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A native of San Rafael, California, pianist George Duke attended his first jazz concert at just four years old. His mother escorted him to a Duke Ellington show, and from that moment forth he was hooked. Heavily influenced by Miles Davis, Cal Tjader and Les McCann, George went on to collaborate with such greats as Sonny Rollins, Dexter Gordon, Frank Zappa, Cannonball Adderly and Dizzy Gillespie. Join Duke and his supporting cast for what should be a terrific evening of jazz.

The Jazz Bakery, 3233 Helms Ave., CC, 310.271.9039, jazzbakery.org, $35

Ralph Nader signs Seventeen Traditions, February 8, 7pm

Come out and support a true American icon. Ralph Nader is best known for his sedulous activism as well as his dark horse presidential bids. On this evening, Nader will be signing copies of his new book, Seventeen Traditions. This offering is part autobiography and part inspirational manual. Here, the legendary activist touches on his small-town Connecticut upbringing and the seventeen traditions it instilled in him. Additionally, he reminds us of simpler times and values aimed at making the world a better place.

Dutton’s Brentwood Bookstore, 11975 San Vicente Blvd., 310.476.6262, duttonsbrentwood.com, free