The Velvet Note

Saturday, July 30th: The Richie Summa Group
2022-07-30 19:30 - 23:00 (America/New_York) | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Richie Summa hails from Stamford, Connecticut, where he studied guitar with Sal Salvador, one of the jazz greats. Richie has performed with jazz luminaries such as Scotty Barnhart, Longineu Parsons, and Leon Anderson, Jr. As a leader, Summa has produced two CDs, “Alone Together,” (solo guitar & vocals), and “Tear It Down” (with his jazz quartet). On “Tear It Down,” Richie pays tribute to some of the jazz greats, covering tunes by Wes Montgomery and Pat Martino along with some of his original compositions. On “Alone Together,” Richie sings from the “Great American Songbook,” displaying the influence of Joe Pass on guitar and the vocal stylings of Chet Baker. Most recently, Richie was a featured artist at the 2022 Bainbridge Jazz and Blues Festival.

During his career, Summa has performed with every variety of musician and entertainer imaginable. He has played guitar with Julie Andrews, Englebert Humperdinck, Della Reese, Rita Moreno, Connie Francis, Bobby Vinton, and many more. He has performed with the Fifth Dimension and The Drifters.

Richie has performed on Broadway with the production of “La Cage aux Folles.” He has backed Anthony Quinn in “Zorba the Greek,” Joel Grey in “Cabaret,” and Donna McKechnie in “A Chorus Line.” Richie has backed comedians Bob Hope, Rich Little, Milton Berle and Henny Youngman.

In his “other job,” Summa is a criminal appeals attorney, representing indigent defendants in Florida and federal courts. Summa has argued numerous cases in the Florida Supreme Court and the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta. In January of 2020, Mr. Summa argued a case before the Supreme Court of the United States.

Friday, July 29th: Songstress Toni Byrd
2022-07-29 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30pm and 9:30pm. Toni Byrd, dubbed as “The Velvet SongByrd,” is a world class recording artist, songwriter, award winner of the 2014 Black Women In Jazz, semi-finalist in the 2014 Indaba Music Sarah VaughnInternational Jazz Vocal Competition; and she is an unforgettable and versatile song stylist.

In addition to all of her credits, add actress to her impressive list. Currently based in Atlanta, this beautiful native Memphian was cast in a primary role playing the character “Ida Belle” in the movie, “Lawless,” an American crime drama film directed by John Hillcoat with screenplay by Nick Cave and starring Shia LaBeouf, Tom Hardy, Guy Pierce, Jessica Chastain, Mia Wasikowksa, Jason Clarke and Gary Oldman. She recorded background vocals for the TV series pilot, “Still The King”, starring Billy Ray Cyrus and in December of 2016, under the historical Obama Administration, performed at the White House Tour in Washington, DC. She is the first female vocalist to perform at the legendary Pinewood Atlanta Studios (known for James Bond, Marvel and Pirates of the Caribbean movies)

Byrd began her professional career in music in 1996 in Memphis, Tennessee. Her father, Lionel Byrd, who was a member of a 60’s musical group, The 4 Kings in Memphis Tennessee, did not restrict her to one genre of music. She listened to gospel, jazz, R&B, pop, American Funk and Country Music. Byrd recalls hearing opera singer, Leontyne Price, in a commercial for the United Negro College Fund. “While growing up I never knew there were African American opera singers and found myself imitating the richness and clarity of this beautiful woman’s voice.” Her other influences include singers, Nat King Cole, Aretha Franklin, Nancy Wilson, Roberta Flack, Ella Fitzgerald, Karen Carpenter, Nina Simone, Billie Holiday, Barbra Streisand, Dionne Warwick, Natalie Cole, Gladys Knight, Anita Baker, Maysa, Yolanda Adams, Andre Crouch and The Hawkins Family, to mention a few.

In July of 2017, Toni wrote, and released, her first solo of original songs on her Inspirational Jazz EP, Forever You’re My God; that was nominated, that same year, by The Rhythm of Gospel Awardsin 4 categories: EP/Digital Album of the Year, Praise/Worship Song of the Year, Best Performance by Female Artist and Inspirational Song of the Year. Byrd is the featured vocalist on a recording that gave tribute to Natalie Cole entitled Toni Sings Natalie…A Natalie Cole Tribute released in January 2019.

Note: this date was previously held by Ritah Wilburn, who has cancelled her show. For questions, call 855.5.VELVET. For seats to Toni’s performances, click below.

Thursday, July 28th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Singer/Actor Eric Moore
2022-07-28 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Have you tried Open Mic Jam at the Atlanta area’s #1 rated jazz club? It’s like Karaoke, but much, much better. Come out to to The Velvet Note and listen to or jam with our extraordinary house band, or take the stage all on your own. And come hungry and thirsty–we roll out our delicious house and bar specialities for the week, just for you!

Sunday, July 24th: Legends of Jazz Presents the Music of Pat Metheny *** 4 SEATS LEFT! 4 SEATS LEFT ! ***
2022-07-24 19:00 - 20:30 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Legends of Jazz Series begins with a celebration of the music of guitarist/composer Pat Metheny.

Justin Varnes and his quartet will guide guests–in engaging, narrative form– through the life of this legendary artist, as well as the impact that he had on the legacy of jazz. It’s like taking in a concert and taking a jazz history class at the same time.

Oh, and they’ll also play their behinds off!

*** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ******

Saturday, July 23rd: The Addison Frei Trio
2022-07-23 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. From early experiences playing community theater and big band dance halls in Lawrence, KS to summiting musical heights in New York and abroad, pianist Addison Frei (“Fry”) has brought joy to countless audiences through a warm musical spirit and melodic sensibility.

His latest album Time and Again (Next Paradigm Music) aims in the tradition of classic trio records, enhanced by the company of Ben Wolfe on bass and Terreon Gully on drums. Frei’s 2021 release Oread draws inspiration from Kansas roots, manifesting in a deeply personal collection of thirteen original songs recorded remotely during the isolation of the pandemic. His previous album No Defense (TCB Records) was celebrated with solo performances at the Monterey Jazz Festival, Montreux Jazz Festival, Alhambra (Geneva), and Lucerne Piano Festival. He has won first prize in several competitions including the 2017 Parmigiani Montreux Jazz Piano Solo Competition, the 2016 UNISA International Jazz Piano Competition in Pretoria, South Africa, and the 2015 American Jazz Pianist Competition. Frei’s lyrical pianism has made him a favorite accompanist for many vocalists including Leslie Odom Jr., Renée Elise Goldsberry, Janis Siegel and the late Carol Fredette.

A proud Yamaha Artist, Frei’s previous records include Future Speak (2017), Transit (2016) and Intentions (2014). He also co-leads AMP Trio, contributing compositions to each of their five studio albums. Alongside Tahira Clayton, AMP Trio was selected as winner of the 2017 DC Jazz Prix. Frei completed his Artist Diploma at the Juilliard School, serving as musical director for this flagship ensemble’s stint at Jazz at Lincoln Center Shanghai. Recent sideperson highlights include Mark Lewandowksi’s Under One Sky (feat. Kush Abadey), Lluc Casares’ Sketches Overseas (feat. Joel Ross and Philip Dizack), Tom DiCarlo’s Equanimity Project (feat. Alina Engibaryan and Jonathan Barber) and Alexander Claffy’s Tassia (feat. Kurt Rosenwinkel).

Friday, July 22nd: Trumpeter Thad Wilson
2022-07-22 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. Thad was born in Fort Dix, New Jersey. However, his musical life started as a child living in Montgomery, Alabama. At fifteen, he moved back to New Jersey where he was quickly recognized for his talent and awarded the All-American High School Music Award and a place in New Jersey’s All-State Jazz Ensemble. Shortly after, he began studying privately with Jimmy Owens, former member of Dizzy Gillespie’s Big Band. It was Jimmy who gave Thad a glimpse into the life of a true professional musician. In his early days, he performed at the Village Gate, Blue Note, Visiones, Knitting Factory and many other new york city venues.

While in New York, Thad was a member of Charlie Persip’s Super Band and had a brief stint with Illinois Jacquet. Over his career, Thad has performed alongside James Moody, Benny Golson, Steve Turre, Cecil Bridgewater, Andrew White, Buck Hill, Keter Betts, Johnny O’neal, Russell Malone, Roy Hargrove, Wynton Marsalis and many others. He also lived briefly in Atlanta and made his way on the early hip hop scene performing with Bone Crusher, Khalfani, and many others. Currently, Thad tours with the legendary group, The Blackbyrds. He also composes and performs his live film scores all over the world.

Thursday, July 21st: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Singer/Actor Eric Moore
2022-07-21 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States

Saturday, July 16th: The Incomparable Rita Graham
2022-07-16 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. Rita Graham’s career as a jazz vocalist was jump-started when Ray Charles produced an album of lush standards for her in 1969. The album, ‘Rita Graham Vibrations’ is the only album project that Ray Charles personally produced for a single female artist on his own Tangerine Record Label.

After a stint as a Ray Charles Raelette, Rita recorded several single recordings with TV Composer, Mike Post (Law and Order, Hill Street Blues, A-Team, etc). She was featured vocalist with The Harry James Orchestra for 3 years, and with Mercer Ellington and the Duke Ellington Orchestra, Tour ‘82. She was a featured artist with Oscar Peterson, Ray Charles, and comedian Redd Foxx, and others. She has performed in Festivals, Night Clubs, Casinos and Concert Venues in Las Vegas, Canada, The UK, Australia, Japan, Taiwan, Manila, Bangkok, and Russia. She originated the role of Coretta Scott King in the Civil Rights Theater Musical, ‘Selma’, produced by Redd Foxx Productions in Los Angeles, and off Broadway’s New Federal Theatre, produced by Woodie King, Jr.

Friday, July 15th: The Bill Hart International Jazz Fusion Band **** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! *****
2022-07-15 20:00 - 22:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
ONE SHOW ONLY! Canadian Guitarist Bill Hart features his unique take on world music and genre-bending selections. Only one performance, so get your seats soon!

*** SOLD OUT!!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ****

Thursday, July 14th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Singer/Actor Eric Moore
2022-07-14 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States

Sunday, July 10th: Mahmoud Chouki
2022-07-10 19:00 - 21:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Mahmoud “Mood” Chouki (Morocco, 1984) is a master guitarist, multi-instrumentalist and composer currently living and working in New Orleans. Mood’s art draws together music from several different international contexts to explore how music may speak across cultural divides. His own compositions incorporate musical influences from across the globe, ranging from European classical, Andalusian from Southern Spain, Levantine music from the Middle East, Maghrebian music from North Africa, Latin American music, and Jazz from the United States. Integrating sounds and rhythms from many different cultures, Chouki combines classical guitar with instruments such as the loutar, a traditional instrument of the Middle Atlas region of Morocco; the sintir, a Sub-Saharan instrument from the Sahel region (Mali); the oud, an oriental lute; the Algerian mandole, a steel-string fretted instrument resembling an elongated mandolin; the Bağlama saz, a Turkish long necked bowl-lute; the banjo, and a variety of percussion instruments.

From the age of eight, Chouki trained at the Conservatory of Larache in northern Morocco and continued on at the National Conservatory in Rabat, with a focus in music theory and classical guitar. At the age of eighteen, he won first prize in the International Guitar Competition in St. Esteban del Puerto, Spain. Soon after graduating, Chouki embarked on a journey throughout Morocco with a keen interest in traditional instruments of the Maghreb and Africa.

Saturday, July 9th: Tony Hightower's Legacy
2022-07-09 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM.

Atlanta based Soul to Blues to Jazz singer, Tony says that growing up with his mother, who raised him as a single mom, meant he went to all her shows and was exposed to many of the finest musicians in town. He says, “whatever you are around is going to be an influence.” A lot of what Tony was around growing up was jazz.

He got his first professional gig at 14 as a drummer and had a record contract as part of the neosoul group 4.0 right out of high school. He toured with the group for the next five years. He said he fantasized that “one day I’m going to make a record like Nat King Cole and perform in a tux holding a brandy snifter.”

Tony’s dream is coming true.

Tony releases his long-awaited sophomore recording, “Legacy” in high fashion–two consecutive nights at The Velvet Note!

Friday, July 8th: Tony Hightower's Legacy
2022-07-08 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States

Thursday, July 7th: Open Mic Ham Hosted by
2022-07-07 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States

Saturday, July 2nd: Saxophonist Isaiah Tatum
2022-07-02 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. Isaiah Tatum is a world renowned saxophonist and a professional entertainer. He began playing the saxophone when he was 10 years old. He loves the saxophone because it is a smooth instrument. He has toured with Celine Dion, Kenny G, Keith Sweat, Silk 112, Jeffrey Osborne, Charlie Wilson, Toni Braxton, Tevin Campbell, and many more .

Friday, July 1st: Groove Centric
2022-07-01 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
The Groove Centric band was started in 2008 in Atlanta, GA. They have since grown to a trendsetting group playing all around the city at venues such as The Velvet Note,The Vista Room, Venkmans, City Winery, St.

Groove Centric’s bandleader, affectionately known in the music industry as “Mike Jones”, is a native of Atlanta, Georgia. Born and raised in Dekalb County. Mike furthered his education by attending Florida A&M University where he was a drum major in the illustrious Marching 100. Mike is a skilled musician having played with bands locally, nationally, as well as internationally.

Drummer Brien Andrews electrifies audiences across the globe with his savvy, mastered and proficient artistic styling. Brien has the ability to play a vast repertoire of music and it is this diversity that makes him a preferred musician. He has mesmerized audiences all over the world with his supreme expertise.

Bassist Joel Powell was born and raised in Albany, GA and has been active on Atlanta’s music scene for nearly ten years. He has toured internationally with the likes of India.Arie, Musiq Soulchild, Les Nubian and a host of others. Joel has recorded and performed with a host of artist…from T.I. to Jennifer Holliday, Mike Phillips to Jay-Z, Two Chains to Karen Briggs.

Detroit Native Donnie Boynton is making an impact in his community and throughout the nation. Donnie’s skills as a musician and producer gained him national notoriety and landed him as a keyboardist on UPN’s “The Vibe Show” hosted by comedian/actor Sinbad.

Thursday, June 30th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Club Owner Tamara Fuller *** THE FINALE!-- SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***
2022-06-30 20:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
This is our first-ever open-mic performance competition and last week was packed, and tons of fun! Throughout the month of June, we are searching for the most enjoyable performance we can find, and the winner will earn a coveted spot on The Velvet Note weekend calendar.

Hosted by Club Owner Tamara Fuller and silently-judged by celebrity music couples, each jam night is sure to feature the best vocal and instrumental music, tons of fun and a benevolent, the very best house band, welcoming audience cheering you on. All genres are welcomed and encouraged.

About Our Guest Judges: Chandra Currelley makes her way off of the red carpet of this week’s BET Awards to judge The Velvet Note’s jam! Mrs. Currelley is currently a regular on BET+ Dramedy “Bruh” she portrays the over-the -top “Alice”. You also probably recognize Chandra as Ms. V. in Tyler Perry’s “FOR BETTER OR WORSE” and in the #1 box office movie, “DIARY OF A MAD BLACK WOMAN ” playing herself in the nightclub Chandra’s. Also starring as “Shirley” in “Madea’s Big Happy Family” the stage play. Who can forget her show stopping performance as Loretta in KANDI BURRESS’s (The Real Housewives of Atlanta) “A Mother’s Love” and the movie Madea’s Big Happy Family as the choir soloist, Sister Laura. CHANDRA is the former lead singer of The legendary recording group The S.O.S. Band, replacing the original lead singer. She continued the band’s string of Top Twenty Billboard hits with the CD’s “Diamonds In The Raw”, and “One Of Many Nights”, where she wrote several songs, including the single “Broken Promises”. Ms. Currelley is the recipient of the Lady Soul of Jazz award, 2018 Atlanta Actors Award, BWIJA award for Best Female in The Arts & Theatre and The BIBO Reflection award for Outstanding Film & Media Achievement.

Larry Young is Chandra’s partner in time, and tonight they celebrate their wedding anniversary! Larry is a singer, producer, radio announcer and sales executive for the Sheridan Gospel Network.

*** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ****

Sunday, June 26th: GRAMMY-Winner Saunders Sermons with Special Guest Luna Lotus Love
2022-06-26 19:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Born and raised in Miami Florida Saunders Sermons II is an American singer, trombonist, and songwriter. Sermons has toured with Maxwell, Jay Z, Diddy and Jazz R&B saxophonist Mike Phillips just to name a few. He received his Grammy Status for his horn arrangement work with R&B/Soul singer Maxwell and Blues Supergroup The Tedeschi Trucks Band. Since then he has grown to become an established independent artist with an admirable music career.

Friday, June 24th & Saturday, June 25th: The Legendary Mike Stern
2022-06-24 19:30 - 2022-06-25 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
FRIDAY AND SATURDAY SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM & 9:30PM. The bluesy style and blistering chops of Mike Stern have made him an electric guitar icon for more than four decades. An eclectic and virtuoso guitarist and composer, he first gained notice playing with Blood, Sweat & Tears; Billy Cobham; and Joe Henderson. One of the premier guitarists of his generation, the three-time Grammy nominee was born on January 10, 1953 in Boston. After growing up in Washington D.C., he returned to Boston to study at the Berklee College of Music and got his start as a guitar player with Blood, Sweat & Tears at the age of 22. Following a stint with Billy Cobham’s powerhouse fusion band from 1979-1980, Mike moved to New York City and was recruited by Miles Davis and played a key role in his celebrated comeback band of 1981 (which also included bassist Marcus Miller, drummer Al Foster, percussionist Mino Cinelu and saxophonist Bill Evans). During his three-year period with Miles, Mike appeared on three recordings with the jazz maestro. Stern’s take-no-prisoners style was a concert attraction for this incarnation of Miles Davis’s band, and it placed him in the spotlight. “I loved playing with that rhythm section. It was so raw.”

Thursday, June 23rd: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Club Owner Tamara Fuller
2022-06-23 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
This is our first-ever open-mic performance competition and last week was packed, and tons of fun! Throughout the month of June, we are searching for the most enjoyable performance we can find, and the winner will earn a coveted spot on The Velvet Note weekend calendar.

Hosted by Club Owner Tamara Fuller and silently-judged by celebrity music couples, each jam night is sure to feature the best vocal and instrumental music, tons of fun and a benevolent, the very best house band, welcoming audience cheering you on. All genres are welcomed and encouraged.

About Our Guest Judges: Cindy and Charlie Brusco are the owners of Red Light Artist Management, long-time and proud tour managers of bands such as Heart, Dave Matthews Band, Lionel Richie, Phish and Styx. In addition, Charlie is a member of the Georgia Music Hall of Fame.

Wednesday, June 22nd: International Guitarist Oz Noy with the Legendary Dennis Chambers and Jimmy Haslip
2022-06-22 19:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
“It’s Jazz. It just doesn’t sound like it.” This is how virtuoso guitarist Oz Noy describes his intoxicating blend of Jazz, Funk, Rock, Blues, and R&B.

This is such a special show, we are opening our doors on a Wednesday night for this rare event!

Born in Israel, Oz Noy started his professional career at the age of 13 playing Jazz, Blues, Pop and Rock music. By age 16, he was playing with top Israeli musicians and artists. By age 24, he was one of the most established studio guitar players in the country. Oz was also a member of the house band on Israel’s top-rated television show for more than two years.

Oz Noy has performed, toured and recorded with Richard Bona, Chris Botti, Gavin DeGraw, Harry Belafonte, Cyndi Lauper, Clay Aiken, Akiko Yano, Wonder Girls, Toni Braxton, Phoebe Snow, Nile Rogers, Mike Clark, Jeff ‘Tain’ Watts, Dave Weckl, Mike Manieri, John Patitucci, The East Village Opera Company, Roger Glover, Bill Evans, The Gil Evan Orchestra,Warren Hayes, Gove’t Mule, The Allman Brothers, Allen Toussaint, Eric Johnson, Mike Stern, and many others.

Dennis Chambers is a most respected American drummer who has recorded and performed with John Scofield, Carl Filipiak, Steely Dan, Santana, Parliament/Funkadelic, John McLaughlin, Niacin, Mike Stern, and many others.

Dennis Chambers has become well-known among drummers for his impressive technique and speed.

Dennis Chambers is particularly regarded for his ability to play “in the pocket” but can also stretch very far out of the pocket which is also a hallmark of his technique. Chambers exhibits a powerful style that is technically proficient, yet highly musical and groove-oriented. He can play in a wide variety of musical genres, but is perhaps most notable for his jazz-fusion, funk, and Latin music playing. He is mostly known for his fast hands and triplets on the bass drum.

Chambers began drumming at the age of four years old, and was gigging in Baltimore-area nightclubs by the age of six. In 1978 (at 18 years old) he joined Parliament/Funkadelic, and stayed with them until 1985. In the early 1990s he joined the John Scofield band. Since then he has played with most of the major figures in jazz fusion music.

He has been part of the Maceo Parker live band and is touring with Carlos Santana and makes appearances with his band Niacin.

Jimmy Haslip was born in the Bronx, New York and grew up in Huntington, Long Island. In 1963 at the age of 13, he became interested in electric bass and has now been playing for 47+ years. Jimmy left New York in 1969 playing music in San Francisco, New Orleans, Denver and Dallas before moving on to Los Angeles in late 1975, where he began touring and recording with many different popular artists.

In 1978 he met guitarist Robben Ford and keyboardist Russell Ferrante and formed a group to record Robben’s first solo recording on Electra-Asylum. This critically acclaimed album, called ” The Inside Story” became a landmark recording. That album led to the formation of The Yellowjackets and in 1980 they recorded a debut album for Warners Bros. Records.

Jimmy is actively composing, arranging, producing and performing with Yellowjackets, who will be touring and promoting their newest recording in 2011, their 21st CD entitled “TIMELINE” on the MACK AVENUE recording Label. Yellowjackets, the two time Grammy winners, have been nominated for seventeen GRAMMY awards..

June 18th & 19th: Chieli Minucci & Special EFX
2022-06-18 19:30 - 2022-06-19 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SATURDAY SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM

SUNDAY SHOWTIMES: 7:00PM AND 9:00PM

This is the premier Father’s Day Concert of the Season! Guitarist, composer, producer, and arranger Chieli Minucci is longtime leader of the Grammy-nominated jazz-fusion group SPECIAL EFX featuring Chieli Minucci, a major force on the jazz and world music scene for over 35 years. Chieli has just recently released his 35thanniversary CD, “All Stars” (Trippin N Rhythm Records). Chieli & Special EFX’s previous release saw title track, “Deep as the Night”, won Billboard Magazine’s 2018 top honors, best-song-of-the-year.

Besides writing and performing his own music, Chieli shares his guitar brilliance throughout the entertainment world. He has recorded and performed with many top artists, such as Celine Dion, Lou Reed, Lionel Richie, Jennifer Lopez, Jewel, Mark Anthony, Michael Bolton, Rupert Holmes, Eartha Kitt, Eddie Fisher, Anastasia, as well as jazz artists Kirk Whalum, Jeff Lorber, Norman Brown, Bernie Williams, Marion Meadows, Lao Tizer, Mindi Abair, Rick

Braun, Gerald Veasley, Omar Hakim, and many others. Although renowned in the jazz and pop world, Chieli is also a gifted television and film composer. He has won 3 Emmy Awards and been nominated 10 times for his eclectic compositional work. His music can also be heard on the soundtracks of the films Bowfinger, Legally Blonde, Panic, and others. Chieli’s original scoring work can be heard in live stage productions of Peter Pan, Dora the Explorer, Thomas the Tank Engine, and others.

Friday, June 17th: World Music Drummer Emrah Kotan
2022-06-17 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Emrah Kotan is a classically trained percussionist who came to the United States from his native Turkey and received a Master’s degree in Jazz Studies from Georgia State University. His debut album, The New Anatolian Experience, is a collection of original compositions and arrangements that fuse world music and jazz, creating stylistically sophisticated vibes and a genuine model of personal artistic expression.

After playing some of the most renowned venues in the world such as the Istanbul Jazz Festival, Playboy Jazz Festival and The Blue Note in New York, Emrah is one of the most sought after musicians in the Atlanta music scene. His unique musical ability transcends many genres and cultures. He is involved in various musical projects, including his own, and is the drummer/percussionist for Grammy award winning artist, India.Arie.

Thursday, June 16th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Club Owner Tamara Fuller
2022-06-16 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
This is our first-ever open-mic performance competition and last week was packed, and tons of fun!Throughout the month of June, we are searching for the most enjoyable performance we can find, and the winner will earn a coveted spot on The Velvet Note weekend calendar.

Hosted by Club Owner Tamara Fuller and silently-judged by celebrity music couples, each jam night is sure to feature the best vocal and instrumental music, tons of fun and a benevolent, the very best house band, welcoming audience cheering you on. All genres are welcomed and encouraged.

About our Judges: Ray and BJ Johnson are the leads of the popular Ray Howard Band. Their performances have sold more seats in The Velvet Note than any other band in our 10-year history. Together, they lead a full set of vocalists and instrumentalists in oldies, Motown and Earth, Wind and Fire revues, all over the country.

Sunday, June 12th: Legends of Jazz Presents the Music of Cannonball Adderley *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***
2022-06-12 19:00 - 20:30 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Legends of Jazz Series begins with a celebration of the music Cannonball Adderley!

Justin Varnes and his quartet will guide guests–in engaging, narrative form– through the life of this legendary artist, as well as the impact that he had on the legacy of jazz. It’s like taking in a concert and taking a jazz history class at the same time. Oh, and they’ll also play their behinds off! *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***

Saturday, June 11th: The Mark Rapp Funktet--Jazz Meets Motown
2022-06-11 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. The Velvet Note presents…JAZZ MEETS MOTOWN with the Mark Rapp Funktet. The Mark Rapp Funktet performs unique arrangements of popular songs from MoTown, Pop and everything in between. Jazz Meets Motown draws from classic Motown favorites and takes you on an exciting jazz journey.Mark Rapp: trumpetJonathan Knott: guitarAntonio McKie: keysRodney Foster, Jr.: bassRoderick Johnson: drumsABOUT MARK RAPPTrumpeter Mark Rapp has released 8 diverse recordings and appears as a sideman on a myriad of projects including Disney’s “Everybody Wants to be a Cat” alongside Roy Hargrove, Dave Brubeck, Esperanza Spalding, The Bad Plus, Joshua Redman and more. Rapp’s celebrated 2009 debut release “Token Tales” earned him a spot as a “Top Emerging Trumpeter” in Downbeat Magazine, sold out the Blue Note (NYC) and debuted at the famed Newport Jazz Festival. Rapp is a featured artist in Mellen Press’ “How Jazz Trumpeters Understand Their Music” among a prestigious list including Terence Blanchard, Lew Soloff, Freddie Hubbard, Tim Hagans, Dave Douglas and more. Rapp also composed and produced a jazz ballet “Woven: Life in Notes and Steps” (wovenballet.com). He has performed in jazz clubs and festivals around the world from Croatia, Brasil, Austria, Switzerland and USA including back-to-back appearances at the 2017 & 2018 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. Rapp has performed in jazz clubs around the world from Snug Harbor (New Orleans), Blue Note (NYC), The Jazz Standard (NYC), Yoshi’s (San Francisco), Blues Alley (Washington, D.C.), Jazzland (Vienna, Austria), AMR (Geneva, Switzerland), Clube do Choro (Natal, Brasil) to Jazz Tunnel (Zagreb, Croatia). Jazz festivals around the world from the JVC Newport Jazz Festival, Fillmore Jazz Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, WC Handy Festival, Festival AMR des Cropettes (Switzerland), JazzTimes Festival in Croatia to the Jazz&Blues Festival in Garanhuns, Brazil. Mark was featured at Cirque du Soleil’s opening gala for KA in Las Vegas and invited by Guy Laliberte to perform for his birthday. Mark has been guest soloist with Big Bands, recorded as a special guest artist on CDs, played in the United Nations Symphony Orchestra, and has had many jazz greats perform in his bands including bassist James Genus (Herbie Hancock, Brecker Brothers, Saturday Night Live, Aretha Franklin), Walter Blanding, Jr, Don Braden, Wycliffe Gordon, Nate Smith, Clerence Penn, Wess “Warmdaddy” Anderson and many others. “Rapp has his own way of defining jazz, which keeps its standard principles while delving into the experimental side.”– JazzTimes “Rapp is willing to tackle the history of this music with his eyes on the past and his mind on the present and future of this music.”– AllAboutJazz.com “One can’t help but sense a distinct identity to Rapp in both his composing and playing and for this reason, we will be hearing a lot more from him.”– Jazz Improv NY Magazine

Friday, June 10th: The Bill Hart International Jazz Fusion Band
2022-06-10 20:00 - 22:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
ONE SHOW ONLY! Canadian Guitarist Bill Hart leads show featuring his unique take on jazz fusion world music and genre-bending selections. Only one performance, so get your seats soon!

Thursday, June 9th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Club Owner Tamara Fuller
2022-06-09 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
This is our first-ever open-mic performance competition and last week was packed, and tons of fun!Throughout the month of June, we are searching for the most enjoyable performance we can find, and the winner will earn a coveted spot on The Velvet Note weekend calendar.

Hosted by Club Owner Tamara Fuller and silently-judged by celebrity music couples, each jam night is sure to feature the best vocal and instrumental music, tons of fun and a benevolent, the very best house band, welcoming audience cheering you on. All genres are welcomed and encouraged.

About our Judges:

Gary Motley is a jazz pianist and composer. He is best known for his captivating performances, classic yet current sound, and popularity in the southeastern United States jazz music scene.

Motley has received awards from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Great American Jazz Piano Competition and the American Composers Forum (ACF). Featured on NPR’s Piano Jazz with Marian McPartland, his notable performances also include the premiere of his first orchestral work “The Artist and the Visionary,” duo performances with pianists Dave Brubeck and Kenny Barron, and concerts with Jon Faddis, Eddie Daniels, Benny Golson, and others. Cited by his home state for his artistic and educational achievements, Gary was inducted into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame in 2015.

As the Director of Jazz Studies at Emory University, Gary has developed The Strickland Jazz Studio – an interactive teaching facility that integrates the rich heritage of American jazz with today’s technology practices. He holds memberships with the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences and the Jazz Education Network.

Veronica Motley, Ed.D. is a psychotherapist, writer, educator, vocalist, wife and mom.

Saturday, June 4th: An Evening with Laila Biali
2022-06-04 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Multi award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter, pianist and CBC Music national broadcaster has performed festivals and venues spanning five continents from New York City’s Carnegie Hall to Beijing’s National Centre for the Performing Arts, and supported international icon Sting. In 2020, Laila was honoured by SOCAN Music with the Hagood Hardy Award for Excellence in Songwriting.

Friday, June 3rd: The Velvet Note's 10th Anniversary, Starring Joey Sommerville!
2022-06-03 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
This is it! The Velvet Note’s big anniversary party is here and you are invited! It’s gonna be a jazz party throw down of great talent, food spirits and extra fun.

Joey has received numerous awards and accolades including The American Society of Young Musicians All That Jazz Award. He was a featured soloist on the Cirque du Soleil’s Juno Award winning and Grammy nominated album, Alegria.

He is an active community servant and is on the Board of Directors of The How Big Is Your Dream Foundation, an Atlanta based charity that provides music education programs to students in underserved communities. He is also an active member of NARAS/The Recording Academy (Grammys), having served two terms on the Atlanta Chapter’s Board of Governors.
