Jane Monheit and Nicholas Payton

Born in New Orleans, Nicholas Payton is a celebrated trumpeter known for his vibrant post-bop jazz infused with genres like funk, R&B, and hip-hop. He gained recognition in the '90s, touring with Elvin Jones and Marcus Roberts. Payton won a Grammy for his 1997 collaboration with Doc Cheatham and coined the term “Black American Music.” His notable albums include Gumbo Nouveau, Sonic Trance, and Afro-Caribbean Mixtape. He has collaborated with artists like Wynton Marsalis and Joshua Redman and showcased at venues like New York's Smoke Jazz & Supper Club.

Jane Monheit, raised in Oakdale, NY, is a jazz vocalist known for her “phenomenal” voice. Honored at Manhattan School of Music, she’s acclaimed for rich performances with her band.