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Legendary performers from the world of jazz gathered in Tampa, Florida to honor their own at the 1997 International Jazz Hall of Fame Awards, hosted by the multi-talented talk-show host, actor, author, and composer, Steve Allen. The program features performances from honorees Nancy Wilson ("All of Me"), Joe Williams ("I'd Rather Drink Muddy Water"), and Marian McPartland ("Willow Weep for Me"). Michael Bolton pays tribute to Ray Charles with a searing version of "Georgia on My Mind". a stellar group of jazz all-stars, featuring James Moody, Harry "Sweets" Edison, Al Grey, and Grady Tate join inductees Nat Adderley, Pete and Conte Candoli, Herb Ellis, and Junior Mance on versions of "Straight, No Chaser" and "What is This Thing Called Love?". They also join the Loud Minority Big Band (led by Frank Foster) in a tribute to Dizzy Gillespie. Vocalist Chaka Khan, with inductee Herbie Mann, also pays tribute to Dizzy with her interpretation of "A Night in Tunisia". Along with a performance from Latin jazz great Tito Puente, there are presentations to honorees Lionel Hampton, Anita O'Day, Oscar Peterson, J.J. Johnson, Horace Silver, and manager John Levy.