VIDEO INTERVIEW
Some artists play music. Brian Culbertson builds it—layer by layer, groove by groove, blending jazz, funk, R&B, and soul into something uniquely his own. If you’ve ever caught one of his live shows, you know exactly what I mean. It’s not just a performance—it’s an experience. And on June 21, 2025, San Diego gets that experience when Culbertson headlines the San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival, presented by Rainbow Promotions.
Now, I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing Brian a few times over the past decade—from the early days of The Changing Stage to our latest conversation for On Tour. Each time, I walk away reminded of why he’s more than just a staple in contemporary jazz—he’s a force of creative evolution.
Designing the Perfect San Diego Set
When I asked Brian what fans should expect at The Rady Shell, his answer was pure Culbertson: thoughtful, intentional, and always about the audience.
“This isn’t a sit-back-and-relax kind of show,” he told me. “I’ve crafted a festival set designed to get people on their feet. You’re outdoors, you’ve been vibing all day—this is when we turn it up.”
It’s this understanding of energy and environment that separates Culbertson from so many of his peers. Whether he’s in an intimate theater or facing 10,000 fans along San Diego’s waterfront, he knows how to read a room—or in this case, a shoreline—and deliver exactly what the moment demands.
Beyond Labels: A Career of Constant Reinvention
Culbertson’s relationship with the term “smooth jazz” is, like many great artists, complicated. Yes, he’s headlining a smooth jazz festival. But anyone familiar with his 30-year discography knows that boxing him into a single genre is missing the point entirely.
“I get bored easily,” he admitted during our chat. “I’ve never wanted to make the same record twice.”
That’s why his albums read like a roadmap of musical exploration—from the funk-driven Bringing Back the Funk (inspired by an impromptu jam with Prince) to the introspective jazz trio project Winter Stories, sparked by a snowy week in Chicago. His influences span David Sanborn’s harmonic boldness, the sophistication of Yellowjackets and Chick Corea, and the undeniable grooves of Earth, Wind & Fire.
What ties it all together isn’t genre—it’s feel. Culbertson chases inspiration wherever it leads, whether that’s through a new synth plugin, a late-night drive, or the reaction of a live crowd.
Day Trip: A Fusion Adventure
This September, Culbertson will release Day Trip, an album already being whispered about in jazz circles. Leaning deep into fusion, it features an all-star cast: Branford Marsalis, Randy Brecker, Mike Stern, Sheila E., and bass legends Nathan East and Marcus Miller.
For Culbertson, it’s not just about star power—it’s about pushing boundaries “These collaborations forced me to step up,” he said. “It’s some of the most challenging and rewarding music I’ve made.”
And true to his independent spirit, the project was fan-funded through IndieGoGo, giving supporters a literal seat at the table—from mastering sessions to exclusive behind-the-scenes access.
The Hang: Where Music Meets Community
If you followed Culbertson during the pandemic, you know about The Hang—his Friday night livestream that turned into a ritual for fans worldwide. Now in its sixth season, The Hang isn’t just a concert from his studio—it’s a reminder of what music can do when the world feels heavy.
“No politics, no stress. Just music, wine, and a place to unwind,” Brian explained.
And for those wanting to dive even deeper, his Patreon streams offer a rare look into the craft—breaking down tracks, production techniques, and showing fans what really goes into creating a Culbertson record.
The Business of Staying True
In an era where streaming royalties don’t pay the bills, Culbertson has carved out a blueprint for modern jazz artists: own your creativity, build your community, and make every project personal. From his Napa Valley Jazz Getaway to plans for expanding festivals in New Orleans and beyond, he’s not just surviving—he’s curating experiences.
But even with all the entrepreneurial ventures, it comes back to one thing: the music.
“I’m in a groove,” he told me. “Make a record, tour it, connect with fans, and then do it all over again.”
June 21st: Culbertson Headlines a Weekend of Smooth Jazz Excellence
San Diego’s waterfront will come alive with rhythm and soul as the San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival returns—an event masterfully produced by Rainbow Promotions, known for curating some of the finest jazz experiences in the country. But make no mistake—Saturday, June 21st belongs to Brian Culbertson. As the festival’s headliner, Culbertson isn’t just closing out the night; he’s setting the tone for what live jazz should feel like—vibrant, dynamic, and undeniably fun.
With a lineup featuring standout talents like October London, Will Downing, and Eric Darius, the weekend promises world-class performances. Yet, Culbertson’s set at The Rady Shell is poised to be the pinnacle—a fusion of groove, sophistication, and showmanship that only he can deliver. Trust me—you’ll want to be there when Brian transforms San Diego Bay into a symphony of smooth.
Tickets available at: sandiegosmoothjazzfestival.com
