3/27/26: Smokey Jazz, Soul & Blues – La Jolla Senior Event

Live Jazz, Soul & Blues Concert for Seniors in San Diego

The Fourth Friday Jazz Series continues with Smokey Jazz, Soul & Blues, featuring singer and guitarist Steph Johnson with The Rob Thorsen Trio. Enjoy a soulful evening of jazz, blues, and uplifting originals performed by a powerhouse San Diego ensemble.

Steph Johnson’s smoky, lush voice brings to mind influences such as Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Miles Davis, Joni Mitchell, Ike & Tina Turner, and Stevie Wonder. Paired with Rob Thorsen on double bass, Melonie Grinnell on piano, and Richard Sellars on drums, this concert promises familiar standards and exciting new compositions that will captivate all attendees.

Tickets include one drink and one snack, allowing seniors to relax, mingle, and fully enjoy the performance in the elegant La Jolla Community Center.

How to Attend

• Event Date: Friday, March 27, 2026
• Doors Open / Reception: 7:00 PM
• Concert Time: 8:00 PM – 9:15 PM (No intermission)
• Location: La Jolla Community Center, 6811 La Jolla Boulevard, La Jolla, CA 92037
• Tickets Include: Admission, one drink ticket, one snack ticket, and free valet parking
• Ticket Purchase:
  • Confirmations emailed—printing is not required
  • Name added to attendee list upon purchase
  • Check-in with valid ID
• Ticket Policy: Non-refundable and non-transferable except for canceled performances
• Additional Notes:
  • Artist lineup subject to change
  • No outside food or drinks permitted
  • Snacks and refreshments available for purchase

Purchase Tickets: Call (858) 459-0831

About Steph Johnson

Singer, guitarist, songwriter, and activist Steph Johnson is a multifaceted San Diego powerhouse whose music blends jazz, soul, funk, and blues. She recently released the album So In Love, featuring favorite jazz standards with a stellar lineup of musicians, including pianist Josh Nelson, guitarist Anthony Wilson, bassist Rob Thorsen, trumpeter Chris Lawrence, and drummer Richard Sellers.

Steph’s fourth album, Music is Art, is a collaboration with Grammy Award-winning producer Kamau Kenyatta, featuring nine evocative originals plus a unique take on Wayne Shorter’s Night Dreamer. Her captivating performances have earned her the San Diego Magazine Songwriter Award, a San Diego Music Award for Best Jazz Album, and recognition from CityBeat and the California Arts community.

Beyond her music, Steph is Executive Director and Music Director of the Voices of Our City Choir (VOOCC), which supports individuals experiencing homelessness through music, meals, and housing programs. The choir became semifinalists on America’s Got Talent Season 15 after receiving the coveted Golden Buzzer from host Terry Crews.

Jazz critic Robert Bush praises Steph’s “core strength…as a communicator with rhythmic depth and smoky, pliant power…her sweet yearning vocal really soars.”

Learn more about Steph Johnson: Website

Why Seniors Should Attend

Smokey Jazz, Soul & Blues is the perfect evening for seniors to experience world-class live music, enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, and connect with fellow attendees. Cultural events like this support mental stimulation, emotional wellbeing, and community engagement while providing an unforgettable entertainment experience.

More Local Events

Keep the music going! Check out our full calendar of San Diego County senior events to stay active, social, and engaged with your community.