Artists To Watch Las Vegas | Music Interviews, Live Performances & Rising Artists

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.

 Join host Carlaya for an exclusive conversation with legendary guitarist and vocalist George Benson as he reflects on his lifelong journey in music. From his early days performing in nightclubs as a child to becoming one of the most celebrated jazz and R&B artists, Benson shares insights into his passion for entertaining audiences, his deep connection with the guitar, and the experience of playing in Las Vegas.

In this engaging discussion, he talks about his band's tight chemistry, his approach to setlists that keep fans coming back, and even hints at exciting collaborations in the works. Plus, hear his thoughts on signing vinyl records, the enduring power of his hit songs like Give Me the Night and On Broadway, and why he believes live music is all about creating unforgettable moments.

Tune in as we celebrate the music and legacy of George Benson—only on 91.5 Jazz & More

🎷 Richard Elliott: Keeping It Funky & Smooth 🎷

On this episode of 91.5 Jazz & More, we sit down with legendary saxophonist Richard Elliott ahead of his highly anticipated performance at Santa Fe Station in the Chrome Theater on Saturday, February 22nd. Richard shares his excitement about returning to Las Vegas, reflects on his decades-long career, and talks about the magic behind his latest album, Straight Up Down.

We dive into his favorite tracks to perform, the inspiration behind his music, and even get a glimpse into his process for choosing cover songs (spoiler: his wife has the final say!). Plus, he gives us a behind-the-scenes look at his band—some of whom he’s been playing with for nearly 30 years—and how their chemistry brings his live shows to life.

Richard also discusses his love for Latin music, the evolution of contemporary instrumental music, and how smooth jazz radio creates a unique bond between artists, fans, and stations. And of course, he keeps it funky with talk of his EWI (Electronic Wind Instrument) and his thoughts on performing with younger musicians.

Tune in to hear more from this jazz icon and get ready for an unforgettable night at Chrome Theater inside Santa Fe Station! 🎶✨

🎟 Want to see Richard live? Stay tuned for your chance to win tickets!

#SmoothJazz #RichardElliott #LiveMusic #LasVegas #JazzAndMore #ChromeTheater

In this special episode titled "Love in Las Vegas," Canadian couple Darren and Kelly opt for an unconventional elopement in Las Vegas. Choosing the iconic Little White Chapel for their wedding, officiated by an Elvis Presley impersonator, they unexpectedly become part of a promotional offer tied to "My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3." Amidst the playful ceremony, a reference to Windex from the movie adds a whimsical touch. Embracing the spontaneity, Darren and Kelly's second marriage defies tradition as they celebrate a drama-free and free-spirited union, capturing the essence of love and adventure in Las Vegas.