Smooth Jazz News - October-November-Decemeber - 2024

O C T O B E R / N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 4 | 2 1 community around it. I love the power of a strong, capable woman being in the mix, and she’s been amazing to have as a part of our event.” Payne said that “this New Year’s Eve will be the first since my husband’s passing that I will attend without him.” For Abair, San Diego holds fond memories in so many ways. “First, when I moved to Los Angeles after I graduated from Berklee College of Music, it was tough for me to find my way into this ‘big pond’ of amazing musicians and artists. The first gigs I was hired for were in San Diego. I got a job as a waitress at Universal Studios in LA, and I’d drive back and forth three to four days a week to play with multiple artists in San Diego. San Diego gave me my start and embraced me. Since then, I’ve released all of my CDs there first with listening parties and shows. “Then, there’s my husband, Eric. He was born and raised in New Jersey but wanted a change. He applied to San Diego State and never looked back. He graduated, and he’s been a California guy ever since. So, this choice of San Diego for our New Year’s Eve Wine and Jazz event was very intentional, to be in a meaningful place to us that we love and want to share with people,” Abair explained. And, for the music, Abair, Guerra and Payne selected a stellar lineup. “My first thought was that DW3 would bring the house down,” said Abair. “I always feel that for New Year’s Eve there should be that party element. That band just rocks it and plays music that makes you want to dance and let go. That’s DW3 to the core! “I’ve loved touring and recording with Vincent Ingala. I can’t say enough about how talented I think he is. He plays every instrument well, and he’s a quality person. He cares, shows up always super capable and ready to bring the house down. “Ellis Hall is a name that maybe a lot of people aren’t familiar with. I started playing in Ellis’ band when I was 23 years old. He calls me his daughter, and he is a huge father figure to me. He sang for many years with Tower of Power. He’s the voice of The California Raisins; coolest thing in the world. Ray Charles signed him to his record label and produced an album for Ellis. I was on it, and I have so many memories of Ray wheeling up to me in his wheelchair as I was playing solos; he was amazing to be produced by. Ellis is all heart and soul. He emanates joy with every note he plays and sings. I want that joy ringing in our new year. “Rebecca Jade was introduced to me by my friend from San Diego, Kevin Flournoy. He was producing a new girls group and wanted me to go to their showcase in LA. After the show, I told Kevin that one girl really stood out … that girl was Rebecca Jade. She was just at the start of her career, and I’ve been so inspired watching her blossom into the incredible artist she is now. Her voice is like an angel. DW3 Rebecca Jade Vincent Ingala continued on page 22 Photo: Erin Blair Studio Photo: Scott Johnson Photo: Bobby Quillard