Charles Lloyd: A Living Legend Live at the Lobero

Jazz Great Celebrates His 85th Birthday
and the Historic Theater’s 150th Anniversary

By John Zant | Photos by Matt Perko | March 9, 2023

It was an exciting yet somewhat intimidating assignment for a sports writer: Compose a story about Charles Lloyd, a certified luminary in the world of jazz, on the momentous occasion of his 85th birthday, which will be commemorated in conjunction with the year-long 150th anniversary of the Lobero Theatre, a cherished citadel of culture in Santa Barbara.

Lloyd, still vigorously blowing notes through the tenor saxophone and flute, takes the stage on Friday, March 10 — leading a fabulous quartet including pianist Jason Moran, bassist Larry Grenadier, and drummer Brian Blade.

Blade is making his debut with Lloyd, adding his name to the dozens of musicians who populate the NEA (National Endowment for the Arts) Jazz Master’s vast repertoire of concerts and recordings.