KAMASI WASHINGTON
Kamasi Washington is a multi-instrumentalist, composer and bandleader born and raised in Los Angeles. His acclaimed recordings include The Epic; Harmony of Difference, an EP originally commissioned for the 2017 Whitney Biennial; Heaven and Earth; and Fearless Movement. As Told To G/D Thyself, his short film companion to Heaven and Earth, debuted at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival to widespread acclaim.
In 2020, Washington scored Becoming, Netflix’s documentary on first lady Michelle Obama, and was nominated for Grammy and Emmy awards for his contributions. Also in 2020, Washington co-founded the supergroup Dinner Party with longtime friends and collaborators Terrace Martin, Robert Glasper and 9th Wonder. Their EP Dinner Party (Dessert) was nominated for a Grammy for Best Progressive R&B Album. In 2021, Washington contributed a cover of Metallica’s “My Friend of Misery” to the band’s Metallica Blacklist covers project.
Washington has toured the world and collaborated with artists such as Kendrick Lamar, Florence + the Machine and Herbie Hancock, with whom he has curated the Hollywood Bowl Jazz Fest for the second year in a row.
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THE BAYLOR PROJECT
The Baylor Project is built on love, family, faith, culture and community. This husband and wife team are NAACP Image Award winners and have been nominated for a Grammy seven times. Jean Baylor and Marcus Baylor are steeped in the heart and soul of jazz with musical roots coming from the church, and were marked with the influence of jazz, gospel, blues and soul.
The Baylor Project pays homage to their wide-ranging musical influences, and in doing so generates an eclectic sound whose overall effect is spiritual, buoyant, feel good music.
Shows: 7pm & 9:30pm
Tickets: $35 + $7 fee
Food and Beverage: $15 Minimum Per Person
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Daily Dose Of Jazz…
Chris Minh Doky was born on February 7, 1969 in Copenhagen, Denmark of Vietnamese-Danish heritage. He started playing at a young age and as a teenager was discovered by guitarist Mike Stern. He quickly became a sought-after collaborator, joining the bands of the Michael Brecker Quartet, Brecker Brothers, David Sanborn, Ryuichi Sakamoto, and the Mike Stern Band. These collaborations shaped his artistry and connected him to the traditions of jazz.
As a leader, Chris has released numerous albums to widespread acclaim, earning both gold and platinum awards as well as a Grammy nomination. He has established himself as a pioneering voice in contemporary music with projects like The Nomads and New Nordic Jazz.
His passion is a love for the bass and a relentless drive to create new music. His desire to share it with the world pushes his artistry to transcend genres. As a composer Doky’s work include soundtracks for films and collaborations with the ballet companies of Royal Danish Ballet and Twyla Tharp.
Chris was knighted in 2010 by Queen Margrethe II of Denmark due to being recognized for his contributions to the arts. Bassist Chris Minh Doky continues to explore new musical landscapes, blending Nordic serenity with American soul, and redefining the bass as a solo instrument.
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LORI WILLIAMS
Lori Williams, DC native and internationally acclaimed jazz vocalist returns to the Alley! With over 30 years of experience as a performer, music educator, songwriter, producer, and radio host, she has captivated audiences worldwide, earning numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to the arts.
Known for her work around Atlanta, she hosts “Collector’s Choice With Lori Williams” on JazzRadioWETF.org and produces a concert series at St. James Live Jazz Club in Atlanta, Georgia. She has released several independent albums, and is celebrating Blues Alley’s 60th year with this One Night Only event.
Joining her on stage are bassist Michael Bowie, saxophonist Tracey Cutler, Benjie Porecki on piano, and drummer Mark Prince.
The 7:00pm show is sold out but tickets are still available for the 9:30 performance.
$15 food/beverage minimum per person not included in ticket price. | Seating first come at the door. Doors open 6 PM & 8:45 PM respectively.
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Daily Dose Of Jazz…
Jacqueline Caryl Dankworth was born on February 5, 1963 in Northampton, Northamptonshire, England to jazz singer Cleo Laine and saxophonist John Dankworth. She attended St. Christopher School in Hertfordshire and is an alumna and fellow of Guildhall School of Music & Drama.
She worked as an actress with the Royal Shakespeare Company, the Royal National Theatre, and in West End theatre. She played Cinderella in the musical Into the Woods and appeared in the film Shoreditch, singing the song My Man by Billie Holiday.
2003 saw Dankworth releasing her debut album As the Sun Shines Down On Me on Candid Records. This album brought her to the attention of Michael Parkinson and BBC Radio 2, and she appeared regularly on air throughout that year.
She was featured on Courtney Pine’s album Devotion, and performed with him at the Royal Festival Hall as part of the London Jazz Festival. Her sophomore album with the 2004 release, Detour Ahead. Since then she has recorded a total of seven albums.
She was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2019 Birthday Honours for services to music. Vocalist Jacqui Dankworth continues to perform, tour and record.
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