Latest news with #KennyG
New Straits Times
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Kenny G serenades Malaysia with timeless sax appeal
KENNY G is something of an acquired taste. For some, he's a legend; for others, smooth jazz is a complete snoozefest. However, the Grammy-winning saxophonist pulled in a nearly full house for his recent 'Timeless Legacy' concert, which took place at Genting Highlands' Arena of Stars, and reminded everyone why his smooth sound has stuck around for decades. As a jazz fan, I've always known Kenny G lived in that strange in-between of pop-jazz and background music. It's not complex, so I can understand why people gravitate towards his sounds. It works. It's comforting. Call it 'safe sax'. The moment he stepped into the aisles playing 'Loving You,' spinning around mid-solo and waving at fans like a wind-blown Kenny G bobblehead, the crowd lit up. He hadn't even reached the stage yet when he held a single note for over a minute. That's child's play for the man who once famously held a note for 45 minutes straight! Showmanship aside, the crowd was already sold. The audience, mostly older fans, welcomed him like a long-lost friend. Many had grown up with his music playing in the background of their lives: at hotel lobbies, dinners and Sunday brunches. His music had a way of showing up whether you asked for it or not. Midway through, he paused to say, "Saya cinta Malaysia!" drawing loud cheers. "How's my accent?" he asked with a grin. Then, pointing at his band, he added, "I'm fluent in Malay, but I'll speak English for these guys." A cheeky moment, perfectly timed. Then the band took over and everything shifted. Percussionist Ron Powell stole the show when he turned the night into a party. His solo had the entire crowd clapping, cheering, and bobbing along. He brought rhythm, heart, and a whole lot of fun. Guitarist John Raymond kept the groove steady, locked in from the first chord. Drummer Daniel Bejarano added punch and fire without breaking the chill vibe. Bassist Vail Johnson had moments that bordered on rockstar and Robert Damper, Kenny's friend since high school, added rich, effortless layers on the piano. The setlist hit every expected note. 'Songbird', 'Forever in Love', a Chinese classics medley that included 'The Moon Represents My Heart' and 'The Moment', and others all drew big reactions. There was 'Desafinado', his homage to Stan Getz, which brought the audience to a jazz lounge. Ending with his cover of 'My Heart Will Go On', it was the perfect finish to the two-hour-long show. Critics may still argue whether what Kenny plays counts as "real" jazz. His influences, like Grover Washington Jr., faced similar pushback for straying too close to pop. But as Kenny floated above the chords with that signature silky tone, it was clear that he was just playing what felt good and easy. As the show, organised by Star Planet, wrapped, Kenny announced he'd be signing CDs and taking photos with fans, and judging by the eager queue forming near the exit, the love was mutual. People clutched their CDs like treasured possessions. When I entered the hall, I thought I only knew Kenny G by name as I couldn't recall the names of his songs, even though the melodies are familiar. Halfway through the show, I realised his music was already part of my memory. I'd heard it everywhere — from airport lounges to cafes; gently soundtracking the in-between spaces of my life. You don't seek Kenny G. He just shows up. The crowd left happy, and Kenny G proved once again that while trends may change, his notes and his charm still blow strong.
Time Out Abu Dhabi
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
These are the best places to sing your heart out at karaoke in Abu Dhabi
Whether you're hitting the high notes like Beyoncé or mumbling your way through Bohemian Rhapsody, there's a karaoke spot in Abu Dhabi with your name on it. From buzzing sports bars and retro British pubs to neon-lit K-pop booths and late-night Filipino favourites, the capital has something for every kind of performer. So warm up those vocal cords, choose your go-to track, and get ready to bring the house down (or at least get a few cheers from the crowd). Here are the best places in Abu Dhabi to sing your heart out – no talent required, just guts and good vibes. Appaloosa Sports Bar Warm up those vocal cords – Karaoke Night is calling at Appaloosa Sports Bar. Every Friday from 7.30pm, it's your time to shine with your favourite tracks, a buzzing crowd, and good vibes all night long. Whether you're a shower singer or stage star, this is the mic drop moment your weekend needs. Fridays, 7.30pm. Marriott Al Forsan. (02 201 4131). Porters English Pub By no means is this a karaoke specialist, but in the tradition of the best British pubs a good old sing-song is encouraged. Especially on a Saturday night when karaoke machine is wheeled out and free beverages are given to those willing to sing for their supper. Saturday 4pm-9am. Grand Millennium Al Wahda, Abu Dhabi, (02 495 3936). Shams Boutik Ready to live out your K-pop dreams? Step into private coin karaoke booths at Al Wahda Mall or Shams Boutik Al Reem and belt your heart out to your favourite hits for just Dhs45 for 30 minutes. Whether you're chasing that K-drama moment or just vibing with your tone-deaf homies, this experience has all the lights, mics, and photo ops to make it a memory worth snapping. Dhs45 (30 mins). Daily, 11am-11pm. Al Wahda Mall & Shams Boutik Al Reem, @ Sing Galing Bar & Restaurant Over on Al Meena Street the mic is always hot and the energy never drops. Open every night, this all-out karaoke spot is a go-to for anyone ready to belt out their favourite hits, whether you're a pop princess, rock king, or power ballad pro. With open mic nights, live tunes from EMS, and a buzzing crowd every evening, it's a party that doesn't quit. Plus, kabayan friends get a warm shoutout complete with unlimited iced tea. Daily 4pm-3.30pm. Sing Galing Bar & Restaurant, Al Meena Street. (056 236 5068). Taste of Korea Another Korean restaurant that just can't resist handing out karaoke microphones with the all-you-can-eat barbecue. Unlike some of the specialist singing joints there might be a few fellow-diners who are more interested in their kimchi than your Kenny G, but if you can't resist dinner with a mic then come ready to sing. Sun-Weds 2pm-9pm. Cristal Hotel, Electra Street, Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi (056 396 0639). You might also like… Abu Dhabi's best restaurants: Everywhere you should eat at least once Your dinner inspo is sorted 12 fantastic road trips across the GCC Fill up the tank and go Abu Dhabi to Dubai by bus: How to travel between the two cities Everything you need to know, from getting a Nol card to bus timetables Old Abu Dhabi: 15 best spots to uncover the history of the capital Peel back the layers of time
Time Out
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Single in the City: Where to find love in Cape Town this July
Retro Arcade Night Who says a date has to be all serious candlelight and Kenny G in the background? Sometimes, the best kind of date is tapping into your inner kid, letting loose, and having a blast playing games at Barcadia – the perfect mix of bar and arcade. What to expect: Over 100 singles ready to have fun Maybe some flirty glances flying over the air hockey table Plenty of laughs and good vibes – exactly what we all need Event details: Date: 17 July Time: 7 pm Age: 21 and older Tickets: Between R150 and R240. Click here to purchase a ticket.
Borneo Post
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Kenny G dazzles Sabah in long-awaited debut
Kenny G performing at SICC. KOTA KINABALU (July 12): Fans packed a ballroom of the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) to watch world-renowned saxophonist Kenny G perform there for the first time yesterday. Over 3,500 fans from Sabah, as well as neighbouring Sarawak and Brunei flocked to the venue where Kenny performed as part of his 'Timeless Legacy' World Tour. A fan who worked in Kuching, Sarawak, said she took two days off to ensure she wouldn't miss the show, which she described as a 'once in a lifetime event'. She added that she deliberately bought tickets for the front row for herself and her parents, although it is costlier. 'And why now? I am a big fan of Kenny G and this chance may not past my way again,' she added. The Grammy Award-winning artist, who is 69 this year, made a memorable entrance by walking through the aisles while performing his opening piece, 'Loving You,' on the saxophone, personally greeting fans as he made his way to the stage. The intimate, heartfelt gesture immediately established a warm and personal atmosphere, drawing the audience into a night defined by musical brilliance, sincerity and emotional resonance. Backed by his exceptional band, Kenny delivered a masterful setlist of hits like 'Songbird,' 'Forever in Love,' and 'The Moment,' along with a moving rendition of 'My Heart Will Go On.' While onstage, he introduced each of his bandmates: his longtime bandmate Robert Damper on piano, whom he said has been playing music with him since his school days; John Ramond on guitar; Daniel Bejarano on drums; Ron Powell on percussion; and Vail Johnson on bass. During his performance, Kenny spoke in Malay, 'Saya cinta Malaysia' and 'Terima kasih ke atas kehadiran kamu.' As the audience continued to cheer for him, he asked, 'How is my accent? Good accent?' 'Kini saya akan memainkan lagu sentimental. Thank you very much,' he added. His bandmates, all accomplished musicians in their own right, were given time to shine, delivering energetic and technically impressive solo sections that added flair, rhythm and dimension to the night's musical journey. A highlight included a medley of Chinese classics such as 'The Moon Represents My Heart,' connecting with the local audience. The polished production, immersive lighting, and rich acoustics contributed to an unforgettable night. The concert, presented by Star Planet, was a landmark cultural event for East Malaysia, cementing Kenny's timeless influence. Kenny continues his Malaysia tour with a performance at Arena of Stars, Resorts World Genting on July 13 at 6pm. Kenny, who is also composer, and producer celebrated for his signature smooth jazz sound, began playing saxophone at age 10 and rose to fame with his breakthrough 1986 album Duotones, featuring the hit single 'Songbird.' With over 75 million albums sold worldwide, he is the best-selling instrumentalist of the modern era. His smooth phrasing, melodic finesse, and soulful vibrato have won him fans across generations. He has collaborated with a wide range of artists, from Whitney Houston and Celine Dion to Kanye West and The Weeknd, proving his timeless appeal and musical versatility. With more than 20 studio albums to his name, Kenny continues to captivate global audiences, solidifying his legacy as an icon of instrumental music.
CNA
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- CNA
Legendary saxophonist Kenny G on streaming, AI, and being wildly popular in Asia
Legendary saxophonist and Grammy-winning artist Kenny G may be one of the most successful musicians of all time, but he confesses he is thankful he reached his peak before the age of streaming. 'Today, streaming does not pay very much money to artists other than like the top, top, top billion streaming artists. I'm not one of those. I'm popular enough, but it's not much,' he told CNA in an exclusive interview on Monday (Jul 7). When asked how he stays profitable and relevant, the 69-year-old joked that he has had to 'get a day job'. He added: 'I'm grateful that I grew up and had my music in the 80s and 90s and to the early 2000s, when we weren't streaming and people were actually buying CDs. That was very good … It doesn't happen like that anymore.' The American smooth jazz legend, who has sold more than 75 million records, said artistes like himself now need to use their music to 'let people know you're still around' as well as strike up deals and partnerships to turn a profit. Live shows – like the one he is giving on Tuesday evening – are also moneymakers, he added. He is playing a one-night show in Singapore at the Esplanade Concert Hall, two years after his last performance at Sands Theatre in Marina Bay Sands. He will also travel to Malaysia later this week to play in Sabah and Genting Highlands. POPULAR IN ASIA Kenny G remains remarkably popular in Asia, especially China where his 1990 song Going Home is widely used by businesses and organisations to signal their closing time for the day. He first found commercial success with his 1986 album Duotones, before winning his first Grammy Award in 1994 for the instrumental Forever in Love. He has won four Grammys in total and received 24 prestigious award nominations. Speaking to CNA, he said the music comes from his little studio room in his California home, and that it is 'pretty special' for it to 'touch people's hearts in all sorts of places in the world'. In terms of why his music resonates so strongly in Asia, he said Asian music is 'very melody-oriented'. 'I think that my music – because of the melodies – people can connect to it, because it's not just a bunch of random jazzy notes. Although we do a lot of those things in our live show, which is great - when I record my music, it's the melody that's the focal point,' he added. 'When I listen to the melodies of Asia, I like them, yeah? So I think that because I like them and they are pleasant to my ear, whatever I come up with which is also pleasant to my own, will translate to them.' For example, he plays The Moon Represents My Heart – made famous in the Chinese-speaking world by Taiwanese singer Teresa Teng in 1977 – when touring in China. On the other hand, he said he would never play it in his native United States as nobody would recognise it. 'When I learned it, I thought I really like this song. So again, I think it's a mutual love affair of a great melody,' he pointed out. View this post on Instagram A post shared by CNA (@channelnewsasia) NOT CONCERNED ABOUT AI As for the rising popularity of artificial intelligence, Kenny G was candid about not being concerned about it. Why? They can't pick up a saxophone to produce music, he said. 'That's a real human thing, so I'm never worried about that,' he added. 'When it comes to technology, I like to use it for what can make my music better.' With many of today's musicians creating music specifically and slowly to go viral on the popular short-video app TikTok, Kenny G said he thinks it is a 'good strategy' that will pay off in the long run. 'You can do 30 seconds of something in amazing quality, so I don't think the quality is an issue,' he noted. 'We'll make an Instagram post and I'll play something for 20 or 30 seconds because I know that it's important to keep yourself current. People pay attention to that. Brands pay attention to that.' Separately, when it comes to back catalogue sales – that is, when artistes sell the rights to their music for hefty sums of money – Kenny G said it would depend on the offer. But he added that he has not been offered enough. 'I actually own all of my music,' he revealed.
