Photo courtesy of VANGIE GUNN - GOODWIN with Big Phat Band
For more than a quarter of a century, Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band has stood among the defining forces in contemporary big band jazz, continually redefining the possibilities of large ensemble music through fearless composition, cinematic orchestration, and world-class musicianship. Few ensembles have managed to bridge technical brilliance with widespread audience appeal as successfully as the Big Phat Band, earning admiration from musicians, educators, recording professionals, and jazz audiences around the world.
Now, twenty-five years after the ensemble first reshaped the modern big band landscape, its next chapter arrives with profound emotional significance.
On July 31, 2026, Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band unveils its highly anticipated thirteenth studio album, 25 Years of Phatness. More than a commemorative release, the project serves as both a celebration of an extraordinary musical journey and a deeply personal tribute to one of contemporary jazz's most influential composers and arrangers. Following the release of its acclaimed lead single, "Everywhere U Look," on June 8, the album will be celebrated with special performances at Catalina Bar & Grill in Hollywood on August 7 and 8, bringing audiences together for what promises to be one of the year's most meaningful live jazz events.
Yet beyond the music itself lies a remarkable human story.
Following the heartbreaking passing of her husband and lifelong creative partner, Gordon Goodwin, Vangie Gunn-Goodwin faced a responsibility that few could ever imagine carrying. Rather than allowing grief to silence one of jazz's greatest creative voices, she transformed personal loss into an enduring mission—one rooted in preservation, education, and artistic continuity.
Instead of viewing Gordon's extraordinary body of work as the conclusion of an era, Vangie has embraced it as the beginning of an even broader global conversation.
Today, she is not simply preserving the legacy of Gordon Goodwin. She is expanding it.
While continuing to guide the internationally celebrated Big Phat Band into its next generation, Vangie has simultaneously launched one of the most meaningful educational initiatives surrounding Gordon's music—the Big Phat Pod, a project inspired by Gordon himself.
Months before his cancer diagnosis, Gordon had envisioned creating a podcast where audiences could experience the stories behind the music, the creative decisions, the musicians, and the unforgettable moments that shaped the Big Phat Band's remarkable history. Although he was unable to bring that vision to life personally, Vangie ensured that dream would never disappear.
Through Big Phat Pod, she has transformed that unfinished vision into a living archive.
Co-hosted by Vangie Gunn-Goodwin and Andrew Kesler, the podcast offers listeners unprecedented access to the creative universe behind Gordon Goodwin's music. Each episode moves beyond performance and recording credits to uncover the artistic conversations, compositional techniques, orchestration choices, recording sessions, film scoring experiences, and personal stories that shaped one of jazz's most celebrated catalogs.
For musicians, educators, composers, and devoted listeners alike, the podcast has quickly become an invaluable resource—documenting not only Gordon's extraordinary compositions but also the collaborative spirit that defined every recording, rehearsal, and performance.
Guest artists, longtime band members, close collaborators, and musical colleagues contribute their own perspectives, creating a rich historical record that ensures Gordon's influence continues to educate future generations.
As an educator herself, Vangie approaches each conversation with both intellectual curiosity and genuine emotional honesty. Her discussions reveal the craftsmanship behind Gordon's compositions while also celebrating the friendships, humor, determination, and humanity that made his music resonate so deeply with audiences around the world.
Photo courtesy of Big Phat Band
It is this combination of authenticity and artistic insight that has transformed Big Phat Pod from a tribute into an essential extension of Gordon Goodwin's musical legacy.
Perhaps no statement better captures the heart of Vangie's mission than her own words:
"I am Gordon's messenger. It is my life's purpose to continue his music, and I intend to keep his fans engaged while bringing new audiences to discover the genius that is Gordon Goodwin."
Those words are not simply an expression of remembrance.
They represent a commitment to ensuring that Gordon's artistry continues to evolve beyond recordings, concerts, and awards, reaching entirely new generations of musicians who may be discovering his work for the very first time.
That same spirit is reflected throughout 25 Years of Phatness, an album that revisits some of Gordon Goodwin's most beloved compositions while presenting fresh performances, remarkable collaborations, and new artistic dimensions.
The recording showcases the unmistakable excellence that has defined the Big Phat Band throughout its celebrated history, featuring performances from longtime collaborators alongside distinguished guest artists. Production duties are led by Gordon Goodwin, with Wayne Bergeron serving as Co-Producer and Vangie Gunn-Goodwin joining the project as Co-Producer, ensuring the artistic vision remains faithful while embracing its future.
Recorded at Tritone Studios and Gault Street Sound, with mixing by Tommy Vicari and immersive Atmos production by Tommy Vicari and Steve Genewick, the album reflects the meticulous production values audiences have come to expect from every Big Phat Band release.
The repertoire spans celebrated fan favorites and ambitious new interpretations, including Sing Sang Sung 25, Everywhere U Look, Dax Thunder, Man of Mystery, In This Moment, The Gnashing of Teeth, A Taste of Honey, Hunting Wabbits 25, Change is Good, Glitch in the Simulation, SHINE!, and Jazz Police 25.
Throughout the recording, listeners will hear extraordinary performances from an exceptional roster of musicians, including Wayne Bergeron, Herb Alpert, Andy Martin, Andy Waddell, Brian Scanlon, Danny Kaneyuki, Aaron Janik, Ray Brinker, Joey DeLeon, Anibal Seminario, and many others whose artistry has helped shape the unmistakable sound of the Big Phat Band.
Vocal performances from Vangie Gunn-Goodwin, David Loucks, Fletcher Sheridan, Alvin Chea, and Aria Gunn further enrich the album, adding emotional depth while reflecting the personal connections that have always been central to Gordon Goodwin's music.
Ultimately, however, 25 Years of Phatness represents something even greater than an anniversary release.
It is the continuation of a philosophy.
It is proof that truly great music does not conclude with the life of its creator. Instead, it grows through those who choose to protect it, share it, and inspire others through its enduring message.
In that regard, Vangie Gunn-Goodwin has become far more than the steward of Gordon Goodwin's extraordinary catalog.
She has become its strongest advocate, its most passionate storyteller, and the driving force ensuring that one of modern jazz's most important musical legacies continues to inspire audiences across every generation.
With every performance, every conversation, every episode of Big Phat Pod, and now with the release of 25 Years of Phatness, Gordon Goodwin's music continues to do exactly what it has always done—bring people together through imagination, virtuosity, and timeless artistry.
His voice may no longer be heard from the conductor's podium, but through Vangie Gunn-Goodwin's unwavering dedication, his music continues to speak with remarkable clarity—and perhaps louder than ever before.
Scroll down for the full Vangie Gunn-Goodwin interview:
Talk about your new project coming out?
VGG: 25 Years of Phatness is both a celebration and a legacy. Marking a quarter century of Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band, this album showcases Gordon's final collection of new compositions and arrangements. Music that reflects his boundless imagination, unmistakable voice, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Every note embodies the joy, humor, passion, and brilliance that defined his career. More than an anniversary release, 25 Years of Phatness is a tribute to an artist whose music continues to inspire, challenge, and bring people together. Gordon's voice lives on in every chart, every solo, and every performance, ensuring that his legacy will continue to resonate for generations to come.
Talk about your podcast? Who’s been on your podcast?
VGG: We have had all of the current band members on as guests as well as special guests including, Aubrey Logan, Matt Bates, Brian Kilgore, Ryan Mowrey, Singers Aria Gunn, David Loucks, Fletcher Sheridan, Alvin Chea, and more! Each future season will have more amazing guests.
What do you talk about?
VGG: Each episode focuses on one song from the album the season is about. Season 1 is exclusively about, 25 Years of Phatness. Season 2 will be another one of Gordon’s brilliant albums.
What inspired you to do a podcast?
VGG: This was Gordon’s dream in early 2025. We talked at length about starting the Big Phat Pod because he could break out a bit more on the pod than on his radio show. Sadly, due to his diagnosis the Pod never got off the ground with him. So, after the dust settled in life I decided to take up the mantel and get this podcast going to honor Gordon.
Do you think Gordon Goodwin would have loved this podcast?
VGG: Very much! He was a talker. I am a talker. We are both educators, musicians, and visionaries. He would love that I took his vision and ran with it to continue his life’s goals.
What’s the plan for the podcast?
VGG: I have at least 13 seasons already in the works! This will go on for a very long time focusing on the brilliance of Gordon’s music, mind, life and legacy along with amazing interviews and stories of his musical journey.
Who are some future guests that you are excited about?
VGG: Herb Alpert, Eric Marienthal, Take 6, Eddie Daniels, Brian McKnight, Lee Ritenour, Dave Gruson and more.
What is the plan for touring?
VGG: We are currently booking into 2027 all over the world.
What is the plan for local shows?
VGG: We will continue to perform twice a year at our home venue, Catalina Jazz Club, with an occasional showing at Vibrato and in San Diego.
Do you love performing live?
VGG: Yes, more than anything else that I do. Especially getting to stand and sing alongside the world’s greatest musicians in the Phat Band. What an honor, and Gordon opened the door for me which I will be eternally grateful.
What are your vocal techniques?
VGG: That is a broad question! Bottom line my technique is “trained” alongside “natural” and “real” to keep my voice working until I am very old! This means that I vocalize every day, I eat correctly, I drink correctly (water, tea) to stay hydrated, I have vocal therapy (manual manipulation) regularly, and I am constantly aware of how and what is impacting my voice. It is a lifestyle. I am a vocal athlete and take the routines extremely serious. Sleep is vital too! I also am very aware of how much I am talking as talking can be hard on a voice. That includes never yelling on rides or at a game. My voice is my life, so I must protect it at all times.
What’s a typical day for you?
VGG: Oh, my days change consistently being a free-lance musician and business owner, but what remains the same is vocalizing daily to keep my chops ready, working on the Big Phat Pod’s many details, booking the band, which is a huge responsibility, and continuing to look towards the future at what needs to be done in the next few months and years. I set goals and markers to hit each month and each quarter to keep the train moving smoothly.
I have the occasional recording session as a singer and vocal contractor for film, TV, and Video games, which I love to do and keeps me busy. I am also writing music daily as well including lyrics, arrangements, and more. That is pure joy, not work. I have a few things that are normal for me - I work out all the time (advanced Pilates, Barre, HIT, Heavy Weights, etc.), I sit in my backyard and drink tea with my puppy, I hang with my amazing 4 kids (Lexi, Emma, Levi and Aria) and their partners AND occasionally play with my wonderful grandkids (4 & 3). I have amazing friends who check in on me regularly. I am blessed! Then I try to get to the beach and hike here and there. I stay busy.
Talk about your music?
VGG: The music that is written and being finished for my album is a mix of jazz, R&B, Funk and Rock. It screams both Gordon and me. We were a wonderful team and combination musically. Can’t wait to get it done and get it out!
Talk about your inspiration for your music?
VGG: I grew up in gospel music. I sang in the church from age 5-45! It really shaped me. I also grew up listening to and loving jazz, vocal jazz, funk, R&B, black gospel, rock, and disco. My biggest vocal influences are Chaka Kahn, Janis Siegel, Pauline Wilson, Nancy Wilson, Michael McDonald, and Al Jarreau.
How has life changed since Gordon Goodwin’s passing?
VGG: It has been devastating, horrible, so sad, so lonely, and I want him back every day. And yet, through this unfathomable experience, I have found my purpose. My whole life and my whole life’s purpose is Gordon, his legacy and his music. It’s an amazing thing how one’s life starts to line up when you find its purpose, and that is exactly what is happening. During Gordon’s treatment we started to face the reality of what might happen, which was awful. It was at that time he asked if I would consider carrying on the Phat Band. I didn’t hesitate and yelled out a resounding, yes. Actually, I said, HECK YES. I watched the relief cross his face. He told me he knew I could handle it, and that I would take good care of all of it. So, I take that responsibility seriously with honor and focus. I want to honor Gordon in every way possible which means keeping the band strong and gigging, releasing new music every year, recording the Podcast, keeping his charts published, and growing all of it in whatever way possible. It is my honor and my joy to do all of this. Plus, I love it! Truly, my whole life has trained me for this. I am more than ready and more than capable to take this baton and role. And almost every day, I thank Gordon for everything he has given me.
Talk About Gordon Goodwin’s music?
VGG: The best way for me to talk about Gordon’s music is to say it In Gordon’s own words:
“The Big Phat Band has always been about taking the tradition of big band jazz and giving it a contemporary voice. I never wanted to recreate the past—I wanted to build on it. Whether drawing from swing, funk, film scores, rock, or modern production techniques, my goal has always been to write music that's exciting, unexpected, and alive with content. At the heart of it all are extraordinary and world class musicians whose artistry brings these compositions to life. If the music is hard to categorize and pin down, that's exactly the point.”
Who is your mentor?
VGG: I don’t have a Mentor necessarily, but I do have a very small circle of close friends and family that I trust to fall apart to and discuss life decisions. I am very grateful for them.
Who was the first recording artist that you remember hearing?
VGG: My mom’s piano playing, plus - Andrae Crouch, Earth Wind and Fire, and Michael Jackson.
What’s on your playlist right now?
VGG: Big Phat Band, 70’s Funk, Jacob Collier, Dirty Loops, Israel Houghton, Michael McDonald, and Chaka Khan.
Talk about some of the producers you have worked with?
VGG: Oh, lots! Gordon Goodwin (My favorite of all time!), Tommy Vicari, Michael Lloyd, John Debney, Russell Brower, Danny Jacobs, Charlie Brissette, Scott Erickson, Nelson Kole, Michael Giacchino, Jeff Kryka, Nami Malamud, Charley Pollard, Wayne Bergeron, Gregg Fields, and Mark Kibble.
Talk about your podcast?
VGG: This has been a labor of love and purpose. About a year and half ago Gordon and I were approached about starting the Big Phat Pod. Both of us were very excited about the prospect and wanted to get it going. Sadly, Gordon got sick before we could really get it up and running. A few weeks after my love passed, I started working on all the Phat Band items I promised I would do for him including releasing 25 Years of Phatness. I began thinking about ways to promote it more effectively than the podcast idea popped back into my mind. Within an hour I had mapped out 13 seasons of this incredible Podcast with each season focusing on one of Gordon’s perfect albums. So far it has been very fun, a lot of hard work, and very successful. I love creating the show and honoring my sweet Gordon all while keeping his music and the history alive.
How did you get involved with Gordon and The Phat Band?
VGG: Many years before Gordon and I fell in love I worked for him as a session singer working on his films, Disney parades, and more. I always enjoyed working for him in the studio. His writing, arranging, communication skills, and more were evident in those recording days too. Plus, the sessions were just fun. One day a few years into working for him, I told him that I should and would love to sing with the Phat Band. He completely agreed and I ended up singing on a gig soon after that. It was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life. It changed my life, and to this day is the most joyful time I have in music. I am grateful for my extra family with the Phat Band.
How does the Phat Band carry on without him?
VGG: I promised Gordon that I would continue the Phat Band while he was going through chemo. When we had to face the reality of his prognosis, he looked at me and asked me if I would be willing to carry the Phat and on. I Immediately responded with a strong, YES. So, it has become my life’s purpose. We keep Gordon’s spirit alive in every performance not only through his music, but through video, spoken word and more. It is really beautiful and the audience feels his presence in every concert.
How do you prepare for a show?
VGG: Preparation starts weeks in advance. I make sure we have the set list. I make sure the charts are in order, I make sure we have the proper amount of merchandise. I also have to make sure all of the players are secure for each gig. If they cannot make it to one of them, they must provide an approved sub for the gig weeks ahead so that we are not missing any seat. Ryan, our sound and tech guy, and I speak regularly to make sure we are on track for all things sound, video, and tech. This is a complicated part that takes a great deal of time to dial in. And all of this is only just a fraction of what we have to do to guarantee a smooth and solid show. it truly is a full-time job.
Where do you see your music going in the next 5 years?
VGG: We will continue in the journey we are on, but I also have new recordings planned for release for at least the next 5 years. It is exciting. We will also continue to tour around the world.
When did you know you wanted to be a musician as a career?
VGG: I am lucky. I knew from a very young age. For a while however, I thought about being a doctor because I excelled at school, love being a “healer”, and had a science and math brain which contributed to the desire to be a doctor. After a great deal of thought and reflection, however, I decided that music was the driving force in my life. I am glad for my choice though it has been more difficult financially, I am sure. Music is in my DNA. I sang my entire childhood and adult life and have pursued all things music. It has been an incredible life filled with challenges and excitements, sacrifices and rewards, and so much more. I have no regrets at all and am thankful I chose this path.
If you were able to say one thing to Gordon Goodwin now, what would it be?
VGG: Thank you, my love, for changing my life, for encouraging me, for lifting me up, for protecting me, but mostly for loving me full hearted and without question. You are everything to me. I love you, forever.
The story of Gordon Goodwin's extraordinary musical legacy continues well beyond the stage. Through The Big Phat Pod, Vangie Gunn-Goodwin invites audiences into the creative world behind one of jazz's most celebrated composers, offering exclusive conversations, behind-the-scenes stories, and rare insights into the music that continues to inspire generations. Follow the journey by subscribing to The Big Phat Pod on YouTube, connecting with the community on Instagram, and exploring upcoming performances and news from Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band through its official website. For additional updates from Vangie Gunn-Goodwin, visit her official website and social media platforms, where the next chapter of this remarkable musical legacy continues to unfold.
Official Platforms
Big Phat Pod on YouTube
Instagram: @bigphatpod • @bigphatbandhq • @vangiegunn
Official Websites: Big Phat Band • vangie.me
Listen & Connect: SoundCloud, Facebook, and YouTube
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