Last Sunday night, August 24, Humphreys Concerts by the Bay was packed to the brim as Pink Martini brought their 30th Anniversary Tour to San Diego. The sold-out crowd spilled beyond the venue, with fans watching from boats in the marina and hotel balconies overlooking the stage.
The evening began on a bittersweet note as China Forbes, Pink Martini’s lead vocalist since 1995, stepped to the mic to share some personal news: she would soon be taking a leave from the band. She called it a “retirement,” explaining that she wants to spend more time with her son as he begins college—though she hinted it may only last a couple of years. The crowd responded with heartfelt applause, a reminder of the deep connection Forbes has built with fans over the past three decades.
The ensemble for the night highlighted the band’s remarkable musicianship. Thomas Lauderdale, who formed Pink Martini 31 years ago, guided the group from behind the piano with energy and precision. He was joined by Tom Barber on trumpet, Miguel Bernal on congas, Anthony Jones on drums, Dan Faehnle on guitar, Phil Baker on upright bass, and Nicholas Crosa on violin. Together, they built the beautiful and inclusive sound that has defined Pink Martini for decades—part symphony, part jazz club, and part global street party.
In addition to Forbes, the audience was treated to powerful and moving performances from Edna Vazquez, Ari Shapiro, Jimmie Herrod, and Timothy Nishimoto. Forbes introduced them as “the Pink Martini all-stars,” noting they will be stepping into lead vocal roles when she departs this October. Each singer brought their own unique artistry to the stage, from soaring ballads to fiery multilingual numbers, highlighting both the band’s rich history and the exciting future ahead.
The setlist carried familiar favorites like “Sympathique (Je ne veux pas travailler)” and “Hang on Little Tomato,” both of which had the audience clapping and singing along. The stage itself seemed magnetic. At times, it felt less like watching a band at work and more like sitting in on a gathering of friends; in between and even during songs, they laughed and chatted, letting the crowd in on their fun. For much of the concert, the audience stayed seated, soaking in the dynamic arrangements and harmonies—until the band launched into “¿Dónde Estás, Yolanda?” Suddenly, the band requested that the house lights turn on and the crowd get on their feet. What followed was part dance party, part competition, with fans twirling, swaying, and showing off their best moves.
Thirty years on, Pink Martini continues to show why they’ve remained one of the most beloved and distinctive acts in modern music. With songs performed in more than 25 languages and a sound that blends classical, jazz, pop, and global traditions, the band has carved out a space entirely its own. Their San Diego performance wasn’t just a look back at that history—it was also a glimpse of what’s ahead. With China Forbes’ bittersweet announcement balanced by the energy of the “all-star” vocalists, the night underscored both the weight of their legacy and the excitement of their future.
Photos and review by Abby Murr