51st Monterey Jazz Festival Tour - 10 weeks, 54 cities

The producers of the renowned Monterey Jazz Festival put together an all star group of performers spanning the best in jazz greats for three decades -- from 82 year-old, saxaphonist James Moody to the young, but seasoned percussionist Kendrick Scott. Since January 8th, the All Star Band has made its way from Bellingham, Washinton to our fair city of Atlanta. During this time, they have performed 90-minute sets every night save six -- and they have another month and a half to go!

It is at this point on the tour that I met up with vocalist, composer, and arts education advocate, Nnenna Freelon. Even at the month-long milestone of being on the road, she is resilient. Despite a fighting a cold, her voice sounds like honey. Her energy is palpable and her thoughts on traveling and teaching emerging artists the challenges of the career were genuine. Here's Nnenna talking about the Monterey Jazz Festival 50th All Star Band.

Check to see the tour's upcoming venues by scrolling to the bottom of the page at www.montereyjazzfestival.org/MJF50-band. Also, Nnenna's tour diary has some great insights into road tripping.