Vai Takes Label On Jazz Venture

  I  

Guitarist Steve Vai’s record label, Favored Nations, has launched a jazz sub-label called Favored Nations Cool.

The company’s first album, She’s The Woman, features San Francisco guitarist Mimi Fox and will hit stores on March 23. Guitarist Larry Coryell, and Stanley Jordon with Novecento have also signed deals with the label.

“The idea to eventually grow and branch out into other genres has always been our intention at Favored Nations,” Vai said. “Although some jazz sounds like meandering in a harmonic wilderness, some of it is quite inspired and stimulating.”

For more information, visit www.favorednations.com



  • Rodney_Holmes_Courtesy_Meinl.jpg

    A drummer’s drummer, Rodney Holmes gigged with everyone from Joe Zawinul and Carlos Santana to Steve Kimock and the Brecker Brothers.

  • Cassandra_Wilson_%40_2026_Mark_Sheldon-2_copy_2.jpg

    Wilson’s ability to connect to audiences helped her to win two Grammy awards and multiple other accolades. She was named an NEA Jazz Master in 2022.

  • Pritesh_Walia_courtesy_Pritesh_Walia.jpg

    “The love from the jazz and music community restored my faith in humanity,” Walia wrote in an online post upon his release from detention at an ICE facility.

  • Poncho.jpeg

    ​Percussionist Poncho Sanchez was among the artists scheduled to perform at the now-canceled inaugural LA Jazz Festival.

  • DB26_Joe_Lovano_by_Michael_Jackson.jpg

    Joe Lovano’s Paramount Quartet will record live at New York’s Village Vanguard for ECM records on Aug. 26–27.