San Francisco Bay Area Jazz Hero
The greater San Francisco Bay Area loves Jesse ‘Chuy’ Varela. Be it jazz fans, musicians, listeners to his programs following him for more than 40 years broadcasting from stations ending up at KCSM-FM, or fellow radio show hosts like me, we all appreciate what Chuy brings to the table every day.
He’s a musicologist, an engaging on-air voice, a Latin jazz enthusiast, a writer, producer, music director and musician – a leading force promoting the jazz idiom. His positivity, warm personality and passion for jazz are infectious. He’s always ready to emcee a concert, host a benefit or speak up for an artist. Most profoundly, his deep knowledge of Latin American and Caribbean music has nurtured the boundaryless nature of the Bay Area’s scene, in which musicians prominently collaborate across the jazz/Latin jazz divide. Chuy has worked to ensure that Latin influence is a crucial component of the present day, as well as the history of the genre of jazz.
Chuy’s knowledge is deep – he’s one of the first experts I turn to when I have a question! The Jazz Journalists Association salutes Jesse ‘Chuy’ Varela for his many talents, grateful to have this Jazz Hero making waves in the Bay Area that are felt far beyond.
By Brad Stone
