The Velvet Note

Thursday, June 13th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Owner Tamara Fuller
2024-06-13 20:00 - 23:00 (America/New_York) | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Georgia’s LONGEST-RUNNING OPEN MIC JAM is at The Velvet Note, and you are invited! Open Mic is a little like Karaoke, but much, much better, with full bar and kitchen, too. Come out and listen to or jam with our extraordinary house band, or take the stage all on your own. Bring your talent, bring date, bring your instrument, bring your clapping hands, and join the fun. Hosted by club owner Tamara Fuller and she’s always on the hunt for talent!

Friday, June 14th: Saxophonist Dwan Bosman's BIG 50th Birthday! *** SERIOUSLY SOLD OUT!! SERIOUSLY SOLD OUT!! ***
2024-06-14 19:30 - 23:00
ONE SHOW ONLY: 7:30. Dwan Bosman is one of our favorite musicians, and we are proud to help him celebrate 50 years in STYLE! Oh…and there shall be CAKE!

Dwan Bosman was born in Ft. Myers, Florida, and raised in New Haven, Connecticut, and Atlanta, Georgia. Dwan began what has become a career in music when he was in elementary school. His first instrument was the clarinet. Under the tutelage of his late grandfather Lloyd Smith, his father Dwight Bosman and his uncle Dwayne Bosman Dwan (The Bosman Twins) has been privileged to get the best hands on training in classical, and jazz improvisational techniques. He later focused his training entirely on the saxophone. Dwan has also trained under various instructors in the greater Atlanta, Georgia area. As an accomplished saxophonist Dwan has performed with various national, and local Gospel, and Jazz artists. Blessed with natural musical talent Dwan is known as one of Atlanta’s most talented Jazz/Gospel Saxophonists.

Saturday, June 15th: LAVAHI LIVE! *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***
2024-06-15 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
With Clarence Hill (piano/keys), Kelly McCarty (bass) and GRAMMY-Winner Robert Boone (drums).

SHOWTIMES: 7:30pm and 9:30pm. LAVAHI is a talented neo-soul and jazz-crossover vocalist who won the hearts of The Velvet Note audiences as the winner of the Open Mic Competition and her full-length performance. She has been actively developing her artistry via performing, songwriting, and recording since 2010. In the process, she has worked with an eclectic range of artists and produced noteworthy collaborative projects; and her original music videos have garnered positive attention. Her list of credits includes “Hold On,” the widely successful sing release from jazz vocalist Lori Williams and “Rest Assured,” a feature on Hospital Records’ drum and bass tribute compilation ‘Med School: Graduation.’ “Hold On” (featuring the legendary “Jamaica Funk” Tom Browne, topped the UK Soul Charts for weeks since its release, while “Rest Assured” made waves on the UK Electronic charts.

LAVAHI also produces, plays flute and piccolo, and arranges. She has added her unique sound to national and international projects in genres varying from rap to film scores to alternative. LAVAHI loves the studio and feels most natural when recording independently; but her second home is the collaborative live performance of the stage. She has been featured at venues such as The Atlanta Jazz Festival, Bethesda Blues and Jazz, Blues Alley, City Winery, Jazz in the Alley, Kat’s Café, Porter-Sanford III, St. James Live, The Velvet Note, and more, and she has even stepped into the world of musical theatre.

LAVAHI is building a platform to nourish the heart and mind, empathize our human experiences, and vibe together. As a daughter of jazz, the culture heavily informs her ideology and influences her sound. Acrobatic scatting, compelling chords, and the art of improvisation evoke that classic traditional aesthetic and set her contemporary sound apart from the norm of mainstream neo-soul, hip hop, and R&B. Whether through performance in music, in writing, or in academic spaces, LAVAHI allows her own vulnerability to cultivate the vibe and create a safe space, internally and externally, for those sharing the experience with her.

Sunday, June 16th: Father's Day with The Incomparable Unknown Lyric
2024-06-16 18:30 - 22:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 6:30PM AND 8:30PM. The melodious hybridization of a world class philharmonic orchestra along with the thumping grooves of Outkast with the kinetic energy of Michael Jackson, Unknown Lyric is a force to be reckoned with. Jeremiah Turner on acoustic guitar and Kevin Grayson on violin, their sound mimics nothing you have heard before and can best be described as a classical fusion. Founded in 2009, Unknown Lyric has been progressive in the promotion of how music and live instrumentation can transcend and transport the listeners to another place. They won the acclaimed Amateur Night at the world renowned Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York. Along with playing the Saint Lucia Jazz Festival and Tedx. One of their biggest accomplishments was playing for media mogul Oprah Winfrey for the cast luncheon of her HBO movie The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks. Get ready for The incomparable Unknown Lyric.!

Thursday, June 20th: CLOSED FOR A PRIVATE EVENT
2024-06-20 17:00 - 22:00

Friday, June 21st: Singer and Actress Toni Byrd
2024-06-21 19:30 - 23:00
SHOWTIMES: 7:30pm and 9:30pm. Toni Byrd is a world class recording artist, songwriter and one of the most unforgettable and versatile vocal artists around. In addition to all of her credits, add actress to her impressive list. Currently based in Atlanta, the 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. Byrd 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. Byrd is the first female vocalist to perform at the legendary Pinewood Atlanta Studios (known for James Bond, Marvel and Pirates of the Caribbean movies) in 2014 for the kickoff gala celebrating the New American location in Fayetteville, Georgia.

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. Byrd listened to gospel, jazz, R&B, pop, American Funk and Country Music. Byrd recalls hearing opera singer, Leontyne Price, singing 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.” Byrd’s 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. “I am thankful to my father and to those amazing icons who helped influence my early musical development and helped me find my own voice.”

Saturday, June 22nd: The Larry Wilson Quartet **** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***
2024-06-22 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM & 9:30PM. LARRY WILSON is a Cleveland, Ohio native but grew up in Jacksonville, Florida. He began his love affair with music at the tender age of 3—playing the drums in church. He began his formal education in music at Landon Middle School for the Performing Arts, later Lavilla Middle School of the Arts. He attended high school at the prestigious Douglas Anderson School of the Arts and went on to attend the Florida State School of Music where he majored in Jazz Studies.

Larry has shared his gift of music abroad, visiting the countries of Spain, France, Ireland, the United Kingdom, the Bahamas, and more. He has also performed with many notable Jazz musicians and artists; some of which include Theo Crocker, Jamison Ross, Marcus Roberts, and many more. He has also appeared with remarkable artists in other genres such as Jennifer Holiday, Kirk Franklin, and Tye Tribbett.

Across his career, Larry has released over 40 albums, two of which have been considered for first-round GRAMMYs. Today, in addition to his work as a producer, headliner and jam-session leader, he is the Founder and leader of the 22-piece Black Gold Orchestra.

Thursday, June 27th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Owner Tamara Fuller
2024-06-27 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
ONE SHOW ONLY: 8:00pm. Georgia’s LONGEST-RUNNING OPEN MIC JAM is at The Velvet Note, and you are invited! Open Mic is a little like Karaoke, but much, much better, with full bar and kitchen, too. Come out and listen to or jam with our extraordinary house band, or take the stage all on your own. Bring your talent, bring date, bring your instrument, bring your clapping hands, and join the fun. Hosted by club owner Tamara Fuller and she’s always on the hunt for talent!

Friday, June 28th: Jayson Tipp
2024-06-28 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. Keyboard player Jayson Tipp founded Under The Lake nearly 30 years ago. Over the past three decades Under The Lake has garnered many notable accomplishments across their 6 releases: Dive In (1993), Up For Air (1996), People Together (2007) and Jazz, Groove & Attitude (2018), Your Horizon Too (2020) and their latest Old Friends, New Grooves (2021). The band’s credits include live performances with a “who’s who” list of jazz artists such as Joe Sample, Billy Cobham, Keiko Matsui, Stanley Jordan, and others with appearances at venues such as the PDX Jazz Festival, Cathedral Park Jazz Festival, Maui Music Festival, Newport Beach Jazz Festival, KIFM Smooth Jazz Festival, the Coach House and the House of Blues. Now, 30 years after the first Under The Lake album was released, Tipp is launching his solo career with a new album entitled “Table For One”. For the first track from the forthcoming album Tipp reached out to accomplished saxophonist / producer Darren Rahn. Together Rahn and Tipp crafted “Groove Together” the first single launching Tipp’s new career as a solo artist.

Saturday, June 29th: Quintin Gerard W. ***SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***
2024-06-29 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. FROM THE BEGINNING: A native of Norco, Louisiana, Quintin Gerard W. attended Destrehan High School, where his formidable musical talent earned him a place in numerous concert and jazz honor bands in Louisiana and the New Orleans area. Awarded a music scholarship at Loyola University of New Orleans, he studied Jazz Music Performance and Education and had the opportunity to study from jazz master Ellis Marsalis. In 1989 Quintin Gerard W. moved to Los Angeles, CA to pursue a career of becoming a Professional Saxophonist and Recording Artist. While in Los Angeles, CA Quintin Gerard W. had the opportunity to perform and record with notable and top selling artist in both Jazz and R&B. Charlie Wilson, Kenny Garrett, Jeff Lorber, Club Nouveau, Dave Koz, Chaka Khan, Najee, & Rick James are just a few notable artists Quintin Gerard W. has either recorded or performed live with during his time in Los Angeles. Quintin Gerard W. also recorded T.V. Commercials such as Levi Strauss, Estee Lauder, Sears/Kenmore., the T.V. Movie “Here Comes The Munsters Halloween Special,” in which Quintin Gerard W. was the featured soloist, and the opening theme for B.E.T.’s Comic View! Quintin Gerard W. is also a member of the original award winning San Diego based Jazz Fusion Group Under The Lake, which has multiple CD releases to date as well!

In 2003 Quintin relocated back to his original roots in Louisiana to resume and complete his undergraduate collegiate studies. In 2007 Quintin Gerard W. graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration/Management. As a result of his effort and studies at SLU, Quintin was accepted into the Sigma Alpha Lambda National Leadership and Honors Organization and The National Scholars Honor Society for his outstanding academic and personal achievements.

Quintin Gerard W. is a voting member of the National Association of Recording Arts and Sciences (N.A.R.A.S.), more commonly known or referred to as “The Grammy’s.” Quintin Gerard W. is also a FAA licensed Private and Drone pilot who enjoys the freedom of flying to remote destinations that are inaccessible to commercial airline travel.

Sunday, June 30th: Casen Alesi and Misha Stefanuk-- A Night of Vibraphone and Piano
2024-06-30 19:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
ONE SHOW ONLY: 7:00pm Experience the electrifying synergy of Misha Stefanuk and Casen Alesi in an extraordinary jazz duo concert. With Misha’s five decades of piano mastery and Casen’s versatile prowess on the vibraphone, this duo promises a night of captivating music.

Misha, a GRAMMY-voting member, television composer, and best-selling author, brings his rich background from the Moscow Conservatory, Belmont College, and Boston University to the stage. His music, influenced by legends like Keith Jarrett, seamlessly fuses classical, jazz, and contemporary styles.

Casen, a multifaceted percussionist, has wowed audiences of all kinds whether it be in prestigious orchestras or his professional jazz groups, and has collaborated with the industry’s finest such as ELEW and Joseph Alessi just to name a few. His dynamic performances, from orchestral settings to jazz bands and musical theater, showcase his exceptional talent and versatility.

Don’t miss the chance to witness these two acclaimed musicians create magic live on stage. Secure your tickets now for a performance that will leave you spellbound!

Thursday, July 4th: Closed for Independence Day
2024-07-04 08:00 - 17:00

Friday, July 5th: Climate Change Starring Master Percussionist Bradie Speller
2024-07-05 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. Climate Change is the new sound in what was called Jazz but now in the 21st century is #SocialMusic. The group is comprised of top flight performing & recording artists who have track records with stars like Herbie Hancock, Weather Report, Alicia Keys, Aretha Franklin, India.Aire, KEM, Billy Joel and many more. The band is released their first album “Beams of Light” comprised of 11 original compositions, loaded with powerfully funky rhythms, searing violin, guitar and saxophone solos and music dedicated to social interaction, and they are the brink of releasing their second album this year.

Saturday, July 6th: Trumpeter Trent Patten
2024-07-06 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. Born and raised in Minnesota, multi-instrumentalist Trent Patten was introduced to music at a young age. Both his parents being musicians, it was natural for him to have an interest in music. Trent started playing the trumpet when he was 10, but didn’t have an interest in jazz until he was 17 when he attended the Hilton Head Jazz Camp. It was here that he met some of his mentors and friends that really inspired him to make others feel inspired through music, as they did to him. Around this time, Trent moved to the Southeast area where he started becoming very active in the local music scene, going out to see music and meet musicians and playing gigs wherever he could.

During this time he played with countless jazz musicians such as Kevin Bales and Joe Gransden. He has also opened for very well known jazz musicians, such as Arturo Sandoval, Monty Alexander, the Count Basie Orchestra and Quentin Baxter. After a couple years of living here, he decided to study trumpet at Coastal Carolina University with Dr. Matthew White. After spending a year there, he had an opportunity to study in Atlanta at Georgia State University with Dr. Gordon Vernick. Trent now lives in Atlanta and has been playing all around the city reaching people with his music wherever he can.

Trent Patten: Trumpet

Patrick Arthur: Guitar

Ramon Pooser: Bass

Kinah Boto: Drums

Sunday, July 7th: Saxophonist Dwan Bosman's Encore Celebration ***SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! WALK-UPS WELCOMED!!! *****
2024-07-07 18:30 - 20:30 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIME: 6:30pm. Dwan Bosman was born in Ft. Myers, Florida, and raised in New Haven, Connecticut, and Atlanta, Georgia. Dwan began what has become a career in music when he was in elementary school. His first instrument was the clarinet. Under the tutelage of his late grandfather Lloyd Smith, his father Dwight Bosman and his uncle Dwayne Bosman Dwan (The Bosman Twins) has been privileged to get the best hands on training in classical, and jazz improvisational techniques. He later focused his training entirely on the saxophone. Dwan has also trained under various instructors in the greater Atlanta, Georgia area. As an accomplished saxophonist Dwan has performed with various national, and local Gospel, and Jazz artists. Blessed with natural musical talent Dwan is known as one of Atlanta’s most talented Jazz/Gospel Saxophonists.

Thursday, July 11th: Open Mic Jam
2024-07-11 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States

Friday, July 12th: Guitarist, Singer and Motown Songwriter Wali Ali
2024-07-12 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30 and 9:30pm. The Velvet Note is pleased to welcome Wali Ali for his first performance on our stage! Wali Ali grew up in Nebraska, but joined Motown at age 17 and recorded, toured, and wrote for the top acts.

Wali was lead Guitarist The Temptations, Eddie Kendricks, Teena Marie, Rick James & Patrice Rushen just to name a few. Wali Ali has toured as guitarist with Marvin Gaye, The Jacksons. Aretha Franklin, and the Undisputed Truth. During his tenure as musical director of the world famous “Cotton Club”, Wali was dubbed the “Minister of Music”.

In the late 70s he recorded few songs for Jobete Music Co under the direction of Brian Holland & Edward Holland Jr. One of them is entitled “(Oh I) need your loving” and is included on the album “Yesterday, Today, Forever” which was released on Jobette Music Co in 1980.

He played guitar for Marvin Gaye on the album released in 1978. He sang as a backing vocalist for Norman Connors on the album Invitation in 1979. Also he sang together with Patrice Rushen on the song “Never Gonna Give You Up (Won’t Let You Be)“ included on her Posh album from 1980.

The same year Lamont Dozier formed the soul group Zingara. Lamont Dozier found a trio of singers, James Ingram , Lady Bianca and Wali Ali. About Wali, Lamont Dozier explains: “He was better known around the LA session circuit for his guitar playing than his singing. But he is a fantastic singer, so underrated when you think how feted he is for his guitar work. Zingara recorded one of the best sweet modern soul albums ever on Wheel Records.

Saturday, July 13th : Master Drummer Sonny Emory
2024-07-13 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOW TIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. Drummer for Earth, Wind and Fire & Eric Clapton makes a rare club appearance! Sonny Emory is a native of Atlanta who received his first drum set at the age of four. After graduating from Georgia State University with a Bachelor in Jazz Performance, Sonny began his transition into becoming a professional drummer playing with Joe Sample and the Crusaders. With over 30 years of live performance and studio work behind him, Sonny maintains a busy schedule in the music industry and is highly regarded in the business.

Though probably best known for his groundbreaking drumming with Earth, Wind, and Fire; Sonny has performed with a virtual “who’s who” in pop and jazz music including Stanley Clarke, David Sanborn, Bette Midler, Al Jarreau, Paula Abdul, Jean-Luc Ponty, and Boz Scaggs. He is also known for innovative visual effects during live performances that include exciting stick-twirling and back-sticking techniques. As a World Renowned Drummer and Grammy Award Winner, Sonny is considered to be one of the greatest drummers to have come along in a while. His proficiency and style have awarded him the opportunity to record on platinum status albums such as the B52s’ Cosmic Thing and Steely Dan’s Grammy award winning Two against Nature.

While Sonny is in high demand as a touring musician for what he delivers during live performances, he is equally in demand for studio work. He is a former member of the legendary group Earth, Wind, and Fire, having held down the drum seat for thirteen years. Sonny has additionally played with artist that include Bruce Hornsby, Jennifer Lopez, Lee Ritenour, Bette Midler, Steely Dan and he is currently touring with Eric Clapton.

Sunday, July 14th: A Special Evening With Actor & Singer Keith David *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***
2024-07-14 18:30 - 22:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 6:30PM AND 8:30PM. Join us for a very special evening with the Voice of a Generation! Keith David, born and raised in New York City, is a classically-trained graduate of the New York High School of the Performing Arts and The Juilliard School. His work has earned him Screen Actors Guild and Tony Award nominations, an NAACP Image Award, and three Emmy Awards.

A frequent collaborator with documentarian Ken Burns, David won his three Emmys for his voice-over performances in Jackie Robinson, A Necessary War, and Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johsnon. David has also enthralled viewers with his vocal talents in animated works such as The Princess and the Frog, Rick and Morty, Gargoyles, and the Prime Video hit series, Hazbin Hotel.

David recently appeared in Cord Jefferson’s Oscar-winning film, American Fiction, Jordan Peele’s Nope, and is also known for his prolific work in films such as 21 Bridges, Crash, There’s Something About Mary, and many more. On the small screen, David recently finished Duster, a new series from JJ Abrams, and The Gray House, produced by Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman; completed five seasons starring as Bishop James Greenleaf in Greenleaf on the OWN Network; and has been featured on series such as Blackish and Community.

True to his reputation as a star of stage and screen, David starred as Floyd Barton in Seven Guitars, was nominated for a Tony for his role as Chimney Man in Jelly’s Last Jam, and has toured with Too Marvelous for Words, playing the legendary Nat King Cole.

Thursday, July 18th: Open Mic Jam!
2024-07-18 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States

Friday, July 19th: RivaBlue's Birthday Bash with Special Guests!
2024-07-19 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. Born Gwen Redding, a Washington,D.C. native, during early childhood her parents moved the family to small town Long Branch, NJ to raise them. Upon graduating from high school, Gwen made the move back to hometown Washington, D.C. to attend the University of the District of Columbia earning a degree in Mass Communications. Her first radio gig was in 1980 at UDC’s student operated station, WUDC where she served writing copy, performed production assistant duties, voice overs and did fill ins for other air talents.Rivablue can be heard weekdays from 10am to 2pm on 91.9 FM WCLK, Atlanta’s Jazz Station. Shortly thereafter, Gwen made the transition to the major station at UDC, 90.1 FM WBCU which had a jazz format. Jazz music was Gwen’s love at first listen for she got to play music from straight ahead jazz artists like Art Blakey, George Benson, Houston Person, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn, the entire Marsalis family and others.

“Midday Jazz” on weekdays from 10am to 2pm on 91.9 FM WCLK, Atlanta’s Jazz Station.

Saturday, July 20th: Celebrity Actress and Singer Michole Brianna White
2024-07-20 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM.

Michole Briana White currently stars in the Starz hit series Black Mafia Family and is proud to be in the final season of ATLANTA Episode 4, “LightSkinned-ed” for FX.

Michole has performed with the LA Philharmonic at Disney Concert Hall, The Wilshire Ebell & the Ford Theatre LA. She licenses her music for film and television and her vocals were featured on the Daytime Emmys. She has also performed at several festivals including The Long Beach Jazz Festival. She will soon be releasing a single and is working on a new EP. One of the highlights in her career was playing the iconic Lena Horn on stage in When Jazz Had the Blues at the Matrix theatre LA.

Michole starred in James Wan’s film Malignant, as well as GOLIATH, DEAD TO ME, Dr. Dre’s VITAL SIGNS, the Gotham Award winning web series THE STRANGE EYES of DR. MYES and is co-creator of its upcoming sequel. She was a series regular on 100 CENTER STREET (dir. Sydney Lumet,) in 25th HOUR and SHE HATE ME (dir. Spike Lee) and starred in Ava Duvernay’s first feature I WILL FOLLOW. Her theatrical credits include the original Off Broadway production of August Wilson’s JITNEY. For more information, visit @micholewhite IG, Micholebrianawhite.com. Her vocals were also featured in the title song of Reed Between the Lines and she has self-produced two EP’s as lead vocalist and song writer.

Also featuring Clarence “T-Lee” Hill (keys) and Lil John Roberts (drums)!

Sunday, July 21st: The Life and Music of Elvin Jones
2024-07-21 19:00 - 21:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
ONE SHOW ONLY: 7:00pm. Was Elvin Jones really REAL? In our 14th season of Legends of Jazz, Justin Varnes and his Jazz Legacy Project will guide guests–in engaging, narrative form– through the life of this legendary drummer and member of John Coltrane’s band. 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!

Thursday, July 25th: Open Mic Jam!
2024-07-25 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States

Friday, July 26th: Midnight Collective
2024-07-26 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. The Midnight Collective is a local group of Atlanta-based college musicians who have known and played with one another since their years of musical infancy. Being the brainchild of alto saxophone player Reed Jorgensen, he was the one to bring together the members of the band (drummer Jaiden Swamy, pianist Blake Dwelle, bassist Alex Barry and guitarist Issac Lourie) by meeting all of them through events, programs and jams of the Atlanta jazz scene. All these young musicians have one thing in common and that’s the desire to connect with an audience as best as possible and to make them feel a deeper connection that they have with each other as bandmates and as friends.

Saturday, July 27th: Matt Von Roderick
2024-07-27 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
7:30pm and 9:30pm Shows: An Inspiring Evening with The Award-Winning Singing Trumpeter

Flying high in the rarified air of innovative jazz trumpeter and heart-centered crooner, Matt Von Roderick has been hailed as “a post-millennial Chet Baker” by the New York Times and “a top-drawer trumpeter who also sings like an angel obscured by a storm cloud” by JazzTimes Magazine.

Von Roderick’s signature sound combines classic, lush tones with his adventurous vocal/trumpet multiphonics, a dash of loops and spoken word to create what the International Trumpet Guild calls “exquisite”, while Downbeat Magazine describes his musical approach as being “Zen-like”.

Von Roderick prioritizes the spiritual aspects of music and genuinely loves his audiences. He seeks to make a positive impact in the world and it is his great joy to bring you joy.

“His latest masterpiece, Celestial Heart, an album that has recently taken the world by storm…seamlessly weaves together classic lush tones with audacious experimentation, incorporating multiphonics, melodic vocals, and even hints of spoken word poetry…Matt Von Roderick, a virtuoso trumpeter and vocalist…showcases an explorative and idiosyncratic approach to interpreting classics…He embodies the spirit of exploration intrinsic to jazz’s tradition and its continuous evolution as an art form…”

—JAZZIZ Magazine

The authoritative voice of jazz culture

Sunday, July 28th: Smooth Jazz Bassist Darryl Williams
2024-07-28 07:00 - 22:30 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:00PM AND 9:00PM. It took ten years for urban-jazz bass player Darryl Williams to write, record and release “Here to Stay,” his Billboard top 10 single and the title track to his second album. This week’s release of the follow-up single, “Do You Remember,” proves that he doesn’t plan to go away anytime soon. Plucking rubbery basslines on piccolo and electric basses on the slick jazz-funk energizer that he wrote and produced, Williams is joined on the dancefloor filler by chart-toppers Michael Lington (saxophone) and Adam Hawley (guitarist).

Williams’ return to center stage as a frontman with the “Here to Stay” set resulted in a 2017 Best New Artist nomination from the Smooth Jazz Network. The first-call bassman calls the collection that he produced with sax powerhouse Euge Groove “a labor of love,” featuring eight of his hand-penned originals along with a pair of remakes that have personal meaning to the San Diego native who currently resides in Temecula. A stellar list of his regular employers were quick to return the favor by making guest appearances on “Here to Stay,” including Groove, who ignites a pair of tunes including the title cut, two-time Grammy-winning guitarist and producer Paul Brown, jazz-funk keyboard pioneer Jeff Lorber, saxmen Marcus Anderson and Elan Trotman, and keyboardists Jonathan Fritzen, Greg Manning and Scott Wilkie. The disc’s lone vocal number, a faithful rendering of The Emotions’ “Don’t Ask My Neighbors,” is soul kissed by R&B crooner Ashling Cole. Williams remembers his late mentor, Carl Evans Jr., by revamping the former Fattburger leader’s sweetly redolent “The Doctor,” which is graced by Michael Paolo’s caressing soprano sax.

“While to some people, ‘labor of love’ is an overused cliché, it certainly applies to ‘Here to Stay.’ I began writing songs for the collection in 2007 before moving my family to Temecula from Las Vegas. The compositions were inspired by different experiences we went through in our journey throughout that period. It was an important and formative time in my career as well. That’s when I first started playing in Euge’s (Groove) band and did a tour with Jeff (Lorber) a couple years later. In between is when my very good friend and mentor Carl (Evans Jr.) passed, which was devastating. ‘Do You Remember’ was one of the last songs I wrote for the record and it was inspired by reflecting on how far I’ve come from growing up as a kid in Los Angeles and San Diego to playing in a funk band with my brother as a teenager. It took me ten years to finish this album and while it takes me back in time, the reaction from fans, radio and reviewers has me looking forward with excitement. I couldn’t be more proud of this album,” said Williams.

Williams was a teenager when he opened for R&B acts Lakeside and Al Green along with gospel legend Shirley Caesar. After studying jazz at San Diego State University, Williams went from regular gigs backing many of San Diego’s most prominent homegrown talent to the neon lights of the Las Vegas strip where he accompanied such nationally-renowned headliners as Clint Holmes, Angela Bofill, Tevin Campbell, Howard Hewett and Keith Washington, and did a road stint with Chaka Khan. After moving back to California in 2008, Williams dropped his debut album, “That Was Then,” garnering praise from JazzTimes and national airplay on SiriusXM. He has become a fixture on the smooth/contemporary jazz scene where he has shared the stage with the genre’s heavy hitters: Richard Elliot, Peter White, Gerald Albright, Mindi Abair, Brenda Russell, Darren Rahn, Jessy J, Everette Harp and Jeff Kashiwa. He has also recorded with Jackiem Joyner, Blake Aaron, Nils Jiptner, U-Nam and Kay-Ta Matsuno.

Thursday, August 1st: Open Mic Jam with Special Guest Sam Simms
2024-08-01 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
ONE SHOW ONLY: 8:00pm. Georgia’s LONGEST-RUNNING OPEN MIC JAM is at The Velvet Note, and you are invited! Open Mic is a little like Karaoke, but much, much better, with full bar and kitchen, too. Come out and listen to or jam with our extraordinary house band, or take the stage all on your own. Bring your talent, bring date, bring your instrument, bring your clapping hands, and join the fun. Often attended by club owner Tamara Fuller and she’s always on the hunt for talent!

This week, our special guest will be Sam Simms. Sam Sims has been a staple in Rhythm and Blues, Pop, Rock and Jazz for over 30 years. Throughout his career he has worked with musical giants including Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey, Justin Timberlake, Michael McDonald, Utada Hikaru, kd lang, Rob Halford, Backstreet Boys, Bette Midler, Whitney Houston, George Duke, Dave Koz, Patrice Rushin, Boney James, Maxwell and more. Today, Sam is known for being one of the most versatile bassists in the industry.

Born in Chattanooga, TN., Sam began his music career at age 6. At age twelve, self taught and influenced by greats such as Verdine White, Jaco Pastorius, James Jamerson, Larry Graham, Louis Johnson, Marcus Miller and Stanley Clarke, Sam began playing the bass guitar.

Saturday, August 3rd: Acclaimed Singer Lori Williams
2024-08-03 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30 AND 9:30PM. Acclaimed jazz vocalist Lori Williams is back from her European tour, possessing a most impressive resume as a performing artist, educator, songwriter, producer, support vocalist and musical theater actress. Her reputation and level of respect are top shelf and unimpeachable. However, this Washington, D.C.-native Lori is electing to let her hair down to pursue a more relaxed passion path in the realms of the Quiet Storm and R&B-leaning Soul-Jazz.

With an ALL-STAR BAND of Louis Heriveaux (piano), Kelly McCarty (bass) and Larry Wilson (drums).

Sunday, August 4th: Trevor Wolford & The Sous Vide Trio
2024-08-04 18:30 - 22:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 6:30PM AND 8:30PM. Trevor Wolford used the forced downtime during the pandemic to formulate and create “The Culinary Guitarist”, a concept album paying homage to the chefs and culinary creatives of his hometown Atlanta. Trevor used his experience of performing and recording for artists of many genres to achieve an authentic sound that alludes to a particular culinary experience. Trevor & the Sous Vide Trio aim to revisit tracks from the album and debut new original compositions on their 2024 east coast tour.
