June 11, 2005 was a historic day for me. It marked my debut "performing" with some of the biggest stars in the Smooth Jazz world, and it wasn't even planned! I was attending the first day of a two-day Smooth Jazz extravaganza at the E.D. Smith Apple Farms, by far the most ambitious Smooth Jazz-related event in Canada to date. I was there to show my support and enjoy the great music as a spectator, since one of my favorite sax players, Dave Koz was the headline entertainment that day. Dave's guest vocalist was none other than Jeffrey Osborne, a fabulous singer whose hits include "On the Wings of Love" and "We're Going All the Way". During his hit "You Should Be Mine", Jeffrey ventured out into the audience and asked for volunteers to sing the line "Can you Woo Woo Woo?". I had a great time singing the line in 3 different octaves, which surprised (and pleased) the crowd as well as the band. Just standing in front of such a great singer (who gave me a big hug afterward!) was a great thrill for me. My thanks to Lawrence Scott of Markham, Ontario, who was sitting next to me and was quick to click his camera and subsequently send me these memorable images.

Later, I went to the aftershow party at the Kittling Inn and got a chance to chat with Jeffrey, Dave, Jeff Lorber, and many other jazz stars who would perform over the 2-day event. I was in Smooth Jazz heaven! I look forward to sharing the stage with such great performer/musicians in the near future!