Podcasts about smooth jazz cruise

 Based in St. Louis, Michael Lazaroff is one of the most successful entrepreneurs in jazz. As the director of Entertainment Cruise Productions, he oversees The Jazz Cruise, The Smooth Jazz Cruise and the most recently added Blue Note at Sea cruise. A former attorney, the energetic Lazaroff came into the business in 2000 when Norwegian Cruise Lines discontinued its jazz cruise and his mother Anita Berry, who ran a travel agency that serviced the jazz trips, said that she wanted to start her own jazz-themed cruise. The company, which initially started with the Jazz Cruise, has grown to now host five different theme cruises, including a Star Trek cruise and an 80s music one. Since 2001, Entertainment Cruise Productions has produced more than 70 full ship theme charters, entertained more than 125,000 guests and presented thousands of artists, musicians and performers.

Join Yasi and Steven, along with Athletes and the Arts co-founder Randy Dick, as we talk to the quintessential Athlete and Artist, Tim Cunningham. He turned down a chance to play in the NFL to pursue a career as a professional jazz musician. Thirty years later, after recording 8 albums and touring all over the world, he is still going strong. He talks about the difficulty playing Division 1 football, maintaining his passion for music over the years, and staying healthy while playing the sax.Tim's website: www.timcunninghammusic.comInstagram: @tim.cunninghamsaxophonistFacebook: @TimCunninghamMusicPageBio: When Tim Cunningham was faced with the choice between the football field or the musical stage, fortunately he chose the latter. Having played the saxophone for over half his life, Tim spent his college years at Michigan State splitting his time between playing defense and playing music. And although a football scholarship saw him through school, his passion for the sax has carried him well beyond, as he passed up an NFL contract and eventually pursued a career in music.For decades the words "smooth , sultry, cool & funky" have been used to describe Tim's high energy and emotional stage show as his sexy blend of smooth jazz and soulful R&B connects with people of all ages, races and genres of music. This unique and versatile style has earned Tim the pleasure of opening for jazz greats Dave Koz, Norman Brown, Brian Culbertson and George Benson. On the flip side, his bumpin' R&B flavor has on occasion paired him with Earth Wind & Fire, Cameo, Boyz II Men, Patti Labelle, Frankie Beverly, Jeffrey Osborne, and the late Luther Vandross.Signed to Atlantic Records in 1994 Tim's first major label release, "Right Turn Only," featuring the efforts of Will Downing, Brian Culbertson, Kevin Whalum, and Bobby Lyle was released in 1996. It's featured single, "This is the Life," hit #19 on the Smooth Jazz Chart and received much international airplay. Tim's additional CD credits include "Sax Change Operation", "A Change in Altotude", "Waiting For Love", "Inner Peace", and "Manchester Road" which was picked up by Nite Breeze Music/Universal in 2008. His 2011 release entitled "Reflection", features a cool collection of original tracks packed with smooth grooves and emotional ballads. In 2012 Tim recorded and released "Tim Cunningham Live" where he covered a collection of some of his favorite songs.In 2019 Tim hosted and performed in the 1st Annual Smooth Jazz Cruise on Land in St. Louis. This inaugural festival featured Brian Culbertson, Eric Darius, Grace Kelly and Erin Bode and was produced by Entertainment Cruises Productions and producers of the Smooth Jazz Cruise.Tim's experiences bridge beyond the live stage to TV as he co-wrote and performed the theme song to 20th Century Fox's "Bertice Berry Show". He also appeared in the movie, "The Ghost Who Walks" as Officer Taylor, three episodes of "The Untouchables" TV series as The Saxophonist, BET's "Jazz Central and a commercial spot for Budweiser. In 2021 "Smile" co-written with Al Caldwell from Tim's "Waiting for Love" CD was featured in the movie, "The Job" written, directed and produced by Randy J. Goodwin.In October 2022, after nearly a 10 year recording hiatus "Freedom" was released, with his new single, "Enough Said" (remix) climbing the Smooth Jazz Network , Radio Wave and Smoothjazz.com charts.

This conversation with saxophonist Mindi Abair, hosted by Talaya of "Watercolors" on SiriusXM, was recorded on the second week of The Smooth Jazz Cruise earlier this year.  The two talked about Mindi's storied career and her interests off the bandstand.

This conversation with three of our artists was recorded on the first sailing of The Smooth Jazz Cruise earlier this year. It features a talk with Rick Braun, Richard Elliot and Peter White, moderated by one of our hosts, Talaya from Sirius XM. The three old friends talked about the first time they met, mostly going back to the 80s, when fusion was at its peak and Smooth Jazz was just emerging as a genre.  Then, Rick talked about working with Sade, Peter explained why almost every British band sings with an American accent, and Richard recalled his formative time with Tower of Power. But there's lot's more in this very engaging and often funny conversation.

In this episode, two of our longtime cruise hosts and headliners—Alonzo Bodden and Marcus Miller—talk music, comedy and life in a free-wheeling and entertaining conversation recorded on The Smooth Jazz Cruise. Although Alonzo kicks it off as the interviewer, in reality any session with these two longtime friends is bound to go back and forth, with one turning the tables on the other, and with a healthy dose of good-spirited razzing along the way.

Send us a Text Message.This week on The Joy of Cruising Podcast, I am delighted to welcome Michael Lazaroff, Executive Director and Owner, Jazz Cruises, the world's leader in full-ship charter jazz music cruises, having produced over 90 full-ship charters featuring more than 2000 musicians including several legendary performers and dozens of Grammy winners. Jazz Cruisesis comprised principally of a portfolio of three theme cruises: The Jazz Cruise, launched in 2001, the first and only full-ship cruise charter dedicated to “straight-ahead” jazz; The Smooth Jazz Cruise, the company's flagship cruise it holds twice each spring. The Smooth Jazz Cruise sold out its first sailing in 2004 and has held 34 consecutive sold out cruises since; and, Botti at Sea, designed in the spirit and style of Grammy-winning world renowned trumpeter Chris Botti. I wrote about Michael and Jazz Cruises in my new release, The Joy of Cruising Again http://amzn.to/3lAfyON. I got to meet Michael when I checked off a bucket list item by sailing The Smooth Jazz Cruise in 2023 which included performances by just about ‘everyone who is anyone in smooth jazz,' such as Marcus Miller, Boney James, Gerald Albright, Candy Dulfer, Bryan Culbertson, Take 6, and one of my favorite comedians, Alonzo Bodden. I got to take photos with Michael McDonald, and with Peter White. I even met rising saxophone star Vince Ingala who agreed to come on The Joy of Cruising Podcast when I was first starting out and for that I am forever appreciative. (Vincent Ingala: Performing On Theme Cruises https://www.buzzsprout.com/2113608/12246466) Many of you know about my love for music, and smooth jazz is my favorite genre. I have wanted to profile Michael and his importance to live jazz on the ocean since my first cruising book, The Joy of Cruising. I remember my reaction when Michael agreed to talk about Jazz Cruises, LLC in The Joy of Cruising Again, and I am similarly ecstatic to get to chat with him again for the global cruise community to hear.Support the Show.Support thejoyofcruisingpodcast https://www.buzzsprout.com/2113608/supporters/newSupport Me https://www.buymeacoffee.com/drpaulthContact Me https://www.thejoyofcruising.net/contact-me.htmlBook Cruises https://bit.ly/TheJoyOfCruisingPodcast-BookACruiseUS Orders (coupon code joyofcruisingpodcast)The Joy of Cruising https://bit.ly/TheJoyOfCruisingCruising Interrupted https://bit.ly/CruisingInterruptedThe Joy of Cruising Again https://bit.ly/TheJoyOfCruisingAgainIntl Orders via Amazon

This conversation with vocalist Jeffrey Osborne was recorded during a recent sailing of The Smooth Jazz Cruise. Jeffrey talked with Marcus Miller about his rigorous health regimen and about his early years as a vocalist and his time with LTD, which started as a back up band for Sam and Dave. Did you know that Jeffrey actually started out as a drummer?  With the O'Jays, no less. You'll learn even more interesting aspects about Jeffrey's music and career during this fascinating talk. Oh, and a fellow vocalist makes a late but funny cameo appearance during the interview.

Join us on this episode of RTE-Travel Talk as Ken host sits down with special guest Diane Shelton, owner of Cruise Holidays with Diane, to uncover the enchanting world of themed cruising. Diane shares her recent voyage aboard Celebrity Cruises' Summit for the renowned Smooth Jazz Cruise, offering valuable insights and firsthand experiences. The conversation begins with an overview of the Smooth Jazz Cruise, delving into the unique atmosphere and vibrant energy that defines this musical extravaganza at sea. Diane paints a vivid picture of what to expect on a jazz-themed cruise, from captivating performances by world-class musicians to immersive musical experiences that transcend boundaries. As Diane recounts her journey, she provides a glimpse into the itinerary sailed, highlighting the allure of the destinations visited and the seamless flow of entertainment onboard. Discover the popularity of themed cruises like the Smooth Jazz Cruise and gain insider booking tips from Diane to secure your spot on these sought-after voyages. Addressing the question of whether there are activities for non-jazz enthusiasts, Diane offers reassurance that while there's something for everyone during the shore excursions, this cruise is about a fulfilling experience for all jazz fans, so plan accordingly. There are however other themed cruises tailored to your interests. Diane offers a quick review of her accommodations and ship size, providing insights into the comfort and amenities available on Celebrity Cruises' Summit. Dive into a discussion on price points and loyalty programs, as well as opportunities to mingle with performers and fellow passengers throughout the voyage. As the conversation draws to a close, Diane reflects on whether she would book this cruise again and shares her contact details for viewers seeking personalized assistance in planning their next cruise adventure.

In this conversation recorded on The Smooth Jazz Cruise 24.1, saxophonist Mindi Abair talks with cruise host Talaya from SiriusXM.  . Mindi talked about collaborating with other artists on The Smooth Jazz Cruise.  And about breaking into the music business when she first moved to LA where she was discovered by Bobby Lyle.  She also reflects on partnering with guitarist Randy Jacobs in the band The Boneshakers.  And of course she discusses her wine and jazz adventures. 

We were blessed to check off some of our bucket list in the past 14 months: Mediterranean Cruise, The Smooth Jazz Cruise, Hawaii,  and Alaska. We're leveling up with our bucket list cruises for 2024-2025. In this short bonus episode on The Joy of Cruising Podcast,  Paul and Mrs. The Joy of Cruising Podcast, Cheryl, discuss their plans to check off some cruise bucket list items in 2024-2025. Support the show

This episode features an interview with keyboardist/trombonist/bandleader Brian Culbertson by Talaya from The Smooth Jazz Cruise in 2023.  Brian talks about recording his first album in his apartment when he was in college at DePaul in Chicago. He also explained how he came to develop his streaming show The Hang and how he recorded numerous albums during the pandemic.  Along the way, Brian shares his creative process for writing, arranging and producing. 

This episode recorded on The Smooth Jazz Cruise features an interview with saxophonist Candy Dulfer by one of our hosts Talaya. Candy talked about her very musical upbringing in the Netherlands with her father Hans, a noted jazz saxophonist, as well as her own unique journey, crossing paths and collaborating with Dave Stewart, Prince and Van Morrison, and establishing herself as a solo artist.

This week's episode of the Jazz Cruises Conversations podcast features a very special interview by Marcus Miller with Michael McDonald, recorded on The Smooth Jazz Cruise earlier this year. Marcus talked with Michael about his long and storied career, which started out in St. Louis, playing and singing in local cover bands. The rest is history, which you'll hear about in this engaging and entertaining talk. How about this little fact? Michael's local young band backed Muddy Waters and Chuck Berry back in the day. And he explains the origin of the band name The Doobie Brothers. And Michael tells how he came to duet famously with Patti LaBelle on their smash hit “On My Own.”  And now they're doing a cruise together, the McDonald Labelle Cruise with us April 10-13 to Nassau in the Bahamas.

The last couple of weeks of January we re-aired some of our favorite shows. That was partly because we were on a cruise – The Smooth Jazz Cruise. While on the cruise, we sat down with musician, bassist, composer, producer, and most importantly our friend Marcus Miller. Today and next week, we're going to share our conversation with all ofyou.

The last couple of weeks of January we re-aired some of our favorite shows. That was partly because we were on a cruise – The Smooth Jazz Cruise. While on the cruise, we sat down with musician, bassist, composer, producer, and most importantly our friend Marcus Miller. Today and next week, we're going to share our conversation with all ofyou.

New Host, Rebecca Jade, is with guest Brett Davis speaking about her new journey with Everything with Rebecca Jade podcast.Rebecca is an accomplished singer/songwriter, and has been singing as long as she can remember. Growing up in a musical home, she has been exposed to an extensive variety of artists, genres and styles from her mother, who is also a vocalist. With such influences, it seems a natural progression that Rebecca has followed in her footsteps. Rebecca has been described by many to have a chameleon-like quality to her voice, where she is able to deliver each song in a unique way, yet she has been blessed with a sound unlike anyone else. Many music lovers have stated that she has the ability to transfer the emotion of each song to her listeners.Rebecca Jade has performed with some of the most sought-after musicians all over the world andher versatility has allowed her many unique opportunities to perform: Rebecca has been touringwith the Queen of percussion, Sheila E. since 2017 and most recently appeared in the Emmy nominated show, “Let's Go Crazy: The GRAMMY Salute to Prince” that aired on CBS in April this year; She also sang background vocals for Sir Elton John at the 2020 Academy Awards; Rebecca opened for Will Downing and Boney James at a sold-out Valentine's Day concert earlier this year in Long Beach, as well as opened for Jeffrey Osborne for the 2019 Thornton Winery Summer Concert series; Rebecca made her debut as a guest artist on the Smooth Jazz Cruise this year; she has appeared as a repeat guest artist on the Dave Koz Cruises since 2016; Rebecca has done multiple concerts at Spaghettini in Seal Beach and was the singer in the Houseband at Anthology for 5 ½ years; She was selected as the official singer of the San Diego Gulls team anthem during their 2015 and 2016 hockey seasons.Rebecca has over 27 years of recording studio experience. She has sung background vocals, demos and jingles on many different projects, including sessions with Kiko Cibrián (Luis Miguel), and has been featured in a variety of works, including being featured on two songs on DW3's newest selftitled album that went #1 on the UK Soul Charts this year, and singing backing vocals on Aubrey Logan's 2nd full-length album, Where the Sunshine is Expensive, which went #1 on the Billboard charts in 2019. She released her 1st album collaboration in 2011, The Jade Element and opened for Grammy-nominated artist, Musiq Soulchild on two separate occasions. Her sophomore album was released with her new group, Rebecca Jade & the Cold Fact, which earned them San Diego Music Awards in 2014, 2015 and 2017, a “Best of San Diego” Award in 2016, and the opportunity to open for and sing with El Debarge. Rebecca is also a jazz vocalist and released an album of Cole Porter classics titled, Planet Cole Porter, with arranger/producer/jazz guitar virtuoso Peter Sprague, which earned them a 2018 San Diego Music Award for “Best Jazz Album”. Rebecca Jade & the Cold Fact recently released their sophomore album, Running out of Time. Rebecca is currently working on her first solo project, set for 2020 release, and earned the “Artist of the Year” award for this year's SDMAs. Rebecca is an actor, having done a variety of work for clients, such as SDG&E, Pechanga Casino, Qualcomm and UCSD, and featured as a singer in the film, “5 Hour Friends” (starring Tom Sizemore). She is also a pin-up model for Temptress Fashion, a vintage-inspired boutique. Rebecca graduated from UC Berkeley on a full basketball scholarship with a degree in Theatre & Performance Studies, and has earned her MBA in Marketing from the University of Phoenix. She has also advanced her musical education by studying Jazz Theory and Classical Voice at Grossmont College. Rebecca is an avid motorcycle rider, has an affinity for classic cars, and loves the Arts community as a whole. She still plays basketball recreationally.https://www.rebeccajade.comPresented by Attorney King Studios with Rebecca Jade on IQ Podcasts.

This conversation with saxophonists Mindi Abair and Eric Marienthal took place online last week. Eric, who is the music director for The Smooth Jazz Cruise, interviewed Mindi about her unique and remarkable career—from studying at Berklee to playing in the band on “American Idol” to touring with Aerosmith and to her own successful run as a recording artist and bandleader.

The legendary pianist Ramsey Lewis turned 85 last week, and although he had retired from touring, he did make the trip to Ft. Lauderdale to sail and perform on The Smooth Jazz Cruise in 2020. Ramsey sat down with bassist and cruise host Marcus Miller to talk about his storied career, from his early years recording jazz hits with his trio to his later years as a radio and TV broadcaster. This episode is sponsored by Sirius XM's Watercolors channel. 

Tom Braxton has often been referred to as a “Jazz Missionary”… and this title inspired us to call this segment… “Jazzman on a Mission.”  His mission is to spread the love, joy, and peace of God through the power of instrumental music.  He’s been doing just that for over 35 years…garnering critical acclaim while thrilling audiences of all ages from coast to coast and abroad.  From Africa to Japan…from New York to L.A., his distinct, melodic sound leaves audiences astounded, clapping, and on their feet screaming for more!  He has recorded nine albums which have hit numerous jazz charts, and his music can be heard on radio and television airwaves nationwide.  This multi-instrumentalist and charismatic performer has been a fan favorite on the Smooth Jazz Cruise for over 12 years, and he has headlined his own shows stateside and abroad in Portugal, Ghana, The Netherlands, and Uganda.  For 17 years, Thomas toured extensively with NBA power forward and bassist, Wayman Tisdale as his musical director.  He has also toured with jazz pianist, Keiko Matsui in various venues across the country and in Russia, Eastern Europe, Malaysia & Japan.  For the last 7 years, he has toured with Grammy Winner and Legend, Earl Klugh, throughout U.S. and abroad.  Thomas has shared the stage with a list of who’s who…but here are just a few impressive names from the group…Dave Koz, Rick Braun, Peter White, Brian Culbertson, Marcus Miller, Bob James, George Duke, Kirk Whalum, Jonathan Butler, Aretha Franklin &Phillip Bailey.  In 2017, Thomas was honored in his hometown of Lubbock, Texas as he was inducted into The West Texas Walk of Fame.  Although his accolades are many, his humility, warmth, and genuine love for others have endeared him to fans and music lovers around the world.

In this freewheeling conversation Alonzo Bodden, comedian-in-residence for The Smooth Jazz Cruise, interviews his friend, the bassist and bandleader Marcus Miller about everything from what instruments he plays to how he almost replaced Jaco Pastorius in Weather Report. This episode is sponsored by the Blue Note Jazz Clubs. The podcast is produced by Entertainment Cruise Productions. 

In a conversation recorded during The Smooth Jazz Cruise in 2020, the guitarist Peter White talks with fellow musician, trumpeter Rick Braun, about his early years playing with the singer-songwriter Al Stewart and how that experience changed his life and career.  Peter explains how he found his own voice on his instrument and why that was so important. He also plays a little and takes question from the audience. This episode is sponsored by SiriusXM. The podcast is produced by Entertainment Cruise Productions.

In this conversation taken from the Smooth Jazz Cruise in 2020, Jeff Lorber, Paul Jackson, Jr. and Everette Harp - three of the most prominent figures in the genre – talk with Eric Marienthal about their affinity for jazz fusion, funk and soul, as well as about their common experiences, as both leaders and sidemen. This episode is sponsored by the Berks Jazz Fest. The podcast is produced by Entertainment Cruise Productions.

Guitarist and vocalist Jonathan Butler sat down with Marcus Miller during The Smooth Jazz Cruise to talk about growing up a child star in South Africa and the challenges he faced personally and professionally as a result of Apartheid.  And he explains his special relationship with Nelson Mandela. This episode, the third in our second season, is sponsored by the Real Jazz Channel on Sirius XM. The podcast is produced by Entertainment Cruise Productions.

Vocalist Lalah Hathaway talks with one of her early mentors – bassist/bandleader Marcus Miller – in this conversation recorded in front of a live audience in the second of the two sailings of The Smooth Jazz Cruise in 2019.  The two old friends talk about Lalah’s early days at Berklee, the importance of collaboration and much more. This episode is sponsored by the Blue Note. The Jazz Cruise Conversations podcast is produced by Entertainment Cruise Productions, the worldwide leader in music-themed cruises.

Michael Lazaroff, executive director of Entertainment Cruise Productions (ECP), sat down with Eric Marienthal and Marcus Miller during the Smooth Jazz Cruise in 2019 to talk about the origins and unique aspects of Blue Note at Sea, which was created by ECP in partnership with Blue Note Records and the Blue Note. Eric serves as the music director and Marcus is one of the three hosts for Blue Note at Sea. This episode is sponsored by the Blue Note. The Jazz Cruise Conversations podcast is produced by Entertainment Cruise Productions, the worldwide leader in music-themed cruises.

Brian Simpson, keyboardist and one of the hosts of the Smooth Jazz Cruise, sat down with fellow musicians to exchange tales of being a working and traveling musician.  Among the artists sharing their stories with Brian were Steve Oliver, Jerry Johnson, Nathaniel Kearney, Jr. and Third Richardson. This episode is sponsored by the Exit Zero Jazz Festival. The Jazz Cruise Conversations podcast is produced by Entertainment Cruise Productions, the worldwide leader in music-themed cruises.

This interesting 1:1 session was moderated by our comedian-in-residence Alonzo Bodden who interviewed his friend and fellow host for both the Smooth Jazz Cruise and Blue Note at Sea – Marcus Miller. The bassist and bandleader talked with Alonzo about the real chronology of his life, including EXACTLY how old he was when he started playing with Miles Davis. And about how his pork-pie hat became his professional, but not personal, look.  And so much more. This episode is sponsored by the Blue Note. The Jazz Cruise Conversations podcast is produced by Entertainment Cruise Productions, the worldwide leader in music-themed cruises.

A remarkable roundtable discussion with five stellar guitarists who performed on the Smooth Jazz Cruise in 2019: Lee Ritenour, Raul Midon, Jonathan Butler, Nick Colionne and Steve Oliver.  Marcus Miller moderated this fascinating conversation about the instrument and the music. Plus, the five jam and create at least one tune on the spot together, prodded by Marcus of course.  This episode is sponsored by Jazz House Kids and the Montclair Jazz Festival. The Jazz Cruise Conversations podcast is produced by Entertainment Cruise Productions, the worldwide leader in music-themed cruises.

The daughter of the influential soul and R&B singer Donny Hathaway, Lalah Hathaway has made her own way through a long career as one of the more accomplished vocalists of her generation, eventually earning five Grammy awards and recording with everyone from Joe Sample to Snarky Puppy. During one of the two sailings of the Smooth Jazz Cruise, Lalah sat for a 1:1 conversation with Marcus Miller who was one of her earliest mentors. They talk about the influence of her father, her education at Berklee and her growth as a singer. This episode is sponsored by the Newport Jazz Festival. The Jazz Cruise Conversations podcast is produced by Entertainment Cruise Productions, the worldwide leader in music-themed cruises.

Guitarist Lee Ritenour has recorded more than two dozen albums as a leader since his debut “First Course” in 1976, as well as countless recordings as a studio player. A founding member of the contemporary jazz group Fourplay, Ritenour has been nominated for 16 Grammy awards. During one of the two sailings of the Smooth Jazz Cruise ’19 he spoke with Marcus Miller about his life as a first-call studio musician in LA in the 70s and 80s and his transition to becoming a leader of contemporary jazz groups. This episode is sponsored by the Blue Note Jazz Club in New York City. The Jazz Cruise Conversations podcast is produced by Entertainment Cruise Productions, the worldwide leader in music-themed cruises.

Saxophonist Boney James was initially a reluctant cruiser several years ago, but these days he’s not only a regular artist, but also one of the hosts of the Smooth Jazz Cruise.  During one of the two sailings of the Smooth Jazz Cruise, Boney sat down with our comedian in residence (and contemporary jazz aficionado) Alonzo Bodden to talk about how his career developed and grew from being a sideman to a leader. This episode is sponsored by the DC Jazz Festival. The Jazz Cruise Conversations podcast is produced by Entertainment Cruise Productions, the worldwide leader in music-themed cruises.

Pianist and composer Dave Grusin has had a long and successful career not only as a recording artist and performer but also as a scorer in film and television. Winner of both Grammy and Oscar awards, Grusin has contributed to the scores and soundtracks of more than 100 films and dozens of TV shows.  In partnership with the late Larry Rosen, he founded GRP Records, one of the most important record labels in contemporary jazz. During the Smooth Jazz Cruise 2019, Grusin spoke with Marcus Miller about his unique career in music. This episode is sponsored by the Monterey Jazz Festival. The Jazz Cruise Conversations podcast is produced by Entertainment Cruise Productions, the worldwide leader in music-themed cruises.

I went on an amazing cruise sailing from Rome, Italy, porting in Mykonos, Greece, Messina, Italy and Athens, Greece.  Artists included Brian Culbertson, saxophonist Elan Trotman, Gerald & Selina Albright, trumpeter Gabriel Johnson, eukele player Jake Shimabukuro, and so many more. It was not my first cruise but it was my first Dave Koz cruise and my first time out of the U.S.  It was a wonderful experience!  

NWP welcomes the soulful jazz sounds of Alvin Fisher. In 2005, while working his “day job” at XM Satellite Radio as Director of Information Technology, Alvin Fisher was invited by a host of his musical friends to strut his musical stuff and play his flute before hundreds of people on a popular Smooth Jazz Cruise. All but stealing the show from A-list headliners Norman Brown, Michael Manson, Bobby Lyle, Candy Dulfer, Nick Colionne and Brian Culbertson, the Washington, DC born and raised musician rediscovered the early musical dreams he set aside when he launched a successful 30-year career as an IT manager. Now charting on billboard and performing with the best musicians jazz has to offer,  Alvins risk leaving IT has paid off and he is living his dream! "Creative covers, mixed with tight and magical originals, this music washes over your soul and sinks into your pours". Alvin has played with the best and is considered one of the best, jazz has to offer.  His tribute to the Memphis Underground will make you dance with delight. www.alvinfisherband.com www.northwestprime.com

NWP welcomes the soulful jazz sounds of Alvin Fisher. In 2005, while working his “day job” at XM Satellite Radio as Director of Information Technology, Alvin Fisher was invited by a host of his musical friends to strut his musical stuff and play his flute before hundreds of people on a popular Smooth Jazz Cruise. All but stealing the show from A-list headliners Norman Brown, Michael Manson, Bobby Lyle, Candy Dulfer, Nick Colionne and Brian Culbertson, the Washington, DC born and raised musician rediscovered the early musical dreams he set aside when he launched a successful 30-year career as an IT manager. Now charting on billboard and performing with the best musicians jazz has to offer,  Alvins risk leaving IT has paid off and he is living his dream! "Creative covers, mixed with tight and magical originals, this music washes over your soul and sinks into your pours".  Alvin has played with the best and is considered one of the best, jazz has to offer.  His tribute to the Memphis Underground will make you dance with delight. www.alvinfisherband.com www.northwestprime.com