PLAZA UNPLUGGED
Unwind under the coral trees at Westfield UTC while listening to acoustic sets by local San Diego musicians. Join us every Wednesday through Sunday from 12:00pm - 2:00pm in Palm Plaza while dining and listening to these talented artists.
Location: Palm Plaza

1/16 | 12-2p King Taylor Project
Sandi King and Joshua Taylor formed King Taylor Project in 2016 in San Diego, California. Conceived as a flexible platform based on their shared love of soul, blues, and jazz music, KTP features a roster of energetic improvisational musicians supporting soulful vocal performances. Since their launch in February of 2016, KTP has appeared for more than 140 performances in formats ranging from duo/trio to 8-piece band, in settings including bar/restaurant gigs, private parties and weddings, local fairs and festivals, and local radio and television appearances. They completed their first two tours in 2016 and just returned from their 2018 tour, which included the band's first full national trek. KTP's next stint on the road will be for the KTP Tea Bee DeTour, a five week Western US regional tour starting in late February 2017. Sandi and Josh have begun writing new material, and they are proud to share the stage with a wonderful group of collaborators whose contributions will extend to the studio for the first KTP album.

1/17 | 12-2p Mikael Pederson- Cancelled Due to Rain
For singer-songwriter and guitarist Mikael Pederson, music is a way to connect with the world and inspire those around him. Born and raised in Oregon, Mikael began his career at a young age singing and playing weekly with his band at the local coffee houses. His music has drawn comparisons to artists like John Mayer, James Taylor, and Ryan Adams. With hints of soul and blues driven guitar riffs, he adds vivid storytelling to create a compelling performance. Mikael seeks to inspire and encourage others through his songs and performances which have taken him to places such as the House of Blues, Clackamas County Fair, Alhambra Theatre and Alberta Street Pub. His first EP, “Turn This Around,” captures Mikael’s heartfelt approach to the ups and downs of everyday life and love, reminding listeners that “time’s not on our side”. Mikael’s new EP “Home” was released in January 2016 with four full band tracks featuring electric guitar solos and upbeat vocal hooks. The album is inspired by taking life a little slower and remembering the importance of connecting with a community. Songs from the album have been featured on Kink 101.9, Krush 92.5 and Pandora. Currently Mikael is working on new material in Los Angeles and will be releasing a single in the spring of 2017.

1/18 | 12-2p Ben Benavente
Ben is a member of Stateside Islander Crew, which brings you the best of Pacific Island style Music to the Mainland. A talented musician on his own, Ben blends together a unique flavor of the Islands, Reggae, Jahwaiian & Rock.

1/19 | 12-2p Rheanna Downey
Rheanna Downey is a San Diego based singer, songwriter, and guitarist. She performs solo (guitar/vocal), as a duo, and with other bands. With a style that is versatile, ranging from slow, sweet melodies to pop, soul, jazz and classic rock, Rheanna has toured the world, appearing at major venues in the UK, Europe, and the USA. She released a full-length record, Pull the Moon, in 2011, and released original songs for LA indie label Cleopatra records in 2012. Rheanna has worked with top names in the industry, and has gained the attention of popular radio stations. She continues to write, perform, teach, and enjoy the journey...

1/20 | 12-2p Marcela Mendez
Marcela is one of San Diego’s hidden gems that truly loves what she does - and that is entertaining people, especially with her comedic flare. Marcela is originally from Walnut Creek, CA but moved to San Diego 18 years ago to become a part of this great City. Marcela got her start in Musical Theatre which truly helped her transition into becoming one of San Diego’s favorite female entertainers. Her lower register offers a smoky blend that reminds people of a cross between Natalie Merchant and Stevie Nicks. Add in Marcela’s Chilean descent, she is as comfortable singing in Spanish as she is in English. Her ability to sing both allows her the opportunity to appeal to an even larger, more diverse audience. Marcela’s love for music has her performing a diversified selection of well known Rock tunes that range from the 60’s all the way up to today’s top Artists. Songs by the Beatles, Elvis, Johnny Cash, Mel Torme, Tina Turner, Fleetwood Mac, U2 all the way up to Ed Sheeran, Jason Mraz, Justin Timberlake, Amy Winehouse and Adele scratch the surface of all the music she loves to perform. Some of the Spanish Artists that she covers include Selena, Shakira, Reik, Jesse y Joy, Zayra Alvarez, etc…. She will truly impress when she performs Roy Orbison’s “Crying” in Spanish - it is a beautiful rendition. So many artists over the years have inspired Marcela to become the singer that she is today and she considers herself very fortunate to share something that she loves for others to enjoy that will surely remind us all of different eras of our lives.

1/23 | 12-2p Mike Myrdal
Mike is an accomplished singer and guitarist with over 27 years experience. He will leave any audience captivated and highly entertained with his skillful guitar playing and soulful voice. Mike's ability to connect with his audience makes him the perfect solution for your upcoming event. He resides in San Diego; however, he travels all over the U.S. to perform. He is the lead singer of Stepping Feet which performs as a corporate cover band and a Dave Matthews tribute band.
1/24 | 12-2p Sam & Lauren
Sam has been an active and in-demand guitarist in San Diego since 2009, playing with punk/rock bands, jazz ensembles, as a classical soloist, and with classic rockers Ron's Garage and Michael Gonzales. After a year of singing commercial jingles and performing with an electro-pop band in Argentina, Stacy returned to the United States in 2011 and formed Coronado-based band Velvet Café. In 2013 she beat out over 130 singers to win Fox San Diego’s televised singing competition “3 Minutes to Stardom”. In addition to fronting Velvet Café, Stacy sings straight-ahead jazz around town, and recently debuted her vintage country band.

1/25 | 12-2p Mike Officer
Having opened for B.B. King, performed at the Musician’s Institute graduation ceremony, and being a semi-finalist in the “Show Me The Music” national songwriting contest in Memphis, TN, Mike Officer’s career is one of diversity. Lyrically driven and genre-bending, his latest release titled The Jupiter Sessions EP expresses his unique style and powerful vocals. Mike Officer solidified his music career after attending the Musician’s Institute in Los Angeles, where he was selected as an honorary performer at the graduation ceremony and won Songwriter of the Year from the San Diego Songwriters Guild. He began playing gigs around the L.A. and San Diego area before opening for the legendary B.B. King and touring with the Kory Montgomery Band.

1/26 | 12-2p The Heart
The Heart is an uplifting and heart moving Acoustic Duo. Their Genre extends from high energy, feel good Top 40, Classic to Modern Rock, Country, Indie, Reggae and Folk. They've been categorized with bands such as: Ed Sheeran, Mumford & Sons, The Lumineers & Imagine Dragons. They'll keep you smiling, dancing & singing along to their heart moving song renditions.The Duo consists of Dale Peters who sings Lead Vocals, plays acoustic Guitar using various effect pedals and loops, simulating electric guitar, bass guitar, synthesizer & looped percussion; while simultaneously playing organic percussion through an electronic Kick Drum.... thus simulating the sound of a full band. Dale is accompanied by Cindy Peters on Lead Vocals as well as harmonies and percussion, who also doubles as our Sound Engineer.

1/27 | 12-2p Whitney Shay
Whitney Shay has been making quite an impact as the little girl with a big voice who knows how to truly engage a crowd. You can't help but smile and tap your feet when you see what joy she brings to the stage! Whitney also often plays with San Diego blues legend- the one and only Mr. Robin Henkel. Their music blend ranges from the raw 1920s blues of Robert Johnson & Bessie Smith to the high energy 50's & 60's rockin' Rhythm & Blues of Etta James & Little Richard

1/30 | 12-2p Jasmine Commerce
Jasmine Commerce, performs solo (voice/guitar), and as a duo with various artists (voice/violin/guitar), at events throughout the U.S. Her style is uniquely her own, moving comfortably between genres, from folk, to soul...from jazz to pop. A full-time musician for a decade, Jasmine has opened for stars like Natasha Bedingfield and Joss Stone, recorded with Grammy award winning producers in NYC & LA, and has released original songs on Sony's Hickory Records and LA's Indie Label, Cleopatra Records. Jasmine took Grand Prize in Sony ATV/Nine West's National Vintage Voices Singer-Songwriter Contest in 2009. In 2011 she won Taylor Guitar/San Deigo County Fair's Singer Songwriter Competition.

1/31 | 12-2p Mike Officer (Cancelled due to rain)
Having opened for B.B. King, performed at the Musician’s Institute graduation ceremony, and being a semi-finalist in the “Show Me The Music” national songwriting contest in Memphis, TN, Mike Officer’s career is one of diversity. Lyrically driven and genre-bending, his latest release titled The Jupiter Sessions EP expresses his unique style and powerful vocals. Mike Officer solidified his music career after attending the Musician’s Institute in Los Angeles, where he was selected as an honorary performer at the graduation ceremony and won Songwriter of the Year from the San Diego Songwriters Guild. He began playing gigs around the L.A. and San Diego area before opening for the legendary B.B. King and touring with the Kory Montgomery Band.

2/1 | 12-2p Ben Benavente
Ben is a member of Stateside Islander Crew, which brings you the best of Pacific Island style Music to the Mainland. A talented musician on his own, Ben blends together a unique flavor of the Islands, Reggae, Jahwaiian & Rock.

2/2 | 12-2p King Taylor Project (Cancelled due to rain)
Sandi King and Joshua Taylor formed King Taylor Project in 2016 in San Diego, California. Conceived as a flexible platform based on their shared love of soul, blues, and jazz music, KTP features a roster of energetic improvisational musicians supporting soulful vocal performances. Since their launch in February of 2016, KTP has appeared for more than 140 performances in formats ranging from duo/trio to 8-piece band, in settings including bar/restaurant gigs, private parties and weddings, local fairs and festivals, and local radio and television appearances. They completed their first two tours in 2016 and just returned from their 2018 tour, which included the band's first full national trek. KTP's next stint on the road will be for the KTP Tea Bee DeTour, a five week Western US regional tour starting in late February 2017. Sandi and Josh have begun writing new material, and they are proud to share the stage with a wonderful group of collaborators whose contributions will extend to the studio for the first KTP album.

2/3 | 12-2p Kekoa
From the Island of Oahu emerges singer/songwriter Kekoa Tsukiyama. Deeply rooted in his passion for R&B, his soulful voice mixed with Island Reggae beats helped breed success across the Hawaiian Islands.At the ripe age of 18, he created CitySide. In 3 short years their Debut album "Welcome to the CitySide" was released, producing the #1 Hit "Come on Pretty Baby" and crowd favorite "Lady Soul." Their Sophomore Album "Welcome II the CitySide" with the recent Grammy winning producer and engineer Dave Tucciarone didn't disappoint with another #1 hit in "Ooh."In 2013, Kekoa decided to venture out and move to the Pacific Northwest to pursue his music career. After making his presence felt there, Kekoa decided to move to sunny San Diego and worked with renowned Producer Lewis Richards on the single ""People Unite"". He quickly followed that up with the dance hall inspired "Feel Good" and the inspiring "Smile". Things are looking bright for CitySide. With new music in the works as well as Tours, be sure to catch a show near you.CitySide has shared the stage with the likes of Rebelution, Common Kings, and J Boog, just to name a few.

2/6 | 12-2p Jasmine Commerce
Jasmine Commerce, performs solo (voice/guitar), and as a duo with various artists (voice/violin/guitar), at events throughout the U.S. Her style is uniquely her own, moving comfortably between genres, from folk, to soul...from jazz to pop. A full-time musician for a decade, Jasmine has opened for stars like Natasha Bedingfield and Joss Stone, recorded with Grammy award winning producers in NYC & LA, and has released original songs on Sony's Hickory Records and LA's Indie Label, Cleopatra Records. Jasmine took Grand Prize in Sony ATV/Nine West's National Vintage Voices Singer-Songwriter Contest in 2009. In 2011 she won Taylor Guitar/San Deigo County Fair's Singer Songwriter Competition.

2/7 | 12-2p Mike Officer
Having opened for B.B. King, performed at the Musician’s Institute graduation ceremony, and being a semi-finalist in the “Show Me The Music” national songwriting contest in Memphis, TN, Mike Officer’s career is one of diversity. Lyrically driven and genre-bending, his latest release titled The Jupiter Sessions EP expresses his unique style and powerful vocals. Mike Officer solidified his music career after attending the Musician’s Institute in Los Angeles, where he was selected as an honorary performer at the graduation ceremony and won Songwriter of the Year from the San Diego Songwriters Guild. He began playing gigs around the L.A. and San Diego area before opening for the legendary B.B. King and touring with the Kory Montgomery Band.

2/8 | 12-2p Rheanna Downey
Rheanna Downey is a San Diego based singer, songwriter, and guitarist. She performs solo (guitar/vocal), as a duo, and with other bands. With a style that is versatile, ranging from slow, sweet melodies to pop, soul, jazz and classic rock, Rheanna has toured the world, appearing at major venues in the UK, Europe, and the USA. She released a full-length record, Pull the Moon, in 2011, and released original songs for LA indie label Cleopatra records in 2012. Rheanna has worked with top names in the industry, and has gained the attention of popular radio stations. She continues to write, perform, teach, and enjoy the journey...

2/9 | 12-2p Whitney Shay
Whitney Shay has been making quite an impact as the little girl with a big voice who knows how to truly engage a crowd. You can't help but smile and tap your feet when you see what joy she brings to the stage! Whitney also often plays with San Diego blues legend- the one and only Mr. Robin Henkel. Their music blend ranges from the raw 1920s blues of Robert Johnson & Bessie Smith to the high energy 50's & 60's rockin' Rhythm & Blues of Etta James & Little Richard
2/10 | 12-2p Nathan & Jessie
When the stars align and musicians, Nathan Rivera and Jessie Andra Smith are in the same place at the same time, the duo is a sight to be seen and heard. Their musical style is a fusion of gypsy jazz and folk, and blues music all played on National Reso-Phonic guitars. Throw in an accordion and some harmonica and this duo creates a unique musical experience. Nathan's eclectic accordion and virtuoso guitar improvisation along with Jessie's jazzy sweet vocals and rhythm guitar make for a unique style of gypsy blues/folk music that tell their stories of like, love and travel.
2/13 | 12-2p Sam & Lauren
Music has the power to transport us to another time and place - Lauren Leigh loves to harness that power with a broad audience of fellow music lovers and passionate musicians alike. Since a young age, Lauren has found great joy and satisfaction in making music and sharing it with friends and the public. She finds musical expression across many genres, and has played with many of the finest musicians in San Diego. She can be found singing the Laurel Canyon singer-songwriter music of the 1970s with Mud Slide Slim, soul/R&B with her band the Low Keys, and vintage country with Wild Heart.
Lauren and Sam have been evolving their sound since 2014, finding musical expression in rock, R&B, blues, and traditional country. Lauren's deeply soulful and potent voice blended with Sam's eclectic guitar style have earned them a reputation as a unique and talented pair.

2/14 | 12-2p Kekoa
From the Island of Oahu emerges singer/songwriter Kekoa Tsukiyama. Deeply rooted in his passion for R&B, his soulful voice mixed with Island Reggae beats helped breed success across the Hawaiian Islands.At the ripe age of 18, he created CitySide. In 3 short years their Debut album "Welcome to the CitySide" was released, producing the #1 Hit "Come on Pretty Baby" and crowd favorite "Lady Soul." Their Sophomore Album "Welcome II the CitySide" with the recent Grammy winning producer and engineer Dave Tucciarone didn't disappoint with another #1 hit in "Ooh."In 2013, Kekoa decided to venture out and move to the Pacific Northwest to pursue his music career. After making his presence felt there, Kekoa decided to move to sunny San Diego and worked with renowned Producer Lewis Richards on the single ""People Unite"". He quickly followed that up with the dance hall inspired "Feel Good" and the inspiring "Smile". Things are looking bright for CitySide. With new music in the works as well as Tours, be sure to catch a show near you.CitySide has shared the stage with the likes of Rebelution, Common Kings, and J Boog, just to name a few.

2/15 | 12-2p Ben Benavente
Ben is a member of Stateside Islander Crew, which brings you the best of Pacific Island style Music to the Mainland. A talented musician on his own, Ben blends together a unique flavor of the Islands, Reggae, Jahwaiian & Rock.
2/16 | 12-2p Sam & Lauren
Music has the power to transport us to another time and place - Lauren Leigh loves to harness that power with a broad audience of fellow music lovers and passionate musicians alike. Since a young age, Lauren has found great joy and satisfaction in making music and sharing it with friends and the public. She finds musical expression across many genres, and has played with many of the finest musicians in San Diego. She can be found singing the Laurel Canyon singer-songwriter music of the 1970s with Mud Slide Slim, soul/R&B with her band the Low Keys, and vintage country with Wild Heart.
Lauren and Sam have been evolving their sound since 2014, finding musical expression in rock, R&B, blues, and traditional country. Lauren's deeply soulful and potent voice blended with Sam's eclectic guitar style have earned them a reputation as a unique and talented pair.

2/17 | 12-2p Marcela Mendez
Marcela is one of San Diego’s hidden gems that truly loves what she does - and that is entertaining people, especially with her comedic flare. Marcela is originally from Walnut Creek, CA but moved to San Diego 18 years ago to become a part of this great City. Marcela got her start in Musical Theatre which truly helped her transition into becoming one of San Diego’s favorite female entertainers. Her lower register offers a smoky blend that reminds people of a cross between Natalie Merchant and Stevie Nicks. Add in Marcela’s Chilean descent, she is as comfortable singing in Spanish as she is in English. Her ability to sing both allows her the opportunity to appeal to an even larger, more diverse audience. Marcela’s love for music has her performing a diversified selection of well known Rock tunes that range from the 60’s all the way up to today’s top Artists. Songs by the Beatles, Elvis, Johnny Cash, Mel Torme, Tina Turner, Fleetwood Mac, U2 all the way up to Ed Sheeran, Jason Mraz, Justin Timberlake, Amy Winehouse and Adele scratch the surface of all the music she loves to perform. Some of the Spanish Artists that she covers include Selena, Shakira, Reik, Jesse y Joy, Zayra Alvarez, etc…. She will truly impress when she performs Roy Orbison’s “Crying” in Spanish - it is a beautiful rendition. So many artists over the years have inspired Marcela to become the singer that she is today and she considers herself very fortunate to share something that she loves for others to enjoy that will surely remind us all of different eras of our lives.

2/20 | 12-2p Jasmine Commerce
Jasmine Commerce, performs solo (voice/guitar), and as a duo with various artists (voice/violin/guitar), at events throughout the U.S. Her style is uniquely her own, moving comfortably between genres, from folk, to soul...from jazz to pop. A full-time musician for a decade, Jasmine has opened for stars like Natasha Bedingfield and Joss Stone, recorded with Grammy award winning producers in NYC & LA, and has released original songs on Sony's Hickory Records and LA's Indie Label, Cleopatra Records. Jasmine took Grand Prize in Sony ATV/Nine West's National Vintage Voices Singer-Songwriter Contest in 2009. In 2011 she won Taylor Guitar/San Deigo County Fair's Singer Songwriter Competition.

2/21 | 12-2p King Taylor Project
Sandi King and Joshua Taylor formed King Taylor Project in 2016 in San Diego, California. Conceived as a flexible platform based on their shared love of soul, blues, and jazz music, KTP features a roster of energetic improvisational musicians supporting soulful vocal performances. Since their launch in February of 2016, KTP has appeared for more than 140 performances in formats ranging from duo/trio to 8-piece band, in settings including bar/restaurant gigs, private parties and weddings, local fairs and festivals, and local radio and television appearances. They completed their first two tours in 2016 and just returned from their 2018 tour, which included the band's first full national trek. KTP's next stint on the road will be for the KTP Tea Bee DeTour, a five week Western US regional tour starting in late February 2017. Sandi and Josh have begun writing new material, and they are proud to share the stage with a wonderful group of collaborators whose contributions will extend to the studio for the first KTP album.

2/22 | 12-2p Mike Myrdal
Mike is an accomplished singer and guitarist with over 27 years experience. He will leave any audience captivated and highly entertained with his skillful guitar playing and soulful voice. Mike's ability to connect with his audience makes him the perfect solution for your upcoming event. He resides in San Diego; however, he travels all over the U.S. to perform. He is the lead singer of Stepping Feet which performs as a corporate cover band and a Dave Matthews tribute band.

2/23 | 12-2p Joe Cardillo
Joe creates a unique combination of live loops using percussive beats by thumping his guitar, laying down the chords, and playing bass lines (using the octave guitar pedal). In addition, he sings the melody while often times looping vocal harmonies. Perhaps the most unique aspect of his show is Joe's ability to open up the songs by picking up any of his four saxophones and playing soulful solos with the loops in the background. Joe's sound can be described as a melting pot of Howie Day, Jason Mraz, Jack Johnson, and Dave Matthews, topped off with tasteful saxophone solos.

2/24 | 12-2p The Heart
The Heart is an uplifting and heart moving Acoustic Duo. Their Genre extends from high energy, feel good Top 40, Classic to Modern Rock, Country, Indie, Reggae and Folk. They've been categorized with bands such as: Ed Sheeran, Mumford & Sons, The Lumineers & Imagine Dragons. They'll keep you smiling, dancing & singing along to their heart moving song renditions.The Duo consists of Dale Peters who sings Lead Vocals, plays acoustic Guitar using various effect pedals and loops, simulating electric guitar, bass guitar, synthesizer & looped percussion; while simultaneously playing organic percussion through an electronic Kick Drum.... thus simulating the sound of a full band. Dale is accompanied by Cindy Peters on Lead Vocals as well as harmonies and percussion, who also doubles as our Sound Engineer.