Vibes of Greatness: Celebrationg the Icons of Jazz Vibes

Vibes of Greatness: "Unofficial SLAM" Celebrates the icons of jazz vibes

Friday, February 27th at the World-Famous, Catalina Jazz Club

Four icons. One instrument. Endless influence.
Lionel Hampton, Roy Ayers, Gary Burton & Milt Jackson.

Lionel Hampton, Roy Ayers, Gary Burton, and Milt Jackson are towering icons of the jazz vibraphone—artists who defined the instrument across generations. From Hampton’s electrifying swing and Milt Jackson’s soulful elegance, to Gary Burton’s groundbreaking innovations and Roy Ayers’ genre-crossing grooves, their music shaped the sound, spirit, and evolution of jazz.

"Unofficial Slam" is a dynamic performance and recording percussionist specializing in drum set, mallets, and timpani. Comfortable across jazz, classical, Caribbean, pop, and R&B, he brings versatility and precision to every stage. He has recorded for Gladys Knight and performed with acclaimed artists including Freddie Hubbard, Patti LaBelle, Chaka Khan, and Dionne Warwick. Slam has also appeared with the Long Beach Symphony and other respected ensembles. He has performed throughout the United States and internationally, including Japan, Mexico, and Australia, and studied at the University of Southern California and California State University, Long Beach.