Friday, August 15 and 29 – Singer/songwriter Tony Hightower returns to The Velvet Note for an evening that slips effortlessly from velvet croon to swing and soul—exactly the kind of intimate, musically rich night our room was built for. A regularly featured artist on our stage, Tony is on a mission: to be the bridge that ushers R&B audiences into jazz… real jazz.
An Atlanta native with deep musical roots, Tony grew up under the wing of his mother, a revered local Funk-Rock vocalist who could sing anything and mentored generations coming up behind her. His education was hands-on and across the spectrum—from Bobby “Blue” Bland and The Platters to Mother’s Finest, S.O.S. Band, and Brick. Those influences inform a sound that’s modern, suave, and steeped in tradition. “My first jazz musical loves were Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra,” Tony says. “This show explores the depth of that music, and much more, with some of my favorite band mates!”
Expect a setlist that nods to the great American songbook while welcoming new listeners into the fold—melody-forward, rhythm-sure, and always story-driven. Tony’s command of phrasing, his actor’s sense of drama, and his band’s effortless chemistry turn standards into conversations and originals into instant favorites. It’s the kind of performance that reminds longtime fans why they fell in love with jazz—and shows first-timers exactly what they’ve been missing.
At The Velvet Note, there’s no bad seat and no barrier between you and the music. You’ll hear every shade of Tony’s tone, every brushstroke on the snare, every wink between bandmates. If you’ve been meaning to introduce a friend (or your younger self) to jazz, this is the night to do it.
Show Details
- Date: Friday, August 15
- Showtimes: 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM (two separate seatings)
- Venue: The Velvet Note (intimate listening room)
Seats go fast for Tony’s shows here—grab yours now and make a night of it.