Jazz guitarist on why he loves to play Longboat Key

Akiem Esdaile has always known he would be a musician. Growing up surrounded by his musical family in Bradenton, Esdaile started playing guitar gigs in high school.

Now, Esdaile plays at Whitney’s every Friday and Saturday from 6-9 p.m. As people enjoy a meal, he hopes to showcase a new era of jazz guitar and make a name for himself on Longboat Key.

What do you like about playing at Whitney’s?

Two years ago, the owner of Whitney’s came to one of my gigs one night at a different place in Sarasota and asked if I wanted to play here on Fridays. It's been great ever since. There is a really good crowd on Longboat Key. They are all really nice. It’s a really great vibe here and there is really great food here. I love that it's kind of a beach restaurant and I am able to match their chill atmosphere.

How would you describe your music?

New age jazz is what comes to mind when I think of my music. It's like immersing yourself in a jazz show like you're in New York and you're sitting down with somebody on the stage playing very well-made chords. I try to make it a music experience that makes you think. 

Photo by Petra Rivera

What are your inspirations for music?

I’m inspired by people like Robert Glasper, George Benson (the jazz guitarist), J Dilla (beat producer). I come from a music family so I have always been around music — like my cousin was in a reggae group in London. So they definitely impacted how I play.

What are your goals for the future?

Right now, I’m working on my Instagram and social media. I also want to get more gigs hopefully on Longboat Key. I love to play in the restaurants. It's hard to get the word out, but once they hear me play they are enthusiastic. So I'm just trying to get more known in the area and get my name out there.