The Velvet Note

Saturday, August 16th: Cruz The Dame
2025-08-16 19:30 - 23:00 (America/New_York) | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Showtimes: 7:30pm and 9:30pm. CRUZ The Dame is a rising recording artist and songwriter celebrated for her genre-defying music that blends the essence of old soul with a fresh, contemporary sound.

On Saturday, August 16th, The Velvet Note turns up the heat with the arrival of Cruz The Dame, the fearless songstress whose voice and presence command every inch of the room. Known for her bold, genre-bending style, Cruz blends elements of jazz, soul, blues, and a hint of rock to create a sound that is as captivating as it is unpredictable.

Cruz The Dame doesn’t just perform—she owns the stage. With a smoky, powerhouse voice and a magnetic energy that draws you in from the first note, she delivers every song like it’s a personal confession. Whether she’s reimagining a jazz classic, sliding into a slow-burning ballad, or unleashing an up-tempo anthem, Cruz infuses it with raw emotion and unmistakable style.

This is not background music. This is an immersive, high-voltage performance that will make you feel every lyric, every riff, every beat. And in the intimate, acoustically perfect setting of The Velvet Note, you’ll be close enough to catch every wink, smile, and spontaneous moment that makes a Cruz The Dame show unforgettable.

Sunday, August 17th: Sunday Night Blues with The ATL Blues Cartel
2025-08-17 19:30 - 22:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
ONE SHOW ONLY! 7:30! Atlanta’s blues scene just got a major upgrade, and you don’t want to miss it. Introducing The ATL BluesCartel, a powerhouse collaboration between two of the city’s most exciting blues artists: Garrett Collins of the Garrett Collins Project, and Cannonball Red of Cannonball Red & the Head Hunters.

These two seasoned bandleaders have already made waves in the Atlanta music scene, and now they’ve joined forces to bring you an unforgettable live blues experience. Garrett Collins recently won the prestigious 2024 Atlanta Blues Challenge and competed in Memphis for the 2025 International BluesCompetition, and Cannonball Red just rocked the Juke Joint Blues Festival in Clarksdale, Mississippi, you know you’re in for something special when these two take the stage together.

The ATL Blues Cartel has secured a residency at The Velvet Note, an award-winning jazz club in Alpharetta, GA. Every Sunday night (except major holidays), this dynamic duo will be bringing you raw, soulful blues at its finest. Doors open at 6:30 PM, with the music starting at 7:30 PM. Whether you’re a long-time bluesaficionado or a newcomer to the scene, this is your chance to experience the heart and soul of real bluesmusic in an intimate, unforgettable setting.

Tell your friends, grab your seats, and be part of the magic! The Velvet Note offers the perfect atmosphere to vibe out to the incredible guitar slinging of Cannonball Red and Garrett Collins, and we promise you’ll want to come back for more.

Don’t miss out on what’s sure to become a legendary residency. Mark your calendars, spread the word, and let’s make Sunday nights at The Velvet Note the place to be for blues lovers!

Sunday, September 7th: Sunday Night Blues with The ATL Blues Cartel
2025-08-18 19:30 - 22:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
ONE SHOW ONLY! 7:30! Atlanta’s blues scene just got a major upgrade, and you don’t want to miss it. Introducing The ATL BluesCartel, a powerhouse collaboration between two of the city’s most exciting blues artists: Garrett Collins of the Garrett Collins Project, and Cannonball Red of Cannonball Red & the Head Hunters.

These two seasoned bandleaders have already made waves in the Atlanta music scene, and now they’ve joined forces to bring you an unforgettable live blues experience. Garrett Collins recently won the prestigious 2024 Atlanta Blues Challenge and competed in Memphis for the 2025 International BluesCompetition, and Cannonball Red just rocked the Juke Joint Blues Festival in Clarksdale, Mississippi, you know you’re in for something special when these two take the stage together.

Thursday, August 21st: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Nijah Poteat
2025-08-21 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. Tonight is special– with a full cast of characters in our house band, including host Nijah Poteat! 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!

Friday & Saturday, August 22nd and 23rd: Timeless! Starring American Idol's LaToya London and Eric Moore *** SOLD OUT!! ***
2025-08-22 19:30 - 2025-08-23 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. “Timeless: A Soulful Evening of Classic Duets starring American Idol’s LaToya London & Eric Moore”

LaToya London is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who rose to national prominence as a finalist on Season 3 of American Idol in 2004. Hailing from Oakland, California, London impressed audiences with her powerful voice and emotional range, earning her a place among the season’s standout “Three Divas,” alongside Fantasia Barrino and Jennifer Hudson. Her debut album, Love & Life, released in 2005, showcased her blend of R&B, soul, and jazz, and featured collaborations with artists like Black Thought. Since then, she has continued to evolve artistically, releasing music independently and maintaining a loyal fanbase through her label RS Music Group.

In addition to her musical accomplishments, London has built a successful career on stage. She earned critical acclaim for her performances in major theatrical productions, including The Color Purple, where she portrayed both Nettie and Shug Avery, and The Bodyguard, where she starred as Rachel Marron. Her work has earned her Ovation Award recognition and NAACP Theater nominations. A vocal coach and mentor to rising artists, LaToya London remains a dynamic presence in both the music and theater worlds, known for her authenticity, artistry, and enduring passion for performance.

Eric Moore is an accomplished singer, actor, and musical director originally from Atlanta, Georgia. He has been performing professionally since 1986, showcasing a versatile vocal style that spans traditional and contemporary jazz, gospel, hip‑hop, and even bluegrass thevelvetnote.com. In 1995, he made his acting debut in Cotton Patch Gospel with Theatrical Outfit, launching a prolific stage career that includes standout roles in regional and national productions such as Jesus Christ Superstar, Once on This Island, Big River, Man of La Mancha, and Tambourines to Glory thevelvetnote.com. Beyond the stage, Eric has performed widely—on television, radio, and in high-profile live events like the 1996 Summer Olympics, the 2004 Olympic Torch Relay celebration, and numerous charity galas—cementing his reputation as a dynamic and engaging performer.

This is a one-of-a -kind show of duets that you want to be sure to catch!

Sunday, August 24th: Sunday Night Blues, with The ATL Blues Cartel
2025-08-24 19:30 - 22:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States

Thursday, August 28th: CLOSED
2025-08-28 20:00 - 23:00
We are taking a break as we get ready for the big shows this weekend. Open Mic Jam will return next Thursday, so mark your calendar and get your tickets!

Friday and Saturday, August 29th & 30th: Our Annual Celebration of Earth, Wind and Fire! *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***
2025-08-29 19:30 - 2025-08-30 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Friday and Saturday SHOWTIMES: 7:30pm and 9:30pm. As you know, The Velvet Note just celebrated 13 years, and we are pleased to bring you our annual celebration of Earth, Wind and Fire! It’s one of two extra-special events we’ve been working on, just for you. We hope you’ll join us for another great holiday weekend of this vibrant, uplifting performance by The Ray Howard Band–get your tickets now!

SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!!

Sunday, August 31st: Bluesman Albert White with Lady "D", and featuring Special Guest Carlin "CNote" Smith
2025-08-31 18:30 - 22:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 6:30PM AND 8:30PM. This weekend, The Velvet Note is proud to welcome two extraordinary voices in the blues tradition. Guitarist and singer Albert White, a cornerstone of the Atlanta blues scene, brings a lifetime of music to the stage. Having played with icons like Piano Red, The Tams, and the Drifters, White’s style blends deep-rooted Southern blues with soulful grooves and heartfelt storytelling. His seasoned musicianship and magnetic presence capture the essence of true blues, making each performance both a history lesson and a party you don’t want to miss.

Sharing the bill is the incomparable Lady “D”. With a voice made for blues joints, her performances weave together tradition and innovation, offering audiences an intimate journey through the heart of the blues. Together, Albert White and Lady “D” promise an unforgettable evening that honors the past, celebrates the present, and ignites the spirit of the blues.

While you’re here, be sure to meet Carlin “CNote” Smith, Founder of The Atlanta Blues Society!

Thursday, September 4th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Singer Nijah Poteat
2025-09-04 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States

Blues Singer/Guitarist Cole Downing
2025-09-05 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
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SHOWTIMES: 7:30P AND 9:30P. Tall, charismatic and soulful Cole Downing’s nomadic approach to life has led to exciting roles from performer to actor to stunt double, but there’s none he loves ore than being around music and musicians.

Cole says, “My approach to music is deeply soulful. It moves and motivates me more than almost anything else in life. Music is what carries me through both the highs and the lows—it’s a constant companion.

I believe music is inherently communal. There’s a unique connection that happens through sound—it’s a conversation without words, a shared emotional experience that transcends language.

I’m drawn to songs that may not be heard on the radio every day—hidden gems like Hard Times and Losing Hand by Ray Charles, or Worried Life Blues by Chuck Berry, all of which I will perform in my show. I aim to breathe new life into these lesser-known works, introducing them to new audiences in a way that feels both familiar and fresh.

Through my music, I hope to create moments of recognition, healing, and joy—something true to the spirit of the blues and soul traditions I carry forward.”

Join us for a very special evening with Cole and his band!

Saturday, September 6th: Dwan Bosman
2025-09-06 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30. Music, the universal language that bridges gaps and enriches lives, finds its purest expression in the artistry of Dwan Bosman. Born into a legacy of sound, his journey into music began even before his first breath. With Jazz as the heartbeat of his craft, Dwan has dedicated over three decades to mastering and redefining the art form. His talent transcends genres, offering an experience that connects deeply with the soul. Through his electrifying performances and passion for human connection, Dwan Bosman invites you to embark on a musical journey like no other.

Dwan Bosman’s love affair with the saxophone began at the age of 15, deeply rooted in a family legacy of musical excellence that traces back to his grandfather. Before discovering his true calling, he first explored the clarinet and bass clarinet at 12, with aspirations of becoming classically trained. However, everything changed when he listened to John Coltrane’s A Love Supreme—a transformative experience that ignited his passion for jazz.

Inspired by jazz greats such as Charlie Parker, Cannonball Adderley, Sonny Stitt, Miles Davis, Kenny Garrett, Grover Washington Jr., and The Bosman Twins, Dwan cultivated a signature sound that is both vivid and deeply expressive. His influences extend beyond jazz, shaping a musician who is as versatile as he is passionate.

In 2013, he showcased his adaptability and range with his album Sax Attack, followed by the 2015 single For Eternity—an evocative tribute to love and lifelong commitment. Yet, his artistry is best experienced live. With over 25 years of performances across the nation and abroad, Dwan Bosman is the embodiment of a true showman. To him, performing is as natural as breathing.

Regularly gracing audiences at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport as part of The Sounds of Southern Hospitality program, his music transcends barriers, captivating listeners from all walks of life. Whether soothing a restless infant or mesmerizing a seasoned jazz aficionado, his saxophone speaks a universal language of emotion and soul.

As one of Atlanta’s premier saxophonists, Dwan has solidified his place as a benchmark in the city’s music scene. Whether leading a corporate band, sharing the stage with headliners, or taking center stage himself, his performances are an unforgettable musical journey—one that lingers in the hearts of his audience long after the final note fades.

Sunday, September 7th: Ben Flournoy
2025-09-07 18:30 - 22:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 6:30P & 8:30P. — ALL AGES WELCOMED– The Velvet Note spotlights the electrifying talent of Ben Flournoy, a rising star in the blues and soul tradition. With roots that run deep in the Southern soundscape, Flournoy brings a fiery blend of guitar mastery, gritty vocals, and raw emotional storytelling to the stage. His playing style channels the spirit of the great bluesmen while adding his own fresh edge—equal parts intensity and finesse—that keeps audiences hanging on every note. Well-known in his native Florida, Ben is A Complete Unknown in the north Georgia area, and fans look forward to him delivering a performance that is as authentic as it is unforgettable.

Enjoy Ben’s video So Beautiful here: https://youtu.be/693JstYlhTc?si=Yzce0n7ru4_74RbK

Beyond his technical brilliance, Flournoy has built a reputation for connecting with his audiences in a way that feels both personal and powerful. Each song tells a story drawn from life, love, struggle, and triumph, and he brings those stories to life with honesty and passion. His shows are not just concerts—they’re experiences that invite listeners into the heart of the blues while leaving them energized and inspired. At The Velvet Note, expect nothing less than a night of soul-stirring music and a performance that proves why Ben Flournoy is one to watch on today’s blues scene.

Thursday, September 11th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Singer Nijah Poteat
2025-09-11 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States

Friday, September 12th: The Sade Experience *** 6 SEATS LEFT! ***
2025-09-12 19:30 - 23:00
Encore Performance on November 21st! Band Adu was created in 2019 by founder and lead vocalist, Jamila Sampson. The spirit of universal connection through music gives her a sense of love and passion while celebrating Sade’s artistry and style. The music gives you a feeling of romance, seduction, sensuality and soulfulness, all from a global music perspective.

Band Adu is honored to pay tribute to the musical legacy of Sade.

Slip into the sultry, sophisticated world of Sade when The Sade Experience takes the stage at The Velvet Note on Friday, September 12. From “Smooth Operator” to “No Ordinary Love,” this stellar band channels the velvet-toned vocals, hypnotic grooves, and heart-melting melodies you adore—wrapped in the intimacy and pristine sound our room is known for. Perfect for date night or a blissed-out evening with friends, this is your chance to sway, sip, and sink into the mood. Seating is limited—grab your tickets now and feel the luxury.

Saturday, September 13th: Soulful Singer Kayte Burgess
2025-09-13 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. Kayte Burgess brings a lush, soul-steeped voice and effortless poise to The Velvet Note on Saturday, September 13th. A seasoned vocalist with deep roots in jazz, R&B, and gospel, she blends satin phrasing with unshakable groove, shaping each lyric into a conversation—intimate, honest, and alive. Expect refined musicianship, luminous tone, and arrangements that breathe new life into beloved standards alongside her own heartfelt originals.

In our listening-room setting, Burgess’s storytelling takes center stage: slow-burn ballads that shimmer, pocket-perfect mid-tempos, and soaring moments that reveal both technical command and emotional depth. This is music for close attention and relaxed indulgence—the kind of evening where a single note can change the room. Join us for an elegant, soulful night at The Velvet Note with Kayte Burgess—one performance, one unforgettable Saturday.

Sunday, September 14th: The Award-Winning David Pippin Group with Eva Rose
2025-09-14 19:00 - 21:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
ONE SHOW ONLY: 7:00. David Pippin is not only an acclaimed guitarist and bandleader in the Atlanta blues scene but also an educator and mentor through his creation of the Pippin Music Academy in Carrollton—a venture he calls “a game changer,” as teaching everything from guitar to piano and drums has allowed him to watch people of all backgrounds fall in love with music. His musical journey includes the release of the deeply authentic EP Blackwater Blues as well as Live From Perfect Note Atlanta, both featuring stripped-back acoustic guitar and pristine vocals, recording the honest performances he delivers on stage. Pippin has also earned widespread recognition as a three-time winner of the Atlanta Blues Challenge—performing as both solo/duo artist and leading his ensemble—and has led The David Pippin Group to victory in late 2023, earning them a coveted slot at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, among the top 200 acts selected worldwide. The collaboration with Eva Rose on Blackwater Blues was further honored with a nomination for Acoustic Blues Album of the Year at the 2025 Blues Blast Music Awards.

Eva Rose brings a compelling presence to the partnership, having shared the stage and audience with tens of thousands at the Springing the Blues Festival in Jacksonville Beach—an electrifying experience she recalls as her “this is real” moment—followed by an intimate and creative performance in the round at the Ellijay Songwriters Festival, where the magic of exchanging songs and stories reinforced her love for music. A versatile songwriter and alt-pop artist originally from Carrollton, Georgia, she gained recognition through BMI’s Indie Spotlight, celebrated for her indie-pop sound infused with melancholic lyricism and a nostalgic Y2K shimmer, and featured on notable Spotify and SoundCloud playlists. Her songwriting journey began in earnest during her teens—after what she humorously refers to as “100 terrible songs” written before ever recording one—and over time, she has worked with other artists in major music hubs like LA and New York while increasingly focusing on her own artistic voice,

Thursday, September 18th: Open Mic Jam
2025-09-18 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States

Friday, September 19th: Breakout Star of The Year--Nijah Poteat
2025-09-19 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. Nijah Poteat is a professional singer-songwriter based in Atlanta, Georgia. Originally from North Carolina, she studied music and creative writing at the UNC Chapel Hill, class of 2024. Her love for singing and the arts is a family inheritance, passed down from her mother. She considers her influences to be gospel, jazz and R&B. Come out and see and hear our pick for Breakout Star of The Year!

Saturday, September 20th: Soda City Brass Band
2025-09-20 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. Brass. Funk. Soul. The Soda City Brass Band delivers. Expect tradition. Demand funk. They bring the energy. You bring the dancing. Get tickets. Do not miss it.

Experience the spirit of New Orleans, live in

Soda City. Led by nationally recognized jazz trumpeter Mark Rapp, the

Soda City Brass Band is bringing its signature blend of street-party funk and soulful tradition to our stage. A former student of the legendary Ellis Marsalis and a veteran of the New York jazz scene, Rapp infuses each performance with a deep respect for the city’s rich musical heritage. His trumpet work is celebrated for being both “lyrical and modern,” a style that honors the brass band tradition while pushing into fresh, funky territory.

This is a high-energy show—an invitation to move. With a powerhouse lineup of horns, sousaphone, and drums, the Soda City Brass Band transforms any room into a joyous celebration of brass music.

Don’t miss your chance to hear this thrilling fusion of tradition and innovation, all under the expert direction of one of the state’s most prominent jazz figures. Come hear what the buzz is all about.

Sunday, September 21st: Singer/Keyboardist Byron Henry Rose
2025-09-21 19:00 - 21:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
ONE SHOW ONLY: 7:00.

SHOWTIME: 7:00PM. Byron Henry Rose is a gifted vocalist and songwriter whose warm tone, impeccable phrasing, and soulful delivery have captivated audiences across the Southeast. Steeped in the traditions of jazz, blues, R&B, and gospel, Byron brings a fresh sensibility to every performance—effortlessly blending timeless standards with original compositions. His artistry reflects both a deep respect for the legends who came before him and a fearless commitment to creating music that speaks to today’s listeners.

On stage, Byron exudes a magnetic presence that draws audiences into his world of rhythm and storytelling. Whether interpreting a classic ballad or delivering an upbeat groove, he connects with listeners through both technical mastery and heartfelt emotion. With growing recognition as a rising voice in contemporary music, Byron Henry Rose continues to establish himself as a dynamic performer who honors the past while shaping the future of the genre.

Thursday, September 25th: Open Mic Jam
2025-09-25 20:00 - 23:00

Friday, September 26th: Acoustic Soul, Featuring Angelo Remone
2025-09-26 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. Acoustic Soul is a seasoned R&B act that has graced stages with many professional industry artists over the last decade. They’ve played with re-nowned musicians from around the world with a delicate approach to a well rounded playing style. Influenced by legendary greats such as Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Al Green, Motown and many others, their expertise is old school soul. Hence their catch phrase “ GIVING YOU A REFRESHER COURSE IN OLD SCHOOL SOUL”. Their diverse repertoire, infectious personalities and energy filled performances makes them perfect for any occasion. Energize your next event with ACOUSTIC SOUL!

Saturday, September 27th: Legendary Drummer Bernard Lynnette
2025-09-27 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. Drummer Bernard Linnette is a force of nature behind the kit, blending precision, groove, and creativity in every performance. With roots in both jazz and R&B, he has built a reputation for his ability to drive a band with thunderous power while also bringing subtle nuance to more intimate settings. His career has taken him to stages across the country, where his dynamic playing consistently captivates audiences and earns the admiration of fellow musicians.

Beyond his technical mastery, Linnette is celebrated for his versatility and collaborative spirit, making him a sought-after accompanist for both seasoned artists and rising stars. Whether laying down a swinging rhythm, crafting complex polyrhythms, or igniting the stage with high-energy solos, he embodies the heartbeat of the music. With every performance, Bernard Linnette proves why he is one of the most compelling drummers working today.

Sunday, September 28th: PRIVATE Blues Event
2025-09-28 19:00 - 21:00

Thursday, October 2nd: Open Mic Jam
2025-10-02 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. Tonight is special– with a full cast of characters in our house band, including Saxophonist Dwan Bosman! 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!

Friday, October 3rd: David Lee Jones Remembers Phyllis Hyman. **
2025-10-03 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
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SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. Soulful alto saxophonist and flautist David Lee Jones was the last saxophonist to tour with the iconic Phyllis Hyman before her untimely death. Born and raised in Houston, TX, he attended Texas Southern University, then Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he obtained a B. A. in Jazz Composition and Arranging. In 1984 David moved to New York City and eventully with the iconic Phyllis Hyman, playing auxiliary keyboards as well as saxophones for three years, until her suicide in 1995. After joining the Grammy award winning jazz / rap group Digable Planets, he played on, wrote and arranged all the horn arrangements for their sophomore record “Blowout Comb.” He toured with Sade on her last U.S .tour entitled “Love Deluxe.” In recent years, David has worked with the Mingus Big Band and the Sun Ra Arkestra, and he leads his own Organ Groove Trio in Harlem at the American Legion Post 398 every Sunday.

Saturday, October 4th: The Afro-Caribbean Jazz Collective. *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!!!***
2025-10-04 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. Led by guitarist Jose Guzman, The Collective compositions reflect Guzman’s musical heritage with rhythms from Puerto Rico mixed with the sophistication of modern jazz. The ensemble’s third album, “Fiesta at Caroga,” has been making waves in the jazz world. It’s been featured on jazz radio stations across the country, received glowing reviews from music critics, and charted on JazzWeek’s Top 100 Jazz Albums of 2024.

Listen to the Collective HERE

Sunday, October 5th: Frankie's Blues Mission ***SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!!!***
2025-10-05 19:00 - 21:30 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
ONE SHOWTIME: 7:00PM Frankie’s Blues Mission is an Atlanta-based roots ensemble fronted by guitarist and vocalist Frank “Frankie Lee” Robinson. A South Georgia native with decades of musical experience, Frankie has shared the stage with notable blues and gospel figures such as Detroit Junior, “Chicago” Bob Nelson, Billy Boy Arnold, Chick Willis, and Sil Austin. Formed more than ten years ago, the band brings down-home soul to every gig, performing blues, jazz, R&B, and even zydeco—the “best of the African-American tradition” with all the energy they can muster Their dynamic lineup, celebrated as the best yet, has graced stages at major festivals like the National Black Arts Festival, Decatur Arts Festival, Lowcountry Blues Bash, Barnesville Blues & BBQ Festival, and many more across the Southeast.

At its core, Frankie’s Blues Mission is about more than just performing—it’s a cultural celebration and a legacy. Robinson’s lifelong immersion in blues, sparked in childhood and deepened through his time in New York and return to Georgia, fuels the band’s fiery live shows. His vision has transformed the group from a trio to a rich, horn-infused ensemble that packs Blind Willie’s with regular performances, once even serving as a “second house band” before becoming headliners in their own right. Through their electrifying sound, audience-centered performances, and authentic blues spirit, they continue to honor and evolve the American blues tradition.

Thursday, October 9th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Saxophonist Dwan Bosman
2025-10-09 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
