What better way to kick off your weekend than with the coolest cats in town?
Starting Friday, February 27th, Shell on Wheels returns to the Memphis Public Libraries to highlight the smooth sounds of our city. In it’s 10th year of programming, 5 Fridays of Jazz will feature a rotating lineup of performers who are preserving Memphis’ place in the world of Jazz.
Following every Friday thereafter—throughout the month of March—the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library will play host to talented artists, of which include famed names Joyce Cobb, and come from acclaimed acts such as the Memphis Central High School Band.
To compliment the tunes, tasty food and beverages will be available for purchase, provided by Jus Enuff Concessions 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, The City of Memphis
WHEN: Friday, February 27th | 6:30pm
WHERE: Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library
COST: Free to attend | Food and Drink Available for Purchase
FEATURED ARTIST: Joyce Cobb ft. The Rhodes Jazz Ensemble
Joyce was born in Okmulgee, Oklahoma and reared in Nashville, she first sang in her grandmother’s church. At an early age the influence of music was present in her home environment. Both parents were avid music lovers, with an emphasis on Jazz.
Joyce’s career spans from live orchestrations for Nashville’s WSM radio and television stations, to live performances in Europe. She landed a record deal with a subsidiary of Stax Records just before the label folded, but continued her recording career with the West Coast based Cream Records. Under the direction of Wayne Crook of Shoe Productions, she wrote, sang, and performed the single Dig the Gold that earned her a NO.42 spot in Billboard Magazine.
Maestro Alan Balter, conductor of the Memphis Symphony, heard her sing at the Peabody Hotel in 1990 and Cobb has since been invited to perform with the symphony on numerous occasions.