By Noe Gutierrez
jimi ‘FITZ’ Fitzgerald will fittingly receive the ‘Pioneer Award’ at the 2019 Coachella Valley Music Awards being held at Hotel Zoso in Palm Springs, California on Sunday, June 2nd, 2019 from 5-9 p.m. Tickets are still available for purchase online at ticketsauce.com/e/7th-annual-cv-music-awards. You can also purchase tickets at the door.
A “pioneer” ordinarily has paved the way for other artists and is focused on their ‘swan song,’ but not FITZ. He, along with his wife Wendy, CEO of Wendy Jane Productions, Inc., continues to take the lead with highly successful events like the Wedbush Garden Jam Music Festival, held at the famed Indian Wells Tennis Garden and headlined this past year by Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real and “The Legend,” Buddy Guy. And in its 19th year, FITZ’S Jazz Café at the McCallum has brought some of the best and brightest stars from the world of jazz to the McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert, California.
FITZ is also nominated for ‘Best Radio DJ/ Personality’ and ‘Best Event Promoter.’ FITZ has held the entertainment fort for decades here in the Coachella Valley. He is an avant-garde in how he supports local musicians and is high-reaching in the events he facilitates. Congratulations FITZ!
Coachella Valley Weekly asked FITZ a few questions about his selection as our beneficiary of the 2019 Pioneer Award.
CVW: What were your thoughts and reactions about receiving the “Pioneer Award”?
FITZ: “I’m so honored to be receiving the ‘Pioneer Award’ this weekend! When I received the call and was told I was going to be this year’s recipient it actually gave me chills because I’m one who doesn’t really look back. It’s causing me to reflect on my career and the amazing gifts I’ve received through the years by getting to play with, produce and promote so many well-known and up-and-coming artists. This community has been so supportive of Wendy and me and we are very grateful.”
CVW: In your opinion, what has been the most important quality that has served you best in your career?
FITZ: “I believe it takes several qualities to succeed in any field; passion and perseverance top my list.”
CVW: What are your plans for the remainder of 2019 and beyond?
FITZ: For 2019 and beyond I’ll continue being FITZ, meaning I will continue with my radio career, performing with my fellow musicians and producing concerts and events. I will continue to improve as a singer/songwriter/performer and try to reinvent myself each next chapter of my creative path and still have so much to do! I will continue to advocate for the homeless, our veterans and children. So little time and so much to do, really. There’s No Easy Way Out! Focus on celebrating our similarities because we’re NOT THAT DIFFERENT after all!”
