Marcus Miller
SuperBand MemberMarcus Miller, winner of two Grammy® Awards, the 2013 Edison Award for Lifetime Achievement in Jazz (Holland), the 2010 Victoire du Jazz (France) and appointed UNESCO Artist for Peace in 2013, is not only an exceptional musician but also a highly gifted composer and producer who we are proud to call a host and headliner on The Smooth Jazz Cruise.
The legendary album Tutu, written and produced for Miles Davis, sealed his international fame when Marcus was only 25. Over the course of his career, Marcus has collaborated with artists as varied and talented as Eric Clapton, George Benson, Luther Vandross, Roberta Flack, Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, Al Jarreau, George Duke, Wayne Shorter, Lalah Hathaway and Herbie Hancock.
The multi-instrumentalist and world-renowned bassist has also produced his own genre-defying albums, among them The Sun Don’t Lie, Tales, M2, Silver Rain, Free, A Night in Monte Carlo (with the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra), and Renaissance. Along with international tours, Marcus Miller hosts “Miller Time,” a weekly program on SiriusXM.
Boney James
Alonzo Bodden
After 30 years in comedy and over 30 Jazz Cruises, Alonzo Bodden has been able to marry his two passions: comedy and jazz. “There is nothing like the cool and creativity of the jazz world, I love it,” says Alonzo. His big break was “New Faces of Comedy” at the Just for Laughs Festival (Canada). He credits winning Season 3 of NBC's Last Comic Standing, as his introduction to America. With four comedy specials, sitcoms, The Tonight Show, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, Comedy Central’s The Daily Show and The Nightly Show to his credit, he has done it all. His comedy CD, Man Overboard, was recorded on a Smooth Jazz Cruise. His latest comedy special “ Stupid Don’t Get Tired” is available on YouTube” The highest compliment I get is when I’m riffing onstage during a cruise and one of these brilliant musicians says “that’s jazz”. What could be cooler than that?”
Brian Culbertson
Jonathan Butler
Candy Dulfer
Having toured the world over and collaborated with some of the biggest names in music (think Prince, Van Morrison, Lionel Richie and Beyonce), Dutch saxophonist Candy Dulfer brings her worldly musical perspective to The Smooth Jazz Cruise. With solo album sales exceeding the 2.5 million mark, the staple on the large festival circuit performs for sold-out crowds throughout the United States, Europe, Japan, Russia, the Baltic states and South America. Candy Dulfer’s hit, “Finsbury Park, Café 67,” ranked the most popular smooth jazz number on U.S. radio for a period in 2003, and the 1990 solo debut album she recorded at just 19, Saxuality, sold more than a million copies worldwide and earned a Grammy® nod.
Bob James
SuperBand MemberDave Weckl
SuperBand MemberDave Weckl, a renowned drummer with over 40 years of experience, has earned a lasting reputation as one of the world's premier drummers. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, on January 8, 1960, Weckl's musical journey began at the age of 8 when he started playing drums. His early influences ranged from rock legends like the Monkees to jazz greats such as Buddy Rich and Steve Gadd.
During his high school years, Weckl received recognition from the National Association of Jazz Educators (NAJE) for his outstanding performances in his school's award-winning jazz band. He also started playing with local groups and studying under respected teachers like Bob Matheny and Joe Buerger.
In 1979, he moved to the East Coast, where he gained recognition in the New York club scene. Collaborations with established musicians like Steve Kahn, Michael Brecker, and Peter Erskine opened doors to significant opportunities, including joining the band French Toast and later performing on the 1983 Simon and Garfunkel reunion tour.
Weckl's career continued to soar as he became a vital member of Chick Corea's Elektric Band in 1985, earning a Grammy award with the Akoustic Band. His innovative use of electronic and acoustic drums propelled him to international recognition.
In 1990, Weckl embarked on a successful solo career with the release of "Master Plan," a landmark album that marked a new era in contemporary drumming. He has recorded numerous solo albums, including "Heads Up" and "Hard-Wired."
Weckl's influence extended beyond his performances through instructional videos and master classes, demonstrating his dedication to music education. His technical approach evolved after studying with Freddie Gruber, leading to the release of a series of educational videos.
In 1998, Weckl achieved his dream of forming a world-touring band, the Dave Weckl Band, releasing several studio records and instructional videos. He continued to innovate in the field of music education, creating play-along products and teaching materials.
Throughout his career, Weckl's commitment to inspiring aspiring musicians remains unwavering. He believes in the power of music to contribute positively to spiritual happiness and encourages parents to nurture their children's musical talents. Today, he continues to tour, collaborate with fellow musicians, and run an online school, leaving an indelible mark on the world of drumming and music education.
Lee Ritenour
SuperBand MemberDavid Sanborn
SuperBand MemberSadly, David Sanborn passed away on May 12, 2024. Below is our tribute to the man, the musician, and the memory of one of the most influential musicians in jazz.
THE LEADER OF THE BAND HAS DIED: A HEARTFELT TRIBUTE TO DAVID SANBORN
As you undoubtedly know by now, David Sanborn passed away last night (May 12, 2024). He was 78, won 6 Grammy® Awards, released nearly 30 albums, 8 of which went gold and 1 went platinum. Those are the numbers and if you judge musicians by numbers, then you are missing the point, entirely.
David was a genius. David was a fighter. This man, born in St. Louis, contracted polio at an early age, used the saxophone for remedial purposes and became one of the most influential, imitated, and intelligent musicians ever. Though he fought the mantle of being a founder of a new sound, hundreds and hundreds of young saxophonists grew up not only trying to sound like him, but also trying to be him. None succeeded. As he took his last breath, David was still the greatest living saxophonist.
David’s contribution to Jazz Cruises cannot be overstated. He hosted cruises, performed on cruises, and was one of our greatest proponents. His admiration of our programs provided a level of respect that we cherished. We were humbled by his association, thrilled by his performances, and, most of all, enriched by knowing him.
Personally, I adored that man. Everything about him was special, unique, and worthy of praise. He did not suffer fools well, but he did so largely in silence. When a critical comment was uttered, it was done with humor and a twinkle in his eye. David was loving, caring, and always seeking something new, something better in terms of his music. If he suffered from anything, it was his difficulty in accepting what he meant to others, that his music was revered, and how much the fans loved him.
That struggle is now over. What remains are his music, his legacy, and most importantly, the memories that each of us have when we watched him take the cover off his mouthpiece, place that mouthpiece into the side of his mouth, and emit the most beautiful sound, a sound that combined struggle and pain with love and joy. I ask only one thing. Never, ever, forget who David Sanborn was or what his music meant and means to so many people.
Jazz Cruises will be honoring him for as long as we exist.
By Michael Lazaroff, Executive Director of The Jazz Cruise, The Smooth Jazz Cruise, Chris Botti at Sea, and Journey of Jazz. Feel free to express your views or pose questions to him at [email protected].
During her remarkable 21-year recording career, saxophonist/vocalist Mindi Abair has garnered 2 GRAMMY nominations, recorded with some of the biggest names in music, and built a substantial following among jazz and blues audiences with her soaring melodies and powerhouse style. You might know her as the featured saxophonist on American Idol, sitting in with Paul Shaffer on The Late Show with David Letterman and The Roots on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, or from moonlighting on tour with Duran Duran or Aerosmith. As a solo artist, she has consistently topped the Billboard Contemporary Jazz and Blues charts. In 2018, Mindi Abair and The Boneshakers won 8 Independent Blues Awards including Artist of the Year, and an Independent Music Award for Best Blues Song Fan Award for “Pretty Good For A Girl” featuring Joe Bonamassa.
Eric Marienthal
Saxophonist and The Smooth Jazz Cruise Music Director Eric Marienthal has won 2 Grammy® Awards and has been nominated 8 times as a member of the Chick Corea Elektric Band, Jeff Lorber Fusion and Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band. Having performed in over 80 countries and played on hundreds of recordings, films and TV shows, Eric also has recorded 15 solo recordings including his latest entitled Double Dealin’ with legendary trumpeter Randy Brecker. Eric's recordings have produced several top 10 radio singles including three tunes that reached #1 on its respective chart. Eric is the recipient of the Berklee College of Music Distinguished Alumnus Award for outstanding achievements in contemporary music and earned the highest proficiency grades in the esteemed history of that institution. Eric was also named one of the top 3 alto saxophonists in Jazziz Magazine's Reader's Poll along with Phil Woods and David Sanborn. For the past 22 years Eric has organized an annual charity concert for the High Hopes Head Injury Program in Tustin, CA. These concerts have raised awareness for this great organization and have raised over 2 million dollars. For the past few years, Eric has applied his vast knowledge and experience in the world of jazz to being the Music Director for The Smooth Jazz Cruise and Blue Note at Sea. In that challenging role, Eric is charged with curating the performances, schedules and support for 100’s of the top musicians in the world. His ability to perform this task with skill and professionalism has made the quality of the programming on those sailings among the very best in the world.
Peter White
In a career that spans nearly four decades, over a dozen solo recordings and countless performances, Peter White has maintained a reputation as one of the most versatile and prolific acoustic guitarists on the contemporary jazz landscape. Armed with an unparalleled combination of lyricism and energy, he combines elements of jazz, pop and classical guitar to create a sound that is singular and at the same time accessible to a broad audience. Barely a year after his first professional gig in England at 19 years old, he was invited to join Al Stewart’s band. In addition to opening for artists like Linda Ronstadt, Billy Joel and Queen, White worked with Stewart in the studio on The Year of the Cat, which became a huge hit for Stewart in 1976. His 20-year association with Stewart included co-writing Stewart’s 1978 hit, “Time Passages.” White launched his solo recording career with the 1990 release of Reveillez-Vous. On the road, he has participated in numerous “Guitars and Saxes” tours with players such as Rick Braun, Richard Elliot, Jeff Golub, Lee Ritenour, Kirk Whalum and Boney James, and has established an annual “Peter White Christmas Tour.”
Kirk Whalum
Soulful, passionate, stirring...these are the words most often used to describe Kirk Whalum's music. Forged from his Memphis, (TN) gospel roots and his 1980‘s initiation into the thriving Houston, TX nightclub scene, Kirk’s big, rich tenor sound is unmistakably his. The 80’s were highlighted by Kirk’s stepping out of his blossoming sideman role and forming his own band. It was there that Kirk ultimately developed both his “voice” and songwriting in the crucible of the local club scene––especially at a rooftop club called Cody’s. It was also in Houston where jazz pianist Bob James “discovered” him and brought him on tour, which led to five successful albums with Columbia Records, including Cache, Kirk’s first #1 album. As well, Kirk and Bob received a Grammy nomination for their collaboration album, Joined at the Hip. After moving to Los Angeles, Kirk became an in demand session player for top artists like Barbara Streisand, Al Jarreau, Luther Vandross, Larry Carlton, Quincy Jones and most notably, Whitney Houston, amongst many others. It’s his sax heard on the mega-hit, “I Will Always Love You.” Kirk soon followed that career high point with his phenomenal hit album released on Warner Bros. Records, For You, perhaps the most successful of over 25 solo recordings to date; others include his eclectic, and much lauded, Gospel According to Jazz series, (Chapters 1, 2, 3 and 4). In addition to his many solo projects, Kirk was also a member of the popular soul/jazz group, BWB, which features Kirk as the “W” of the group with Rick Braun (trumpet) and Norman Brown (guitar).
Eric Darius
Judith Hill
Twenty-something music prodigy Vincent Ingala is no stranger to contemporary jazz audiences. His heartfelt, sweet and soulful mix has catapulted him to the top of the Billboard Contemporary Jazz charts, garnering him three Billboard #1s, and eight top 10 hits. He burst onto the contemporary jazz scene in 2010 with the release of his critically heralded debut North End Soul. Two years later Ingala was crowned Billboard “Smooth Jazz Artist of the Year” and Sirius XM Watercolors’ “Breakthrough Artist Of The Year” in 2013. Ingala’s sophomore recording, Can’t Stop Now, was released in 2012 and Coast To Coast followed in 2015, featuring two singles that hit #1 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Chart. Ingala is also a DJ on Smooth Jazz 24/7 where he can be heard weekly. His fifth solo recording, Personal Touch, is a collection of eight stirring original tracks and two surprising reinventions of R&B chestnuts. His most recent album, Fire & Desire, was released in September 2021 with Ingala playing every instrument heard on the album, including keyboards, drums, guitar and bass. He also produced, recorded and mixed the album, as well as composed all but one of the songs.
Damien Escobar
Damien Escobar is a renowned artist with a diverse portfolio encompassing violinist, author, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Hailing from Jamaica, Queens, New York, his illustrious musical career spans over a decade. What sets Damien apart is not only his exceptional talent as a violinist but also his inspiring journey, marked by incredible highs, devastating lows, resilience, and a triumphant second chance at success, which has become a defining part of his brand.
Formerly part of the duo "Nuttin' but Stringz" with his brother Tourie, Damien faced homelessness after leaving the group. Their fame skyrocketed when they appeared on "America's Got Talent," but the subsequent disbandment plunged Damien into a challenging period of his life. He even contemplated retiring his violin. However, this adversity became the catalyst for his growth and transformation.
In 2013, Damien made a remarkable comeback as a solo artist, releasing the album "Sensual Melodies." It received over 200,000 downloads, landed on the iTunes Top 100 chart, and led to a successful national tour. Damien's journey from despair to redemption garnered media attention, with features in People Magazine and Huffington Post, appearances on "The Today Show," and engagements like performing at Oprah Winfrey's "The Life You Want" tour.
Determined to make the most of his second chance, Damien ventured into entrepreneurship, authoring a children's book, creating custom-designed violins, and establishing partnerships for various ventures, including a nonprofit organization. His second album, "Boundless," showcased not only his musical prowess but also his commitment to inspiring change and spreading positivity.
As the face and sound of Mitsubishi's latest campaign and with new music and videos in the pipeline, Damien Escobar continues to evolve his brand with a focus on making a meaningful impact and inspiring social change. His remarkable story is far from over, and the world-famous violinist is poised for even greater achievements. Stay tuned for more from this multi-talented artist.
Larry Braggs
Cut from the same cloth as some of the world’s greatest vocalists, Larry Braggs has one of the most notable voices in the business. A vocal range over three octaves and a command of the stage like no other has gained him the respect and praise of his peers and fans all over the world. For the past 14 years, Larry has been the lead vocalist for the legendary soul band Tower of Power. Now as a solo artist, he is becoming one of the most sought-after singers in the business. Touring almost two hundred days out of the year Larry is a powerful force of talent to see. He is now a member of the legendary group The Temptations.
Talaya
Talaya, a celebrated figure in the world of jazz radio, graces the airwaves with her captivating contemporary jazz on SiriusXM's Watercolors, and she also hosts a weekly show on Real Jazz. Her radio journey began in her hometown of Albuquerque at KUNM, where she played jazz and Latin jazz. After studying at San Francisco State University, she joined KRE, a pioneering commercial jazz station, hosting the Latin jazz show "Sabor y Salsa." KRE-FM later became KBLX "The Quiet Storm," and she was pivotal in launching "The Quiet Storm" at KUTE in Los Angeles. She made history by interviewing Sade and playing "Smooth Operator" on the radio.
In 1988, "The Wave" welcomed her, and for over 30 years, she enjoyed massive ratings and commercial success. Talaya simultaneously voice-tracked for KYOT in Phoenix. For nearly a decade, she hosted "Nuestra Musica" on Armed Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS), bringing Latin music to troops worldwide.
Her accolades include the 1998 Radio and Records Industry Achievement Award for Smooth Jazz On-Air Personality, the 2012 GENII Award for Excellence in Radio, and recognition from organizations like NHMC and Los Angeles County and City Board of Supervisors.
Talaya, a proud member of SAG-AFTRA since 1981, lent her voice to numerous campaigns and iconic events, including the Screen Actors Guild Awards. She's performed with renowned artists and sang at notable venues like the Vatican. Her love for jazz, smooth presentations, and passion for music have driven her forward, and she continues to share her joy with audiences worldwide while maintaining her infectious smile.
Patches Stewart
If you have heard Michael “Patches” Stewart play his instrument, it will come as no surprise to learn he was born and raised in the city where Jazz was born — New Orleans, Louisiana. He fell in love with the trumpet at a very young age. It was during his high school years that he acquired the nickname “Patches” – from his habit of wearing patches on blue jeans. Undeniably talented, his focus on mastering the trumpet prompted him to seek opportunities to hone his skills outside the high school classroom. This included additional music lessons at a local college and of course, listening and learning from the incredible pool of local talent found throughout New Orleans. His reputation around New Orleans grew, and at the age of 19, he was offered an opportunity to fill-in during a session — his first time in a recording studio. It turned out to be the horn section session for LaBelle’s international hit “Lady Marmalade.” Patches started his professional career with great artists such as Johnnie Taylor, Al Jarreau, The Brothers Johnson, Quincy Jones, Marcus Miller, Whitney Houston, George Duke and Earth, Wind, and Fire, just to name a few. He is currently a member of Brian Culbertson’s band and performs,on The Smooth Jazz Cruise.
Marcus Anderson
An incredible fusion jazz artist with ten studio albums on his list of accomplishments, saxophonist Marcus Anderson brings R&B, Pop, Rock, Latin and Funk to make music that puts listeners in another atmosphere. Charting number one in both categories of Billboard's Smooth Jazz and Sirius XM’s Watercolors with his exceptional hit “A Cup Of Joe” from the album And Coffee, the Spartanburg, SC native is delivering major music in a humble way. His work with the late Prince and the New Power Generation led him to join stages with the likes of Ceelo Green, where he has become a key contributor to Green’s touring band. Whether he is performing for dignitaries such as President Barack Obama, Jesse Jackson and Hillary Clinton or blazing the stage with Sheila E., Anthony Hamilton or Judith Hill in a collaborative effort, Anderson delivers stellar musicianship every time. Lalah Hathaway, Esperanza Spaulding, George Duke, Jennifer Holiday are just a few of the numerous world-renowned artists that Anderson has opened for and with whom he has shared the stage. Both near and far, audiences of all musical tastes have made their way to hear Marcus Anderson. He not only plays the sax but sings and performs choreography as well. High-spirited and welcoming, Anderson is a multi-instrumentalist who is not afraid of “showing out” and is a fan-favorite at highly recognized festivals and on top-ranking shows like The Tonight Show, Arsenio Hall, and Jimmy Kimmel Live.
Jazmin Ghent
Dr. Jazmin Ghent is an international smooth jazz, r&b, and gospel recording artist as well as an accomplished music educator. She was awarded the prestigious 2019 “NAACP Image Award” for Outstanding Jazz Album, “The Story of Jazz”. She was nominated for 2019 Smooth Jazz Network’s Best Artist of the Year and was voted 2017’s Best New Smooth Jazz Artist.
From the entertainment perspective, Jazmin has 6 top 5 Billboard singles: Kickin It Up; Stride; Amends;; Work Wit It; Heat and Compared to What. Her most successful hit to date is Kickin It Up which was #1 on Billboard Smooth Jazz Airplay Charts. The songs remained on the charts for 20+ weeks and were played in rotation by most smooth jazz stations including Sirius XM Watercolors Channel. Jazmin has performed at various major festivals and venues throughout the United States, in Europe, Dubai, Australia, and Morocco.
According to Art Good of Catalina Island’s JazzTrax radio and festival, “…unknown Jazmin Ghent was one of the BEST FINDS the festival has EVER uncovered. Obviously… she OUTSOLD ALL 30 stars of smooth jazz in the JazzTrax Store, selling more CDs than
anyone. She had stage presence, a show and she could play!”
While always striving for the pinnacle of success, Jazmin received a bachelor’s degree from Florida State University in Music Education, a Master’s Degree from Tennessee State University in Music Education, and a Ph.D. from the University of South Florida in Music Education. She has 4 CDs to date and is currently working on her 5th CD.
Ivan Peroti
Ms Monét
Marqueal Jordan
The Legendary DW3
Driven by the ever-evolving musical vision of core members – Brothers Eric and Billy Mondragon and close family friend Damon Reel – Southern California’s premiere R&B, funk and contemporary powerhouse band DW3’s deepening artistry continues to transcend a well-earned reputation as a high energy, fun and freewheeling party band. Eric, Billy and Damon all contribute lead and harmony vocals, while Eric plays keys (including synth horns and strings) and Billy adds percussion.
Building on the success of their single, “I Got You” featuring Gerald Albright, (#16 on the Billboard charts) and the On The Floor album that went #1 on the UK soul charts, DW3 has now expanded to nine a piece ensemble. The addition of a horn section really sets the tone for their live shows. The truth is in the twelve tracks of their Vintage Truth CD.
The band also continues to entertain Festival and Entertainment Cruise Productions guests several times a year. The versatile ensemble is rapidly emerging as a multi-faceted recording outfit in their own right.
Randy Jacobs
Nate Phillips
Nate Phillips is a long time member of the The Smooth Jazz Cruise family going on 19 years, probably one of the longest reigns of almost anyone. With Nate’s musical history which includes sessions and tours with many of the artist who perform on our cruises he continues to enjoy his love of music and his supporting role within the The Smooth Jazz Cruise family.
Over his career Nate has worked with many artist including the group Pleasure, The Crusaders, Ronnie Laws, Jeff Lorber, Herb Alpert, George Benson, The Dazz Band, Esther Phillips, Bobby Lyle, Wayne Henderson, Gabor Szabo, Roy Ayers, Chico Hamilton, Joe Henderson, The Dramatics, Willie Bobo, Narada Michael Walden, Billy Cobham, Harvey Mason, Hubert Laws,Lee Ritenour, Richard Elliot, Rick Braun, Kirk Whalum, Gerald Albright, Marcus Miller, EnVogue, The United We Funk Allstars, George Clinton, Wilton Felder, Bobby Caldwell, Patti Austin, Regina Bell, Swing Out Sister, Eric Marienthal, Art Porter, Cheap Trick, The Barkays, The Gap Band, The SOS Band, Con FunkShun, Lenny Williams, Michael Henderson, Sherrille, Alexander O’Neal, Bobby Lyle, Mindi Abair, Euge Groove, Everett Harp, Peter White, WaymanTisdale, Bobby Caldwell, Brenda Russell, Brian Culbertson.