[As published in WPB Magazine.]
America is big on our musical heritage, with many cities boasting a rich musical history, and West Palm Beach is claiming its spot in history with Soul in the City Jazz Experience. Back by popular demand, this summer music concert series has fans claiming their tickets early to see top-notch performances and swing to the sounds of jazz bands at the Lake Pavilion on Flagler Drive at the Waterfront.
Saxophonist, contemporary jazz, and soul artist Mickey Smith opened the concert series on July 17, and from the first note, Smith’s solo line smooth sound vibrated throughout the room and had the crowd on their feet. By the time he played Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You,” and Prince’s “Purple Rain,” this good-time music and community-focused fun had people singing along with the music and dancing by their tables or any free space they could find inside the Lake Pavilion.
It was a hot summer night, but the beautiful blue sky played a vital role at the concert, with the Waterfront as its backdrop. In conversation with his audience, Smith recalls how last year he experienced the concert as a spectator, and now, a year later, he and his band, “Sax in the City,” got to perform in the same space.
“My band and I came to hear the local regional artist, Nicole Henry, perform last year. My daughter got to perform with her that night spontaneously. We just left feeling so invigorated by the evening’s end. And now, we find ourselves on the stage as individuals who can hopefully invigorate the community,” says Smith.
“Sax in the City” is known musically for its explorations into jazz, funk, pop, and Soul, as well as its take on beautiful ballads that give hope and inspiration to audiences to keep on going and release the stress of daily life. So, Wednesday nights are perfect for music concerts, says Smith. It’s like getting two Fridays in the week!
The band originated in Louisiana, where Smith and his family resided until they moved to West Palm Beach three years ago. “Our move came as a result of me winning the Grammy Music Educator Award and receiving an opportunity to teach at the King’s Academy. We’ve come to love West Palm Beach and call it home.”
His daughter, one of the band’s singers, attends Palm Beach Atlantic University in Downtown West Palm Beach, his son attends King’s Academy, and his wife is also an educator in the area. “When we’re not teaching and studying, we share music on the stage together,” says Smith, who introduces his band individually.
Soul in the City impacted Smith, and as an artist, he saw an opportunity last year to share his music with his community, which benefited him and his band. However, impacts take many shapes and forms in an urban city like ours. For one, they boost the city’s tourism economy by providing cultural experiences for locals and travelers alike. They also enhance artistic growth and strengthen a city’s brand.
By the night’s end, you could not differentiate who was who. The out-of-towners and the local folks were eating, drinking, and dancing together to the beat of Sax in the City.
Up next…
Noreena Downey and Dizzy Blue Band - Aug. 21
Noreena Downey and Dizzy Blue Band comprise Florida’s most sought-after jazz musicians and professors of jazz study. Noreena combines sultry jazz and upbeat swing renditions of standards with jazzy renditions of pop and contemporary. She has written ballroom dance songs and played in the dance ballroom arena. Noreena Downey and Dizzy Blue Band has been described as one of the most innovative jazz vocalists.
Tickets are available here.
Spirit of Oya - Sept, 18
Oya’s musical journey began at the tender age of three when she first discovered her love for singing in church with her father. Since then, her voice has effortlessly traversed the realms of jazz, Soul, and gospel. Her originals, like “LOVE” and “Hold on Be Strong,” have topped UK charts, while her renditions of classics, like “Peace in the Valley” and “Accentuate the Positive,” have captivated audiences worldwide. Oya keeps jazz classics and soulful melodies alive, backed by an all-star ensemble collectively known as Spirit of Oya. Her performances are electric, weaving joy, love, and positivity into every note.
Tickets are available here.
If you plan to go, purchase your ticket in advance. Your ticket comes with complimentary popcorn. Food and nonalcoholic/alcoholic drinks are also available for purchase. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit wpb.org/jazz.
—