forge his own solo career after l5 years as a backup artist. He first met Nick Webb & Greg Carmichael backstage here at JazzTrax in the Avalon Ballroom. This his 3rd Unplugged Appearance. PETER WHITE Debut Year 1990 www.PeterWhite.com Younger brother Danny, still musical partners with Basia, also her former boyfriend (all her great lyrics and passion came from their romantic breakup). Danny pitched JazzTrax on his brother, telling Art Good late winter 1990 to look for a solo debut by the then guitar front man for Al Stewart (solo guitar on ‘Year of the Cat”). That debut ‘Reivellezvous’ was so highly received nearly 20 years ago by JazzTrax it was named Album of the Year. Peter arrived the following year (Basia had him on tour all of ’90) 1991 for 2 back to back performances as the JazzTrax Festival expanded to 2 weekends with identical line-ups each weekend. Peter again recently reminded that October ‘9l on the Avalon Ballroom JazzTrax Live Performance Stage was his Big Stage Solo Debut. His September 2009 Brand New is his 1st with original material since 2004. Peter’s legendary star studded career all began in the sleepy little English town of Letchworth Garden City, in the 60’s listening to the Beatles on the radio. Working factory jobs until landing his first musical engagement playing an English holiday resort Summer of 1974. Briefly he joined a group called Principal Edwards Magic Theatre before a member of that group recommended him to Al Stewart. At his first Wrigley Ranch date (seemingly in the Middle of Nowhere …on the far side of the Island) Peter stepped up to the microphone and stated. “On my list of 10 Most Unusual Places or Venues I’ve ever performed in, I believe 9 of the 10 belong to Art Good!” final home game ever played at the historic OLD Yankee Stadium Sept. 21, 2008 where for l6 seasons he roamed the Outfield and planted many balls over the outfield fences himself. His 2nd solo project includes a guitar rendition of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” (opening with the famous voice of the Yankees recently retired forever announcer introducing No. 31 Bernie Williams to bat next. Opening Day 2009 Bernie sat on a chair in center field and performed the song live to a packed ballpark, just before the first ever pitch of the brand new Yankee Stadium. Witnessed by Art & Austin Good who were in the stands for this Bernie Moment. He played his entire 16 year career in Yankees Pin Stripes. 1991 to 2006. Ranks among the Yankees All Time Leaders in every major batting category. Also earned four Gold Gloves. His playing now taps his long love of Salsa and Blues from his teen years at the Escuela Libre de Musica High in San Juan even as he was drawing the attention of major league scouts. His brother Hiram makes an appearance on the CD as a cellist. Career batting average of .308 including the 1998 American League Batting Title. BERNIE WILLIAMS Debut Year 2003 www.BernieWilliams.com Hung up his Bat and Mitt after 16 seasons as a New York Yankee All Star Center Fielder to become full time Jazz Guitarist. A 1st solo CD coming while still in pinstripes. His 2nd this past April includes a special live performance for a Joe Torre Foundation with Bruce Springsteen and Patti Scialfa on “Glory Days.” Bernie played in 6 World Series, winning 4, including 5 All Star Game appearances. Native of Puerto Rico he played his guitar at the 24th Annual Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival First 3 Weekends of October Thursday Night Unplugged Under the Stars at the Wrigley Ranch Sept 30th • October 7 • October 14 Use Ticket Order Insert in this Program to Order NOW for October 2010 Return by Nov. 1st and keep same exact seats or tables from this Fall 80th Anniversary Avalon Ballroom...Since 1929...23rd Annual JazzTrax Festival...Since 1987 15