California Dreamin'

The Commodores are currently on a three-week tour of the West Coast. For more information, visit our website.

This is my 16th tour as a member of the Commodores and my fifth time touring the western United States, but no matter how many times I visit the state of California, I never cease to be awed by the geographical beauty. Monterey is no exception! The weather was perfect – blue skies, mildly cool temperatures, and no rain.

Musician 1st Class Tim Stanley and I enjoyed a 10K run soaking in the sites of the fisherman’s wharf, sea lions and the Pacific. The food here is also great. It’s never a mistake to enjoy seafood when you can watch the fishing boats from the restaurant windows as they haul in the days catch.

Our performance was well attended by a large and enthusiastic audience. Of particular interest to me was meeting a group of 20+ young Sailors from the Defense Language Institute, stationed at the Presidio of Monterey, who volunteered to usher and provide security at the event. It was nice to see young men and women, fresh out of boot camp, excited about serving their country and about the great opportunity they’ve been given to study at the Defense Language School.

I wish we could have spent a few more days in Monterey, but we’re off to Chico. Until next time…

Chief Musician Luis Hernandez plays tenor saxophone and is the musical director of the Commodores.