It is absolutely thrilling to be immersed into the soul-stirring realms of Jazz, especially when you’re echoing the legendary vibes of Sammy Davis Jr. I have recently taken a significant stride into this world of Jazz, joining the “Atlanta Rat Pack” Tribute Band and collaborating with other artist and venues to bring more shows like this to Metro Atlanta. Our ensembles not only celebrates the timeless charm of the Rat Pack era but also breathes new life into those classic tunes.
Roaring Social, Alpharetta, GA: A Night of Nostalgia
Mark Phillps as Dean Martin
Sheri Winkelmann as Marilyn Monroe
Dr. Patrick Sallarulo as Frank Sinatra
Melvin Kindall Myles as Sammy Davis Jr.
Gary Braner- DJ
Our journey recently took us to the Roaring Social in Alpharetta, GA, a venue as charismatic as the music we play. Nestled in the heart of the city, Roaring Social serves as a perfect backdrop for the swinging sounds of the past. The evening was nothing short of magical. The crowd was transported to a bygone era, listening to hits like “Mr. Bojangles” and “The Candy Man,” feeling every beat of the Rat Pack’s charm through our performances. The ambiance of Roaring Social, with its vintage decor and lively spirit, complimented our musical offerings, making it a night to remember.
Napoleon’s Bar & Grill: A Jazz Jam Session with Joe Grandson
Just last night, the musical journey continued at Napoleon’s Bar & Grill. Here, I had the privilege of joining forces with Joe Grandson for his jam session that took the audience on a rhythmic ride. We dove into “Take The A-Train” by Duke Ellington, a masterpiece that never fails to electrify the atmosphere. Joe’s expertise and our shared passion for jazz created an unforgettable experience. Our rendition of this iconic number resonated well with the audience, earning enthusiastic applause and cheers that echoed through the night.
Attached below is a snippet from our performance of “Take The A-Train” at Napoleon’s. Witness the energy and connection, not just among us musicians, but also with every individual who was part of that musical moment.
Exploring New Horizons
This foray into the world of Jazz with the “Atlanta Rat Pack” Tribute Band is not just about revisiting the timeless melodies; it’s about exploring my musicality and connecting with others who share the same passion. Each venue brings its unique flavor, and every performance teaches me something new about the depth and breadth of jazz.
As I continue this musical journey, I look forward to more evenings filled with the rich sounds of jazz, more venues that pulsate with history and music, and more opportunities to honor the greats who paved the way for musicians like me.
Lapidus & Myles: A Musical Mission
In addition to the rhythmic journey with the “Atlanta Rat Pack” Tribute Band, I am also part of an inspiring Singer/Songwriter Duo known as “Lapidus & Myles.” This collaboration with Rabbi Micah Lapidus, a passionate songwriter, represents a fusion of musical talents dedicated to a higher cause. Our mission is clear and profound—to spread the gospel of Peace, Love, Social Justice, and Equality for all.
Our partnership thrives on the shared belief that music is a powerful tool for change. Through Rabbi Lapidus’s poetic lyrics and our combined musical arrangements, we aim to inspire and engage audiences, encouraging them to reflect on critical social issues while enjoying soulful melodies. Our songs are crafted not just to entertain, but to challenge and to awaken, serving as a call to action to foster a more just and compassionate world.
Each performance by Lapidus & Myles is more than just a musical event; it’s an opportunity to convey deep, meaningful messages and to unite people under the banner of hope and unity. As we continue to create and perform, we remain committed to our vision, hoping our music resonates deeply and contributes to the betterment of society.
Stay tuned as we continue to explore the depths of music and its impact on the heart and soul of humanity
Support the Creative Arts Empowerment Network
As our musical journey enriches lives through the powerful medium of song, we also strive to expand our impact beyond performances. The “Creative Arts Empowerment Network,” a nonprofit organization that I am deeply passionate about, plays a vital role in the mission to be the change that we want to see in the world. Our organization is dedicated to empowering individuals through the creative arts, promoting self-expression, healing, and social change.
During one of our tours in New Jersey with “Lapidus & Myles,” I had a profound experience that deeply affirmed the impact of our music and our mission. It was a typical evening performance, but this time before I began singing our song “I Am”, I took a moment to engage with the audience. I asked, “Has anyone here ever felt unseen?” The question hung in the air, met with a thoughtful silence that spoke volumes.
After the show, a moment came that I will never forget. A little girl, differently abled and moving with the aid of crutches, approached me. Her bravery was palpable, and her voice was tinged with a vulnerability that immediately drew me in. She shared, “I feel unseen all the time, but your song tonight made me smile. It made me feel like I’m a blessing and a prayer, even through my challenges.” Her words, simple yet profound, struck a chord deep within me.
Her smile was radiant, a stark contrast to the struggles she faced daily. This little girl, in her courage and her openness, embodied the very essence of what Rabbi Lapidus and I hope to achieve through our music—to reach those who feel marginalized, to touch the hearts of those who are often overlooked. Her affirmation that our song had given her a moment of joy and a sense of belonging was incredibly moving. It was a clear signal that what we were doing was not just about music; it was about healing, about giving voice to those who often go unheard.
That night, as I watched her make her way back through the crowd, crutches clicking softly against the floor, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. Our mission, our music, had reached someone who needed it most, and it had made a difference in her life. It was a poignant reminder that our efforts to spread messages of peace, love, social justice, and equality were indeed not in vain. This encounter, this exchange of hope and recognition, was a powerful testament to the impact that words and melodies can have on a human soul.
This story, among many others, fuels our passion and dedication as we continue our musical journeys with knowing that every note we play, every lyric we sing, can be a lifeline for someone. It’s a beautiful, humbling responsibility—one that Creative Arts Empowerment Network carries with honor and commitment.
Your support is crucial for us to continue our work and expand our outreach. Donations to the Creative Arts Empowerment Network helps to fund workshops, community events, and programs that harness the transformative power of the arts to uplift and inspire. By contributing, you are not only supporting the arts but are also fostering a community where peace, love, social justice, and equality are celebrated and encouraged.
We invite you to join us in this mission by making a donation. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant difference in our ability to reach more individuals and create a lasting impact. Please consider supporting the Creative Arts Empowerment Network today and help us continue to use creativity as a force for positive change in the world.
Leave a Reply