
Please join us for our 5TH ANNUAL
International Jazz Day Celebration
HONORING
PHYLISS HYMAN
The Goddess of Love
Sunday, April 27, 2025

Phyllis Hyman
Phyllis Hyman - Living In Confusion
(Official Video) 3:57
The Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival is honoring
PHYLISS HYMAN
with an awesome tribute by internationally acclaimed artists
Dr. Gail Jhonson and Jazz in Pink
With CASTELLA (on vocals)
International Jazz Day
PHYLISS HYMAN was a legendary performer in jazz, R&B and soul for about three decades, during which time she became famous for her jazz-influenced style and dramatic stage presence.
Quickly gaining the attention of audiences at jazz clubs and prominent nightclubs, she was able to collaborate with well-known artists and producers that featured songs by Hyman that would become classics. “You Are My Starship,” produced and composed by Norman Connors who chose her to sing the title song on his 1976 album; and “Betcha By Golly Wow,” the Thom Bell and Linda Creed composition that created a love affair between the vocalist and fans worldwide. Other producers who worked magic with Hyman included: Dexter Wansel, Narada Michael Walden, James Mtume, Reggie Lucas and Barry Manilow, who co-produced one of Hyman’s earliest hits, “Somewhere in My Lifetime.” For those desiring to hear Hyman at her most exquisite, it might be worth the effort to track down a copy of Pharaoh Sanders's obscure Love Will Find a Way (1978), on which Hyman sings the gems "As You Are" and "Love is Here."
In 1981 she landed a part in a Broadway show, Sophisticated Ladies, celebrating the music of Duke Ellington whose cast included Gregory Hines. Phyllis was magnificent in Sophisticated Ladies. It ran for over 750 performances and won two Tony Awards and was nominated for a further six – including Hyman herself as best actress in a musical.
Her career exemplifies Phyllis Hyman’s remarkable skill, perseverance, and love of music. From her humble beginnings in Philadelphia to her meteoric climb to the top of the music charts, Hyman never failed to move listeners. Her sophisticated musical style, stirring performances, and commanding voice have solidified her rightful place among music’s all-time greats. She may have had a tough life, but the impact her music has had on musicians throughout the years ensures that her legacy will go on.

Jazz In Pink perfoming Joy, Joy
JAZZ IN PINK, the premier all female all-star smooth jazz ensemble, has solidified its position as one of the most prominent and sought-after all-female groups worldwide. Grammy nominated multi-talented composer, keyboardist, producer Dr. Gail Jhonson is the founder. Dr. Jhonson has also been a long-time collaborator and music director for the Grammy winning smooth jazz superstar, Norman Brown. Jazz In Pink has been a featured performer at the Playboy Jazz Festival, The Hollywood Bowl and shared the stage with some of the best: Yolanda Adams, George Duke, Patti Austin and Stanley Clarke. Jazz In Pink has not only performed throughout the country and around the world, but has worked to fill learning, social, and cultural gaps through community outreaches and events. The talented band consistently captivates audiences.

My Funny Valentine by Castella (Official Music Video) – 5:17
CASTELLA has a voice that makes you stop and listen. She has an amazing voice that is a mixture of all of her influences, including Phyllis Hyman, Sarah Vaughn, Minnie Ripperton and Karen Carpenter, but yet uniquely her own. Her music is heard in over 136 countries, charting #1 on charts in the US, Canada, the UK and Italy. Castella’s single, "I Saw You," was the 2024 Indie Soul Award Winner for Jazz Single of the Year. With her heartfelt music and magnetic stage presence, she connects with audiences like no other with an unforgettable performance that uplifts and inspires.
