Yearly Archives: 2025

April Newsletter


Upcoming Show: 
4/12/25 Pasadena, Second Saturdays Jazz Night w/ Jason Luckett & Friends, Featuring Gary Stockdale and Emily Zuzik… Read More »  RSVP on Facebook


Hey friends!

Thanks for opening this and being part of this community! I have a couple questions and updates to share, so please read on. 


April Shows & Booking More Gigs

April is pretty mellow in terms of shows — the only thing on the book is our Second Saturdays Jazz Night at Archetype Yoga on April 12. But I’d like to be playing more, especially after last month’s mini-tour. 

So, my first question: Do you know of some good venues near you, or would you be interested in hosting a house concert? I’m looking to perform out of town—or in town—Thursday–Sundays in April and May. More on that in a sec. 


Upcoming Songwriters Workshop

I’m planning a 3-day songwriters workshop in a beautiful home in Santa Monica with gorgeous, peaceful places to write. 

My questions for you: 

  • What do you look for in a creative workshop/retreat?
  • If you’ve done songwriting retreats before, what worked (or didn’t work) for you? 
  • Would you be interested in taking a course with me? 
  • Knowing me as many of you have over the years, what would you most like to learn with me?

Sound Play & Story

The Sound Play and Story class at GenSpace.

This leads me to why I’m focusing on Thursday–Sunday for shows … 

Last month I mentioned I’d be teaching at Annenberg GenSpace. In the course I’ve put together, we use sound and object based techniques to access our creativity and stories. I’ve loved it so much that I’m staying on Mondays and Wednesdays this month. It’s also inspired me to lead more workshops—not just for older adults, but for the curious of all ages. (Let me know if you’re interested, and I’ll tell you more about it!)

I love Wallis Annenberg’s vision of “creating a destination dedicated to enriching and expanding the lives of older adults by forging new relationships and creative expression through storytelling, technology, art, and horticultural therapy in beautiful green spaces.” 

Building community through creative exchange has always been the highest desire of my work. So I’m aiming to do more workshops and other activities to bring people together through our creativity. I’d love your help with that!


Second Saturdays: Volunteers & Support Needed!

I may have already hit the TL;DR (too long, didn’t read) threshold for some, but before you jump off—please remember to check out the great artists we have coming up for Second Saturdays on April 12: Gary Stockdale and Emily Zuzik. More info is at [this link]. 

The Roswell Sisters
The Roswell Sisters at last month’s Second Saturdays.

And, with regard to Second Saturdays Jazz Night w/Jason Luckett & Friends, I’m looking for volunteers to help keep it running smoothly. Specifically, 

  • Publicity help
  • Set-up and sound assistance on the nights of the show
  • A videographer (would be amazing)
  • Help for Sara and Jen for greeting and concessions
  • A fiscal sponsor to help sustain the series (so we can better support the musicians)

I’m so grateful for those who drop in their $25 or any donation each month! And, as we’ve moved to Saturdays, having a little extra funding/sponsorship would help us to keep bringing in the players accustomed to bigger payouts for weekend gigs.

Danette Christine, with Adam Levy and Jono at last month’s Second Saturdays.

We’ve built such a beautiful community. The musicians all love to play for us. I just want to keep it going strong—while also making sure I don’t topple from wearing too many hats (on top of my typical fedora!). So please let me know if you’re able to help with any of the above. 


Speaking of community…

In class today, we had almost a dozen non-musicians singing in improvised four-part harmony. One of them said, “It’s so hard to stay on my part.” This led to a discussion about the essence of standing in your integrity, while listening to others, in service of creating a beautiful, larger whole. It just seemed like a perfect metaphor for so many things in life. I love the lessons music teaches us!

Thanks again for your support and commitment to staying connected. I appreciate you so much! I hope to see you on the 12th or soon!

J

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Posted in Blog, News, Second Saturdays Jazz Night

4/12/25 Pasadena, Second Saturdays Jazz Night with JL & Friends

Gary Stockdale and Emily Zuzik will join us on April 12 for our third show of the year in our new location! [RSVP on Facebook]

Gary and I met, I think, doing a show called Sit’n’Spin at the Hudson Theater years ago. I loved that series, kind of a live This American Life or The Moth that featured mostly comedy writers, reading pieces, eliciting laughs and tears. Gary often did the music and for my first visit, I actually read one of my essays. 

Gary has a new one man show, Showstopper, that’s playing at The Whitefire Theater throughout April, so we’re really lucky to have him join us again. His writing reminds me of a mix of Henry Mancini and Randy Newman, with a touch of Tom Lehrer. 

Despite having many people in common, I just met Emily Zuzik in Cambria at the Sam Cooke tribute and happily got to play along with her. She’s got a new EP, age + alchemy, coming out May 2. It’s a brilliantly tough roots rock record, from what I’ve enjoyed so far. But on the 12th, she’ll be exploring some standards and jazz oriented originals. I’ll be playing with her, too. 

The format in the new venue, is the same as it’s been for the past two years, I’ll usually bring up my guests for their sets, then close the night with a set of my own. But it’s unpredictable. We switch things up and often collaborate. We want you to stay for the full 2 1/2 hour evening. 

One thing to look out for is that we’re on the third floor there, so if you need the elevator, please let me know. It’s in the back and one of the staff will have to let you in. I’m sure this will all get down to a science as we develop, but bear with us as we get everything going. Street parking is available, or there are lots behind Urth Cafe and next to Basecamp Fitness (across the street from the Pasadena Playhouse). 

Second Saturdays Jazz Night w/ Jason Luckett & Friends
Saturday, March 8, 2025
7:30 Doors,
8pm Showtime, runs until 10:30

Performing:
Gary Stockdale 
Emily Zuzik
Jason Luckett

Hosted by Jason Luckett

Suggested donation: $25 at the door or online
Venmo: @jasonluckett (venmo.com/jasonluckett)
PayPal.me/jasonluckett
Eventbrite: https://bit.ly/3FMPOZo
(100% goes to the musicians).

Archetype Yoga
638 E. Colorado Blvd. Ste. 301
Pasadena, CA 91101
626-345-5676

In Playhouse Village in the heart of Pasadena, just around the corner from the Playhouse, plenty of parking on Colorado or in the city lot behind Urth Cafe. 

Enter through the front, we’re on the third floor. Let us know if you need an elevator and will let you in the back through the alley. 626-345-5676

IG: @firstfridaysjazznight @jasonluckett @archetypeyoga

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Posted in Shows

2/22/25 Seasons of Love: Live Music, Dance and Storytelling to Benefit those in our community affected by the Eaton fire

I’ll be joining this amazing group of artists in this great community theater center for a song or two to benefit those affected by the Eaton Fire. BUY TICKETS

Posted in Shows Past

March Mailer

Roswell Sisters, Danette Christine, and Jason Luckett Flyer for March 8

Upcoming Dates

2/28/25 CCEJ’S 2025 ROOTS OF JUSTICE CONVENING The Roots of Justice Convening will be a full day … Read More » 

3/1/22 MORRO BAY, THE SAVORY PALETTE Doing a set of my own and a set with … Read More » 

3/2/25 CAMBRIA, SAM COOKE TRIBUTE Come celebrate the music of soul music legend Sam Cooke …Read More » 

3/8/25 PASADENA, SECOND SATURDAYS JAZZ NIGHT WITH JL & FRIENDS We’re back for our second show of the year in …Read More »

Hey friends!

First off, thank you so much for being part of this list and community. This is going to be a relatively quick one. I’m so excited about all that’s coming up, and I’m trying to balance sleep and prep for the gigs which are all unique to themselves.

Friday, I’ll be in Long Beach, CA for the CCEJ‘s annual Roots of Justice Convening breakfast.

Photo of Jason at CCEJ 2024

Saturday, I’ll be in Morro Bay doing a set of my own — and accompanying Zoe Fitzgerald Carter for her set — at the Savory Palette.

Sunday, I’ll be in Cambria for a tribute to Sam Cooke at the Cambria Performing Arts Center.

New photo of me by Mo Cee, trying to emulate Sam!

And Monday I start a 4 week, 8 workshop course back in LA at GenSpace for seniors, teaching creative approaches to singing and writing. I’ve done one off workshops like this before, but never an extended course like this. I’m really excited. They’ve got a very dynamic community there!

The following Saturday, March 8 is our second, Second Saturdays Jazz Night at Archetype Yoga in Pasadena. This is such a beautiful community and I’m so happy I get to keep bringing friends in to see my friends there. For our March 8 show we have Danette Christine, and a close harmony vocal group, The Roswell Sisters.

I go into detail about all of these events on jasonluckett.com/category/shows. Please go there for all the info, or click the links above.

We had a great show to start the year at Archetype. And the benefit for those affected by the Eaton Fire was sold out at Lineage Performing Arts Center. I’m really excited by the dancers and singers there, most of whom will be in their upcoming production of RENT. If you’d like to contribute to the fire fund, go to lineagepac.org and note in the comments/special requests that you want it to go to the fire fund. It was heartbreaking to hear the stories of friends there, but it felt good to know many are getting lots of help and moving forward with such a positive spirit.

Lastly, I’ve been steeped in some of the great stuff that comes in the 28 days devoted to Black History each year. Hiking with my audio books, I listened to James Baldwin’s “The Fire Next Time,” followed by “Between The World and Me,” by Ta-Nehisi Coates. And I’m about half way through Percival Everett’s, “James.” And I just watched the brilliant PBS documentary on Hazel Scott. All of this has lit a fire in me! Delve in for a visit or revisit. I think you’ll be similarly inspired.

Oh, and I went to see Shonda Buchanan talk about her new collection of poems on Nina Simone, along with readings and performances by Lynne Thompson, and Nailah Porter and Deron Johnson. The book’s out in May. I ran into Sonja Marie and found out she’s doing her first show in years tomorrow night at the Del Monte Speakeasy in Venice. All info can be found with a Google search.

Love you all. Be good to yourselves. Spread the word about these gigs and let’s build these communities. It’s easy to forget how essential our IRL communities are and how healing they can be.

J

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Posted in Blog, Mailing List

SSJN 2/8/25: Cathy Segal-Garcia & Gary Fukushima

Cathy and I met probably a decade ago when her group Fish To Birds, an a cappella improvised singing group, was forming, I even sat in with them a few times! She’s been a long time influential presence on the jazz vocal scene in Los Angeles and a tireless champion of jazz of all kinds, and now hosts live broadcasts from Kulak’s Woodshed. Cathy & jazz pianist Gary Fukushima have had a wonderful musical relationship for many years. They are the founders of “The Moment”, a quirky modern-jazz & improvisational quintet with synth, guitar, tenor, and percussion.

I’m excited to have Cathy and Gary back with us on the 8th!

JASON LUCKETT  

Date City Venue
Jason Luckett Pasadena Residency: Second Saturdays Jazz Night+
Saturday, 04/12/25 Pasadena, CA Archetype Yoga
Time: 7:30pm. Admission: $25 suggested donation. Age restrictions: All Ages. Address: 638 E. Colorado Blvd. Ste. 301. Venue phone: 626-345-5676.

Emily Zuzik
Gary Stockdale
Jason Luckett

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Posted in Blog, Second Saturdays Jazz Night

SSJN 2/8/25: Cheryl Barnes & Phil Cabasso, with Leo Nobre

CHERYL D. BARNES,  SINGER

Known principally as a Jazz singer, Cheryl’s versatility encompasses many musical genres.  Singing in four languages, Cheryl has performed around the world (including sharing the stage with J.J. Johnson, Wynton Marsalis, Quincy Jones, and a guest member spot with the world renowned Clara Ward Singers), and has recorded with a score of respected and beloved artists.  Her 16 years of Operatic training have brought her to the stage as a featured soloist with the Denver Symphony Orchestra, the Florida Orchestra and the Lawrence University Orchestra in Appleton, Wisconsin.  She has toured extensively throughout South America and the Caribbean, nurturing her love for Samba, Bossa Nova, Salsa and the riches of Latin and Afro-Cuban music. Her tours in Europe and Asia enthralled audiences.

A sought-after vocal clinician conducting numerous workshops and clinics across the U.S., she is also a founding member of the Jazz Vocal Coalition and retains an esteemed musical presence in Los Angeles, having been heard on stages ranging from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art’s prestigious  Friday Jazz Series to the Hollywood Bowl to the Hollywood and Las Vegas branches of the House of Blues.

What sets Cheryl apart from others is her incredible voice, which imbues each word she sings with a beauty and clarity all its own, taking the listener along on an extraordinary journey.  She opens her soul through her music and aims to make a direct connection with every listener.

She has created and performed a one woman show on the life of the great singer/dancer/actress Ethel Waters and has produced and participated in numerous recording projects.  Her most recent is entitled LISTEN TO THIS.  It features a remarkable cast of players including John Beasley, Rahn Coleman(Producer), Brandon Fields, John Hammond, Rickey Minor and, most notably, her husband and esteemed keyboardist/arranger, Phillip Cabasso, M.D.

Cheryl D. Barnes  brings a singular warmth and empathy to every line she sings, engaging listeners from a purr to a power belt.  Beloved around the world as a captivating live performer, she is one artist not to be missed.  

Visit Cheryl’s website for more in-depth reviews and information.  www.cheryldbarnes.com 

PHILLIP CABASSO….Jazz Piano, Arranger, Composer

Beginning at age 5, Phillip Cabasso began a life long musical journey.  Piano lessons, music in school, studying arranging and composition and performing on piano and trombone…all culminating in a 30 year collaboration with his wife, jazz singer Cheryl Barnes.  Their group, usually a trio with piano, bass and drums, performs regularly and wows audiences with their precision playing and artful renditions of jazz standards, R and B, Brazilian, as well as original compositions. This career taking place throughout university and medical school studies,  and as a respected full time internal medicine physician. He considers himself extremely fortunate to play with some of the greatest musicians in the world, not to mention, to be the musical director for the fabulous Ms Barnes!

JASON LUCKETT  

Date City Venue
Jason Luckett Pasadena Residency: Second Saturdays Jazz Night+
Saturday, 04/12/25 Pasadena, CA Archetype Yoga
Time: 7:30pm. Admission: $25 suggested donation. Age restrictions: All Ages. Address: 638 E. Colorado Blvd. Ste. 301. Venue phone: 626-345-5676.

Emily Zuzik
Gary Stockdale
Jason Luckett

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Posted in First Fridays Jazz Night, Second Saturdays Jazz Night

2/8/25, Pasadena: Second Saturdays Jazz Night w/ Jason Luckett & Friends

I’m back from India! And I hope you’ll join us for the first Second Saturdays Jazz+ Night with Jason Luckett & Friends of the year! We’re at Archetype Yoga in Pasadena. We’re continuing the practice of bringing great music to non-traditional rooms, supported by businesses that give all the ticket money to us artists putting on the show! It’s a blessing in these times.

I’m excited to have vocalist and arranger Cathy Segal-Garcia and pianist Gary Fukushima back with us for the first time since 2023. Cathy is an anchor of the jazz and vocal improvisation scene in Los Angeles with whom I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating at various times over the past decade or so. She brings creative and earthy arrangements to classics and her original music and Gary is a perfect partner for her, with his breadth of experience. (In addition to being a fine pianist, he’s also a jazz journalist and educator.)

Cathy introduced me to vocalist Cheryl Barnes and pianist Phil Cabasso who joined us in January 2024 with the brilliant Brazilian bassist, Leo Nobre. Cheryl and Phil are also brilliant arrangers of standards covering a broad spectrum of Bossa nova, straight ahead jazz and they even did a great version of the Spinners classic, “People Make the World Go Round” the last time they were with us!

The format is the same as it’s been for the past two years, I’ll introduce with a song or two, then bring up my guests for their sets, then I’ll usually close the night with a set of my own. 

The only thing to look out for is that we’re on the third floor there, so if you need the elevator, please let me know. It’s in the back and one of the staff will have to let you in. I’m sure this will all get down to a science as we develop, but bear with us as we get everything going.

Second Saturdays Jazz Night w/ Jason Luckett & Friends
Saturday, February 8, 2025
7:30 Doors,
8pm Showtime, runs until 10:30

Performing:
Chery Barnes + Phil Cabasso + Leo Nobre
Cathy Segal-Garcia + Gary Fukushima
Jason Luckett (@jasonluckett)

Hosted by Jason Luckett

Suggested donation: $20 at the door or online
Venmo: @jasonluckett
PayPal.me/jasonluckett
(100% goes to the musicians)
or through Eventbrite

Archetype Yoga
638 E. Colorado Blvd. Ste. 301
Pasadena, CA 91101
626-345-5676

In Playhouse Village in the heart of Pasadena, just around the corner from the Playhouse, plenty of parking on Colorado or in the city lot behind Urth Cafe. 

Enter through the front, we’re on the third floor. Let us know if you need an elevator and will let you in the back through the alley. 626-345-5676

IG: @firstfridaysjazznight @jasonluckett @archetypeyoga

RSVP here by leaving a comment, or visit the Facebook event page.

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Posted in Shows Past

2/28/25 CCEJ’s 2025 Roots of Justice Convening

Photo of Jason at CCEJ 2024

The Roots of Justice Convening will be a full day opportunity for dialogue, learning and reflection. Our keynote speaker is Jenan Mohajir with Interfaith America. Join us for meaningful conversations and workshops geared towards building bridges in divided times.

For more info and to register, go to the CCEJ’s website: https://www.cacej.org/convening

For a discounted ticket price, contact Vanessa Rodriguez at vrodriguez@cacej.org.

History of the Event: Since the 1990’s, CCEJ has hosted an annual community Breakfast, known throughout the years as the “Interfaith Breakfast” and “Interfaith Intercultural Breakfast” to bring people of different identities together and share in the vision of a truly inclusive community. Over the past several years, in response to community requests for a more in-depth experience, CCEJ broadened our annual event to an all-day convening, with dialogue groups and workshops to spark individual “a-ha” moments in service of personal and institutional transformation.

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Posted in Shows Past

3/1/22 Morro Bay, The Savory Palette

Doing a set of my own and a set with Zoe FitzGerald Carter the night before the Sam Cooke Tribute at the Cambria Performing Arts Center.

Posted in Shows Past

3/2/25 Cambria, Sam Cooke Tribute

Come celebrate the music of soul music legend Sam Cooke on Sunday March 2. at Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre (CCAT)! We’ll cover his hits (You Send MeCupidBring It On Home to MeAnother Saturday Night) and deep cuts from his extensive discography. 

The performers include Zoe Fitzgerald Carter, Mike Berman, Jesse Loren Strickman, Emily Zuzik, Justin Christian, Sebastian Luna, Jason Luckett, and Adrian Bourgeois.

The concert is produced by Songwriters at Play, husband-wife team Steve Key and Bonnie Nelson-Key. Their tributes at CCAT have included the music of Aretha Franklin, Smokey Robinson, Dollie Parton, Willie Nelson, James Taylor, Carole King, Jackson Browne, Bonnie Raitt, Joan Baez, and Bob Dylan. find out more about Songwriters at Play here. https://songwritersatplay.com

Just a little fun from a photo shoot with Mo Cee!

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Posted in Shows Past