Steve Quirk’s Fusion Flavours
Fusion Flavours is what feelings sound like. Fusion Flavours is not just a radio program. It is a brand that has endured into its 33rd year, through changing radio formats and changing tastes. It is a labour of love for its creator Steve Quirk, who first introduced the concept on Manchester’s then soul music station Sunset Radio in 1990.
Steve started as the Sunset Radio staff librarian -- but within a year, he was promoted to musical director. During the 1990 Easter holiday, the regular DJs were off, so his boss and long-time mentor Mike Shaft gave Steve the chance to go on air. Fusion Flavours was born Good Friday 1990, with the first ever record played on the show being Bob James ‘Westchester Lady.’
Steve’s amazing musical journey has included a 20-year friendship and partnership with the Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest. In 2023, that partnership has Steve producing a weekly Fusion Flavours program that will feature interviews and music of many artists performing at the fest. Programs will be downloaded to this page each Saturday leading up to the fest.
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“I am thrilled to be working with the Berks Jazz Fest team to produce the Fusion Flavours series,” said Steve. “The incredible list of artists perform at the fest provides unlimited content opportunities for fans to enjoy.”
Perhaps it is not a coincidence that it was in Manchester where Fusion Flavours became a reality. The city was and is synonymous with the phenomena of northern soul, that special brand of rare and atmospheric grooves much adored by a following always on the lookout for something different. For them, the journey from soul, through fusion to smooth jazz seemed a natural progression and Steve, who proudly names the Isley Brothers ‘That Lady’ back in 1973 as the first single he ever bought, was there to cultivate their musical taste buds.
With the demise of Sunset Radio, Steve transitioned Fusion Flavours to Jazz FM for eight years, a golden age that found smooth jazz really connecting with its growing United Kingdom audience. The culmination of this was Steve’s appointment as the stations Musical Director in 1999. His mission was to make Jazz FM into a genuine smooth jazz station. Putting on 10 instrumentals from day one, including Fourplay’s ‘101 Eastbound’, he began to create the template for what was to follow, a strategy that led to a significant increase in the listenership and Jazz FM’s promotion of live smooth jazz events. These concerts brought top-notch artists to England for the first time and regularly sold-out venues such as the 3,000 seat Hammersmith Apollo.
During this time Steve was also actively compiling a series of smooth jazz sampler compilation CDs that were released on the Jazz FM label. These were much more than the usual eight to 10- track US radio station samplers, they were expansive musical showcases, double CD, 30-track projects, that each sold between 5,000 and 20,000 copies. These collections stand as testimony to the high quality of Steve’s taste in music, a flare that he has demonstrated not only with his radio shows but also when putting together perhaps the best smooth jazz compilation of all time, the 1996 ‘Jazz Fusions 4’ on Beechwood, which was his first compilation CD.
With a change in ownership and a corresponding change in format smooth jazz began to slip from the Jazz FM radar screen. After achieving a five-fold increase in listener figures, Steve moved on in 2002 taking Fusion Flavours to BBC Radio Manchester. But as is the way in radio, what goes around tends to come around. Another format change saw Jazz FM morph into Smooth FM and it is here in 2004 that Fusion Flavours continued Sunday midnight and Steve also hosted the “smooth jazz through the night” Monday to Friday.
Steve’s passion for the music took his “Fusion Flavours” across the pond to host a weekly syndicated show in the USA, ‘Fusion Flavours – Smooth Jazz From Around The World’ on WNUA 95.5 Chicago and on LOVE 94 in Miami. This was a great way for Steve and “Fusion Flavours” to reach a whole new audience in 2006 and 2007.
October 2008 saw the start of the fresh new Jazz FM on DAB, welcoming listeners old and new. Steve hosted “Smooth jazz in the Afternoon,” which went on to be “Fusion Flavours” a daily two-hour program of the coolest soul and jazz.
Currently Steve is hosting the popular “Easy Like Sunday Morning” and “Colourful Breakfast” on Colourful Radio across London and DAB as well as around the globe.
“I love what I do,” said Steve. “My passion for the music is stronger today than yesterday. I am looking forward to challenges ahead. “Nathan East once said to me – ‘Enjoy what you do -- and you will never work a day for the rest of your life.’ “I love what I do, so I guess I haven’t been working for the last 33 years!”
2023 Episodes — new episodes released every weekend through the opening of the Boscov’s Berks Jazz FesT
The 32nd annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest’s 10-day run has ended. All reports that have reached me indicate it was huge success.
Congratulations to everyone who contributed to that success. Well done!
The live music may be over, but Fusion Flavours: Berks Jazz Fest has more music for you with Episode 9 of the series.
The final edition of 2023 features:
Music from BJF’s 10th anniversary in 2000 featuring the legendary Crusader Joe Sample with Lalah Hathaway and saxophonist Nelson Rangell.
NEW music from guitarist Christophe Goze’s new album “Travelers Notes” – and from Maysa Leak who performed during the fest.
Music and conversation from two-time Grammy winner Samara Joy, who tells us about “her influences.”
Boney James talks about his Berks memories and a couple of great tracks too.
Something mellow and cool from my old friend keyboard player Brian Simpson, who produced the sold-out Sunday Jazz Brunch on April 2 during Berks Jazz Fest.
Second segment features my old Scottish friend – yes, Scottish saxman Richard Elliot, who talks about his days with Tower of Power, Power Gliding at the Catalina Jazz Festival, and much more!
MARCH 25 - Berks Jazz Fest is off to a swingin’ start!
And Fusion Flavours: Berks Jazz Fest is along for the ride, sharing great music and conversation with fest artists and much more.
This week, the first segment of Episode 8 features:
A look back to the BJF 2013 with headliners Kirk Whalum “Gospel According to Jazz” and Dianne Reeves with the Reading Symphony Orchestra.
Sarah Vaughn singing a Beatles classic song.
Alex Bugnon’s take Luther Vandross’ “Any Love.”
New music from trumpeter Johnny Britt featuring Peter White and the title cut from his new album “After We Play.”
New music from Vincent Ingala who is performing at BJF this weekend.
Music and conversation with The Manhattan Transfer’s Janis Siegel talking about working with Rod Temperton and Stevie Wonder on “Spice of Life.”
Second segment of show features an hour of music and conversations with producer, musician, musical director Chris “Big Dog” Davis. Chris discusses his work with Brian McKnight, Gerald Albright and Will Downing, plus his MD work on the Berks Jazz Fest “Stevie 70th Tribute” several years back -- with a message from Stevie. Chris previews his Celebrating the Women in Jazz II” concert set for Saturday at 1:00 p.m. in the DoubleTree Grand Ballroom, featuring Regina Belle, Avery Sunshine, Maysa, Lori Williams, Karen Briggs, Kayla Waters and Jazmin Ghent.
Enjoy the second weekend of Berks Jazz Fest 2023.
Thanks for listening.
MARCH 18 - Week 7 of Berks Jazz Fest
As we move into the final days before the start of the 32nd annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest on Friday, March 24, Fusion Flavours features:
Look back to the 20th anniversary of BJF in 2010 with headliners Blood Sweat & Tears and Jason Miles Tribute to Grover Washington Jr. concert, featuring Gerald Albright.
We celebrate the birthday of George Benson, who turns 80 on March 22. George talks about recording the classic “Breezin” album in 1976 -- and how “This Masquerade” was one take.
New from Parisian guitarist U NAM and saxophonist Michael Lington, plus my old friends The Braxton Brothers with their new cut “Let’s have a good time.”
For the second segment, guitarist Adam Hawley is my guest, who shares his music and discusses his musical journey that includes working with The Manhattan Transfer, Dave Koz, and other major artists. Adam also previews his amazing Berks Jazz Fest concert – Adam Hawley’s West Coast Groove – set for Saturday, April 1, at the DoubleTree Grand Ballroom that features Marcus Anderson, Rebecca Jade, Darren Rahn, Greg Manning, Darryl Williams, and Tony Moore.
Enjoy Your Weekend! Enjoy The Show!
MARCH 11 - Week 6 of Berks Jazz Fest
Welcome to Episode 6 of Fusion Flavours as we are less than two weeks away from the Berks Jazz Fest 2023.
We start this week’s episode looking back to the Berks Jazz Fest 2005 and play the music of headliners Al Jarreau and supergroup Fourplay. Can’t believe it was 18 years ago!
Also in the first hour:
1. We take two tracks from producer, musician, composer, arranger, and jazz legend Quincy Jones, who celebrates his 90th Birthday on March 14.
2. New music this week comes from Berks Jazz Fest performer Bobby Lyle featuring Nathan East taken from his new album “Ivory Flow,” plus new music from trumpeter Cindy Bradley.
3. We go into the Fusion Flavours archives for some wonderful music from Russ Freeman & David Benoit, featuring Kenny Loggins.
4. News of a special show added to BJF -- “Epiphany: A Musical Journey” -- Ray “The Weeper” Fuller shares music and amazing stories working with Whitney Houston, Natalie Cole, George Duke, and more on Saturday, April 1 at the DoubleTree. This performance is not to be missed.
For the second half of show, we spend 60 minutes of music and conversation with fellow Englishman Peter White. Talking about Peter’s early days with Al Stewart in the 1970s; his amazing music career; and his finale weekend performances at the Berks Jazz Fest.
Enjoy the show!
MARCH 4 — Week 5 of Berks Jazz Fest
Welcome to Episode 5 of “Fusion Flavours: Berks Jazz Fest.”
Spring is coming – and that means it’s time for the Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest -- Spring Break for Jazz Lovers!
This week, the show opens with a trip back to Berks Jazz Fest 2004, featuring the music of George Benson and Diane Schuur.
First hour of the show also features:
Two tracks from legendary guitarist Wes Montgomery, who would be celebrating his birthday on March 6.
You will hear Wayne Shorter talk about working with Miles Davis and recording the album “ESP.” You also will hear music from Shorter, who passed Thursday at 89.
New music from a guy who works closely with Sergio Mendes, the amazing Scott Mayo from his Brazilian album “Meu Brazil” and bassist Robert Vally takes us to “Woody’s Gap”.
We unlock the Fusion Flavours archives with music from Take 6 and Nathan East, who has Stevie Wonder on harmonica on his classic “Overjoyed.”
Music and details of Adam Hawley West Coast Groove Show and Brian Simpson’s Sunday Brunch performances.
Second hour of show features:
A full hour of music and conversation with my good friend from the UK Miles Gilderdale.
Acoustic Alchemy, along with special guest Jeff Kashiwa, headline the Sunday Jazz Brunch at the DoubleTree Grand Ballroom on Sunday, March 26. It will be Acoustic Alchemy’s first appearance at Berks since 2004.
More news about this year’s Berks Jazz Fest 2023.
Enjoy your weekend! Enjoy the show!
FEBRUARY 25 — Week 4 of Berks Jazz Fest
Welcome to Episode 4 of “Fusion Flavours: Berks Jazz Fest.”
This week, we kick off the show with the music of headliners from Berks Jazz Fest 1998 -- Bobby Caldwell Big Band and legendary saxophonist Grover Washington Jr.
First hour of show also features:
1. Two tracks from guitarist Larry Carlton, who performs with guitarist Paul Brown during Berks opening weekend.
2. New music from vocalist/saxophonist Pete Belasco, Candy Dulfer, and Earth Wind & Fire musical director Myron McKinley.
3. Vintage Boney James and Peter White, both Berks favourites, and Paul Jackson Jr., who appears with Jazz Funk Soul -- Everette Harp and Jeff Lorber -- on first weekend.
Second half of show features:
1. Music and conversation with my old friend Oli Silk, who performs with Philip “Doc” Martin during first weekend of fest. Oli talks about his musical journey, six CD releases, live UK performances, and much more.
2. Latest news on the Berks Jazz Fest.
Enjoy the show and your weekend!
FEBRUARY 18 — Week 3 of Berks Jazz Fest
We have programmed a music-filled two hours for you. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy.
Music from the two jazz legends -- vocalist Al Jarreau and saxophonist David Sanborn, who both have performed at the Berks Jazz Fest.
We celebrate the 66th birthday of my old friend “Jean Paul Maunick” Bluey from Incognito.
Keyboardist Keiko Matsui music from her forthcoming album “Euphoria”
Vocalist Chelsea Nicole’s album “Love Letter,” produced and featuring Jeff Lorber
My favourite album of the moment “The Rebirth Of Marvin,” featuring the stunning October London.
Latest music of Berks Jazz Fest opening weekend stars Brian Culbertson, Bobby Lyle, and Chris Botti.
Hour Two is rather special this week. We have music and conversation with Berks Jazz Fest legend, the late Chuck Loeb. The guitarist was a huge part of fest for many years and touched so many people along the way. Everyone loved Chuck. I interviewed Chuck on many occasions over 20 years. I recorded this interview with Chuck in March 2017, four months before he lost his battle with cancer. I will always hold our friendship close. Hope you enjoy our music and conversation with Chuck in the second hour.
FEBRUARY 11 — Week 2 of Berks Jazz Fest
Hope I find you well for this Super Bowl weekend in the U.S.
On this week’s edition of Fusion Flavours: Berks Jazz Fest, we have music from the late Jeff Golub with Avenue Blue.
Also, we remember the legendary Burt Bacharach who passed at 94 Thursday, by playing two of my favourites from his extensive back catalogue from Ronald Isley and the wonderful Rumer from the UK performing with Burt.
New music and the title cut “Africa Rising” from saxophonist Andre Ward and a stunning cut from Manhattan Transfers new album “Fifty” styling a Beach Boys classic.
We celebrate the birthday of Sergio Mendes who is 82 this weekend.
You will hear guitarist Paul Brown; Brazilian keyboardist Marcos Valle; and saxophonist Euge Groove.
Plus, we wrap up the conversation with John Ernesto talking about the final Berks weekend -- and play amazing music from the artists appearing at Berks Jazz Fest.
Enjoy your weekend!
FEBRUARY 4 — Berks Jazz Fest Week 1 Preview
The premier show features an extensive interview with John Ernesto, Berks Jazz Fest general manager, who discusses this year’s lineup and some of his favourite shows and memories from the last 32 years. Steve presents the music of Hubert Laws featuring Brian Culbertson; his favourite Fourplay track “101 Eastbound; the music of Sadao Watanabe,” who performed at Berks in 1992; new Boney James tracks from his latest CD “Detour.” Plus, music from Brain Culbertson’s “Trilogy” project; Gregory Porter; wonderful new remix of Roberts Flack’s “Killing Me Softly.”