Creative Gumbo: CuffLinx to Headline Evening of Jazz August 7th
An evening of world-class musicianship, timeless jazz, local food and community celebration is coming to Lexington as the Ebony Community Collective and Arts United present the Evening of Jazz, featuring the acclaimed ensemble CuffLinx.
The event promises an intimate night of music while raising support for the missions of both organizations, which continue to expand opportunities for arts, culture and community engagement.
CuffLinx is led by internationally performing drummer Nick Hayes, whose career has included sharing the stage with nationally recognized artists including Eric Benét, Young Jeezy, Kim Burrell, K-Ci & JoJo, The Notorious B.I.G., Carlos Santana, Jill Scott, Lauryn Hill and Busta Rhymes. Based in the Greensboro/High Point area, the seasoned band is recognized for bringing together some of the region's most diverse and accomplished musicians.
Hayes describes the concert as an unforgettable musical experience.
"What to expect will be class, style, musical time travel with a creative gumbo of soulful energy through jazz and other timeless compositions," Hayes said.
Ebony Community Collective President Patsy Matthews, along with Collective members Cheryl Lide and Antionette Kerr, have savored live jazz performances throughout the United States and beyond, making the selection of the featured musicians an important part of planning the event.
"I found out about Nick Hayes and the CuffLinx from a friend of mine who heard them perform at an event in Thomasville," Matthews said. "Nick sent me a video clip from the Thomasville event and they were playing the Chick Corea classic 'Spain.' When I heard them playing that song, I knew they would be a good choice for the Evening of Jazz."
The evening will also feature local favorite Daitrell as host and opening musical guest. Organizers say his connection to the community and engaging personality make him the perfect voice and lead the evening's celebration of music, culture and fellowship.
The Evening of Jazz is more than a concert. It is an opportunity to celebrate the rich tradition of jazz while supporting two organizations dedicated to strengthening the community through the arts. Proceeds from the event will benefit the ongoing work of the Ebony Community Collective and Arts United, helping expand cultural programming, educational opportunities and community partnerships.
With internationally recognized musicians, an accomplished local host and an evening designed to inspire, organizers hope guests will experience more than a performance—they hope they leave with a renewed appreciation for the power of music to bring people together.
