Emmanuel performs hundreds of sold-out shows annually across Nashville, Sydney, and London. Throughout his career, Emmanuel has been craving what’s next. Recognized globally as the master of the solo acoustic guitar, his next move is to release an album featuring collaborations with some of the best singers, songwriters, and guitarists.

In addition to touring with The Stones as a backup singer for 26 years, Fischer has had an outstanding career, performing with artists like Luther Vandross, Sting, and Tina Turner. Fischer is also a key artist featured in the Oscar-winning documentary film 20 Feet from Stardom – you may have seen the free screening at the Kahilu last Friday. The film explores the behind-the-scenes life of backup singers like Fischer and others.

Before Friday’s show, I had the opportunity to interview Derrick “Duckie” Simpson, who also uses the nickname “Gong Gong Gullie.” He’s the founder and leader of Black Uhuru, one of the most recognized and prolific reggae bands for over 50 years.  This was their third tour of Hawaii in two years, and their 2018 release, As The World Turns, is their first new album in 15 years.

Laurence Hobgood is one of the most accomplished jazz pianists working today.  The talented musician is noted for his nearly 20-year collaboration with singer Kurt Elling, a combination that garnered 10 Grammy nominations. He’s also a top-notch jazz pianist, composer, arranger, and producer, as well as a Yamaha artist and Grammy winner for his 2009 CD, Dedicated To You: Kurt Elling Sings The Music Of Coltrane And Hartman. 

Judy Collins has inspired audiences with exquisite vocals, boldly vulnerable songwriting, personal life victories, and a strong dedication to social activism. In the 1960s, she embodied both the idealism and unwavering determination of a generation united against social and environmental injustices. Fifty years later, her brilliance continues to shine as new generations enjoy the glow of her legendary 50-album catalog and draw inspiration from her discipline to succeed in the music business for half a century.

From Top-40 hits, “I Will Be in Love with You” and “I’ll Come Running,” to “I Can Dream of You” and “Boatman,” the last two recorded by his brother James, Livingston’s creative output has continued unabated. His musical knowledge has inspired a varied repertoire, and he is equally at home with a range of musical genres—folk, pop, gospel, jazz—and from upbeat storytelling and touching ballads to full orchestra performances.

In the ecosystem of jazz, the "residency" is a distinct creature, entirely separate from the touring show. A tour is a fling; a residency is a marriage. It requires commitment, reinvention, and, perhaps most crucially, a "secret sauce" that transforms a weekly slot into a cultural institution. On this Wednesday night, March 25, 2015, the legendary Yoshi’s in Oakland is betting its Jack London Square real estate on drummer Tommy Igoe and his Groove Conspiracy to manufacture exactly that kind of heat.

The Bangles are a significant part of rock music culture and gained prominence on both MTV and radio during the 1980s. Originally calling themselves The Bangs, the American all-female trio started when guitarist Susanna Hoffs answered a musician’s classified ad and connected with sisters Vicki and Debbi Peterson.