Over the years we have met a number of smooth jazz artists and we have included some photos. More information on these artists and other smooth jazz artists will be found on the page "Smooth Jazz Artists".
Former station manager Terry Gaynon with Sax player Boney James.
Terry Gaynon and Keiko Matsui. Keiko started playing piano when she was 6 years old and was voted the best female smooth jazz artist 2 years running. She uses her classical training and love of jazz and new age to bring a unique blend of music. Graham Johnson interviewed Keiko a few years ago and that was featured on a 2 hour special that Graham produced called "From Keiko with Love".
Terry Gaynon with keyboard player Brian Culbertson. Although still young, Brian has made his mark on smooth jazz music.
Graham with smooth jazz sax player Igor. Igor was born in Russia and became part of the Russian jazz scene before migrating to Australia. Here he has established himself as a sax player of world renown. He has been described by one jazz critic as "like Kenny G but more versatile". Igor's latest release has stayed at the top of the English smooth jazz charts for a long time and he has worked in various parts of Asia.
Ottmar Liebert is a world renowned new age flamenco guitarist. Born in Germany, he travelled widely before settling in the US. On a recent trip to Australia, he dropped in to chat on-air with Graham Johnson.
Terry Gaynon with smooth jazz sax player Paul Taylor.
One of Australia's top sax players, Andrew Oh, with vocalist Maz taken at a friend's wedding.
Graham Johnson with recording artist Silvana. Silvana was born in Russia and migrated to Australia where she attended the Conservatorium High School and studied piano, sax, and voice. She established a career in Sydney night clubs before venturing to the US where she found a number of opportunities. She has done some movie and TV work, as well as modelling and singing. She is based in Los Angeles and her debut CD says it all - "From Sydney to LA".
L to R - Grant Christopher, Chris Botti and Graham Johnson. Chris visited our studios while in Australia with Sting on their world tour. Chris went on air with Grant for an hour. After that he spoke by phone to Art Good of Jazztrax for an hour. Graham recorded this end of the conversation and Art recorded his. Art put this interview to air and also on his website. After this, Graham recorded Chris doing promotions for smooth jazz concerts in various US cities. He had 9 pages of script to do! After this he returned to his city hotel and went on stage with Sting that night.
Steve Clisby of Miracle 8 regularly performs at the Transistor Cafe in Parramatta. Joining him were (back left to right) Paul Savrimoutou, Graham Johnson, Reg Collen. (front row) Steve Clisby, Helena Johnson, Tracy Steyn.
Terry Gaynon (left) with keyboard player Sam McNally. Sam plays solo or as part of the group Stylus.
The smooth jazz announcers at 2CCR-FM supported a charitable fundraising concert to assist autism. A number of smooth jazz musicians and vocalists donated their services and it was a great night. From left sax player Andrew Oh, station manager Helena Johnson, guitarist Albert Calvo, and keyboard player Noel Elmowy, who also features in the group Espirito.
The Philippines' Bossa Nova Queen, Sitti Navarro on a recent Sydney concert. Joining Sitti on stage was Graham, but, no, he did not sing!!
Graham with international singing star, Janet Basco, on a recent tour of Australia. Janet sings a variety of songs from soft ballads to jazz tracks.
Graham with Raul Midon on a recent concert with Lee Ritenour at Sydney's Basement.
