Concerts at Humphreys by the Bay 2010-2013

Humphreys by the Bay is one of San Diego's crown jewels - an intimate outdoor venue right on the water where sailboats drift by as you watch legends perform. With only 1,400 seats, it's the perfect size for seeing established artists in a setting that feels special. Between 2010 and 2013, I caught some incredible shows there.

2010: A Year of Legends

Diana Ross - On the Raft (2010)

This was surreal. Diana Ross performed on a raft floating in the bay, with the audience watching from the shore and venue. Hearing Supremes classics and her solo hits while she literally floated on the water - only in San Diego! "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" over the water was magical.

Crosby, Stills and Nash (2010)

The harmonies that defined a generation still sounded incredible. Despite their notorious feuding, CSN brought their A-game. "Suite: Judy Blue Eyes," "Wooden Ships," "Teach Your Children" - classic after classic. David Crosby's voice, Stephen Stills' guitar, Graham Nash's melodies - perfection. Read more.

Jackson Browne (2010)

The California troubadour performing in Southern California felt right. "Running on Empty," "The Pretender," "Doctor My Eyes" - his catalog is deep and his voice has aged well. His storytelling between songs added depth to the performance.

Imogen Heap (2010)

A very different vibe from the classic rock legends. Imogen's electronic-pop with live looping and her ethereal voice was mesmerizing. Watching her build songs layer by layer with her innovative gloves controlling effects was fascinating.

Meatloaf (2010)

Meat Loaf brought that theatrical rock opera energy to the intimate Humphreys stage. "Paradise by the Dashboard Light" and "Bat Out of Hell" with full commitment and drama. The man gives 110% every time.

Wynton Marsalis (2010)

The jazz trumpet virtuoso and artistic director of Jazz at Lincoln Center brought sophistication and incredible musicianship. His technical skill and understanding of jazz history made this a masterclass.

2011: Blues, Comedy, and Americana

B.B. King (2011)

Seeing B.B. King before he passed was a blessing. The King of Blues, sitting in his chair with Lucille (his guitar), playing those signature licks and bending those notes that only he could bend. "The Thrill Is Gone" live from B.B. King is something every blues fan needs to experience. Read more.

Steve Martin (2011)

Yes, that Steve Martin - actor, comedian, and serious banjo player. His bluegrass chops are real, and his between-song comedy made the whole show entertaining. The Steep Canyon Rangers backed him up, and you could tell he genuinely loves the music.

Chris Botti (2011)

The smooth jazz trumpeter created a romantic, sophisticated atmosphere. His tone is butter-smooth, and having guest vocalists made it feel like a special evening.

America (2011)

"A Horse with No Name," "Ventura Highway," "Sister Golden Hair" - soft rock perfection from the '70s legends. Their harmonies still worked beautifully.

Three Dog Night (2011)

Classic rock hits machine. "Joy to the World," "Mama Told Me Not to Come," "One" - they delivered exactly what you'd hope for.

Billy Idol (2011)

Punk rock icon bringing "White Wedding," "Rebel Yell," and "Dancing with Myself" to the waterfront. Billy's sneer and energy proved he still had it.

2012: Banjos and California Rock

Steve Martin (2012)

Steve returned with more bluegrass excellence. His dedication to the banjo is admirable.

Rufus Wainwright (2012)

The theatrical singer-songwriter's beautiful voice and complex arrangements translated well to the intimate setting. His songs are lush and emotionally rich.

The Doobie Brothers (2012)

"Listen to the Music," "China Grove," "Black Water," "Long Train Runnin'" - the Doobies brought that California rock sound home. Their dual-guitar attack still sounded great.

2013: Jazz-Rock Legends

Steely Dan (2013)

This was the highlight. Steely Dan's jazz-infused rock is sophisticated, complex, and perfectly executed. Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, backed by world-class session musicians, delivered "Reelin' in the Years," "Do It Again," "Aja," "Peg" with pristine precision. Their refusal to tour for years made this feel special. Read more.

Huey Lewis and the News (2013)

Pure fun. "The Power of Love," "Hip to Be Square," "I Want a New Drug" - Huey and the band brought the '80s hits and positive energy. Sometimes you just want straightforward rock and roll done well.

Trombone Shorty (2013)

The New Orleans brass band leader brought funk, jazz, rock, and hip-hop all blended together. His trombone playing is exceptional, and the energy he and his band Orleans Avenue brought was infectious.

The Humphreys Magic

What makes Humphreys special is the setting and size. Watching sailboats drift by as the sun sets while Steve Martin plays banjo or Diana Ross sings on a floating raft - these are experiences you can't get at arenas. The venue's intimacy means you're never far from the stage, and the waterfront atmosphere makes even familiar songs feel new.

The Verdict

Humphreys by the Bay gave me years of incredible memories. From B.B. King's blues mastery to Steely Dan's jazz-rock perfection to Diana Ross floating on the bay to CSN's timeless harmonies - this venue and these shows represent the best of live music: great artists in a beautiful setting, performing for fans who appreciate their craft.

If you're in San Diego and there's a show at Humphreys, go. You won't regret it.