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Introducing the best of the best for an indulging afternoon of live Jazz.
Cruising around Sydney Harbour on a Sunday afternoon with some of the best of the best Jazz musicians providing an afternoon of pure music and magic.
Inclusions:
– 3.5hr cruise
– Light canapes on arrival
– Black board / snacks menu available for purchase from the bar
– Live jazz band
Licensed Bar on Board NO Byo
Sunday Jazz – Featuring Johnny Nicol
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdppJ5HBEJc –
The Shadow of your Smile
The
inimitable singer/guitarist Johnny Nicol is known as a bit of a legend in the Australian
jazz scene. Having been in the business now for over 50 years, he has worked
with some of the greats, both in Australia and overseas, and has an
unmistakable style that is all his own.
Johnny
grew up in sunny North Queensland in a large family, being one of nine
children. His introduction to music was at family gatherings around an upright
piano played by his sisters, and also African American soldiers that the family
hosted during WWII, who would play ‘boogie woogie’. The young Johnny was enthralled.
After leaving school early, Johnny’s first job was shoveling salt in the
sweltering saltpans of Bowen.
The big
smoke’s call was loud though and he headed down south to Sydney to try his
luck. After working as a laborer, it was at Bill McConnell’s Redfern boxing gym
where Johnny was scouted playing guitar, this chance encounter led to him
playing professionally. Johnny was linked up with three Maori musicians,
including New Zealand’s beloved Prince Tui Teka, and they formed the now
legendary Maori Troubadours.
During
his years with the Troubadours, Johnny travelled all throughout Australia, at
times performing up to 15 shows a day in a marquee at various showground’s. It
was during this time that he learned the craft of entertaining. After leaving
the Troubadours to go solo, Johnny travelled overseas and further honed his
craft performing in many prestigious venues in Las Vegas, Miami, the Bahamas
and throughout Europe and the UK.
Once
back in Australia, Johnny quickly found his place as a contemporary jazz
artist. Critics acclaimed him ‘the finest jazz guitar stylist in Australia’ and
‘our own George Benson in both vocal style and guitar technique’. His following
grew even larger with exposure as a regular guest artist on Channel Nine’s
national ‘Midday Show’. Around this time, recognition came Johnny’s way with
nominations for three major awards as both a performer and composer. Johnny
still plays regularly and is not slowing down.
