Talking With Jerry Martini – August 3, 2026
Myron’s at The Smith Center, August 8
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, R&B Pioneer Award winner, and original founding member of Sly & the Family Stone, Jerry Martini joins “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira” for a conversation celebrating one of the most influential bands in music history. Jerry, along with Phunne Stone and The Family Stone, will perform in Myron's at The Smith Center August 8, bringing the legendary music of Sly & the Family Stone to a new generation of fans.
Jerry shares what has fueled his remarkable career for more than six decades and why he's determined to "bop till I drop." He reflects on growing up with Sly Stone, watching his childhood friend become a popular Bay Area DJ, and witnessing the birth of a musical revolution when Sly assembled Sly & the Family Stone in December 1965. Jerry recalls believing from the very beginning that Sly was a musical genius, reveals that the band's first performance together was in Las Vegas, and remembers how entertainment legends regularly packed their shows.
The conversation also explores the band's surprising love of country music, the artists who inspired Jerry—including Ray Charles and Billy Preston—and how Sly & the Family Stone forever changed popular music by blending rock, funk, soul, and R&B into a groundbreaking sound. From timeless classics like "Dance to the Music," "Everyday People," and "Hot Fun in the Summertime" to behind-the-scenes stories few fans have ever heard, this episode is a celebration of music, friendship, innovation, and a legacy that continues to inspire generations.
ABOUT THE FAMILY STONE:
The Family Stone keeps the music of Sly and the Family Stone alive on stages around the world. Formed in San Francisco (1966), Sly and the Family Stone made history as America’s first major multi-racial, multi-gender touring band. Their infectious blend of funk, soul, R&B, rock, and psychedelia propelled them to global fame. Fronted by the visionary Sly Stone, the band’s original lineup included his brother Freddie Stone (guitar), sister Rose Stone (keyboards), Jerry Martini (saxophone), Larry Graham (bass), Greg Errico (drums), and the late, great Cynthia Robinson (trumpet). Affectionately known as “Papa J,” Jerry Martini helped shape the band’s revolutionary sound. “Sly and I formed a lifelong bond when I nudged him into leading the band in 1965,” says Martini. “Our influence helped shift the landscape of popular music in ways that still resonate today.” Carrying the torch forward is powerhouse vocalist Phunne Stone—daughter of Cynthia Robinson and Sly Stone. Her electrifying performances honor her parents’ legacies while forging a bold path of her own. Sly is proud to witness her vocal prowess in performing his music on stage. Today, The Family Stone remains true to its original mission: to uplift and unite.
The Family Stone Band Facebook
The Family Stone Band Instagram
Leave a Reply