Mark your calendars for an unforgettable night of jazz at the Omaha Jazz Experience on Saturday, July 20 at Stinson Park. It’s a two for one special: two amazing Grammy artists for the price of one. The amazing 12-time Grammy nominee and Grammy winner, Kirk Whalum, will headline the festival, while two-time Grammy nominee Jonathan Butler will grace the stage right before Whalum. In addition, Omaha’s favorite soulful, blues and jazz band, The Toast, will kick off the festivities starting at 5:00 p.m. This event is the annual fundraiser for HALLINS (HALLINSCorp.com). Donate and/or buy tickets at HALLINSCorp.com, or visit eventbrite.com.
Kirk is known for his sax performances with top artists like Whitney Houston amongst many others. It’s his sax heard on the mega-hit “I Will Always Love You.” In addition to his many solo projects, Kirk was also a member of the popular soul/jazz group, BWB, which features Kirk as the “W” of the group with Rick Braun and Norman Brown. Then, Jonathan Butler is a South African singer-songwriter and guitarist, whose music is often classified as R&B, jazz fusion or worship music. He’s recorded a dozen solo albums, and made more than 25 guest appearance on records. Though he’s been compared to many different jazz guitarists, he shies away from such comparisons calling himself “A singer who plays guitar.”
The mission of HALLINS is to stimulate constructive change in underserved communities through art, music and culture. The corporation provides events in different disciplines of art that enhance the economic viability of disadvantaged neighborhoods. Events include artistic programs, music festivals, student courses, fundraisers and organized community drives.
