Johnny O’Neal in Roscoe’s Room
On Friday, December 12th G & J continues their monthly jazz series with Johnny O’Neal, one of jazz music’s legendary figures because of his profound musicality and engaging persona. The Detroit-born pianist and vocalist was a member of Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, worked with Milt Jackson, Sonny Stitt, and Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis, and performed with the likes of Dizzy Gillespie, Ray Brown, Nancy Wilson, and Joe Pass during a regular gig at New York’s Blue Note jazz club in the eighties. O’Neal’s appearance in the 2004 film “Ray” took his career to new levels. In the film, Ray Charles — played by Jamie Foxx — goes to a nightclub to hear the brilliant pianist Art Tatum, played by O’Neal. O’Neal’s stirring rendition of “Yesterdays” was included in the movie. As for his singing style, which has been compared to Joe Williams, O’Neal vocalizes with a soulful authenticity that gives meaning to the lyrics. Piano master Barry Harris told The New York Times“If ever somebody sounded like Art Tatum, it’s him. He’s got it all.” In the same article, guitarist Kurt Rosenwinkel said: “My jaw dropped when I heard him play piano — and then my heart dropped when I heard him sing.”Two shows, 7:30 pm and 9:30 pm; cover charge is $20.
Event Location and Ticket Information
Alvin & Friends Restaurant
14 Memorial Highway
New Rochelle, New York 10801
Handicap Accessible? Yes
Date: Friday, December 12, 2014
Times: 7:30 pm - 11:30 pm
Ticket pricing:
Get tickets now
- $20
Presenter: G & J Productions
Presenter Phone: 1-800-956-1554
Presenter Website: www.alvinandfriendsrestaurant.com