2022 NAMM Show recap: performances, product innovations and wonderful instruments aplenty

Before attending NAMM Media Preview Day on Thursday, June 2, 2022, it had been more than two years since the music industry gathered in Anaheim for the NAMM Show (read my recap of the January 2020 NAMM Show HERE). 

Writer Robert Kinsler in front of the Anaheim Convention Center 
on June 4, 2022. Photo: Bob Steshetz 

The sense of eagerness for musicians and music industry representatives eager to get back into the world was palpable across the three days I spent at the event held at the Anaheim Convention Center. I wrote a quick update after attending preview events hosted by Martin Guitar and NAMM on June 2 (you can see that HERE), but here is my in-depth coverage of my experience at the 2022 NAMM Show, including reflections on performances and new products / instruments that caught my eye (and ears). And a very special "thank you" to photographer Bob Stesetz for the use of so many of his incredible photos taken during the NAMM Show!

Photographer Bob Steshetz, left, with saxophonist Mindi Abair.
Photo: Robert Kinsler

New Instruments, Gadgets & Gizmos!

Yamaha is always worth visiting and 2022 was no exception. I was truly impressed by the RSP20, one of the flagships of the second generation of Revstar; the affordable electric guitar (which retails for under $800) features carbon reinforcement in the neck and in the chambered body. It has dual humbucking pickups, combined with a five-position selector and a Focus Switch passive boost. I was able to play it for awhile on Saturday and really fell in love with its sound and the ease to play the instrument up and down the fretboard. The new Revstar series comes in three tiers: Element, Standard and the made-in-Japan Professional. Information: usa.yamaha.com. You can learn more on this exciting instrument HERE.

Yahama's Revstar was front and center
at the 2022 NAMM Show.
Photo: Robert Kinsler

After getting a glimpse of Minarik Guitars' 50th Anniversary Haunted Mansion custom guitar on Media Day, I went back to their booth on Friday to see what other guitars the Las Vegas, Nevada-based company was displaying. The company has really tapped into an area of the market with its custom shop's Art Series guitars. Check out the images below and watch a video on the Haunted Mansion guitar posted by TJR HERE. Information: MinarikGuitars.com.

The 50th Anniversary Haunted Mansion guitar.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

'Alice in Wonderland' is celebrated via Minarik Guitars'
Acoustic Series. Photo: Bob Steshetz

An electric guitar model from Minarik Guitars.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Drummers will want to check out the new EFNOTE 7X (EFD-7X) drum kit courtesy of Artesia. The multi-sensor kit will be released in September 2022, and will retail for approximately $4,500. Information: Artesia-pro.com. 

A close-up view of the impressive EFNOTE 7X. Photo: Bob Steshetz

I'm always excited to see the latest products from major brands such as Taylor Guitars, Martin Guitar, Deering Banjo Co. and Rickenbacker, but it's cool to discover new up-and-coming manufacturers as well.

Take the Orba 2, a follow-up to Artiphon's synth, looper and controller. A truly portable instrument that fits in the palm of your hand, the user can deliver the sounds of electric guitar and upright pianos, as well as collected audio sounds and even vocals. The Orba 2 retails for $149.99. Information: artiphon.com.

The Orba 2 retails for $149.99. Photo: Bob Steshetz

Guitar players who use a slide (or would like to) should check out the Thimble Slide, developed by Hermosa Beach, CA-based inventor Cole Coleman. The Thimble Slide is a mini-slide designed to be worn on the tip of a guitarist's 3rd finger, wit the front edge about halfway to tree-quarters down the fingernail toward the base. When worn there, a guitarist will see that all their fingers are available for fretting. The Thimble Slide is available in several sizes. Information: ThimbleSlide.com.

The Thimble Slide is available now. Photo: Robert Kinsler

I was able to meet with saxophonist-composer/vocalist Mindi Abair who came to NAMM to showcase her new signature Mindi Abair 2 alto mouthpiece produced by Theo Wanne. A celebrated artist and in-demand virtuoso musician since the release of her debut album in 2000, Abair told me that she has worked with Theo Wanne for a number of years to get the perfect mouthpiece and she is thrilled that it is available now. Information: TheoWanne.com.

Theo Wanne, left, with Mindi Abair at the NAMM Show on June 3.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Saxophone great Mindi Abair.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Favorite Performances & Special Events!

The first official performance of this year's NAMM Show was staged early Friday during the Breakfast of Champions event with a set from French duo RoSaWay. Fusing European jazz, world music and pop, the songs were built on flute and percussion with inviting female lead vocals. Information: rosaway.com.

RoSaWay performing at the NAMM Show on June 3, 2022. Photo: Bob Steshetz

RoSaWay, from left, Rachel and SteF. Photo: Bob Steshetz

Not long after RoSaWay finished their winning set, Multi-GRAMMY® winner, composer and performer Kenny Loggins was presented with the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) “Music for Life” award by NAMM President and CEO Joe Lamond. NAMM’s highest industry honor, the award was given at the opening Breakfast of Champions session in celebration of Loggins’ lifelong commitment to inspiring music makers everywhere.

Kenny Loggins, left, with NAMM President & CEO Joe Lamond.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

This writer was really impressed by Loggins' commitment to assisting young people get into music, instilling in them a love of music as opposed to seeking empty fame or stardom. “As far as music goes, music is in our DNA," Loggins said. "When I’m working with young artists, we’re talking about the love of music, its role, and its importance in our lives.” 

Kenny Loggins on June 3, 2022.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Michael Ubaldini performing on June 3, 2022.
Photo: Robert Kinsler

My Friday came to a perfect end with Michael Ubaldini's stirring set at the Sheraton Park Stage. As if performing at the NAMM Show wasn't special enough, June 3 also marked the official release date of the celebrated singer-songwriter's new album Rabbit Foot Carnival. Performing to the accompaniment of his acoustic guitar —  as well as his harmonica at times — Ubaldini's 45-minute set allowed him to offer up a mix of classic material and new songs from Rabbit Foot Carnival. Standouts of Ubaldini's 11-song set included the timely "Free Speech Blues," haunting "Song Of Our Time," rockabilly-mining "Don't Say Goodbye" and tender "The General Store." He ended his set with a powerful take on "The Offended," a powerful song aimed at those unwilling to listen or consider anything beyond their own limited view. For more information, visit rocknrollpoet.com.

I'm still not quite sure what to make of the Jam Galaxy Band's performance on the Yamaha Grand Plaza Stage on Saturday morning. The ensemble included a cast of real life musicians, as well as a robot named Desdemona — the latter offering up spoken word to a soundscape with layers were progressive rock and jazz meet. I can't say I loved the songs, but it was visually interesting. Information: JamGalaxy.com. 

Desdemona of the Jam Galaxy Band.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Photo: Bob Steshetz

Much better was guitar great Carl Verheyen's 45-minute outing staged on the same stage. Verheyen — best known for his role as lead guitarist in Supertramp and as a session player recording for the likes of the Bee Gees and Dolly Parton — impressed with a set of songs and instrumentals displaying his top-tier guitar and vocal skills. Verheyen was backed by a stellar trio of musicians who collectively elevated the set (bassist Dave Marotta, drummer John Mader and new keyboardist Troy Dexter). Highlights of his fast-moving set (that attracted a big crowd) included the blues-rock original "Stealing Gasoline," bouncy "Queen Bee" (a new song enhanced by a cool guitar intro) and "Clawhammer Man," the latter a track from his latest album Sundial featuring some especially soulful vocals from Verheyen.  Information: CarlVerheyen.com.

Carl Verheyen at NAMM on June 4.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

From left, bassist Dave Marotta and keyboardist Troy Dexter. Photo: Bob Steshetz

I also enjoyed a short set of wonderful instrumental jazz courtesy of Paul Navidad (alto sax), Edmund Velasco (tenor sax) and Sam Montooth (upright bass). The trio attracted an appreciative crowd while performing at the Dakota Saxophones booth on Saturday afternoon.

From left, Paul Navidad, Edmund Velasco and
Sam Montooth playing a set of jazz.
Photo: Robert Kinsler

Robert Kinsler

Editor's Note - check out the great interview conducted by the cool folks at MusicUCanSee with WAR founding member Lee Oskar HERE.

You can also watch their interview conducted with Mindi Abair HERE:

Mindi Abair ushers in 25th Anniversary of the Newport Beach Jazz Festival

Who: Mindi Abair

Where: Newport Beach Jazz Festival at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach

When: Friday, Oct. 8, 2021

Learn more: MindiAbair.com

Mindi Abair playing her saxophone at the
Newport Beach Jazz Festival on Oct. 8, 2021.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Famed singer-songwriter/composer/saxophone great Mindi Abair ushered in the three-day Newport Beach Jazz Festival with an energetic and diverse two-hour set in front of a sold-out crowd at the Back Bay Amphitheater at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach on Friday night, Oct. 8.  

Featuring material from her outstanding 21-year discography, Abair and her top-tier quartet effortlessly fused contemporary jazz, rock, soul and pop during the fast-moving show. Renowned for her prominent role as a guest player for a myriad of talents via studio recordings, television specials and high profile tours, Abair shines even brighter when leading her own band as evidenced by the terrific concert on Friday night.

She opened with the funk-meets-soul instrumental "Wild Heart" (the title cut on her 2014 release), with the Mindi Abair Band (guitarist-vocalist Randy Jacobs, keyboardist-vocalist Rodney Lee, bassist-vocalist Ben White and drummer-vocalist Third Richardson) dialed into the dynamics of the winning introduction.

Mindi Abair, left, with Randy Jacobs
at the Newport Beach Jazz Festival.

Guitarist Randy Jacobs.

The genre-blending instrumental "Haute Sauce" blended an up-tempo blues groove with Abair's virtuoso lead saxophone playing. Jacobs also was featured adding some flashy fretwork during the ambitious selection.

Keyboardist Rodney Lee.

On the eve of what would have been John Lennon's 81st birthday, Abair and company performed an artful and jazz-styled reworking of "Imagine." That emotive cover was followed by a poignant version of her own lavish "True Blue."

Third Richardson performing in
Newport Beach on Oct. 8, 2021.

Early in the show Abair noted how "We are so happy to be back," acknowledging how difficult the pandemic has been for performers and audiences to be apart. There was a power to the show that served as a reminder how good it is to celebrate the union of artists and crowds again.

From left, Mindi Abair, Rodney Lee, Randy Jacobs and Third Richardson.

The rest of the first set included a tender take on the acoustic blues ballad "I'll Be Your Home," "Be Beautiful" (bolstered by some terrific vocal harmonies from her band members) and a nice clap- and sing-along from the crowd; the recent composition "April" (featured on her 2021 The Best of Mindi Abair release) was at once beautiful and a perfect showcase for Abair's artistic range on the saxophone.

Mindi Abair and The Boneshakers in Newport Beach.

Bassist Ben White.

Abair and her backing outfit continued to deliver terrific cuts in the second half of the show. Abair's "Pretty Good For A Girl" was a rollicking blues track where she used her powerful vocals and masterful sax work to fire back at the old adage not fully acknowledging the talents of a female musician — even one as clearly great as Abair. There were moments where band members Lee, Jacobs and White were all featured in track-driving solos. Abair even went out into the crowd at one point, with excited audience members getting up to dance with her while she soloed on her sax. The event ended with the energetic encore "Baby Get It On," with Abair sharing lead vocals with Richardson.

Review by Robert Kinsler

Photography by Bob Steshetz

Lyndsey Parker and Mindi Abair to co-host the 2020 'She Rocks Awards' at 2020 Winter NAMM Show

With the 2020 NAMM Show only two months away, major news related to the music event continues to emerge...

Lyndsey Parker and Mindi Abair announced as
Co-Hosts for the 2020 She Rocks Awards 

Entertainment editor/radio host and GRAMMY®-nominated musician will lend their talents to 8th annual event honoring women in music and audio on January 17, 2020 in Anaheim, CA

Tickets on sale now

Lyndsey Parker Mindi Abair Anaheim, CA, November 21, 2019 – The Women’s International Music Network (the WiMN) announces Yahoo Entertainment music editor and SiriusXM radio host Lyndsey Parker and two-time GRAMMY®-nominated saxophonist/vocalist Mindi Abair as co-hosts of the upcoming 2020 She Rocks Awards. Recognizing women who stand out as role models in the music industry, the live event takes place on January 17, 2020, at 7:30 p.m. at the House of Blues Anaheim during the NAMM Show. This year’s honorees include Lzzy Hale, Linda Perry, Gloria Gaynor, Suzi Quatro, and many more. Tickets are available at sherocksawards.com Lyndsey Parker Lyndsey Parker is the music editor at Yahoo Entertainment and co-host of the daily SiriusXM Volume show Volume West. Considered an expert in music and pop culture, Parker is an Online Journalism Award nominee and has written for Elle, MOJO, Rolling Stone, NME, and Guitar. She has appeared as a commentator for the ABC special The Show Must Go On: The Queen + Adam Lambert Story, AXS TV’s The Top Ten Revealed, and the documentary I Want My MTV, as well as for VH1's Behind the Music, CNN, MTV, The Insider, and Good Day L.A.. She is the author of Careless Memories of Strange Behavior: My Notorious Life as a Duran Duran Fan (one of the first e-books published as part of Rhino Records’ all-digital music book series, which went to #1 on the iTunes Music Books chart), and is currently co-authoring the memoir of legendary groupie Mercy Fontenot, a former member of the GTOs. For more: www.lyndsanity.com   Highly sought-after saxophonist/vocalist and two-time GRAMMY nominee Mindi Abair has been electrifying audiences around the world since her debut album in 2000, flawlessly bringing together saxophone, vocals, and a dynamic stage presence. She has garnered ten #1 radio hits, six Top 5 solo records and two #1 spots on the Billboard album charts. Abair has toured and recorded with: Aerosmith, Duran Duran, Smokey Robinson, Gregg Allman, Booker T. Jones, Trombone Shorty and more. She also authored the book How To Play Madison Square Garden - A Guide to Stage Performance and served as a National Trustee for The Recording Academy. In 2019, she and her band, The Boneshakers, released No Good Deed, a hard-hitting blues rock album. For more: www.mindiabair.com  The WiMN Founder, Laura B. Whitmore, comments, “Lyndsey and Mindi are perfect complements to the inspiring, high-energy, evening we have in store this year. I look forward to working with them to offer our guests another unforgettable experience.”   Gearing up for its eighth consecutive year, the She Rocks Awards pays tribute to women who display leadership and stand out within the music industry, and has become a standard at the NAMM Show. Previous award recipients include Melissa Etheridge, Pat Benatar, The B-52s, Colbie Caillat, Sheila E, Chaka Khan, Ronnie Spector, Orianthi, Lisa Loeb, The Bangles, and many more, plus a collection of role models from all walks of the music and audio industries. Tickets are now on sale for the 2020 She Rocks Awards, available in four tiers that include dinner and more. This event is open to the public; a NAMM Show badge is not required to attend the She Rocks Awards. Find out more and purchase tickets at sherocksawards.com. The 2020 She Rocks Awards is sponsored by Sweetwater, PRS Guitars, Shure, Marshall Amplification, Reverb, D’Angelico, NAMM, Martin Guitar, Rat Sound Systems, Roland, Zildjian, Fishman, Sennheiser, D’Addario, Seymour Duncan, PreSonus, M.A.C Cosmetics, Monster Energy, Hippeas, Gibson, Tech 21, Clif Bar, Sabian, 108 Rock Star Guitars, Soundgirls, Parade magazine, Premier Guitar, Guitar Girl Magazine, The Music & Sound Retailer, Music Inc., MusicNews, Guitar Player, Guitar World, Bass Player, Electronic Musician, Music Radar, KVR Audio, Future Publishing, IK Multimedia, and more.   Learn more about the She Rocks Awards at sherocksawards.com.

# # #

About The Women’s International Music Network (WiMN)      Founded in 2012, the Women’s International Music Network unites women who work within all facets of the music and audio industries. With theWiMN.com as its hub, the WiMN provides a community for women within the industry while enriching their careers and musical experiences through networking and sharing. The Women’s International Music Network produces events such as the #SheRocksIt panel & networking series, WiMN She Rocks Showcases and the She Rocks Awards, and is founded by music industry veteran Laura B. Whitmore. For more information, visit www.thewimn.com.

Artists shoot for the stars on new releases

New releases featuring Hollis Brown, Mindi Abair and the Fallen Stars are available now and should be on everyone's summertime listening list...

Artist: Hollis Brown
Title: Ozone Park (Cool Green Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Collective Soul, Jackie Greene, Ben Harper
Tell me more: Queens, New York-based band Hollis Brown has just released Ozone Park, a magnificent album that blends the best elements of classic and modern rock along with other styles with authenticity and grace. Listen close to the work of the talented quintet (singer-guitarist Mike Montali, lead guitarist Jonathan Bonilla, drummer Andrew Zehnal, keyboardist Adam Bock and bassist Chris Urriola) and you'll hear rock solid instincts blended with R&B, pop, soul and more. "Do Me Right" is an infectious and alluring track, a magical musical bridge between the best melodic instincts of power pop, indie rock and synth pop masters. The triumphant "Someday Soon" strikes a similar artistic chord. Hollis Brown — named after a 1964 Bob Dylan track — impresses in other reaches of the musical universe; the lovely "After The Fire" segues into the nuanced "Forever In Me." "Bad Mistakes" is the LP's biggest surprise, a psychedelic rocker draped with buzz guitar lines and a swirling '60s feels right at home on this wonderful release. The album ends with an in-the-pocket finale courtesy of the funkafied "Go For It." Information: hollisbrown.com.

Artist: Mindi Abair and the Boneshakers
Title: No Good Deed (Pretty Good For A Girl Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Mindi Abair, Southern Avenue, Sue Foley
Tell me more: Mindi Abair and the Boneshakers' No Good Deed offers up plenty of musical firepower and infectious blues-styled songs on a fantastic set produced by famed producer Kevin Shirley (Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, Joe Bonamassa). Recorded in a mere five days, the 10-track disc features plenty of Abair's incredible work on her collection of Yamaha soprano, alto and tenor saxophones. But listening to No Good Deed is to be instantly reminded of the skills of her Boneshakers band mates (guitarist Randy Jacobs, keyboardist Rodney Lee, drummer Third Richardson and bassist Ben White), all of whom add to the sway of the tracks. Although best known for her incredible sax playing with artists ranging from Aerosmith to Duran Duran, Abair is a first-rate vocalist; her nuanced singing on the stirring ballad "Sweetest Lies," nuanced "Who's Gonna Save My Soul?" and flat-out rocker "Movin' On" are especially persuasive. Information: mindiabair.com.

Artist: The Fallen Stars
Title: Leaves On The Wind Collection: Can't Stop the Signal (Kiss My Squirrel Music)
You might like if you enjoy: Joss Whedon's "Firefly," the Jayhawks, Gram Parsons & Emmylou Harris
Tell me more: Six years after the Fallen Stars embarked on an ambitious quest to create a cycle of songs based on the groundbreaking sci-fi western TV series "Firefly," the complete collection of 16 inspired tracks (including the pair's interpretation of the theme song from the series) has been compiled and released as the terrific "Leaves On The Wind Collection: Can't Stop the Signal." The Fallen Stars, featuring the talents of husband-and-wife duo Bobbo and Tracy Byrnes, are both big time fans of the show (which premiered in fall 2002) and the acclaimed 2005 film "Serenity." The new audio CD version of the collection allows fans of the series (known as "Browncoats") and lovers of top-tier Americana music to hear artful and rich songs based on "Firefly." The wistful "Still Flying" (bolstered by the Byrnes' blended vocal harmonies), edgy rockers "Nothing" and "Miracle," tender "Stronger Than Steel," mandolin-anchored "Goodnight Kiss" and probing "Here I Am" showcase the range of the show's themes as well as the depth of the couple's stellar songwriting. Information: TheFallenStars.com.

Artist: Bobbo Byrnes
Title: The Red Wheelbarrow (Kiss My Squirrel Music)
You might like if you enjoy: The Fallen Stars, Rhett Miller, Old 97's
Tell me more: In addition to his role in the Fallen Stars, Bobbo Byrnes is a prolific and leading voice on the independent Americana scene. That will come as little surprise after getting a listen to his new solo effort The Red Wheelbarrow. The clever "Part Time Cowboy" is a probing look at a musician finely tuned into the musical tapestry of country music even he doesn't "wear a cowboy hat…(or is not) built to wear a nudie suit." Able to deliver winning songs amidst detailed storytelling, Byrnes paints vivid musical soundscapes across the 10-song disc. The melodic nugget "Look For It," introspective "Looking At The World Thru a Windshield," countrified winner "Lovers" and freewheeling "Sally Starr" and "January" excel with equal doses of excellent song craft and rousing studio performance. Byrnes' poignant songs are brought to rich life via a cast of wonderful musicians including his wife Tracy Byrnes (bass guitar, backing vocals) and famed keyboardist Rami Jaffee (of Wallflowers fame). Information: songsandwhispers.com or bobbobyrnes.com.




Robert Kinsler

Album reviews: 'Love & Mercy,' Mindi Abair & the Boneshakers, Dave Davies, The Mantles

A stunning soundtrack issued in connection with the Brian Wilson biopic Love & Mercy, as well as albums featuring the genre-blending Mindi Abair & the Boneshakers, legendary Kinks guitarist Dave Davies and indie rock outfit the Mantles makes for an eclectic mix of new releases.

Artists: The Beach Boys, Atticus Ross, Brian Wilson, more
Title: Music From Love & Mercy (Capitol)
You might like if you enjoy: The Beach Boys, Brian Wilson, Atticus Ross
Tell me more: It should come as little surprise that a celebrated motion picture chronicling two periods in the life of singer-songwriter Brian Wilson would yield one of the year's most compelling soundtracks. Music From Love & Mercy boasts a mix of timeless Beach Boys classics ("God Only Knows," "Don't Worry Baby," "Good Vibrations"), selections from Oscar-winning composer Atticus Ross' score, a terrific ballad written and recorded by Wilson for the film and even a performance from actor Paul Dano. Information: BrianWilson.com and loveandmercyfilm.com.
Purchase 'Music From Love & Mercy' here



Artist: Mindi Abair & the Boneshakers
Title: Live in Seattle (Heads Up International / Concord Music Group)
You might like if you enjoy: The Boneshakers, Mindi Abair
Tell me more: A full-on fusion of blues, rock, soul, R&B and funk collide across Mindi Abair & the Boneshakers' concert release Live in Seattle. The 14-track disc is truly an exercise in genre-smashing sonics with sax virtuoso-singer Mindi Abair and Detroit blues-rock outfit the Boneshakers playing with a freewheeling level of excitement across a mix of instrumentals and vocal tracks. Boneshakers guitar great Randy Jacobs and singer Sweet Pea Atkinson are talented and forceful enough to match Abair's dynamic musical presence, and every member of the Motor City musical ensemble adds spice to the mix. Information: concordmusicgroup.com.
Get 'Live In Seattle' here


Artist: Dave Davies
Title: Rippin' Up New York City: Live at the City Winery (Red River Entertainment)
You might like if you enjoy: The Kinks, Blur
Tell me more: Although it is uncertain whether the Kinks will ever reform, fans of the seminal British rockers should be thrilled to hear Dave Davies' Rippin' Up New York City: Live at the City Winery. The 16-track collection, culled from two concert performances by Davies and his band (including legendary Smithereens drummer Dennis Diken) in November 2014, features a mix of classic Kinks gems ("All Day and All of the Night," "You Really Got Me") and solo material (including '60s favorites "Suzannahs Still Alive" and "Death of a Clown").  Davies is obviously thrilled to be back in front of a crowd and plays with a spirited exuberance on the rockers and a surefire touch on the baroque ballad "Flowers in the Rain." Information: DaveDavies.com.
Buy 'Rippin Up New York City: Live at the City Winery' here

Artist: The Mantles
Title: All Odds End (Slumberland Records)
You might like if you enjoy: The Donkeys, The Lucy Show, Papercuts
Tell me more: Bay Area psychedelic pop outfit the Mantles are on to something special on their new full-length effort All Odds End. From the lilting "Island" and "Lately" to the more focused "Lay it Down" and "Hate to See You Go," there is a cool low-fi groove that is intoxicating and joyful. Fans of the early '80s so-called Paisley Underground scene will definitely dig "All Odds End." Even on the indie rocker "Police My Love," there is an overriding spirit of swirling psychedelia that calms the spirit. Information: slumberlandrecords.com.
Get 'All Odds End' here

Robert Kinsler

2015 She Rocks Awards Honoring Women in Music Rocks the NAMM Show

Good morning, here is an update and recap of the 2015 She Rocks Awards held at NAMM last weekend...

2015 She Rocks Awards Honoring Women in Music

Rocks the NAMM Show

Awards featured performances by multi-platinum artist Colbie Caillat, rock icons The Bangles, Grammy nominated saxophonist Mindi Abair, guitarists Orianthi and Richie Sambora, and more

From left: She Rocks Awards winners Debbie Cavalier, Craigie Zildjian, Amani Duncan, Katie Kailus, and Gayle Beacock; She Rocks Awards Founder and Co-Host Laura B. Whitmore; Zepparella drummer Clementine; She Rocks Awards winner and performer Vicki Peterson of The Bangles; guest keyboardist Jenna Paone; She Rocks Awards winner and performer, saxophonist Mindi Abair; Eva Holbrook of SHEL; She Rocks Awards winners and performers Susanna Hoffs and Debbi Peterson of The Bangles; Zepparella bassist Angeline Saris; and Zepparella guitarist Gretchen Menn attend the She Rocks Awards during NAMM at the Anaheim Hilton on January 23, 2015 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Kevin Graft)

A who's who of music industry execs, celebrities, luminaries and supporters of women in music, gathered on Fri., Jan. 23 in the Anaheim Hilton hotel’s Pacific Ballroom to celebrate the 2015 She Rocks Awards, an event paying tribute to women who display leadership and stand out within the music industry.  

Named one of Billboard magazine's "7 must-see events at NAMM," the sold-out She Rocks Awards were held by parent organization the Women's International Music Network (the WiMN), and were co-hosted by WiMN Founder Laura B. Whitmore and guitarist, solo artist and 2013 She Rocks Awards winner Orianthi.  

Honorees included Music Inc. editor, Katie Kailus; Vice President of Brand Marketing at Martin Guitar, Amani Duncan; multi-platinum artist, Colbie Caillat; Grammy Award nominated sax player, Mindi Abair; legendary band The Bangles; Vice President for Online Learning and Continuing Education/CEO for Berklee College of Music’s award-winning online continuing education program, Berklee Online, Debbie Cavalier; Vice President of iconic Capitol Studios, Paula Salvatore; Avedis Zildjian CEO, Craigie Zildjian; Beacock Music Co-Owner, Gayle Beacock; and owner of Robo Records, Rob Christie, the first-ever male to receive a She Rocks Awards.  

“The 2015 She Rocks Awards brought together hundreds of powerful men and women in the music industry who filled the venue with a level of energy and excitement unlike any other She Rocks Awards we’ve held in the past. To know that this many people support our mission of advancing women in the music industry is extremely uplifting and reassuring. We set the bar high this year,” said WiMN Founder Laura B. Whitmore.  

The event featured electrifying performances by Orianthi with a surprise cameo by Richie Sambora; Mindi Abair; The Bangles; Colbie Caillat; SHEL; and the house band comprised of Zepparella members Gretchen Menn on guitar, Angeline Saris on bass, Clementine on drums, and guest keyboardist Jenna Paone.  

Highlights of the event include a stellar performance of Mindi Abair’s song “Kick Ass” with Orianthi stepping in for the guitar duties. A moving speech by Craigie Zildjian reflected on the company’s 400-year past and her role as the first female CEO in its history. And a grand finale closing performance of The Bangles’ “Walk Like an Egyptian,” as current and past award winners joined the rock icons on stage with Cleopatra-like poses.  

The She Rocks Awards was sponsored by The Gretsch Company, Guitar Center, Seymour Duncan, The Avedis Zildjian Company, Martin Guitar, Weber Mandolins, Fishman, 108 Rock Star Guitars, Casio, PRS Guitars, Yamaha, Berklee Online, Roland, Kind, LAWIM, International Musician, Making Music Magazine, 95.5 KLOS, OC Weekly, as well as NewBay Media, and their publications Guitar World, Guitar Player, Acoustic Nation, Bass Player, Electronic Musician and Keyboard Magazine.

For more information, visit www.thewimn.com.