Hope everyone’s doing well and staying safe. The events of this past week are beyond tragic, almost too much to bear. My refuge for the madness is music. It’s a unique art. Music, above movies, gaming, books, and even paintings, is the most direct connection to our heart and soul. Requiring a single sense and no barrier of entry, music transcends race, color, nationality, background, language, and age. I can find Ley Line’s “Oxum” beautiful without speaking a word of Spanish. My four year can dance to “Into the Mystic” without understanding a thing.
But the turmoil outside requires us to look inward and serve outward in any way we can. For that reason, today’s virtual concert picks feature black artists streaming all week. Right now, people of color need to be lifted up and supported. Hopefully this tiny gesture helps bring a breath of healing music to your heart. Be kind to each other and listen local.
NOTE: Due to the political climate and discourse, many artists are postponing or canceling live streams so listeners can focus on the issues of the day. Please forgive us if this list becomes suddenly inaccurate.
Saturday, June 6
DJ Mel Living Room Dance Party
Streaming on Facebook Live @ 6 p.m.
When a highly decorated DJ veteran spins records for the masses from the comfort of his home, it’s sure to make headlines. Ask the thousands who’ve logged on to check out this sensational spinner – these aren’t watered down performances. They’re a downright dance party. Four hours (what?!) of non-stop record spinning gold is enough to power anyone’s quarantine party.
Sunday, June 7
Pamela Hart
Streaming on Facebook Live @ 5 p.m.
I never know how much I need jazz in my life until I hear it. In support of her Women in Jazz Association non-profit, Pamela Hart croons swing, jazz, and big band standards from her home. An experienced voice filled with richness and depth, Ms. Hart is a joy to check out on stream and hopefully one day in person.
Wednesday, June 10
Mobley
Streaming on Instagram and YouTube @ 8 p.m.
Back when the pandemic first hit, Mobley was one of the first to take a stab at live streaming. Fast forward a few months, and he’s a pro. Every week offers a different set and take on his high energy pop classics. Last week, he blessed us with a front to back performance of 2018’s “Fresh Lies, Vol 1” played entirely on piano. “Young Adult Fiction” was extraordinary. Worth a weekly listen.
Sonya Jevette
Streaming on YouTube at 8:30 p.m.
A smooth funk-a-blues guitarist with a silky voice, Sonya Jevette’s low-fi, DIY YouTube stream brought multiple levels of smile to my face. Peppered with fan interaction and a healthy mix of covers and originals, Ms. Jevette’s impressive chops and tone were a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. And on May 20th, she played a Bill Withers cover. Already top notch in my book.
Thursday, March 11
Jackie Venson
Streaming on Facebook Live @ 9 p.m.
We gush over Jackie Venson so much, I’ll need to start inventing adjectives to praise her. Is “splendiferous” available? Whatever the word, Jackie’s weekly streams are incredible. Packed with fan interaction, stunning guitar chops, and world class improvisation makes Thursdays truly shine. Oh, you’re busy that night? She streams on Wednesdays and Sunday mornings as well. An inspiring artist of shining talent.
@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:
Who are you looking forward to checking out via stream this weekend?
