CHARLOTTE, N.C./March 23, 2018 – The Soul Junction Bars and Beats Jam Session brought together professional musicians and Johnson C. Smith University students in a celebration of the sounds of jazz, soul and funk on Thursday, March 1, 2018.
The 60-seat Black Box theatre inside JCSU’s Arts Factory filled quickly as musicians and music lovers dove deep into the musical tradition of Charlotte's Historic West End. Host Quentin Talley set the vibe of the night with witty banter and the sounds of the jam band, led by drummer Tim Scott Jr.
The crowd ranged from dancing toddlers to jazz-loving senior citizens, a true reflection of the audience at the annual two-day music festival Soul Junction, hosted on JCSU's main campus each fall. Guests eagerly encouraged performers such as The Hamiltones, who sing background for Grammy award-winning Charlotte native Anthony Hamilton. There was plenty of involvement by JCSU students as well: Music major Da’Shawn Covington ’18 played keys, Drew Emerson ’18 performed spoken word and Marlon A. Newman ’21 recorded the proceedings.
“I felt great playing alongside Grammy-nominated musicians and professional musicians,” Covington said. “The positive feedback I got from iconic drummer Tim Scott was meaningful to me as a young musician aspiring to be as big as him one day.”
Covington and other students developed working relationships with established industry professionals and were able to build their own fanbases as well. Covington made such a good impression, The Hamiltones even followed her on social media.
“The most exciting part of the event for me was receiving so much love from everyone,” she said. “This was the first time most of the people there saw me perform. Sharing my passion and dedication with them gave me chills.”
The third annual Soul Junction celebration is Sept. 14-15, 2018, so mark your calendars and don’t miss it!
March 23, 2018
