Althea Rene with Jeff Kashiwa and Youngstown Jazz Festival

Detroit-born Althea Rene, daughter of Funk Brother Dezie McCullers, is a flutist known for soulful contemporary jazz and R&B. A former deputy sheriff, she gained fame with albums like "In the Flow," hitting No. 1 on the Billboard smooth jazz chart. She's graced stages worldwide including the North Sea Jazz Festival.

Jeff Kashiwa, born in Louisville and raised in Seattle, is a renowned smooth jazz saxophonist known for his work with the Rippingtons. A Berklee alum, he achieved solo success with hits like "Hyde Park." His collaborations include Steve Cole, Kim Waters, and Chuck Loeb. Awards for top jazz airplay establish him as a leading sax voice, known for his dynamic performances and hits like "Simple Truth" and "Let It Ride." Kashiwa continues to captivate audiences with his soulful saxophone style.