Renowned trombonist, composer, and producer Delfeayo Marsalis is returning to the island to headline performances at Nalu’s South Shore Grill and the Ocean Organic Farm & Distillery, following his appearance at the 11th annual Big Island Jazz & Blues Festival.
As a younger brother of Branford and Wynton from the famous Marsalis family, Delfeayo has toured with legendary artists such as Art Blakey, Ray Charles, Fats Domino, Max Roach, and Elvin Jones.
“I always love coming to Hawaii,” Marsalis shared. “It’s always a good time. I try to bring a lot of variety. What I play ranges from the New Orleans brass band tradition to swing, bebop, and, of course, my favorite, modern jazz. I view our performances as a 10-course meal, serving enough variety so that by the end of the night, everyone feels like they’ve had a feast.”
Focusing on music that uplifts, Marsalis’s latest album, “Uptown on Mardi Gras Day,” featuring the Uptown Jazz Orchestra, has been described as “supremely funky” by DownBeat and celebrated by Glide Magazine as a collection of joyous tunes honoring Mardi Gras and New Orleans.
“Jazz is the greatest popular form of music that America has created,” he remarked. “Our responsibility is to maintain those essential elements while evolving with the times. Many people have told me, ‘I didn’t know jazz could be this much fun.’ One fan said, ‘you have a feel-good band.’ And I thought, what other kind of band could there be? When we’re truly effective, we cover all bases, ensuring everyone has a great time.”
Born in New Orleans in 1965, Marsalis was destined for a musical career. He recalls lying beneath the family piano while his father, Ellis Marsalis, played. With Wynton on trumpet and Branford on saxophone, Delfeayo chose the trombone.
“One plays sax, one plays trumpet, they needed a trombone,” he joked. “I think the trombone fits my personality as a middle child. It generally helps hold everything together, which has been my role.”
The essence of New Orleans profoundly influences his music. “New Orleans music embodies the best ideals of our country,” he stated. “It truly represents a melting pot. New Orleans is, in many ways, the last original city in America, blending African traditions with those of various immigrants who came together. The African influences here are stronger than anywhere else in the country, balancing both tension and coolness.”
Among his recordings, Marsalis released “Make America Great Again!” in 2016, which was not an endorsement of Donald Trump. Narrated by actor Wendell Pierce, a key line in the title track challenges the notion of the “good old days” as a myth. Another vocal piece pays tribute to Nelson Mandela.
“It was a significant statement for the time,” he explained. “The song, featuring Wendell Pierce’s brilliant narration, is about an American man striving to meet the ideals of what makes America great while confronting those who distort those ideals.”
In challenging times, Marsalis believes musicians have a role in providing upliftment. “Musicians, especially those from New Orleans, have a responsibility to remain upbeat. People come to New Orleans seeking uplifting music, and that’s vital for me to understand.”
For his Maui performances, Marsalis will be joined by the Jazz Alley Trio, featuring Mark Johnstone, David Graber, and Paul Marchetti. “I love those guys,” he said. “We’re going to have a great time.”
