Saturday, August 8, 2026
7:30 PM
Clif Payne Sings Frank Sinatra and Stevie Wonder
Veteran singer Clif Payne, who had success with his album Welcome To My World a few years ago (highlighted by a very well-received vocal duet with Freda Payne on “No Payne, No Gain”), performed two special sets at San Francisco’s Bird & Beckett Books and Records. The venue, an intimate setting that often hosts live bands and poetry readings, was sold out for the show and proved to be the perfect place for Clif Payne’s singing.
The night featured the vocalist performing a set apiece of songs identified with Frank Sinatra and Stevie Wonder. Rather than make the mistake of trying to imitate the musical giants, Clif Payne presented the tribute in his own style and musical personality, finding fresh ways to sing the wide-ranging songs. As Sinatra might have said, “He did it his way.”
Clif Payne was joined by a versatile and skillful rhythm section comprised of pianist Frank Martin, bassist Daniel Fabricant, and drummer David Rokeach. The first set consisted of songs from Frank Sinatra’s repertoire. From the start, the singer displayed a very appealing voice and plenty of enthusiasm. He was energetic on a slightly faster-than-usual version of “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” and the classic swinger “Come Fly With Me,” putting a lot of feeling and joy into the lyrics. After a concise “I’ve Got The World On A String,” he created a conversational version of “It Was A Good Year” that was often purposely out-of-tempo and as much spoken as sung. Fabricant’s bowed bass was an asset. “You Make Me Feel So Young” was taken a capella with the singer just accompanying himself on tambourine, displaying the power of his voice with power and wit. “Luck Be A Lady” was given a powerhouse treatment, “Put Your Dreams Away” was quietly expressive, and this half of the show concluded with an assertive and optimistic interpretation of “That’s Life.”
The second set explored some of the songs of Stevie Wonder. Bassist Fabricant switched from acoustic to electric bass and the rhythm section went from swinging Sinatra tunes to becoming funkier. They began this part of the show with an instrumental version of Wonder’s “I Can’t Help It.” Clif Payne was exuberant on “Sir Duke” (Stevie Wonder’s tribute to Duke Ellington), quite passionate on “Golden Lady” and particularly soulful during “Knocks Me Off My Feet.” On heartfelt interpretations of “Knocks Me Off My Feet” and “If It’s Magic,” he showed a deep understanding of Wonder’s lyrics. Clif Payne clearly enjoyed himself during an infectious “Overjoyed” and a boisterous “Master Blaster.” On the final number, “Superstition,” he stretched out with some inventive scat-singing, gave each of the musicians a chance to solo, and concluded with a gospel-lish groove that excited the audience.
It made for a fun night of first-class music from an appealing singer and a top-notch trio that were consistently successful in paying tribute to the timeless songs of Frank Sinatra and Stevie Wonder.
– Scott Yanow, jazz journalist/historian
Doors open 7:00 PM, shows start promptly, please arrive on time.
Please note:
- Refreshments will be served before the show and through the end of intermission and can be consumed inside the hall. Refreshments are not served after intermission. Please return bottles, cups, and cans to the refreshment window before returning to your seat.
- Per our ABC licensing requirements alcohol must be always kept inside the hall. No outside wine and beer are allowed.
- We have increased our hall ventilation. Dress warmly on a cold day.
*Member Price is for current members only. Membership status will be confirmed and if necessary, the ticket price will be adjusted upon arrival at check-in, before seating.