ISSUE NO. 218 APRIL/MAY 2026 LINDSEY WEBSTER The vocalist’s breakthrough withMusic in Me THE 27TH ANNUAL SEABREEZE JAZZ FESTIVAL Where the Gulf meets the groove SOMMA, HOSTED BY DAVE KOZ His vision of music, luxury, connection and wellness THE BOUTIQUE BOOM Artists reimagine the fan experience THE ULTIMATE JAZZ FESTIVAL CRUISE GUIDE & Curated experiences and world-class destinations
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APRIL/MAY 2026 | 3 SUNDAY, OCTOBER Smooth Jazz All Stars: Brian Simpson, Ilya Serov, and Michael Paulo SUNDAY, OCTOBER Kalapana jazz concert series RHYTHM ON THE VINE® SUNDAY, UNE Mindi Abair SUNDAY, ULY Tribute to Bobby Caldwell: Bill Steinway • Roberto Vally • Andrew Neu Carlyle Bariteau • Land Richards • Tony Moore Eric Mondragon • Jason Goldstein SUNDAY, ULY Keiko Matsui SUNDAY, AUGUST Hiroshima SUNDAY, UNE BPM Band: Brian Bromberg, Paul Brown, and Michael Paulo SUNDAY, AUGUST Tierra Legacy 34843 Rancho California Road Temecula, CA 92591 | TIX.COM | 951.696.0184 Concertgoers receive exclusive room rates on show days! Call 866.628.0383 to book.
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APRIL/MAY 2026 | 5 The Florida Smooth Jazz Foundation The 4 Annual th RnR feat. RICK BRAUN & RICHARD ELLIOT NORMAN BROWN MINDI ABAIR • DAVID BENOIT BONEY JAMES • BRIAN CULBERTSON www.RuthEckerdHall.com BRIAN CULBERTSON • MARCUS MILLER’S TRIBUTE TO DAVID SANBORN BOB JAMES • GERALD ALBRIGHT • ERIC DARIUS • ERIC MARIENTHAL RNR RICK BRAUN & RICHARD ELLIOT • PETER WHITE & VINCENT INGALA WILL DOWNING • BRIAN SIMPSON & KIM SCOTT BK JACKSON, ERIN STEVENSON & LEMEK RNR RICK feat Hosted by ERIC DARIUS The Florida Smooth Jazz Weekend Hosted by ERIC DARIUS Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront ųŽǝ ҁԛԛ҄҄ ӹ 2026 nov 5-8, 2026 FloridaSmoothJazz.com Presented & Produced by The Florida Smooth Jazz Foundation starring REBECCA JADE & ANDRÉA LISA CHRIS WALKER & MICHAEL PAULO Presented & Produced by The Florida Smooth Jazz Foundation starring RICK BRAUN Dec. 30-31, 2026 Rosen Shingle Creek Orlando featuring FloridaSmoothJazz.com • 386.681.7007 May 30-31, 2026 DAMIEN ESCOBAR • RICHARD ELLIOT • PETER WHITE Annual RnR feat. RICK BRAUN & RICHARD ELLIOT BONEY JAMES • BRIAN CULBERTSON May 30-31, 2026 ҁ ӹ ųųŽŽǝǝ ҁҁԛԛ҄ nov 5-8, 2026҄6 ӹ i Hosted y ERIC DARIUS Hosted HHoHosstteedd by dby dby ERIC yEERERIICC DARIUS CDDA CDA y C oste b ERI DA ERIC DARIUS C ARIUS ARARIIUUUSS RI Hosted by REBECCA JADE & ANDRÉA & ANDRÉA LISA CHRIS WALKER & MICHAEL & MICHAEL PAULO Presented & Produced & Produced by Orlando 2026 DAMIEN ESCOBAR ESCOBAR • RICHARD ELLIOT • PETER WHITE WHITE
6 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS Publisher and Managing Editor Melanie Maxwell Operations & Distribution Manager Craig Collier Contributors Ken Capobianco Cashmira Darcy Peters Copy Editors JoAnn Armke Barbara Knox Brad Sondak Graphic Design Gina Mancini Contributing Photographers Cover photo of Lindsey Webster by Franco Vogt Cover photo of Panama City Beach, Florida, by Jim Still-Pepper Andrew Ficke Photography Pat Benter John Bivens Dan Boissy Jim Clark Will Downing Erin Blair Studio Ovi Horta Jason Myers Raj Naik Nathan Phillips Photography Chase Pierson Bobby Quillard Kristie Schram Calvin Smith Lori Stoll Aric ompson Franco Vogt Smooth Jazz News 5519 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., #134 San Diego, CA 92117 858-541-1919 smoothjazznews@aol.com www.smoothjazznews.com We will publish ve issues of Smooth Jazz News in 2026: February-March, April-May, June-July, August-September and October-November-December. The publisher assumes no responsibility for claims or actions of its advertisers. Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher, staff or advertisers. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publisher. ©2026, Smooth Jazz News | All rights reserved Smooth-Jazz News/123513291125001 @SmoothJazzNews 8 Notes from the Publisher When artists become hosts: a new kind of jazz journey 12 27th Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival Sold-out before the first note: the magic of the hottest festival on the circuit in Panama City Beach, Florida 17 FREE CD-with-subscription offer When you subscribe toSmooth Jazz News at the Seabreeze Jazz Festival in Panama City Beach, Florida 17 Smooth Jazz News home delivery Subscribe today: Online, by phone, mail or at our booth during the Seabreeze Jazz Festival 18 Dave Koz’s Somma “Jewels of the Adriatic” Cruise The saxophonist charts a new course with an elevated experience of music, luxury, connection and wellness at sea CONTENTS 22 Lindsey Webster Songs, sound and scenery: inside the singer’s uplifting new era 26 Calendar of smooth jazz events Concerts, cruises, festivals and brunches nationwide 34 Annual Jazz Festival and Cruise Guide Dream it. Book it. Experience it. 2026 jazz destinations: festivals, cruises and global grooves. 46 Book Review “Wings: the Story of a Band on the Run” by Paul McCartney, edited by Ted Widmer 46 Cashmira’s Starguide Spring horoscopes 47 Smooth Jazz Newsmerchandise Get fashion-ready for festival season with our apparel: fleece jackets, golf shirts, T-shirts, tank tops and hats Photo: Raj Naik SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS April is Jazz Appreciation Month. To celebrate, Berks Arts has expanded its 35th Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest to include 33 additional jazz events at 22 venues across Berks County, Pennsylvania (www.berksjazzfest.com). Rick Braun culminates the festivities on International Jazz Day, April 30, with a performance of “Rick Braun Plays Chuck Mangione” at the Miller Center for the Arts. Check out our calendar section starting on page 26 for information about this and other events happening in April and May.
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8 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS beaches overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. A rotating roster of worldclass musicians adds another cultural dimension to the journey. “You’ll de nitely discover an artist you’ve never heard before—and you’ll de nitely become a fan,” Abair said. Guests will also be introduced to new cuisine and luxury accommodations, dining at Michelin-starred restaurants and staying in ve-star resorts. “We do everything at a very high level,” she added. Each Wine and Jazz Adventure is “very thoughtfully curated and also includes exceptional private wine tastings, incredible meals, concerts and private performances, guided excursions and unique experiences throughout the region we’re visiting,” she said. “We take care of everything,” she said. “Once you arrive, you can simply relax and enjoy—food, wine, lodging, transportation … and joy.” It’s a level of detail that requires months of preparation—and it shows. e Adventures o en sell out well in advance. Upcoming trips to Sonoma, California, and Portugal in 2026, and Spain in 2027 are already full. However, fans still have a chance to ring in the new year at Abair’s Wine and Jazz New Year’s Eve celebration at the waterfront Loews Coronado Bay Resort in San Diego. ough larger scale than the Wine and Jazz Adventures, the event, scheduled for Dec. 28-31, 2026, maintains the same upscale spirit and a festive sense of occasion. For more information on Mindi Abair’s Wine and Jazz Adventures, visit https://wineandjazz.com/adventures. Intimate escapes: how smooth jazz artists are redefining the fan experience I’ve noticed a shift in smooth jazz entertainment lately: one that trades massive crowds for meaningful connection. Increasingly, artists are stepping o the traditional festival circuit to host smaller, highly curated experiences that integrate concerts, vacations and personal retreats. Few embody this trend more seamlessly than Mindi Abair. Alongside her husband, wine expert Eric Guerra, the Grammy-nominated saxophonist has created a global series of boutique getaways known as Wine and Jazz Adventures—luxury, music and wine-in uenced excursions for her fans. “Our adventures are intentionally small and intimate,” Abair said. “We host 40 guests per week, which allows us to spend time with everyone, make real bonds and create a true shared experience.” e couple said the locations are important, too. ey choose places that inspire them personally. “We always try to create our own perfect vacation,” she said. “ ey’re always regions with incredible wine, amazing food, beautiful surroundings and a strong cultural identity. We also look for destinations where we can create experiences that people wouldn’t normally have access to on their own. at allows us to curate something super special that is a true one-of-a-kind, lifetime experience.” e settings are extraordinary. Daily concerts unfold in unforgettable spaces: ancient castles, limestone mines with 200-foot ceilings, or Mindi Abair and her husband, Eric Guerra, on a Wine and Jazz Adventure continued on page 10
APRIL/MAY 2026 | 9 FEATURING Paul Taylor | Steve Oliver | Michael Paulo Gregg Karukas | B. Valentine | Land Richards Darryl Williams | Eric Valentine 21ST ANNUAL WINE· DINE· JAZZ 15 3 NOVEMBER 6 & 7 HORSESHOE BAY RESORT FEST I VAL GO WHERE THE MusicTAKES YOU A Jazz Event Worth the Journey TEXAS WINERIES CELEBRITY CHEFS LOCATED 45 MINUTES WEST OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 877.611.0112 | HSBRESORT.COM
10 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS A newcomer to the event production party is vocalist Lindsey Webster. Set in the serene Catskills at the Full Moon Resort, 40 minutes from iconic Woodstock, Webster’s vision leans into nature, relaxation and creative community. And, she’s booked a pretty nice musical lineup featuring Richard Elliot, Keiko Matsui and Vincent Ingala. “Music in the Mountains is a music-vacation getaway in the beautiful Catskill Mountains,” Webster said. “ ere’s nothing like spring in the Hudson Valley—it’s the perfect time to experience it.” By day, guests can follow their own rhythm: Unwind with a massage, explore forest trails, relax poolside to live music, or join Webster for a nature walk across the resort’s 100-acre landscape of meadows and spring-fed streams. ere will also be Q&A sessions with the artists. “It’s a beyondbackstage experience, where we can learn more about Vincent, Keiko and Richard,” Webster o ered. “Or, you can always choose to nap, read a book and drink some wine. Your day is totally up to you. Guests will feel well taken care of.” But when nighttime comes, she said it’s going to be a party! at’s when Elliot, Matsui and Ingala perform. “I am so excited that they each agreed to join us for our inaugural event,” Webster enthused. “And, of course, for our night owls, the party will continue a er each night’s show.” ose a er-hours sessions include DJ sets with Dave Leonard and live performances by Jay Collins and his band. Collins’ resumé includes playing sax with artists such as Gregg Allman, Little Feat, Levon Helm, e Midnight Ramble Band and Donald Fagen. “On day three, we will all take a bus to Woodstock, where I grew up. I can’t wait to show everyone the streets I grew up roaming as a young one! Keith (Slattery) and I are also planning a duo performance at one of our favorite restaurant venues, Pearl Moon. en it’s back up to the resort for our nal night of music. is will be our formal night where we can dress up a little.” Concerts are held in the renovated Spruce Barn and Moondance Pavilion. Accommodations include air-conditioned cottages with mountain views and private decks or deluxe lodges. Resort amenities include a heated outdoor pool, hot tub and electric vehicle charging station. e on-site catering provides three meals, nonalcoholic beverages and snacks daily, plus a modestly priced bar. Webster said she wanted to create something di erent from typical festivals. Attendance is limited to 60 guests. And, she said accommodations are luxurious but only a limited number are available. Webster and her team planned a variety of activities so that the guests can choose their own curated and personalized experience. “ e day is yours,” she said. “You can be as active and involved or as relaxed as you need.” at team includes her husband, Omar Viramontes, a professional audio tech, tour manager and monitor engineer. His talents as the festival’s production manager should de nitely elevate the experience. “Plus, I’ll be there to host and be a part of everything. And, there will be some fun bonus touches along the way. It’s just a one-of-a-kind experience,” she concluded. For more information on Lindsey Webster’s Music in the Mountains, scheduled for May 26-29, at the Full Moon Resort in Big Indian, New York, visit www.lindseywebstermim.org. ese are just two examples. ere are many more, including Dave Koz’s Somma cruise aboard the Silversea Silver Nova, an 801-foot luxury vessel that accommodates just 728 passengers—a stark contrast to the 2,000 guests typical of his larger sailings. Koz said that Somma is intentionally di erent. “A more elevated experience,” he told our writer Ken Capobianco for his Somma feature (page 18). “It’s about luxury, relaxation, the best food, wines and music—and visiting beautiful destinations and ports that the larger ships can’t.” Koz emphasized that while music remains the centerpiece, Somma also highlights wellness, enlightenment and personal enrichment. Inspirational speakers, health experts and even a comedian round out the onboard programming, creating a wellbalanced, immersive experience. Meanwhile, saxophonist Marcus Anderson is carving out his own niche with the intimate, invitation-only ENCORE Experience. e inaugural event took place in January 2026 at the Graylyn Estate in North Carolina, where guests were treated to a three-day retreat steeped in culture, elegance and Southern re nement. e curated getaway blends world-class jazz with elevated culinary experiences, butler service and thoughtfully designed social moments. Its second annual gathering is set for Jan. 22-24, 2027. In an era where VIP access and unique experiences are increasingly valued, these artist-led retreats represent an exciting evolution of the genre. They offer more than music—they provide connection, discovery and the rare opportunity to step inside the world of the artists themselves. And for fans, that may be the most memorable journey of all. continued from page 8 Photo: FrancoVogt Full Moon Resort, venue for Lindsey Webster’s Music in the Mountains, in Big Indian, New York Photo: Ovi Horta
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12 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS 27TH ANNUAL SEABREEZE JAZZ FESTIVAL PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA • APRIL 22 26 SUN, SAND AND SAXOPHONES By Melanie Maxwell Waking up to shimmering emerald, lapis blue and turquoise waters splashing onto sugar-white-sand beaches—rows of blue umbrellas neatly dotting the shoreline—sets the scene for a perfect day on Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast. Photo: WanderDrone
APRIL/MAY 2026 | 13 continued on page 14 It’s just one of many reasons the Seabreeze Jazz Festival has become the only event on the smooth jazz circuit to sell out before its full lineup is even announced. And before a single note is played; the experience already feels seamless. e ease of it all adds to the appeal. A quick 20-minute drive from the airport delivers fans to beachfront condos and hotels. Dozens of nearby restaurants serve up fresh Gulf seafood and Southern favorites. More than 8,000 genre enthusiasts from nearly all 50 states and six countries are drawn to the destination as much as the music. e festival site boasts state-of-the-art sound, staging and lighting; ample, permanent restroom facilities; a food court and artisan vendors—everything designed with comfort in mind. Plus, it sits adjacent to the Pier Park shopping, dining and entertainment complex, where festival attendees enjoy free parking. But the music is the heartbeat. And it’s always a stellar lineup. at’s what matters most to Mark Carter, who produces the festival with his wife, Renee’. Carter owns Florida-based radio station WSBZFM e Seabreeze, and he has lived and breathed music since his high school band days. “At Freeport High School here in Northwest Florida, I was drum major of the band and did musical arrangements for both marching band and the school’s jazz band,” Carter recalled. “In high school band, I played trumpet and the French horn, along with guitar and piano in jazz band. “My experience as a high school band geek is why we created the Seabreeze Jazz Festival Foundation for high school band scholarships to seniors looking to enter college as a music major.” at’s probably why he’s also passionate about ensuring emerging performers are always a part of his festival lineup. “ e up-and-coming artists of today will be the smooth jazz stars of tomorrow,” he said. “Plus, as an FM smooth jazz radio station owner, we also want the lineup to re ect the mix of artists that are currently on the Billboard Smooth Jazz charts.” Over the years, Carter said he’s been the rst to showcase artists like Vincent Ingala, Lindsey Webster, Chris Botti, Nicholas Cole and, more recently, performers such as Ryan La Valette, Adrian Crutch eld, Slim Gambill, Roberto Restuccia and LEMEK. “ e Seabreeze Rising Star time slots in the festival lineup create excitement and momentum for the audience. To see and hear someone dynamic and new adds a freshness to the blend of artists,” he explained. One artist Carter predicts will be a breakout highlight this year is Nik West. “She’s well known in Europe, with sold-out shows, as a multitalented singer, composer and entertainer,” he said. “Her upbeat, funky bass stylings—and her elaborate and colorful costumes—add an element of fun to the show, and she’s de nitely going to blow the crowd away.” And, according to Carter, e TNR Collective is a perfect ensemble for the audience to get a sampling of some of the top talent in the industry. “Billboard No. 1 hitmaker Ryan La Valette, BK Jackson, Adrian Crutch eld and LEMEK—all previous Seabreeze Rising Stars—are now performing and recording together,” he said. Another great addition to the lineup is no stranger to the Seabreeze Jazz Festival. “Darnell ‘Showcase’ Taylor has appeared in Brian Culbertson’s band and already has become a show favorite,” Carter explained. “His recent solo single release of ‘House of Love’ did well on smooth jazz radio and sounded great on air with the smooth jazz mix we feel is important.” Does the fact that Seabreeze continually sells out so quickly give him the freedom to experiment with new talent on his lineup? “Yes, it does to a point,” Carter said. “To stay current with the radio version of the smooth jazz format, the Top 10 Billboard hitmakers will and should make a more frequent presence on the lineup. I’m talking about core artists like Boney James, Peter White and Brian The TNR Collective: Ryan La Valette, BK Jackson, LEMEK and Adrian Crutcheld Nik West Darnell “Showcase” Taylor Photo: Calvin Smith Photo: Will Downing
14 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS continued from page 13 Culbertson. Giving newer artists ready to make the leap to the big stage that chance is just a natural evolution to keep the festival sound fresh, young and contemporary.” Although Culbertson and James aren’t on this year’s lineup, White returns—sharing the stage with Rick Braun and Richard Elliot, as well as performing on a popular solo lunch cruise. ere is one act that will have limited performances in the U.S. this year, and luckily, that one will be at Seabreeze. “Dave Koz and his latest Summer Horns show from last summer was the talk of the live smooth jazz touring circuit in 2025,” Carter said. “Everyone that saw the show said it was one of the best shows they’ve ever attended. “ e concept is showcasing the timeless horn band hits of the ’70s and ’80s from Earth, Wind & Fire to Chicago, Tower of Power and beyond. It’s a funky, feel-good celebration with brass blazing and groove popping. And what makes it unique is Dave picked the hottest and top talent to pull o a show like this, including Je Bradshaw, Marcus Anderson, Marcel Anderson, Leo P. and Evan Taylor. Summer Horns takes us back to all the big monster horn hits we all grew up with and delivers a standout, upbeat performance that will get the entire crowd on their feet. e Summer Horns vibe even inspired our 2026 Seabreeze Jazz Festival poster and T-shirt with the introduction of our own ‘Cool Jazz Cat’ with a ’70s retro vibe. It was created by Pat Krygowski, a digital artist from Poland.” Carter said that his lineup also balances mainly instrumental smooth jazz with a sprinkling of vocals—from classic Motown, R&B, adult contemporary pop and some funk. “Like the radio format, it’s all about the balance,” he said. “Overall, Seabreeze fans know they will experience a fun, upbeat, instrumental smooth jazz-based show with some select vocal acts for some variety and to get the crowd up and dancing. “With Dave Koz Summer Horns, we wanted to mix retro sounds with current smooth jazz. e Commodores, Morris Day and e Time and Will Downing provided a great variety of hits, danceable moments and sultry love songs. WithBillboardNo. 1 hitmakers like Peter White, Rick Braun, Richard Elliot and others, we present the smooth jazz genre’s top core artists with 30-plus years of hits. “ e goal is to have the fans experience music they know, yet get excited about talent that will take the smooth jazz genre forward. Yesterday. Now. And tomorrow. New artist placement in the show is part of the puzzle—a great mosaic of positive vibes, up-tempo fun and seeing great friends amid the backdrop of Panama City Beach’s sugar sand beaches and exciting attractions.” With a bustling festival schedule, including lunch and dinner cruises and a erparties, it can be di cult to t in the other attractions this Emerald Coast community boasts. at’s why last year, Carter changed the festival start time from noon to 1:30 p.m. “We felt it gave fans more time to schedule a trip to the beach, a late-morning shopping excursion and other free time to discover all that Panama City Beach has to o er,” Carter said. “Not every festival has over 124 stores, a huge Ferris wheel, an IMAX movie theater, along with great restaurants right across the parking lot from the show. e Panama City Beach City Pier and beach is within a short walk from the festival gates as well. And now open for 2026, we have both a new Topgolf at Pier Park and a new Pirates dinner theater just north of the Seabreeze performance area—more exciting attractions to make the perfect vacation.” However, there is plenty inside the festival grounds, including a food court and vendor marketplace. Food trucks serve up Southern culinary delights and typical festival fare, plus a few new additions. “We will have the Duplin Winery for the rst time doing a free wine tasting in the food court area,” Carter announced. “ ey opened a 38,000-square-foot winery in Panama City Beach featuring their selection of ‘cool, sweet and easy’ sipping wines. “Vagabond Kitchen & Tap House from New Jersey will be coming. ey were featured on the Food Network’s ‘Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives’ twice. “Umami Asian cuisine will feature fresh sushi. “Ben’s Gourmet was featured on ‘Shark Tank,’ and will bring his delicious, uniquely light-breaded sh and chicken to Seabreeze. “Coastal Fizz o ers chocolate-dipped strawberries and bananas, along with other natural treats. “African Marketplace will be showcasing merchandise they actually sourced and purchased from African villages the owner grew up in,” Carter added. Rick Braun Richard Elliot Peter White Photo: Lori Stoll Photo: Lori Stoll Photo: Raj Naik
APRIL/MAY 2026 | 15 Also new this year, local high school jazz bands and groups will perform in the food court dining tent. And, free water is available via two new Quench Buggy stations in the park. “ ese will o er chilled, ltered water for quick water ll-ups,” Carter said. “Please bring a clear empty sports bottle in.” As always, most of the artists will sign CDs a er their performance. And now that last year’s construction of the entrance has been completed, there’s a new Pavilion entrance building, which will house the Seabreeze merchandise store, where festival merchandise and bag chairs can be purchased. “We are back to the same footprint for entry we enjoyed over the past years,” Carter said. “Merchandise and cra vendors will again line the general admission entrance. And, the grass has been resodded in the park and looks amazing! We also o er a chair rental vendor inside the show in case general admission attendees would rather not have to travel with a chair.” ere has also been construction of more hotels and condos. As the popularity of the festival grew, so did the demand for accommodations, resulting in higher rates. With these developments, Carter said choices for places to stay have increased, and some rates have decreased. “ e key is nding the right accommodations—beach house, condo or hotel that is close to the show,” he shared. “ e key is always book early if you can, and maybe broaden your search to include condominiums, which makes up for over 50 percent of the Panama City Beach rental market.” One great source, according to Carter, is Panhandle Getaways, the o cial festival condo and vacation rental sponsor. “ ey are a local continued on page 16 Panama City Beach company that can help fans laser-focus on the properties and amenities that o er the best experience for the best price. ey actually have local vacation planners you can reach by phone that will assist,” he said. “Several of their properties, like Calypso Beach Towers, are within walking distance to the show. Also, vacation home rentals near the festival can be a better bargain than a typical hotel. “Another great resource is Visit Panama City Beach,” he added. “Visitors can call 1-800-PCBEACH (722-3224) for assistance and suggestions on their accommodations. If you are new to the Panama City Beach area, it makes sense to take advantage of resources like this.” Carter said that many festivalgoers stay at least a week to “spend time on the beach, sh in the Gulf, shop, dine and explore our beautiful local state parks.” He suggests that festivalgoers consider extending their trip to do the same. For those who missed out on buying tickets to this year’s festival, tickets for the 2027 Seabreeze Jazz Festival, scheduled for April 21-25, go on sale June 1, 2026, with Early Bird specials o ered throughout June. Carter strongly recommends buying tickets and booking your accommodations early. Whether you’re attending now or planning ahead, Carter’s goal remains constant: “To create a vibe that blends low-key relaxation of a beach vacation in the South, with a world-class lineup of top performers who, too, love performing at our venue,” he said. “Put away all of your worries, let your hair down, relax, enjoy the Florida sunshine, meet new friends and join together with other smooth jazz fans to celebrate life and the music we all love and connect with,” Carter concluded. Photo: Andrew Ficke Photography Dave Koz & Friends Summer Horns: left to right: Leo P., Jeff Bradshaw, Dave Koz, Marcel Anderson, Marcus Anderson and Evan Taylor DW3 Left to Right: Mindi Abair, Eric Darius, Vincent Ingala and Adam Hawley Photo: Erin Blair Studio Photo: Aric Thompson Photo: Dan Boissy Photo: Bobby Quillard Photo: Kristie Schram
16 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS continued from page 15 WHEN April 22-26, 2026 WHERE Festival: Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater, 500 W. Park Dr., Panama City Beach, Florida Dining Cruises: Aboard the Solaris Dinner Yacht, boarding at the Lighthouse Marina, 5325 N. Lagoon Dr. A er-Parties: Pompano Joe’s Seafood House, Pier Park, 16202 Front Beach Road GETTING THERE Flights are available into the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Panama City Beach, and DestinFort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. The venue is approximately 10 miles from ECP and 55 miles from VPS. STAYING THERE Visit www.seabreezejazzfestival.com/stay.html for available hotel rooms, condominiums and beach rentals, along with nightly rates and locations. Also, Panhandle Getaways is the festival’s official condo and vacation rental sponsor. Visit www.panhandlegetaways.com or call 850-588-8125 to book reservations with Panhandle. PARKING General admission parking is free at adjacent Pier Park. All reserved tickets (Gold, Premium and Ultimate Jazz Tables) include on-site parking in a dedicated lot. TICKETS AND INFORMATION The 2026 Seabreeze Jazz Festival main-stage performances on the festival grounds and dining cruises are sold out. However, tickets may be found through only one verified reseller at https://reseller.promotix.com/?keywords=seabreeze. As of press time, tickets to the April 23, 24 and 26 a¢erparties at Pompano Joe’s at Pier Park were still available for purchase through the festival’s website. Ticket holders will receive wristbands, with embedded RFID technology, in lieu of paper tickets, which is also the digital currency for all festival purchases inside the venue. For complete Seabreeze Jazz Festival details and more information about the cashless system, visit www.seabreezejazzfestival.com or call 850-267-3279. LINEUP Wednesday, April 22 *Seabreeze Dinner Cruise featuring Mindi Abair, boards at 6:30 p.m., sails at 7 p.m. (sold-out) Thursday, April 23 *Seabreeze Jazzy Lunch Cruise featuring Peter White, boards at 10 a.m., sails at 10:30 a.m. (sold-out) *Dining cruises are separately ticketed events aboard the Solaris Dinner Yacht, sailing around St. Andrews Bay. Boarding at the Lighthouse Marina, 5325 N. Lagoon Dr., Panama City Beach. On festival grounds (gates open at noon) Steve Oliver and Jessy J ............................................. 1:30 p.m. BPM: Brian Bromberg, Paul Brown and Michael Paulo.............................................................. 3:15 p.m. Nathan Mitchell featuring Erin Stevenson...................5 p.m. Kirk Whalum and Mindi Abair...................................6:45 p.m. Morris Day and The Time...........................................8:30 p.m. Aer-Party featuring Lindsey Webster (separately ticketed event) ...........................................11 p.m. Pompano Joe’s Seafood House, Pier Park, 16202 Front Beach Road Friday, April 24 On festival grounds (gates open at noon) Cindy Bradley.............................................................. 1:30 p.m. DW3.............................................................................. 3:15 p.m. Rhythm and Groove featuring Marion Meadows, Brian Simpson and Althea Rene...............................4:45 p.m. The Jazz Holdouts (Seabreeze Rising Star) ............6:30 p.m. Damien Escobar..........................................................7:45 p.m. The Commodores.......................................................9:30 p.m. Aer-Party featuring DW3 (separately ticketed event) ......................................11:30 p.m. Pompano Joe’s Seafood House, Pier Park, 16202 Front Beach Road Saturday, April 25 On festival grounds (gates open at noon) Jonathan Butler.......................................................... 1:30 p.m. Jazz in Pink featuring Gail Jhonson, Mariea Antoinette and more ..........................................................................3 p.m. Vincent Ingala.............................................................4:45 p.m. Darnell “Showcase” Taylor (Seabreeze Rising Star).....6:30 p.m. Nik West.......................................................................7:45 p.m. Rick Braun, Richard Elliot and Peter White .............9:30 p.m. Aer-Party featuring Eric Darius (separately ticketed event) ......................................11:30 p.m. Pompano Joe’s Seafood House, Pier Park, 16202 Front Beach Road Sunday, April 26 On festival grounds (gates open at noon) The TNR Collective featuring Ryan La Valette, BK Jackson, Adrian Crutchfield and LEMEK................................. 1:30 p.m. Kim Scott..................................................................... 3:15 p.m. Eric Darius.........................................................................5 p.m. Will Downing...............................................................6:45 p.m. Dave Koz & Friends Summer Horns featuring Marcus Anderson, Jeff Bradshaw, Marcel Anderson, Leo P. and Evan Taylor ...........................................................8:30 p.m. Aer-Party featuring Adam Hawley (separately ticketed event) ...........................................11 p.m. Pompano Joe’s Seafood House, Pier Park, 16202 Front Beach Road
APRIL/MAY 2026 | 17 Going to the 27th Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival? *This free-CD offer is a special promotion only available at the 2026 Seabreeze Jazz Festival while supplies last. CD selection is subject to change without notice. This offer is not available when subscribing by phone, mail or online. CDs are provided compliments of record labels and artists. GET A FREE CD* Compliments of Shanachie Entertainment when you renew or subscribe to Smooth Jazz News at our booth during the 27th Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival April 23-26 Panama City Beach, Florida GET HOME DELIVERY! ONLINE at www.smoothjazznews.com CALL 858-541-1919 to charge by phone MAIL the form on this page SUBSCRIBE AT OUR BOOTH DURING THE I wantSmooth Jazz News delivered to my mailbox (five issues) Yes! Complete this form, and send it with a check or money order for $25* (or use the credit card option) to Smooth Jazz News, 5519 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., #134, San Diego, CA 92117. Home delivery is available to U.S. addresses only. Name ____________________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________________ City ________________________________________ State ________________ ZIP ___________ Phone________________________ Email_____________________________________________ Credit card option (MasterCard, Visa and American Express) Card no.____________________________________________________________ CVC ________ Exp. date_______ Exact name on card ______________________________________________ Billing address____________________________________________________________________ Signature_________________________________________________________________________ *Price effective through May 31, 2026 27TH ANNUAL SEABREEZE JAZZ FESTIVAL APRIL 23-26 Aaron Bessant Park Panama City Beach, Florida www.seabreezejazzfestival.com BIG DEAL FROM SMooth Jazz News
18 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS By Ken Capobianco In 2024, jazz saxophonist Dave Koz launched Somma, a luxury cruise that creates an experience far beyond his annual Koz & Friends at Sea voyages by offering a broad array of events, food and wine, music and lifestyle choices. This fall, from Nov. 6 to 13, the cruise impresario will set out with Somma on what he has dubbed the Jewels of the Adriatic tour from Athens, Greece, to Montenegro, Croatia and Italy. It’s part of Koz’s desire to bring his fans the most inspiring and enlightening experience of their lives with the soundtrack played by an eclectic array of musicians. JEWELS OF THE ADRIATIC Dav Ko reimagines smoot jaz -theme cruising wit Somm Th places w go to ar special, an they ar wher big ships ofte do’t go.” Dav Ko SOMMA Grand Canal and Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute in Venice, Italy NOV. 6 13, 2026 GREECE | MONTENEGRO | CROATIA | ITALY
APRIL/MAY 2026 | 19 continued on page 20 is year’s musical guests include R&B superstar Brian McKnight, dynamic violinist Damien Escobar, jazz pianist David Benoit, South Africa guitarist-vocalist Jonathan Butler and singer Haley Reinhart. “The cruise is a luxury—it’s all about relaxation and going to these beautiful places and ports on a ship, where you will be taken care of so well. It’s the best in food and wines, and music,” said Koz recently. He added that he created the Somma experience a er listening to his patrons on his wildly popular smooth jazz-themed cruises, which sell out well in advance every year. “A er doing 20 years of the Dave Koz cruise, it was really about listening to some of our guests who were looking for a di erent experience—kind of an elevated experience, which is a bit of the antithesis of what we do on our regular cruises. On those, there’s no way you can see all the shows because they are overlapping, and you have to plan it out. “One comment I hear repeatedly from our guests is that they o en need a vacation from their vacation. ey need to relax because the cruise is a full, oating jazz festival at sea. We wanted to do something completely di erent with Somma. It’s quieter, and you can really sink into the ship experience on a smaller ship—a ship that can go into ports that big ships can’t go into, and the schedule is so much calmer with less going on.” Along with the world-class food and wine options o ered, a vital element of the Somma cruise is the attention to wellness and enlightenment. ere are numerous guest speakers from health, entertainment, humor, philosophy and other subjects that are geared toward raising consciousness. “We wanted to add this sort of health and wellness component with inspiring speakers, which is a big part of what we do. People are at the point in their lives where they are thankfully healthy and able to travel, so we wanted to add a layer to inspire people to live their best lives,” Koz said. “On Somma, the people have chosen that experience and want something on a deeper level of exploring what it means to be alive.” In the past, there have been doctors, a sommelier, nancial experts and astronauts. is year’s roster includes comedian and television writer Carol Leifer and talk show host-author Tavis Smiley. Of course, music is the central component of the Somma cruise, and Koz and his team have curated a roster of diverse artists who will perform throughout the sevenday cruise. Koz, who has his hand in choosing the musicians, was enthusiastic about this year’s lineup. “Brian (McKnight) is an old friend and collaborator, and we’ve been trying to get him for a very long time. Damien Escobar is one of Dave Koz chatting with and serenading guests on his 2025 cruise; pool deck; spa treatment; beverage service; comedian Loni Love; traditional houses in the Plaka area under Acropolis, in Athens, Greece you and music,” experience popular well of are guests vacation. full, oating jazz raising “We wanted to component with of what we where travel, people experience level sommelier, is television host-author Of course, Somma cruise, roster of diverse artists Dave Koz toasting guests on his 2025 Somma cruise Photo: Nathan Phillips Photography) Photo: Nathan Phillips Photography Photo: Nathan Phillips Photography Photo: Nathan Phillips Photography Photo: Nathan Phillips Photography
20 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS the hottest young talents with his band. And David Benoit is going to join us again with a young musician, who started in his youth orchestra and has now become a wonderful artist in his own right—Justin Klunk. “We have a main showroom, and then three or four satellite stages in di erent venues where people will play, and we have a headliner every night. It’s open seating, so everyone can go to anything. “ ere’s no format, but artists will play 21 sets over the course of the week. We have DW3 as the party band a er those sets are done in di erent venues, and Bryan Eng, who sings the Great American Songbook. He is very young in his 20s, but a very old soul. He’s one of the most talked about performers.” Koz said the trip from Athens on Somma this year o ers a unique opportunity for guests to experience some of the most beautiful cities in Europe. “ e places we go to are special, and they are where big ships o en don’t go. So, it’s Jewels of the Adriatic. We start in Athens and then cruise to Italy, but in between those two ports, we go to beautiful spots in Montenegro and Croatia, where the ship goes right to port, and you can get o and take a tour, or get a lunch in Dubrovnik. It’s going to be wonderful.” Koz’s journey to becoming the king of the jazz-themed cruise was circular, which didn’t begin as he might have hoped. “ e only cruise experience I had in my personal life was when I took a Carnival cruise with my parents, my brother and sister when I was a kid,” he reminisced. “It was a Mexican Riviera cruise. I have to be honest—I didn’t like it. at was the taste I had in my mouth. “And then many years ago in the early 2000s, I was approached to host a cruise, and I was like, nope, I can’t do it,” he said laughing. “And then Warren Hill, who is a wonderful saxophonist and dear friend, was hosting a cruise for the same company at the time. He called and asked me to come for a while and play some music, just to see what a theme cruise is like, because I had a whole different idea of a cruise. “And I went and was blown away. It was great. e people were passionate about music, and I felt that. I worked for ve years for that company and then learned the business. And I started the Dave Koz cruise in 2011. I was able to control the narrative and create something special for our guests. It grew from there. We have had sellouts ever since. “And it means the world to me that people choose to spend their hard-earned money on the cruise vacation when they can spend it anywhere else. ey have given us, the musicians, a week of their lives. It’s very important for us to overdeliver.” Until Somma sets sail in November, Koz will embark on an international Summer Horns tour that will have an extended run in Asia, and he will play the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and the Seabreeze Jazz Festival. He also intends to take a hiatus and travel overseas to recharge his batteries and nd new creative inspiration. He said he hopes Somma brings a de ning experience to music fans that might help change their lives. “It’s very important for me to bring people a full 360 experience of music and inspiring messaging with food and wine. Somma allows people a chance to have the space and time to nd out more about themselves in di erent ways. We expect it to be magical and a whole lot of fun.” For more information on Koz’s Somma Jewels of the Adriatic, scheduled for Nov. 6-13, 2026, aboard the 728-passenger Silversea Silver Nova, sailing to Greece, Montenegro, Croatia and Italy, visit https://somma.life/2026. continued from page 19 It’s th best i foo an wines, an musi.” Dav Ko Dining and relaxing on board Somma; Dave Koz performing with Randy Jacobs and Nathaniel Kearney Jr. on 2025 cruise Perast at Bay of Kotor Photo: Nathan Phillips Photography Photo: Nathan Phillips Photography
APRIL/MAY 2026 | 21 October 24 Miller Center For The Arts April 30 April 4 MCG Jazz OUT NOW! LIMITED EDITION SIGNED VINYL & CDS AVAILABLE Order your copy at RickBraun.com FEATURING TOM SCOTT, RICHARD ELLIOT, & GRANT GEISSMAN Rick Braun celebrates the timeless music of legendary flugelhornist Chuck Mangione with Rick Braun Plays Chuck Mangione. Inspired by the melodies that shaped his musical journey, Braun brings a contemporary spin to these beloved classics. TOUR DATES MESA,AZ Tom & Janet Ikeda Theater READING, PA PITTSBURGH, PA Listen Shop
22 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS Lindsey Webster’s journey back to light FINDING THE MUSICAGAIN Lindsey Webster performing at the 2019 Seabreeze Jazz Festival in Panama City Beach, Florida (Photo: Jim Clark) By Ken Capobianco Sometimes, people have to deal with great pain to remind themselves who they are and what matters in their lives. Jazz-R&B vocalist Lindsey Webster understands this too well. Webster recently released her seventh album, Music in Me, after a long period of loss, grief and self-doubt that caused intense writer’s block and creative inertia. The vocalist, who has become a smooth jazz star thanks to her graceful vocals, lost her child six months into her pregnancy and got mired in the darkness, causing her to doubt her purpose as an artist. She has come out on the other side with Music in Me, which is graced with life-affirming songs that find Webster at her most confident and soulful. The 13-track set leans hard toward R&B and shows that she has emerged from the emotional shadows and found her light again. “This album came after a long time of not being able to write,” said Webster via phone while on an extended stay in Los Angeles after her flight home to Woodstock, New York, was canceled by a blizzard in the Northeast. “I was having a writer’s block situation, and I wrote the song ‘Music in Me,’ and that was a reminder of why I started creating music—it really wasn’t a choice. I just love to do it, and it is fun.” It was a struggle for her to get her songwriting mojo back. She found herself in a deep funk that dried up her creative juices. Doubt crept in, causing her to wonder if her musical career was over.
APRIL/MAY 2026 | 23 “Some things happened in my life that were pretty rattling,” she maintained. “When we lost our little guy when I was six months pregnant, it was definitely one of the saddest and scariest things to happen to me, next to losing my mom. “And I realized that sometimes when big things like this happen in life, they weigh you down, and you have to make a conscious choice to not let it do so. You need to change your energy. It takes as much energy being sad about these things as it does to change your life.” After much reflection and doubt, the vocalist pushed on, even if the songs she was cobbling together weren’t satisfactory. Her struggles were compounded when her writing collaborator and former husband, Keith Slattery, was experiencing his own issues. “We have to grieve and go through the process. These songs were written after going through that cocoon-to-butterfly period, where there was a lot of stillness,” she added. “There wasn’t a lot of songwriting going on. Keith, my musical partner, had moved to Nashville to be with his father around the same time I moved to LA. (her former residence). “His father was ill, and then he passed. So, Keith wasn’t writing music, and I wasn’t at all. It was a very dark period. And I can look back at it and laugh a bit because we made it through, and we’re good now. These songs on the new album are from the time the sun came back out.” The songs on Music in Me reflect both Webster’s struggles and newfound sense of self. On the funky, bass-heavy groove “What Is Meant to Be,” she lucidly explains her new life philosophy: “Who’s to say at the end of the day whether all the (expletive) you’ve weathered was fair or in vain? If you listen to the doubts you got, you get stuck in your head; you will lose it in the moment you forget what was meant to be will be.” The successful title track, which has rocketed up the smooth jazz charts, is Webster’s declaration of her inherent creativity and love for music. It was the song that opened the floodgates for the creation of the entire album. “‘Music in Me’ was the first solid song I wrote,” she explained. “I had to say to myself, ‘Why am I having such a hard time writing?’ I had to have a conversation with myself and ask what was the feeling I had when I wrote that song?” She paused, as if remembering the rush of emotional and creative freedom she felt after writing the song. “I just remembered: I have the music in me, and it’s my joy, not just a job or something I have to do. And it was like I was back in my own world after writing ‘Music in Me,’ and a key was unlocking things. All the other lyrics began flowing smoothly.” One notable difference with the new album is its definitive R&B feel, which reflects the neo-soul movement of the 1990s launched by D’Angelo, Erykah Badu and Jill Scott, among others. One of soul music’s most underrated great vocalists, Anthony Hamilton, appears on the album, along with Stokley, formerly with Mint Condition. The sweet-singing Hamilton appears on the velvet duet “The Best in Me,” one of the album’s finest tracks. It’s part of Webster expressing the soul music influences that shaped her youth and the foundation of her music. “Growing up, I was completely immersed in the R&B world,” Webster said. “I didn’t listen to much jazz, believe it or not, but we know R&B has jazz elements. “If you listen to Brian McKnight, he’s playing jazz chords with these fabulous harmonies, and I was obsessed with him. So those sounds are always the ones I was enamored with. It’s interesting because smooth jazz is like the cousin to R&B, except it’s mostly instrumental.” The vocalist explained that working with Hamilton, one of her vocal heroes, was a watershed moment in her career. “I met him for the first time six years ago. We have a mutual friend who introduced us. He said, ‘You should work with Anthony,’ and I was like, ‘OK, sure,’ she said, laughing heartily. “I have been a fan of his for years. We have been trying to make it happen for a bit, but we finally did, and when I think about it, I laugh because I remember thinking, ‘Am I done as a musician?’ And here I’m able to work with Anthony and have this song. It’s like a dream come true.” Webster, who got married to Omar Viramontes last year, feels like she is in a good place now. Her artistry is maturing as she heads into the next phase of her life. “I feel super creative and excited. I’m writing for the next album already. I’m riding this wave and ready for what is to come now. It’s like night and day from where I was.” “I just remembered: I have the music in me, and it’s my joy, not just a job or something I have to do.” continued on page 24 Photo: Franco Vogt
24 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS The Woodstock native and nature aficionado is branching out with her inaugural music getaway, Lindsey Webster’s Music in the Mountains, a small gathering in the Catskills in New York, from May 26-29. The four-day venture features saxophonist Richard Elliot, keyboardist Keiko Matsui and multi-instrumentalist Vincent Ingala. She explained what music fans can expect for the intimate getaway that should serve as a relaxing early summer excursion for jazz and nature lovers. “The resort is in the pristine Catskill mountains, and you have a river running next to the whole property with incredibly gorgeous cabins. It’s a magical place in the mountains and Richard, Vincent and Keiko will be there during the day to share things about themselves,” she said. “We’re going to have daily Q&A’s and interviews. We’re calling it ‘Beyond Backstage.’ If you are going to be wandering around the resort, well, they will be too. We’ll have cocktails together and hang out by the campfire. There are shows at night. “It’s like you are going to a resort with your favorite artists. There’s a pool, and you can go hiking or get a massage.” The get-together is limited to 60 people to maintain a personal touch. Webster will be hosting every event. Music in the Mountains is a big endeavor for the budding entrepreneur, but the vocalist said she is more than up for the challenge. “All of the people in our (smooth jazz) world have tried their hand at it,” the affable artist said. “Mindi (Abair) is doing her thing, Rick (Braun) has his, and I was thinking, ‘I am from a really cool part of the country, and I have good connections like this resort, that’s just beautiful.’ APRIL 23 Seabreeze Jazz Festival After-Party Pompano Joe’s Seafood House Panama City Beach, Florida www.seabreezejazzfestival.com May 26-29 Lindsey Webster’s Music in the Mountains Full Moon Resort Big Indian, New York www.lindseywebstermim.org SEPT. 19 10th Year Anniversary Gulf Coast Summer Fest Jazz Edition The Vince J. Whibbs, Sr. Community Maritime Park Pensacola, Florida www.gulfcoastsummerfestjazzedition.com continued from page 23 “It’s owned by my childhood best friend’s dad, so I’m building my career and place in the world. I’ve done so many of these at this point, like Brian Culbertson’s Getaway and Dave Koz’s cruise, so I know what people like, and what the artists like.” While she is modeling this music destination after what her peers have accomplished, Webster wants to create an annual event unlike any other iteration and deliver an unforgettable experience. “I’m really good at organizing events, so I’m going to give it a shot, and see if we can create something unique. We don’t want to do what everyone else is doing. We want to make it our own, while creating a great experience for everyone. Make it cool. That’s what I want.” As she heads out on tour and numerous high-profile showcases, including the Seabreeze Jazz Festival, Webster is focused on leaving her past struggles behind and moving toward a higher consciousness and musical excellence. Music in Me will no doubt open opportunities for her to stretch her talents. “I’m ready for what comes next. You just have to keep on keeping on, as they say,” she said, chuckling. “I’ve got good support around me. I’ve got my husband Omar, who is always supportive and listens, and my dad, who is always encouraging. “To be honest, sometimes, I still can get overwhelmed by little things that pile up, but I keep it moving and surround myself with great people. “Musically, I’m shooting for the stars. You’re going to see me on the Grammys,” she said, breaking out in a hearty laugh. “I mean, who doesn’t want to be successful? I just want to have a career that sustains my family and makes me happy. That would be perfect.” For more information about Webster, visit LindseyWebsterMusic.com. Photo: Chase Pierson ON TOUR
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