Unforgettable Jazz Night at Catalina Jazz Club with Kaylene Peoples, Bunny Brunel, and Gwyn Foxx 2.0 Live

Friday, August 11th, 2023 marked an electrifying evening for Southern California music enthusiasts as they witnessed a captivating showcase of talent at the renowned Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood. The high-profile musical event had the much-anticipated performance by Kaylene Peoples: “A Journey Through Jazz.”

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The event’s lineup boasted legendary bassist Bunny Brunel, renowned for his fusion prowess, and the soulful vocals of Gwyn Foxx 2.0 Live, who paid homage to the iconic sounds of James Brown and Al Green. The night was masterfully hosted by television writer and comedian Kevin Foster, setting the stage for an extraordinary night of entertainment.

Kicking off the evening, Foster engaged the audience with his characteristic banter, building anticipation for the main acts. The stage was soon taken over by an all-star rhythm section and a five-piece horn ensemble that delivered the pulsating rhythms of James Brown’s music. Gwyn Foxx’s arrival, adorned in a glittering hooded cape, set the crowd in motion as she delivered a dynamic medley of James Brown hits, infusing her soulful energy into classics like “Get Up Off of That Thing” and “Please, Please, Please.” With unmatched charisma, Foxx’s performance had the audience dancing in their seats, eventually transitioning into a rich rendition of Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together” and her original single “Never Gonna Leave Me.”

Reflecting on her show-stopping performance, Gwyn Foxx expressed the unexpected inspiration behind her James Brown set and the electric connection she shared with the audience and fellow musicians. The night also showcased Bunny Brunel’s masterful bass artistry as he took center stage with his vintage upright bass, accompanied by a quartet of exceptional musicians. Brunel’s fluid and melodic soloing resonated with the audience, harkening back to a golden era of jazz.

Kaylene Peoples brought her signature charm to the stage, introducing her set with a martini in hand and a daring decision to abandon her setlist. The result was an authentic and immersive journey through classic jazz tunes that resonated deeply with the audience. Her performances of Bossa-nova favorites and renowned tracks like Chick Corea’s “Spain” left a lasting impact, amplified by her flute prowess and engaging stage presence.

The event gathered a notable audience, including industry figures like Chuck Dennis, Robin Lyle, Tal Hawkins, Leigh Bush, and more. The show was presented by First Take PR, with support from Music Magique and promotion by Verdell Adams. The evening’s dynamic performances, coupled with the historic venue’s ambiance, created a memorable experience that showcased the diverse talents of these esteemed artists and the magic of jazz.

(All images photographed by Karim Saafir)