Past Events
Holiday Sing-a-Long
Thursday, December 19th
5:00 pm
Palm Springs Art Museum
101 N. Museum Drive, Palm Springs, CA
Sweet Baby J'ai Presents the Sunset Music Series: A Holiday Sing-a-Long with the Yve Evans Trio
This festive sing-a-long event blended classic holiday tunes with vibrant jazz, making it a perfect outing for the whole family. Described by fans as a "private party in a public place," the Yve Evans Trio brings boundless energy to the stage. Add a dash of Sweet Baby J’ai’s soulful voice to the mix, and you're in for a holiday treat. They'll lead you through beloved holiday classics, inviting everyone to join in and spread the cheer. They also equipped a few of Coachella Valley's students with musical instruments.
Thank you for your support of our Sunset Music Series throughout the year! We couldn't do what we do with you.
Women in Jazz
Wednesday, December 4
The Wilshire Ebell Lounge
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Sweet Baby J'ai Presents the Sunset Music Series: Women in Jazz
Featuring her powerhouse Women in Jazz All-Stars—keyboardist Sunnie Paxson, bassist Robin Bramlett, drummer Danielle Thompson, guitarist Kimberly Allison, and a special guest appearance by Leah Stewart—this genre-bending group, led by the dynamic Sweet Baby J’ai herself, absolutely brought the house down!
J’ai kept the audience on their toes with surprises galore curtesy of audience members—a Bob Dylan vocal ringer, a Diana Ross lookalike, Andrews Sisters harmonies, Soul Train dancers, and so much more.
With world-class musicians at its core, this ensemble beautifully showcased the rich and diverse landscape of American music. Taking the audience on a nostalgic journey, they paid tribute to the iconic songs and legendary singers who shaped our musical heritage, celebrating the timeless contributions of trailblazing women in jazz. A fun-filled night that kicked off the holiday season!
After the election, we needed a joyful outlet, and the festival delivered in spades. Sweet Baby J’ai kicked off the weekend in cowboy gear, boots tapping to standout performances by Serafia, Laurie Morvan, Jeremie Levi Samson, Pam Phillips, and Patrick Mitchem, who fused country, blues, and soul into pure brilliance. A special guest appearance by Jennifer Corday, comedy from Pat Branch, and a dance party led by DJ Jiji Sweet created an electric atmosphere of resilience, unity, and celebration.
The magic continued Saturday with Kandace Springs headlining, her velvet voice cutting straight to the soul, supported by powerhouse drummer Camille Grainer and soulful bassist Jayla Chee. Earlier in the evening, Jennifer Corday captivated the audience with a stunning classical cello solo before teaming up with rock violinist Emily V for a powerful, high-energy set. Backed by drummer Andy Fraga, Pam Phillips, and Laurie Morvan. The hilarious Karen Williams let us rolling in laughter. Together their performance lit up the night and left the crowd spellbound.
Sunday brought stunning performances by The Saxtress Pamela Williams, SBJ’s dynamic Women in Jazz All-Stars (Sunnie Paxson, Robin Bramlett, Kimberly Allison, and TK Johnson), and pianist,singer, funny lady Yve Evans and comic Suzanne Suter. The heartfelt presentation of instruments to student musicians was a poignant highlight, underscoring the festival’s mission to nurture the next generation.
Thank you for your incredible support—mark your calendars for Veterans Day weekend 2025, and join us for the Sunset Music Series in the meantime!
A Soulful Evening: Masters of Melody – A Tribute to Singers Who Shaped History
Last night’s Masters of Melody: A Tribute to Singers Who Shaped History was nothing short of magical. Presented by Sweet Baby J’ai, the show transported the audience on a heartfelt journey through time, celebrating the iconic artists who have defined generations with their unforgettable melodies and timeless hits.
With a packed house buzzing with excitement, Rose Mallett, Lisa Lynn Morgan, and Sweet Baby J’ai delivered powerful performances that honored music’s greatest legends. The trio’s dynamic blend of talent, charisma, and passion brought to life the songs and stories of these legendary singers, creating an evening that was as moving as it was memorable. From soulful ballads to show-stopping anthems, the energy in the room was electric, reminding us why music is truly good for the soul.
The mix of classic hits and musical theater moments made for a night of pure joy and inspiration. It’s safe to say that Masters of Melody is a celebration of artistry at its finest—leaving the audience humming tunes and reflecting on the power of music long after the final bow. If you missed this show, you missed a masterpiece.
Olivia's Majestic Alaska Cruise!
SEPTEMBER 21 - 28, 2024
Seattle, WA - Juneau, AK - Glacier Baby, AK, Icy Strait Point, AK - Sitka, AK - Ketchikan, AK - Victoria, BC - Seattle, WA
We had a ball amongst the glaciers! Olivia favorites Cris Williamson (piano/guitar), Marga Gomez (comedy), Vickie Shaw (comedy), Dana Goldberg (comedy), Lucie Blue Tremblay (singer/songwriter), and Ingrid & Ty (Mouths of Babes), and Bitch. And the beautifully talented singer/songwriter Sinclair joined me representing Olivia's 1970 women's music scene for my Sweet Baby J'ai celebrates The History of Women in Blues show. It was a great time
Herb Alpert's Vibrato Grill & Jazz
August 27, 2024
This sold-out show was a night of pure musical magic! SBJ's' Women in Jazz All Stars brought the fire to Los Angeles! Led by the legendary vocalist and producer Sweet Baby J'ai, this all-star ensemble featured the extraordinary talents of pianist/MD Sunnie Paxson, bassist Robin Bramlett, drummer Danielle "Dee" Thompson, saxophonist Kirsten Edkins, guitarist Kimberly Allison, and the soulful vocalist Simply Sandy. They tore the roof off the mutha!
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Sweet Baby J'ai Presents: Sunset Music Series
Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration!
It was standing room only for this live music event: Featuring the electrying sounds of "Moments Notice," featuring pianist Aya Iwata, bassist Rick Taylor, guitarist Brian Price, and drummer Moyes Lucas.
Hosted by vocalist/poet/producer Sweet Baby J'ai, the event welcomes special
guest singers Charles Huff, Cynthia Lee Thomas, Desiree Stevens, Melba Miller, and a surprise appearance by Yve Evans.
Live Music: Moments Notice Band featuring Aya Iwata (piano), Rick Taylor (bass), Brian Price (guitar), and Moyes Lucas (drums). Special guest singers: Charles Huff, Cynthia Lee Thomas, Desiree Stevens, Melba Miller, and Yve Evans.
Inspiring Talks: Pearl Devers, Dr. Anne Staveren, Barbara Carrington, Anyse Smith, and Joy Silver
Dance Party: Palm Springs CRAVE Pride Freedom Dance
Unforgettable night of music, talks, and celebration!
Details: June 20th, 5-8pm, Palm Springs Art Museum.
PROMOTION
Jazz at LACMA
Smidt Welcome Plaza - LACMA
Los Angeles County Museum
On May 31st we kicked the summer off with a concert at LACMA - It was a family reunion, and free and open to the public!! There wasn't a seat or grassy spot left on the grounds - standing and dancing room only. Margaret Love, Amber Weekes, Davon and Cabrini stopped by the stage to have some fun - lots of surprises !
I performed with my sister and brothers from other mothers, including Karen Hammack, Chris Colangelo, Paul Kreibich, Dale Fielder, and Charles Small. It was a homecoming groove and we had a ball!
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A Soulful Mother's Day Celebration
On Mother's Day, we celebrated generations of mothers and embraced Mental Health Month with a focus on self-care at our sold-out "Toast to Our Mother's Soul" Jazz, Blues, and Soul Brunch concert at Vicky's of Santa Fe!
The event featured a vibrant Jazz, Blues & Soul performance by the Women in Jazz All-Star Band led by pianist Sunnie Paxson, with bassist Robin Bramlett, drummer Dee Thompson, guitarist Kimberly Allison, and saxophonist Carol Chaikin. Featuring the powerful vocals of Angie Wells, Simply Sandy, and host Sweet Baby J'ai!
Looking to embrace self-care through the power of music? Stay tuned for future events!
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The International Jazz Day Celebration featuring the Divas of the Desert was a night to remember! The sold-out crowd at the Revolution Stage Company was treated to a stunning performance filled with powerful vocals and soulful energy.
This incredible performance wasn't just a local hit! As part of Herbie Hancock's global International Jazz Day event on April 30th, the Divas rocked the world! Comments poured in from all corners, proving once again that music truly is a universal language that unites us all.
And the best part? The fundraiser was a resounding success! We're overwhelmed by the incredible community support. The Divas are feeling blessed and honored by the outpouring of love.
Consider a donation to support future events and nurture tomorrow's stars!
Fuel the flame of music! Donate to the Sunset Music Series & Smarts Initiative .
Your donations are processed through our fiscal sponsor: Strait Knot Productions. Make sure to include in your note:
Donating to Sunset Music Series
All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent provided by law.
#InternationalJazzDay #DivasoftheDesert #RevolutionStageCompany #SMARTS
More information
about the L-Fund www.L-fund.org
I was truly honored to be recognized with the L-Fund Visionary Award alongside Judy Dlugacz and Shann Carr. This acknowledgment represents a collective celebration of our shared vision for positive change. A heartfelt thanks to L-Fund for this meaningful recognition. Let's persist in our efforts for a brighter, more inclusive future.
Now, let's talk about the event—I curated an exceptional lineup for the L-Fund: Sweet Baby J'ai Presents, the Soulful Sirens—a Women in Soul All-Star Revue—captivating experience with B-Steady, a queer pop composer, and storyteller. Additionally, we had the incredible talents of "The Voice" Contestant, vocalist/pianist Marisa Corvo, recording artist Jonesy Jones, bassist Megan Steiner, drummer Chrissy Rass, guitarist Roseanne Aldrete, saxophonist Ruri Matthews, and trumpeter Tatiana Tate. Hosted by comedian Mina Hartong, they delivered a night of dynamic performances!
Talking about "Having a Blast!" Definitely!
A heartfelt note of gratitude for choosing to spend your Wednesday night with us at my History show! Your support for live music means the world to us. I sincerely hope you walked away having learned something new and had as much fun as we did on stage. Your energy in the room was truly electrifying and fueled our performance.
I want to give a special shoutout to Keisha D, Rose Mallett, and Laurie Morvan for their incredible tributes to Tina Turner, Sarah Vaughan, and Big Mama Thornton. Their talent and dedication added so much to the evening's experience. A night of magic and pure unadulterated fun!
