Dave Koz and Friends announce the 27th anniversary edition of the longest-running jazz-based Christmas tour. Beginning the next era of this rich musical tradition, Koz and Friends will perform fresh renditions of timeless Christmas classics – as well as a Chanukah medley – and hits from their respective catalogues. The tour reunites Koz with long-time musical partner, guitarist/singer Jonathan Butler and will feature special guests, saxophonist Vincent Ingala, guitarist Adam Hawley and vocalist Rebecca Jade.
Dave Koz
In a recording career that spans nearly three decades, saxophonist Dave Koz has racked up an astoundingly impressive array of honors and achievements: nine GRAMMY® nominations, 11 No. 1 albums on Billboard’s Current Contemporary Jazz Albums chart, numerous world tours, 13 sold-out Dave Koz & Friends At Sea cruises, performances for multiple U.S. presidents, a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and appearances on a multitude of television shows, including “Good Morning America,” “The View,” “The Tonight Show,” “Entertainment Tonight” and more. A Platinum-selling artist, Koz is also known as a humanitarian, entrepreneur, radio host and instrumental music advocate.
Jonathan Butler
Jonathan Butler is a singer-songwriter and guitarist who leads a life few can imagine. Born in South Africa under the shadow of apartheid and raised in poverty, Butler was the first non-white artist to be played on South African radio and appear on national television. Though his musical abilities would take him away from the world he grew up in, Jonathan would neither forget the plight of his fellow South Africans, nor the man that led them to freedom. It is for this reason Nelson Mandela credits Butler’s music as having inspired him during his imprisonment. In more ways than one, Jonathan Butler is representative of South Africa.
Vincent Ingala
Multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer Vincent Ingala has grown to become one of the fastest emerging contemporary jazz artists since his 2010 critically acclaimed debut album, North End Soul. Still in his early thirties, the charismatic saxophonist has been named Billboard Smooth Jazz Artist of the Year in 2012 and SiriuXM Watercolors Breakthrough Artist of the Year in 2013. His music is consistently found atop the most noteworthy music charts in the world, including nine #1 hits on the Billboard Smooth Jazz Chart and 22 singles in the Billboard Smooth Jazz Top 10.
Adam Hawley
Guitarist and Producer Adam Hawley has burst on to the scene as a celebrated and innovative artist, composer and band leader. Handpicked by Maurice White (founder of Earth, Wind, & Fire) he first debuted on the legend’s label Kalimba Music. In all, Adam’s four albums and work as a producer has spawned an incredible 16 Billboard #1 Hits. In it’s first week, the 3rd record “Escape” was the #1 Selling Album in the Nation, outselling every other contemporary jazz album as per Nielsen.
Rebecca Jade
Rebecca is a vocalist and has been involved with music her entire life. Growing up in a musical home and having generations of musicians in her family, she has been exposed to a vast assortment of artists, genres and styles. Her Mother was a professional jazz singer in Puerto Rico, so it was only natural for Rebecca to follow in her footsteps. Rebecca has been described by many as having a chameleon-like quality to her voice due to her ability to deliver each song in a unique way. Music lovers express that she has the ability to transfer the emotion of each song to her listeners. Rebecca has been blessed with a sound unlike anyone else.