By Roger Friend & Quotes from Vince Meehan Interview
The 5th Annual San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival, held on June 23, 2024, at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park in San Diego, CA, was an event that will be remembered for years to come. The night was highlighted by the extraordinary performance of San Diego hero Gregory Porter. For many, including myself, this was the first live encounter with the iconic vocalist, and it can be described in one word: magnificent.
From the moment the band opened, with a slow, soulful groove, it was clear that this night was going to be special. The musicians, each a master of their craft, were focused on creating the perfect musical foundation for what was about to unfold. Gregory Porter, a vocalist of a new generation, then took us on a journey which was both musically and emotionally profound.
Gregory Porter, who hails from San Diego and attended San Diego State University, brought a unique blend of influences to the stage. His music reflects a depth and authenticity that can only come from years of dedication and passion for his craft. Speaking about his return to the San Diego stage, Porter said, “San Diego is part of my musical journey. It was an honor to be invited and we had a beautiful performance tonight.”
Comparing Gregory Porter to other artists doesn’t do him justice. He is a complex amalgamation of legendary soulful singers like Lou Rawls and Luther Vandross, with a hint of Nat King Cole. His smooth, soothing, and inspiring baritone voice, when amplified through the fine-tuned Rady Shell sound system, transcended the ordinary and became a spiritual experience. This performance was a highlight of the festival and an evening I will remember for a long time.
Each song was a new journey, both musically and emotionally. The band provided ample space for each uber-talented musician to shine. They weaved through verses, choruses, and solos with ease, never resorting to flashy arpeggios or slick licks. Instead, they delivered pure, expressive music that touched the soul.
The Hammond B3 organ often transported the crowd to a place of spiritual reverence, while Tivon Pennicott’s sweet tenor sax melodies added layers of emotion and depth. Every note, every melody was designed to elevate Porter’s songs to an even higher level—not in terms of volume, but in spirit and soul, dynamics rarely heard or felt these days.
The chemistry between Gregory Porter and his band was palpable. The trust and camaraderie they shared on stage translated into a seamless and organic performance. Each musician was given the space to showcase their individual talents, yet they always returned to the collective groove that anchored the performance. It was a masterclass in musical interplay and a testament to the years of experience and mutual respect among the band members.
As a newcomer to Gregory Porter’s live performances, I wish I had a set list to fully appreciate the titles in his library. However, the experience was no less impactful. Chip Crawford, Porter’s pianist and arranger, showcased his brilliance not only as an arranger but also as a performer. Sometimes switching to a vintage Fender Rhodes keyboard, with its nostalgic analog tones, took us back to the golden days of soulful jazz.
Gregory eloquently introduced each song but also spoke about the influence of San Diego on his music, emphasizing the city’s vibrant jazz scene. “San Diego has a versatile music scene including all different types of jazz. The sand, the sea, the energy, and the mix of cultures are super important. That energy in my music was cultivated here in San Diego over 20 years ago when I lived here,” he shared. This sentiment was palpable throughout the performance, as Porter’s music resonated deeply with this local audience.
The performance made it abundantly clear that this is what we, as a society, need right now. Uplifting, caring, and respectful music—creative, thought-provoking, generous, and real. Gregory Porter’s music embodies these qualities, making him a beacon of hope and inspiration in today’s music scene. This concert was not just a highlight of the festival; it was a reminder of the power of music to heal, uplift, and bring people together.
One particularly memorable moment was when the band shifted into a gospel-infused piece. The Hammond B3, with its rich, full-bodied sound, paired perfectly with Porter’s voice, creating a soundscape that felt both timeless and contemporary. It was as if the audience was transported to a different place and time, where music was not just heard but deeply felt. Another highlight was the interplay between Porter and saxophonist Tivon Pennicott, as his tenor sax melodies were not just accompaniments but dialogues with Porter’s voice. Their musical conversation added a layer of intimacy and immediacy to the performance, making each song feel like a spontaneous creation rather than a rehearsed routine.
Tivon Pennicott
Photo By Jack Cohen
Porter reminisced about his early days in the San Diego jazz community, expressing gratitude for the support he received. “A person who really helped me was trumpet player Gilbert Castellanos. He was super encouraging, pushing me to get on stage. The great Daniel Jackson, saxophone player, and many other San Diego musicians really helped me,” Porter said. His heartfelt acknowledgment of these mentors added a touching layer to the evening.
In closing, Gregory Porter’s performance at the 5th Annual San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival was more than just a concert; it was a transformative experience. His ability to blend soul, jazz, and profound lyricism into a cohesive whole is a testament to his mastery as an artist. For someone experiencing Porter live for the first time, like me, it was an awakening—a realization of the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect souls.
About Roger Friend:
Roger’s musical career spans over four decades of diverse experience. Touring in more than 100 countries, he has played with artists such as Tom Jones, ABBA, Tom Scott, The Rippingtons, BB King, and Dweezil Zappa. He has performed for kings, queens, presidents, and other distinguished audiences. Roger has won two Grammys and two Emmys, further solidifying his place in the music world. As an educator and percussion facilitator, he inspires aspiring drummers through private lessons and workshops, while also working with leading drum and percussion manufacturers. For more information, visit rogerfriend.com
