Kenny Washington Quartet

Grammy-nominated vocalist Kenny Washington brings his legendary scat singing and four-octave range to Keys Jazz Bistro for another edition of what the venue calls "concert thrills and spills." Washington is a master of the jazz vocal tradition, blending the classic styles of Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan with contemporary R&B influences from Stevie Wonder and Donny Hathaway. His fearless, inventive scatting — informed by his saxophone background — alternates percussive, trumpet-like sounds with soaring, melodic phrasing that critics describe as "rapid-fire, passionate, and melodious."

Expect an evening of swing and bebop interpretations, with Washington's liquid tone on ballads and his precise intonation that makes every note count. His repertoire draws from jazz standards and easy-listening classics, featuring songs like "Bewitched," "All Blues," and "What a Difference a Day Makes." The quartet format allows space for intimate interplay, with Washington often opening tunes with delicious scat introductions before letting his rhythm section shine.

Washington's stage presence is both sweet and sassy, creating what reviewers call "endearing sincerity" in his delivery. His performances have been described as having a "free, playful approach" that captures audiences whether he's crooning a heartfelt ballad or embarking on vocal explorations that transport listeners. The Cabaret Scenes review noted his "electric" performances and "sublime" musical collaborations.

This Bay Area favorite has shared stages with Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, appearing alongside Gregory Porter and Paula West in prestigious venues worldwide. His extensive touring has taken him from Jazz at Lincoln Center to festivals in Japan, Russia, and beyond, earning him recognition as what one critic called "the superman of the Bay Area jazz scene" and "the premiere male vocalist on the planet today."