Lineup

Marcus 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’ personal relationship with music has never been anything but solid. Picking up the sax at age 10 in his native New Rochelle, New York, “I immediately loved it, and it pretty quickly became my favorite hobby.”

By the time he entered his teens, Boney was already gigging with bands and he turned pro at 19. He apprenticed as a sideman for artists like Morris Day and the Isley Brothers, touring and doing sessions for seven years before cutting his first solo album in 1992. The independently released Trust led immediately to a major label deal and a string of increasingly successful recordings and nonstop touring.

Now a four-time GRAMMY® nominee with four RIAA Gold records and career sales topping three million units, Boney continues to defy genres as a two-time NAACP Award nominee, a Soul Train Award winner and named one of the Top 3 Billboard Contemporary Jazz Artists of the Decade.  James says he’s looking forward to heading out on the road and seeing how the material from Solid (the saxophonist/composer’s 17th album as a leader) evolves from night to night. “I love playing live, maybe more than I ever did,” he adds. “That has not gotten old at all. A lot of guys get tired of the traveling but it’s still a joy for me every time I go out there and play.”  It’s still a joy to his multitude of fans too. “I try to be there for the people who are interested in listening to my music,” says Boney, “to be solid in that relationship and to never let anybody down. I often get great compliments from the people that come to my shows, that I ‘never disappoint’ them, and that’s very gratifying to me. That’s what I was trying to express with this title, that sense of character. To stand for something principled.”

A renowned horn-driven outfit, Tower of Power emerged in the late ’60s playing a dynamic blend of R&B, soul, funk and AM pop. Along with the similarly inclined Chicago and Blood, Sweat & Tears, Tower of Power helped push the sound of brass-infused music into the rock era. Led by Detroit-born tenor saxophonist Emilio Castillo, the Oakland, California-based group scored hits like “You’re Still a Young Man” and “What Is Hip?” throughout the ’70s. They also became one of the most sought-after backing ensembles in pop, playing on recordings by Elton John, Santana, Bonnie Raitt, Aerosmith, Josh Groban and more. While their lineup has changed over the years, Castillo remains a constant and continues to guide the ensemble live and in the studio.

Tower of Power includes:
Emilio Castillo (second tenor sax, vocals)
Stephen “Doc” Kupka (baritone sax)
Roger Smith (keyboard, vocals)
Tom E. Politzer (lead tenor sax)
Adolfo Acosta (second trumpet, flugelhorn)
Jerry Cortez (guitar, vocals)
Marc van Wageningen (bass guitar)
David Richards (trumpet and trombone)
Jordan John (vocalist, multi-instrumentalist)
Pete Antunes (drums)
Francis Rocco Prestia (bass)

WAR is an American funk rock band formed in 1969, known for blending rock, jazz, Latin and R&B influences to create a distinctive sound. Originally formed in Long Beach, California, the group gained popularity for their socially conscious lyrics and multicultural lineup. Some of their biggest hits include “Low Rider,” “Spill the Wine” (with Eric Burdon), “Why Can’t We Be Friends?” and “Cisco Kid.” WAR’s music often addresses themes of unity, peace, and the struggles of inner-city life, resonating with diverse audiences throughout the 1970s and beyond. They are celebrated for their vibrant live performances and lasting impact on the music world.

WAR includes:
Lonnie Jordan
Scott Martin
Mitch Kashmar
Rene Camacho
Marco J. Reyes
Sal Rodriguez
James Zota Baker

Brian Culbertson is an award-winning multi-instrumentalist, writer and producer who crosses genres between contemporary jazz, R&B, and funk and heralds from the musically rich city of Chicago. Starting at the early age of 8 on piano, he quickly picked up several other instruments by age 12 including drums, trombone, bass and euphonium. Inspired by the great R&B/Jazz/Pop artists of the 70’s like EWF, Tower of Power, Chicago, David Sanborn and others, Brian Culbertson started composing original music for his 7th grade piano recital and hasn’t stopped having self-produced 16 solo albums, most of which have topped the Billboard charts.

The acclaimed musician also founded the Napa Valley Jazz Getaway, a five-day celebration of wine, food, art and music that draws big entertainers and devoted fans year after year. Brian is always striving to push the boundaries of the contemporary jazz scene which is evident by his latest album, Funk! This new set is a throwback to the stanky P-Funk records from back in the day combining the throbbing bass lines, greasy horn lines, sing-a-long choruses and landing hard on the ‘One.’

The youngest of 13 children, Jonathan Butler grew up in poverty in Cape Town, South Africa, ruled by Apartheid and segregation. Jonathan began his singing career at age seven, releasing his first album in 1973 and winning the Best New Artist GRAMMY® in South Africa the following year at age 12. He made history by being the first black artist played on white South African radio while earning three gold records (“Please Stay” went double gold and “I Love How You Love Me” went gold) in 1975 as he became a teenager.

More than a decade later, Jonathan moved to London, England and released his first album internationally. The self-titled set went gold in 1987 in the United Kingdom and in the USA. He received GRAMMY® nominations for Best R&B Song for his R&B-pop vocal hit “Lies” and for Best Jazz Song for the instrumental “Going Home.” His genre-busting material earned songwriter’s awards and received abundant airplay in multiple radio formats: pop, urban, contemporary jazz, adult contemporary and gospel. Jonathan’s 2004 album, Surrender, went gold in South Africa where he remains a superstar.

Jonathan is still taking care of people back home. Last fall, he launched the Jonathan Butler Foundation in his native country to fund music education programs that give children the purpose to overcome a life of drugs and poverty just as he did. His music has purpose, providing comfort and genuine inspiration. When he sings, he testifies to the glory and healing power of love. When he plays guitar, his fast fingers innately find notes of passion and divinity. Jonathan Butler’s recording career has carried him far, far beyond his wildest dreams. He’s living his dream and that is a blessing for us all.

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.

During her remarkable 21-year recording career, saxophonist/vocalist Mindi Abair has garnered two 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.

“I just want to continue to explore the boundaries of what I am capable of as a musician,” declares acclaimed chart-topping trumpeter, composer and producer Rick Braun. Known for his impeccable technical chops, melodic wizardry and keen compositional prowess, the consummate Los Angeles-based musician has been thrilling audiences for decades. Having clenched over 20 number one Smooth Jazz hits, Braun has collaborated with all of the brightest stars in contemporary jazz.

There was a time when Braun was contemplating pursuing medical school, but music won out.  In his long career he has crafted his own distinctive sound and become a staple on contemporary jazz radio. He has produced Number One hits for David Benoit, Marc Antoine and former Rod Stewart band sidekick Jeff Golub. Braun achieved collaborative success on massive hits with Boney James, as a member of RnR with saxophonist Richard Elliot and with BWB, a powerhouse trio completed by GRAMMY® winners Kirk Whalum and Norman Brown.

Imagine how the juices will flow on the high seas for saxophonist Richard Elliot, who says he gets much of his creative inspiration from behind the wheel of his car in L.A. traffic. The Scottish-born musician has been on the music scene for more than three decades and released his 17th solo album, Lip Service, in July 2014. The project features seven original compositions along with three covers of soul and pop hits from the ’80s (“Shining Star” by The Manhattans), ’90s (“Anytime” by Brian McKnight) and present day (“When I Was Your Man” by Bruno Mars).

Richard Elliot got his start at age 19 with the Chapman Stick-based quartet Kittyhawk, played in soul band Tower of Power in the ’80s and has continued topping the charts and touring the world as both solo artist and with innovative groups like Guitars & Saxes and, most recently, Summer Horns (comprised of Mindi Abair, Gerald Albright and Dave Koz).

Larry Braggs is passionate, powerful and very spiritual. These are also the amazing attributes of his voice. Cut from the same cloth as some of the world’s greatest vocalists, Larry has one of the most notable voices in the music industry. With a vocal range over three octaves and a command of the stage like no other, Larry has become one of the most electrifying entertainers on tour. Larry Braggs was the lead vocalist for the legendary soul band Tower of Power, but now, as a solo artist, he is becoming one of the most sought-after singers in the business.

Ms. Monét is a singer-songwriter, arranger and actor from the Bay Area of California. She has a five-octave vocal range and performs in many genres, including R&B, rock, jazz, gospel and classical. Ms. Monét has toured the world for over 30 years and has performed as a background vocalist for artists such as Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, Eric Benét, Boz Scaggs, Michael McDonald and Queen Latifah. Ms. Monét was a contestant on season 24 of NBC’s The Voice and gained national fame on the show. She has also been called “The Monificent” and is known for her natural ability, strong will and determination.

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 The Smooth Jazz Cruise guests throughout the year. The versatile ensemble is rapidly emerging as a multi-faceted recording outfit in their own right.

Michael “Patches” Stewart was born and raised in New Orleans, where he began to play trumpet at an early age. After moving to Los Angeles, he toured with The Brothers Johnson, Quincy Jones and jazz giant Al Jarreau, who introduced Patches to audiences worldwide. Patches has released four solo albums and has toured with artists such as David Sanborn, George Duke, Rickie Lee Jones, Whitney Houston, Marcus Miller, Babyface, Diana Ross and Earth, Wind and Fire.

Saxophonist Marcus Anderson, a two-time GRAMMY® and Stellar Award nominee, has 16 studio albums and five Billboard Number #1s. Fusing jazz with R&B, pop, and soul, he’s charted top spots on Billboard’s Smooth Jazz and SiriusXM’s Watercolors. He’s collaborated/toured with Prince, Stevie Wonder and CeeLo Green, among others. Known for high-energy shows, Anderson has performed for notable figures at the White House and has been a staple at major festivals for years. He’s ventured into the coffee business serving his brand “AND Coffee” for eight years, making him a multifaceted act in the industry.

A regular panel member on Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me, The Smooth Jazz Cruise comic and event host, Alonzo Bodden, has been making audiences around the country laugh for more than 20 years. Alonzo’s first big comedy break came when he was on the “New Faces of Comedy” showcase at the Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal. However, it was as the season three winner of NBCʼs Last Comic Standing where Alonzo was first introduced to America. Since then, he has starred in two comedy specials for Showtime: Historically Incorrect and Who’s Paying Attention. His television appearances include ABC’s Dr. Ken and Fresh Off the Boat, Dr. Phil, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, Comedy Central’s The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore and Californication.

A car and motorcycle aficionado, Alonzo hosted Speed Channel’s 101 Cars You Must Drive and America’s Worst Driver on the Travel Channel. He’s also joined Jay Leno for several off-road trips on his CNBC series Jay Leno’s Garage. Alonzo was a field correspondent on Animal Nation with Anthony Anderson and a contributor on the Science Channel’s How to Build Everything. Alonzo released his fifth comedy CD titled Man Overboard in 2018.

He currently hosts the podcast Who’s Paying Attention? and his own daily radio show on KBLA-AM 1580 in Los Angeles where he gives his unique take on what’s going on in the world.  In August 2019, Alonzo starred in his fourth stand-up special, Alonzo Bodden: Heavy Lightweight, during which he touches upon a range of topics from slavery, cell phones and the #MeToo movement, to millennials, Kanye West and Taco Bell.  Alonzo has been the comic in residence for Signature Jazz Cruises for many years now and has become one of the leaders and drivers of our program.

Saxophonist and The Smooth Jazz Cruise Music Director Eric Marienthal has won 2 GRAMMY® Awards and has been nominated eight 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.

Musicians, guests and our staff all agree: The Smooth Jazz Cruise Event Host must be Talaya. For more than four decades, Talaya has shared her love of music on the radio and can currently be heard on SiriusXM Watercolors. With various achievements and awards, Talaya’s love of jazz has been a driving force in her career. Her greatest moments have included interviewing Sade in 1985 before anyone else and singing background vocals with GRAMMY® Winners Evanescense, Nyee Moses and Gabriela Anders. “Getting to meet all you wonderful cruisers and sharing the stage with brilliant musicians on The Smooth Jazz Cruise is a true honor.”

After starting to play the drums at the tender age of 3 alongside his dad, it wasn’t long before Jay Williams took interest in exploring other styles of music and his interest grew to appreciate styles like jazz, rock, R&B, Latin and country. Jay’s passion, hard work and dedication, along with his experience, eventually led to him professionally working with numerous mainstream artists. His versatile yet flexible gift has gained him local, national and international media coverage, as well as the opportunity to illustrate his art of drumming at countless venues throughout the country and abroad. If you asked Jay when he loves most about his music career, he’d tell you “I love playing music, I believe music is healing to all. I love to see how music make people feel, the smile on their face is priceless.”

Nate Phillips has been a member of The Smooth Jazz Cruise for nearly two decades, one of the longest reigns of almost anyone. Nate’s musical history includes sessions and tours with many artists who perform on our cruises, concreting his supporting role within The Smooth Jazz Cruise family. Over his career Nate has worked with many artist including George Benson, Lee Ritenour, Rick Braun, Kirk Whalum, Gerald Albright, Marcus Miller, EnVogue, George Clinton, Wilton Patti Austin, Eric Marienthal, Cheap Trick, Mindi Abair, Peter White, Wayman Tisdale and Brian Culbertson.

Born in South Dakota and raised in Washington D.C., David Dyson began playing baritone in school, but, after hearing recordings of Larry Graham and Louis Johnson, the desire to switch to the bass was overwhelming. In 1989, David worked with Maurice Starr (New Kids On The Block) as musical director, taking their live shows to an unprecedented pinnacle. As an artist, David has released Soulmates, The Dawning and Unleashed, all to critical acclaim. Throughout his career, David has earned quite a reputation as a bassist, songwriter, arranger and producer. He continues to strive for excellence as one of today’s most promising artists.

Richie Gajate Garcia, Puerto Rican born in New York City, grew up with musical influences of his percussionist step father. He is one of the top clinicians worldwide, demonstrating the art of drums and percussion. Richie has performed, recorded and toured the world as a drummer/percussionist for a variety of major artists, such as Diana Ross, Robin Thicke, Jessie J and more. He’s also played on over 40 major films, most recently Disney’s Coco. Richie has had the joy of performing with many of the artists on The Smooth Jazz Cruise and looks forward to the next cruise coming up.

Carnell Harrell is a keyboard player from the Los Angeles area who has been playing professionally for over 20 years for agencies, private events, independent and major artists. Carnell plays a variety of styles including Gospel, R&B, neo soul, hip hop, jazz, soul, alternative rock, easy listening, singer/songwriter, smooth jazz and country. He’s played with a variety of artists including Jonathan Butler, Rahsaan Patterson, the Jacksons, Jennifer Lopez, Bobby Brown, Kenny Latimore, Dave Koz, Boney James, Gerald Albright, Teena Marie, Andra Day, Thelma Houston, Peter White, Mac Powell, Israel Houghton, Macy Gray and more.

A graduate of the University of Miami’s School of Music, Steven EUGEne GROoVE was born in Hagerstown, Maryland and grew up in a musical home. His mother played piano and Euge began his own musical pursuits at the age of seven, beginning with the piano and adding the saxophone at nine.

He later discovered two saxophonists who had a profound effect on his approach to playing. “One was French classical player Marcel Mule, who really defined what the sax was supposed to sound like for me and the other was David Sanborn. He took that sound and brought it into the mainstream world,” reminisces Euge Groove.  He explains, “I’ve listened to everyone from Grover (Washington Jr.) and (David) Sanborn to (Charlie) Parker and (John) Coltrane as well as (Michael) Brecker, (Stan) Getz, King Curtis, Junior Walker, Richard Elliott and Kirk Whalum. The thing is, the more mature we become the more those influences fuse into something new. I always listened to a lot of R&B growing up, fused that with Pop music, then with the Gospel music. Hopefully all these influences come through in my music and I am able to create my own unique expression.”

With the release of Comfort Zone, Euge Groove further asserts himself as one of the most distinctive artists in Contemporary Jazz and assures us that he is in the zone. He also lets us in on a little secret – balance is the key to everything. “When I am not making music, I love driving the California coast. I’m very fortunate that I can be to the coast in about 15 minutes. It’s very Zen for me. Also, pizza. I love making pizza. I have a wood pizza oven in my backyard, and when I’m up to it, I get up early in the morning, make the dough, the sauce, and for dinner fire up the oven. I’ve got to be in the mood though. I get more requests in the house than I make. It’s like music for me; You can’t force it!”

Percussionist, Composer, Arranger, Producer, Author and four time GRAMMY® Winner Darryl Munyungo Jackson possesses an ever-increasing collection of instruments with which to execute his craft. That is one of the reasons this warm and unassuming West Coast artist can be found in virtually any musical setting—whether it’s funk, pop, jazz, latin, reggae or traditional dance music of such countries as Nigeria, Haiti, Brazil and Cuba. Munyungo is deeply committed to understanding — and keeping alive — the tradition surrounding the instruments he plays. “It’s hard to study drums without studying the cultures from which they come,” he points out. This respectfulness seasons his playing with hearty passion and enjoyment.

Lamar Jones was born to be a musician. A native of Chicago and coming from a musical family, he is a versatile bassist who has performed with a variety of musical groups during his 25 year career. Being a well-rounded musician, Lamar has played various genres spanning from smooth jazz, rock, gospel, R&B, funk and house-music in a variety of different venues from music halls to outdoor festivals across the US and abroad. Lamar currently resides in Chicago and has been blessed with two beautiful young daughters. When he is not on tour, you can find him building custom basses and performing in church.

Chris Miskel is a Chicago drummer who carries on the Chicago reputation of producing some of the most talented musicians to date. By playing with many musicians, Chris has acquired the ability to play the drums in multiple styles and genres of music. He believes that adapting to the various musical situations is essential to being a well-rounded musician. When Chris is home between tours, he continues to strengthen his drumming techniques, solos and improvisation by performing in local clubs and participating in jam sessions. According to Chris, “Playing what I feel and being able to transcend my vibe to the fans and get a reaction from them is what makes my job wonderful.”  

Born and raised in Ohio, Kevin Turner was trained as a jazz guitarist but spent an equal amount of time playing in the pop genre. Besides being a performer, Kevin is a writer, producer and educator. He has owned a private recording studio for nearly 15 years. Kevin co-wrote (with his wife Cynthia Turner) and produced two projects by the national recording gospel ensemble Cynthia Turner and Heartspeak. This award-winning group performed across the country in the 2000s and was featured on BET’s Bobby Jones Gospel Show. Kevin presently tours and records with GRAMMY® award-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum.

Guitarist Darnell “Showcase” Taylor captivates worldwide audiences through a style that balances tradition with innovation. Born and raised in Moncure, North Carolina, the self-taught musician started his love affair with instruments as a church kid having joined a local band at the age of 15.

Playing throughout the country for a wide variety of artists, Taylor eventually met GRAMMY® Award winner Anthony Hamilton. The powerful, soul master added him to his critically acclaimed band where they continue to thrill music lovers across the globe.

As a producer, he has composed more than 50 songs for Soul/Blues artist Willie Clayton, rising songstress Jackie Michael and award-winning saxophonist Marcus Anderson. A testament to his commercial appeal, he earned the attention of Ibanez Guitars who tapped the musician to serve as a face of its international brand.

Taylor enjoys the beauty of collectively performing with some of the most dynamic artists of our time yet still recognizes the gift of his individual music interpretation. While contemporary music typically features a voice as storyteller, Darnell “Showcase” Taylor masterfully narrates the human experience of love, pain, joy, and defeat through a beautiful merger of man and guitar.

Omari Williams began playing the drums at a young age, like many musicians, in the church, then the jazz band, marching band and was performing professionally by age 17. Boney James is his main gig, but Omari has also played with Ruben Studdard, Rick Braun, Jonathan Butler and and the finest musicians aboard The Smooth Jazz Cruise. In addition to drums, Omari plays bass and can sing background when needed. He is learning the keyboard so he can start making and producing his own music, as well as music for other artists and continues to work on learning new skills and keeping his original ones fresh and polished.