Boney James to perform at Berks Jazz Fest in New Haven

Saxophonist, producer, and composer Boney James will perform at the Berks Jazz Fest on March 28 at the John Lyman Center (501 Crescent St, New Haven, CT 06515). The performance follows the release of his latest album, Slow Burn, issued by Concord Records in October 2024.

James, whose career spans more than three decades, has earned four Grammy nominations, three NAACP Image Award nominations, a Soul Train Award for Best Jazz Album, and four RIAA Gold Record certifications. In 2024, he became the first artist to achieve 20 number-one singles on the Billboard Smooth Jazz chart.

Slow Burn features a mix of original compositions and interpretations of classics, including Herbie Hancock and Bennie Maupin’s “Butterfly.” The album also showcases contributions from Marcus Miller, Cory Henry, Jairus Mozee, and rising R&B vocalist October London. James produced the record and co-wrote several tracks, blending acoustic and electric instrumentation for a mix of jazz, funk, and romantic ballads.

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“When I mentioned that phrase [Slow Burn] as a possible title, people said it also refers to my whole career,” James said. “This is my 19th record, and I feel like I’m just hitting my stride.”

James grew up in New Rochelle, New York, and began performing professionally at age 19. Over the years, he has collaborated with artists such as Teena Marie and The Isley Brothers while releasing a series of successful albums and touring extensively.

Tickets for the March 28 performance are available through the Berks Jazz Fest website. Click here to purchase tickets.

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Boney James to perform at Berks Jazz Fest in New Haven