In this episode of Artists to Watch Las Vegas, host Carlaya sits down with acclaimed contemporary jazz saxophonist Dee Lucas for an intimate, inspiring, and soulful conversation. Known for his smooth tone, emotional phrasing, and chart-topping success, Dee opens up about his creative process, his evolution as a self-made independent artist, and the passion that drives his signature sound.

Recorded in the heart of Las Vegas, this interview goes behind the music to explore Dee’s early influences, his approach to songwriting, the stories behind his most beloved tracks, and how he continues to innovate in the modern jazz landscape. Carlaya’s thoughtful questions bring out new layers of Dee’s artistry, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the mind of a performer who consistently pushes the genre forward.

Whether you’re a smooth jazz fan, a longtime follower of Dee Lucas, or discovering him for the first time, this episode delivers authentic conversation, musical insight, and the unmistakable Vegas energy that defines the show.

📅 And don’t miss his upcoming live show:
Dee Lucas Annual Birthday Bash & CD Release
🗓 Date: November 15, 2025
🕔 Time: 5:00 pm – 11:30 pm
📍 Location: The Copa Room at The Bootlegger, 7700 Las Vegas Blvd S., Suite 14, Las Vegas NV 89123

🔗 Tickets & event info: https://serente.net/events/

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In this vibrant episode of Artists to Watch Las Vegas, host Carlaya sits down with Asia O’Hara, the celebrated star of RuPaul’s Drag Race and the dazzling emcee of RuPaul’s Drag Race Live! at the Flamingo Las Vegas. Asia opens up about her journey from Texas stages to the Las Vegas Strip, reflecting on how the hit show transformed her craft, expanded her horizons, and elevated drag into mainstream art.

Listeners will get an inside look at what makes RuPaul’s Drag Race Live! so electric — from its live “mini challenges” and “lip syncs for your life” to the thrill of crowning a new queen every night. Asia also shares how connecting with first-time drag audiences has become one of her greatest joys, inspiring them to leave with a new appreciation for the art form and queer culture.

✨ A conversation that celebrates creativity, courage, and the moment drag took center stage in Las Vegas history.

Carlaya give us an unforgettable conversation with Lenny Williams, the legendary R&B and soul icon known for timeless hits like Cause I Love You and So Very Hard to Go. Ahead of his highly anticipated appearance on The Blues Is Alright Tour at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Lenny opens up about his decades-long career, performing with Tower of Power, and why fans still connect with his signature voice after more than 50 years in music.

In this exclusive Las Vegas interview, Lenny shares stories behind his biggest songs, talks about the magic of performing the blues live, and gives fans a sneak peek at what to expect from his upcoming show. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his music, this episode celebrates the soul, the sound, and the spirit of The Blues Is Alright tour

In this special Artists To Watch interview, we sit down with Grammy-nominated guitarist and Special EFX founder Chieli Minucci ahead of the band’s upcoming Special EFX All-Stars concert at the Aliante Casino’s Access Showroom on Saturday, November 15th. Chieli shares how his musical journey began with the piano before a love of the guitar—and its chrome-shine allure—took over. He gives us an inside look at the stellar all-star lineup joining him on stage, including Greg Adams (Tower of Power, East Bay Soul), Rebecca Jade, Lao Tizer, Joel Rosenblatt, Anthony Crawford, and Carl Cox.

From revisiting iconic hits of the ’80s and ’90s to debuting fresh material and showcasing guest artists’ originals, Chieli promises an eclectic fusion of smooth jazz, world, and contemporary sounds. Tune in to hear the stories, the camaraderie, and the excitement building for this powerhouse seven-piece performance—and find out why the Access Showroom is one of his favorite venues to play.

Tickets and info
https://stationcasinoslive.com/events/special-efx-all-stars/
https://www.livenation.com/event/17AYvxG6GwTBVC9/special-efx-all-stars?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.ticketmaster.com/special-efx-all-stars-north-las-vegas-nevada-11-15-2025/event/170062CCBFEB4397?utm_source=chatgpt.com

In this episode of Artists to Watch – Las Vegas, host Carlaya welcomes the visionary team behind the 11th Annual Nevada Women’s Film Festival—Executive Director Nikki Corda, Events Director Hannah Utech, and Community Liaison Breanna Kennedy—for a live conversation from Carlaya’s Café on 91.5 Jazz and More.

Together, they discuss how NWFFest champions underrepresented voices in film, celebrates female and non-binary storytellers, and fosters inclusion across the Nevada creative landscape. From dynamic screenings and filmmaker panels to community outreach and the prestigious FEMI Awards, the festival continues to push boundaries and empower the next generation of filmmakers.

📅 The festival runs June 19–22 in Las Vegas
🎟️ Tickets and full schedule available at nwffest.com

This episode is a compelling listen for anyone who believes in the power of art to make change and uplift diverse voices in media.

In this special episode of Artists To Watch, saxophonista Jessy J joins us ahead of her headlining performance at the 35th Annual Jazz in the Park in Las Vegas. She shares the unexpected story of how she fell in love with the saxophone, opens up about her latest album Terra Nova—a reunion project with producer Paul Brown—and reflects on the deeper meaning behind tracks like Piel Canela. Plus, hear about her exciting on-stage collaboration with Jackiem Joyner, her thoughts on the future of smooth jazz radio, and why she calls Las Vegas one of her favorite cities.

Grammy-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum joins 91.5 Jazz & More ahead of his performance at Jazz in the Park to talk about his brand-new album Epic Cool, a celebration of seasoned artistry and timeless groove. In this candid and joyful conversation, Kirk shares stories from touring with Whitney Houston, reflects on performing during historic moments in South Africa, and gives fans a behind-the-scenes look at his touring band and favorite songs to perform live—including his sensual single “Pillow Talk.”

He also speaks honestly about his love-hate relationship with the label "smooth jazz" and gives major props to stations that keep the genre evolving.

🎟️ Catch Kirk Whalum live at Jazz in the Park and join the #PillowTalkChallenge on Instagram!

Vincent Ingala Talks Music, Vegas, and His Love for Elvis

In a vibrant and heartfelt conversation, multi-instrumentalist and smooth jazz favorite Vincent Ingala joins Carlaya, “The Queen of Flow,” on 91.5 Jazz and More to talk about his upcoming show at Sunset Station and his deep connection to Las Vegas.

Vincent shares his excitement about returning to the entertainment capital of the world, where he feels a personal and musical connection—especially as a lifelong Elvis fan. He opens up about his journey with the saxophone, inspired by Vegas lounge legend Sam Butera, and how the instrument became his primary voice after experimenting with drums, guitar, and keys.

The conversation dives into what fans can expect at his live performance, including a mix of original tracks, soulful slow jams, and covers like his take on Alexander O’Neal’s “If You Were Here Tonight.” Vincent also shines a spotlight on his talented band, featuring musicians from across the country and even Italy, including percussionist Pablo Batista, who played with Grover Washington Jr.

Listeners will also hear about Vincent's latest album, his plans for meet-and-greets, and his belief in the lifelong nature of music as a calling.

Don’t miss this fun, insightful interview with one of the brightest stars in contemporary jazz, exclusively on 91.5 Jazz and More, the #1 smooth jazz station in America.