What better way to kick off your weekend than with the coolest cats in town? Back by popular demand, in partnership with the Memphis Library Foundation, 5 Fridays of Jazz will be a showcase of smooth sounds, satisfying sips, and more.
Starting Friday, March 1st, and following every Friday thereafter, the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library will play host to talented artists, of which include famed names like Joyce Cobb and Gary Topper. To compliment the tunes, tasty food and beverages will be available for purchase, provided by King Manor Catering and Bar and Kaye’s Pints & Scoops.
WHAT: Shell on Wheels Presents 5 Fridays of Jazz
WHO: In partnership with Memphis Library Foundation & The Memphis Public Libraries
WHEN: 5 Fridays of March | 6:30pm
WHERE: Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library
COST: Free to attend | Food and Drink Available for Purchase
FEATURED ARTIST: Michael Townsend w/ special guest Alvin McKinney
GET TO KNOW THE ARTIST:
As a child growing up in Memphis, Michael didn't have to look far to find inspiration to pursue a career in music. While in high school, Michael began studying the pioneering styles of great artist like Louis Armstrong, W.C. Handy, Mamie Smith, "Jelly Roll" Morton, Joe "King" Oliver, Sidney Bechet and Sarah Vaughn. In his senior year, he earned "First Chair All-State Concert Bassoonist" and played the saxophone in the "All West" Jazz Band.
Michael received a full scholarship to the University of Memphis. There he became known as an excellent woodwind doubler, while playing the saxophone and bassoon in the concert band and orchestra. After exploring the vocal styles of artists such as Nat King Cole, Dinah Washington, Billie Holiday, and Al Jarreau,
Michael soon received numerous awards for his vocal and instrumental talents. Michael became more and more interested in "Instrumental Pop" music of the ‘70s (now labeled "Contemporary Jazz), and was inspired by Grover Washington, Jr.’s, and David Sanborn’s lighter, funkier, radio friendly style. His focus later turned to artist such as George Benson, Chick Corea, Patti Austin, Angela Bofill, Spyra Gyra, Chuck Mangione' and Earl Klugh.
During Michael’s college years, he freelanced on Beale Street with different bands and other musicians. He recalls the first time he was given a chance to show his talents stating with fervor, “Guitarist Preston Shannon would allow me to sit in with him on Wednesday nights at the Blues City Café on Beale Street. I would anxiously await each night, hoping he wouldn't forget to call me up. Preston always gave me a chance to perform." Michael soon got his own recognition and was asked to perform with Willie Mitchell's house band on Beale Street and backing up national artist when in Memphis.
Michael Townsend, as with some of his legendary predecessors, has truly benefited from his Memphis upbringing. Constantly rehearsing and honing his skills, and educating himself on the history of his music shows the passion and dedication that he has for his craft.
Michael Townsend has earned an outstanding reputation for being a phenomenal opening act for professional artists including Johnny Gill, The Manhattans, and Glenn Jones, who played at the Germantown Performing Arts Center (GPAC). Audiences were impressed by Michael’s vocal abilities. He consistently gives his listeners variety and diversity when integrating his musical talents. He wows, captures and holds an audience with depth and precision.
He is now living a life-long dream, captivating his listeners when he presents his best Jazz and R&B experience developed throughout his lifetime. His live performances have been deemed sensual and sensational. Music critics have said, "You'll become mesmerized by Michael's mixture of smooth jazz, R&B and pop selections, that’s his brand and signature sound.” Memphis' native son, Saxophonist and Vocalist Michael Townsend. Smooth Jazz with an R&B Flavor!
GET TO KNOW THE ARTIST:
Saxophonist, Dr. Alvin McKinney, is known around the world as ‘THE PRIME MINISTER OF JOYFUL JAZZ’. He is a branded international Recording Artist/Saxophonist, composer, arranger, producer, and musical director. He is the CEO of Prophetic Management & Entertainment, and the Pastor & Minister of Music for Redeemer Church of Christ – Power of God Ministries. He was the host of “THE JOYFUL JAZZ SHOW,” and “JOYFUL JAZZ MINISTRIES”.
He’s an Artist/Clinician with The Buffet Group USA/Julius Keilwerth Saxophones, Beechler Mouthpieces, Legere Reeds LTD, Neotech Neck Straps, Rovner Product Ligatures, Hercules Stands, Audio-Technica, Inc. Microphones, and KORG USA Keyboards; also, Founder of The McKinney Music Foundation (previously named The Alvin & Elizabeth McKinney Foundation.
Dr. McKinney, ‘THE PRIME MINISTER OF JOYFUL JAZZ’, performed as the SEASON OPENER for The Memphis Black Arts Alliance partnership with the Overton Park Shell Fall Orion Concert Series at the Overton Park Shell, he performed in the 2005 Panafest in Cape Coast, Ghana, Official Invitation by Omanhene/King Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, performed a Birthday Serenade for Her Highness Dr. Princess Gertraud-Antonia zu Schaumburg-Lippe, and he has performed with such Notable Greats as: B. B. King, Louie Bellson, Clark Terry, Billy Preston, Kirk Whalum, Rufus and Carla Thomas, William Bell, David Longoria, Daniello DeLaurentiis, Ellis Hall, Ruby Wilson, Joyce Cobb, Paul McKinney and Kurl McKinney; also, for the Regional Black Chamber of Commerce/San Fernando Valley (RBCC/SFV), the Black American Political Association of California/Los Angeles (BAPAC), and Honored a JAZZ-FIRE LIVING LEGEND sponsored by the Memphis Black Arts Alliance/MBAA (also Board Member), The We All Be Group (Homecoming Court Prince-2020 Jimmie Lunceford Legacy Award), The University of Memphis’ MLK 50 at the National Civil Rights Museum.
Dr. McKinney has performed his rendition of The National Anthem for The University of Memphis’ NCAA Men’s Basketball and Women’s Softball games; also, for The MLS Chiva Soccer organization, Mixed Martial Arts/MMA, The NBA Memphis Grizzlies and The 2020 NBA Defending World Champion Los Angeles Lakers Basketball organizations. He has also performed for President Ronald Reagan’s 2nd Inaugural, and at The White House in Washington, D.C. USA for President Barack Obama, and many more.