Jazz Musicians Delight Passengers During Flight Delay in Boise

Passengers on a flight from St. Louis to Seattle received an unexpected musical performance when renowned jazz saxophonist Dave Koz and his bandmates turned a lengthy delay into a lively jam session. This moment unfolded on August 11, 2025, while the aircraft was stuck on the tarmac in Boise, Idaho, far from their intended destination.

The flight had initially been scheduled as a direct route to Seattle for two days of concerts as part of the Dave Koz & Friends Summer Horns Tour. However, complications arose, including crew member timing out and a mechanical issue that necessitated the diversion. Koz shared that this delay was particularly frustrating, not only for the musicians but also for the other passengers on board.

As the atmosphere grew tense, a flight attendant noticed the musicians carrying their instruments and encouraged them to uplift the spirits of their fellow travelers with a performance. Koz and fellow saxophonist Marcus Anderson, along with other band members, enthusiastically accepted the challenge. They chose to perform Stevie Wonder’s “You Haven’t Done Nothin’,” a favorite that typically closes their shows.

Footage of the performance captured the musicians swaying in the aisle while passengers smiled, swayed in their seats, and recorded the moment on their phones. The scene showcased a rare moment of unity and joy amidst the frustrations of travel delays. Jeff Bradshaw, a trombonist in the group, even found a creative way to maneuver his instrument between the seats.

Anderson reflected on the uplifting impact of the performance, describing it as a rewarding experience akin to a great gym workout. Although Koz admitted feeling nervous about the proximity of the musicians to the passengers, the positive response reassured them.

“We never considered that it could go viral; it was simply about doing something good for the people,” Anderson noted. The performance lasted only one song, but its significance resonated deeply with both the band and the audience.

“It felt right, and it brought everybody together in a way that was very special,” Koz remarked. “I’ll remember that moment for the rest of my life.” The video of the spontaneous jam session quickly gained traction on social media, capturing the hearts of viewers around the world and transforming a frustrating delay into a memorable experience for all involved.