Monday, April 29, 2024

Dr. Weldon Hill, Desirée Roots + Friends

Dr. Weldon Hill, Desirée Roots + Friends

The Stormy Monday Blues Revue is an interactive performance series that celebrates the power of the blues - past, present, and future.

Experience blues music performed by a wide range of artists in an intimate setting. Each show includes a segment where musicians in the audience will have a chance to join the featured performer on stage for a jam session. Our spotlight performer is special quintet formed by pianist Dr. Weldon Hill, featuring celebrated vocalist Desirée Roots, guitarist Carl Lester Jr., bassist Michael Hawkins, and drummer Billy Williams.

Reuniting the core rhythm section and vocalist who performed "Ella at 100" at The American Theatre in 2018, pianist Dr. Weldon Hill has curated a set of blues classics that push the boundaries of the art form into jazz and beyond. Leveraging the baby grand piano on the iconic Révéler stage, this ensemble of acclaimed jazz musicians will deliver a rare, unique, and intimate performance that will be remembered as one of those "were you there?" moments in Richmond's musical history.

Performing with Dr. Weldon Hill and Desirée Roots are: Carl Lester Jr. on guitar (Plunky and Oneness of Juju, Corey El); Michael Hawkins on bass (Cyrus Chestnut, Jimmy Heath); Billy Williams on drums (Christian McBride, Justin Kauflin).

Set 1: The ensemble performs a set of their favorite tunes. (45-50 mins)

Set 2: Dr. Hill and the ensemble hosts a mini jam session with musicians in the audience. This is your chance to play a song or two with the band. Bring your own instrument or borrow one of ours. The stage (with a great collection of amps and instruments) transforms briefly into a living room at Weldon's house. Sign up and further details at the club. (30 mins)

Set 3: The ensemble closes the night with a shorter set (30+ mins)

CODE OF CONDUCT

Be cool // OMP is the place for peace, love, support and kindness. Critique must be requested.

Listen // Be mindful of what other players are doing. Be mindful of dynamics. It's OK to not play - music needs silence, too.

Courage // The good stuff is beyond your comfort zone. Make mistakes. See rule #1.

TICKETS

SOLD OUT8:00pm show9:30pm SOLD OUT

SHOW NOTES

$10 advance / $15 day of show

Doors: 7:00pm

Music: 8:00pm - 10:00pm

21+ / 16+ must be accompanied by an adult

General admission. Seats are selected upon arrival and cannot be reserved in advance.

LOCATION

3108 W Cary St
Richmond, VA 23221
804-918-5681