Well, I have worn many "hats" in my time. From Musical Director to Producer, Studio Engineer, Songwriter, to hired keyboardist for  International Artists. My productions consist of REGGAE, R&B, SOUL, LATIN, CLASSICAL, SOUNDTRACKS, and even HIP HOP. Currently, I am performing with the Smooth Jazz Band "88th Ave". Like most musicians, I love to travel, and have been blessed to perform all of the country, and visit so many locations such as Boston, Chicago, Atlanta, New Jersey, New York, Philly, D.C., Puerto Rico, Caribbean Islands, Hawaiian Islands, and back to California. I have been at the piano and actively involved in studio sessions for as long as I can remember. Music is truly my passion. My last tour originated on Oahu, Hawaii, through-out the islands, and continued to a performance in Las Vegas NV. In 2006, I formed the Smooth Jazz Band known as "88th Ave". 

So many beautiful people I have met here and abroad... What a blessing. Whether it be my productions in Hawaii, or the success with the Smooth Jazz Band  "88th Ave", you can always count on my passion and love for music to shine through at every performance. I only hope it inspires others.

As most know that I have shared the stage with, my love for performing all genres of music has enabled me perform on many stages, from Salsa to Country, Jazz, even Blues stages. What most people don't know about me is that although I am not classically trained, I love to sit & play J.S. Bach and other classical arrangements to switch it up. It's a great way to push my technique to the limit!

I was once asked if I have always loved Jazz & why did I choose Smooth Jazz as my genre to pursue musically? Well, although I have always loved the freedom of Jazz, my first true love was SALSA! My father would always sit me down and play records, yes records! We would sit for hours listening to the Latin greats such as: Ray Barretto, The Palmeiri Brothers, Mongo, Tito Rodriguez, Machito, Tito Puente, El Gran Combo, Irakere, Pacheco, and even records of early Carmona musicians! How can I not fall in love with the musical expressions of these great artists. I still have these records today and often turn it up and turn back the clock to the Palladium Days, even the 70's.

Why Smooth Jazz? As I stated in my interview with Arizona Groove, With Jazz, I can musically express my soul. The ambiance you can create for any setting is amazing. Whether it’s a soft piano riff for a quiet evening or an upbeat groove with a touch of slap bass, with Jazz.....anything is possible.  Click the Link to See the Gabe Carmona Interview Page.

I truly believe my knowledge as a studio engineer makes all the difference in the world.  I never have to worry or wait for an idea to become an arrangement. The art of pre-production has been a weapon in my arsenal for many years. Other than understanding the business side of music, learning the art of engineering is key.

To answer a few emails I have received pertaining to my productions, when I create an arrangement, I always start at the piano.  Eventually, I  move to the keyboards for layering purposes. By the time I have my arrangement tracked, I usually have many ideas for string lines, percussion, and of course a bass line.  Once this process is complete,  the real fun begins. I call on musicians to collaborate and lay down the live bass, guitar, and sax tracks.

There's nothing like a live bass player groovin' or a smooth sax to brighten up the arrangement.  The 2008 release of "Last Night" is essentially a combination of my sequenced productions and live instrumentation. This CD release will also feature several well known Smooth Jazz artists.  Exciting times!

Believe it or not, I actually listen to a lot of Salsa prior to a performance. As far as a routine, I always listen to "September" by Earth Wind & Fire. I love this song.  Before every performance, I always take a moment backstage to give thanks for the blessing to perform; I say a few words of dedication to my grandfather, and then I shake the hands of the band members,  and usually say "Let's have some fun guys."

Combine professional sound, lighting, and an intimate setting, and you have a perfect stage. There is nothing better   than having a close encounter with those that come to see a performance. Whether it be an unplugged set, jam session or full band performance, the stage is where dreams come true.

One of my great musical highlights was a performance in Las Vegas NV for the Lei Day Festival. Although it was a very cold night, the warm love & Aloha was truly in the air. It was a memorable show.

In 2001-2 the groups that I performed with on Oahu were nominated for a Grammy for Reggae Album of the Year. Who would of thought our band would be up for such a prestige honor? Unfortunately, a Bob Marley CD took home the award that year, but it was something that we would always remember. Many thanks to Oshen, and Jamin for the opportunity & privilege to share the stage with you during my years on Oahu.

Now in 2008/2009 I have reconnected with Oshen. Be ready for all new Mr88k tracks!

 "Don't spend too much time networking and posturing and worrying about how you can get "the big break." Spend that time fine-tuning your game -- practicing, studying, private lessons, college...whatever it means for you. And make real sure you attack EACH performance opportunity with hard work and preparation. And remember; it's not WHETHER the break will happen, it's whether or not you'll be READY when it does!"         Thanks Kirk!   www.kirkwhalum.com

As a musician, I can truly say that in my early years, I too, was so worried about who would notice me, or how I would get my productions on the radio, or which promoter to impress. The truth is, I just forgot all about that, and enjoyed every second I had on stage.  With in no time, I was performing with the most well known bands, and performing at concert venues in Hawaii out of all places.  All I can say is that I hope this message is read by anyone who is caught up in the "limelight", and I sincerely hope they realize what a gift & blessing the art of music is. It's precious to me, and I for one, will honor this art we call music.