shekdash & Tromac NIGGA MODE – REMIXES

Some things are just for us. Released just in time for Juneteenth, the “NIGGA MODE – REMIXES” EP is an unapologetic sonic declaration of Black sound. Curated by producers shekdash and Tromac, the project is a powerful reclamation of electronic music as a Black art form, made by and for the culture it represents. The project assembles 17 of the brightest producers from around the world for a single, resonant purpose: to forge a new club classic. The throughline is the titular chant, a recurring impetus that weaves through each artist’s unique reinterpretation, creating a unified front of creative expression. It’s a statement that Blackness is expansive, multifaceted, and the foundational source of the rhythms that make us dance.

The EP is anchored by a formidable contingent of Baltimore’s finest. Cadeem LaMarr brings the frenetic, hip-swaying energy of his live sets, cleverly layering a “Happy Juneteenth” chant over a Baile funk beat in a moment of pure, timely celebration. Meanwhile, Kade Young’s remix brilliantly builds on the original with his signature percussive flair, and S.DOT contributes a track driven by titanic, epic drums that feel monumental.

This local brilliance is part of a global conversation. The project is an exhilarating journey through the diaspora of dance music, connecting Baltimore to Brazil, New York, and beyond. The groovy mix from NYC’s Amal (of Black Rave Culture) sets a vibrant tone, while the intergalactic footwork from Chicago’s TekLife legend DJ Manny feels like a transmission from the future.  DAYE.’s deep house version, which layers a Nina Simone sample into the mix, is a standout that demands to be heard on a proper sound system. From jersey club to juke and jungle, the EP showcases the rich variety and shared roots of club music. It’s a powerful, joyful, and essential collection built to carry us through the rest of the summer and well beyond.

HAPPY JUNETEENTH!

Support the artists directly by purchasing the project on Bandcamp. 

Yaira Wang – XX

“Sometimes what you really need/ Sometimes what you really need it’s not what you really want sometimes what you really need it’s not what you really don’t , sometimes you need to just get in the lime light , sometimes u need to rewind and go about your life”

Baltimore’s downtown scene remembers Grey Dolf, an artist known for her wonderfully unpredictable and genre-defying approach to rap. Now, she has re-emerged as Yaira Wang with “XX”, a deeply personal and triumphant new EP. The project marks a powerful evolution, born from adversity and offered as a lifeline. “I hope this boosts you up like it helped me get through the roughest time of my life,” Wang shared upon the EP’s release, and that raw, restorative energy is felt in every track. On standouts like the dreamy “PINK BOW WHITE TEE” and the defiant “I KNO HOW IT BE,” she crafts soundscapes that are both tough and tender. It’s a stunning re-introduction and a testament to the healing power of making music for yourself and your community. Welcome back (and thank you!), Yaira Wang.

You can listen to the full XX EP here. 

Nourished By Time – “Max Potential”

“If I’m going to go Insane, least I’m loved by you

If my heart shall burst or break, it was overdue”

Nourished by Time — the alias of Baltimore singer, songwriter, and producer Marcus Brown — has officially announced his much-anticipated new album, “The Passionate Ones,” out August 22 on the legendary XL Recordings. The album’s lead single, “Max Potential,” arrives with a music video that is an elegant, heartbreaking short film directed by Brown himself. It opens with a person silently mouthing the words, “You’re fired,” before cutting to a crash of ocean waves. This is followed by a flurry of birds and the introduction of Nourished by Time, building anticipation. The video then settles into a dreamlike state, wrapped in a muted color palette of surreal, navy hues. Scenes of Brown lighting red candles or swaying against a backdrop of blurred city lights enhance the feeling of a waking dream.

The song’s power is crystallized in a single, melancholically triumphant lyric: “If my heart should burst or break, it was overdue.” It’s a moment of pure, resonant truth. The video’s climax builds to a crescendo as Brown sways before a blurry cityscape at sunset, finding a strange peace in the chaos. The final, lingering shot — his tie discarded on a concrete sidewalk as traffic rushes by — is a perfect metaphor for the resignation, and quiet victory, that comes with accepting a relationship is truly over. If this stunning single is the preview, “The Passionate Ones” is shaping up to be one of the most essential Baltimore releases of the year.

Building on the momentum from a busy spring, which included a conversation with writer Lawrence Burney for his Sonic Legacies series, the artist is kicking off a tour this summer. Highlights include performances at Lollapalooza in July and Outside Lands in August, culminating in a hometown show at Ottobar on September 11.

Download “Max Potential” and pre-order “The Passionate Ones” on Bandcamp. 

Moon Tide Gallery – “Sweat You Out”

“I always break first, give me your worst/ 

I can’t sweat you out” 

Speaking of love that lingers, it’s always bittersweet when a beloved local project takes a final bow. Moon Tide Gallery, the creative alias of singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Mason Tyler Gainer, has announced that his next project Denim will be his last. “Sweat You Out,” is the single, and the track is a fitting send-off; lyrically, it speaks to the struggle of not being able to shake the feeling of someone, while sonically, it’s a colorful and moody blend of psychedelic pop and sharp indie-rock hooks. It’s one last mesmerizing trip from an artist who has carved out a unique space in the Baltimore scene.

This is your last chance to see the project live. The official Moon Tide Gallery farewell show is happening next Friday, June 20 at Metro Gallery, with frequent collaborator notcharles performing a DJ set. It’s an opportunity for the city to give a proper, memorable send-off to a fantastic musical endeavor. Don’t miss it.

You can stream Denim in its entirety, including “Sweat You Out” on Spotify

If you would like your music to be considered for Baltimore Beat’s Best Beats, send us your project, along with a short bio (no more than 100 words) and a photo of yourself (with the photographer’s name) to music@baltimorebeat.com.

The post Best Beats 6/18/25-7/2/25 appeared first on Baltimore Beat.

These nearly 25-year-old photos, imbued with celebration, style, and joy, were taken in 2000 at the Baltimore Pride Parade on Charles Street in Mount Vernon. In them, you can see how much the neighborhood has changed. One photo, for instance, displays a float from Club Hippo, a beloved LGBTQ+ safe haven. Today, that same location is occupied by a CVS — a poignant example of the area’s evolution and the loss of vital LGBTQ+ spaces. Club Hippo’s legacy also extends today; it hosted the Miss Gay Maryland Pageant, a drag event still held annually across the state as a preliminary competition to Miss Gay America.

The images were captured by photographer Joseph Kohl, who passed away from leukemia in 2002, just two years after this series was made. A UMBC grad, Kohl was a visual historian for the city’s counter-culture, shooting for publications like City Paper and Mid-Atlantic Gay Life. According to the Maryland Center for History and Culture, he was dedicated to capturing Baltimore’s underground scenes, including “the city’s erotic sub-communities, small-venue rock concerts, and queer nightlife.” His work provided a vital, validating record for communities often overlooked by the mainstream. 

Decades after Baltimore’s first Pride demonstration in 1975, these images capture a pivotal chapter in our city’s ongoing story. Over the subsequent fifty years, celebrations have taken place across our city. Pride is still celebrated in Mount Vernon, but you will also find events across our city, including the Inner Harbor, Station North, and more.

These images by Joseph Kohl are from the Maryland Center for History and Culture’s “We Are… Proud” collection.

The post Through Joseph Kohl’s Lens: A Look Back at Baltimore Pride, 2000 appeared first on Baltimore Beat.

In 2009, the former location of Fort Worth’s oldest consecutive gay bar, The 651, reopened as the Rainbow Lounge. Just over a week later, on June 28 — the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall riots — Fort Worth police officers and agents from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission stormed the bar. I remember seeing news reports of the raid on TV, another instance of violence against my various intersectional identities. Officers zip-tied and arrested patrons for public intoxication, marching them into waiting paddy wagons. One young man, Chad Gibson, was thrown to the ground so roughly he suffered a head injury and bleeding in the brain. The event ignited an international controversy, leading to the creation of Fairness Fort Worth, a local activist group that successfully negotiated sweeping reforms, including changes to the city’s anti-discrimination policies and diversity training for all city officials.

Years later, when I finally visited the Rainbow Lounge, I’d been warned it might feel anticlimactic after the much fancier, shinier spaces I’d frequented in Dallas’s gayborhood, like Station 4 and Sue Ellen’s. But Rainbow felt like home. It was tiny, yet expansive in its embrace. I bumped into a high school teacher there; classmates I didn’t know were out. We exchanged looks of understanding, forming unspoken bonds. For a night, before I came out to my family, I would bloom into full embodiment on the sticky dance floor and by the wooden bar of the Rainbow Lounge in Fort Worth.

When I moved to Baltimore, I decided I wouldn’t remain in the closet any longer; I would live in my truth as a bisexual woman. It was then I met my late friend Josh, a kindred spirit and fellow club kid. I’ll never forget the day Josh introduced me to Leon’s: post-warehouse rave in some unmarked location, followed by an after-party. Josh, not ready for the night to end, suggested Leon’s of Baltimore, a space roughly the size of Rainbow, located in Mount Vernon. This was during Pride month, and he ordered me a dangerously strong vodka sunrise. (It was “morning,” after all.) From that moment, I was hooked.

After Josh passed away, I often found solace at Leon’s, visiting our favorite bartender, who had traveled with Josh. We’d share drinks, stories, and tears. These are the bonds that form chosen families, often stemming from the people you meet in those underground spaces, places where you are allowed to move freely. So many of my closest relationships are with people I met on a dance floor. 

In researching this piece, I encountered McKenzie Wark’s concept of “xeno-euphoria,” which she describes as “the ecstasy of becoming alien to oneself, riding the strangeness of the beats of techno music into somatics that are not honed into natural wholeness or a oneness but toward technological dissociation and a relational subjectivity.” This, I believe, is the most applicable definition for what I mean when I say dance floors and queer spaces are incubators for folks to “lose themselves.” It’s not about disappearance, but about becoming part of a moment where others are also seeking connection, facilitated by the music.

These people, my chosen family, and these structures — from Rainbow in Fort Worth to Leon’s in Baltimore — are “third places.” They are sanctuaries where folks on the fringe of society — the marginalized — can congregate, find community, and locate kinship. 

They’re where people flirt, fall in love, fight, order rounds of shots, lose their keys, stumble, place dirty coins in jukeboxes, or queue up TouchTunes. With each of these small, communal acts, we affirm that we are alive. 

This historical context makes the ongoing loss of physical spaces, such as the demolition of Grand Central —  a beloved nightclub that was destroyed in 2021 by developers Landmark Partners — particularly resonant. When I first moved to Baltimore in 2016, Google searches for neighborhoods within walking distance of my school consistently pointed to Mount Vernon, lauded as “the gayborhood.” Yet, in my time here, I’ve witnessed countless brick-and-mortar queer spaces close their doors due to a global pandemic, rising rents, and gentrification. Sanchez Sanders, who transitioned to bartending during COVID after a career as a chef, observes the challenges Mount Vernon faces. 

“I think COVID was a big part of it, and the lack of foot traffic, lack of retail and grocery, the theft and vandalism as well,” he said.

Despite these closures, dance floors — whether in established clubs, temporary party spaces, or bars like Leon’s — have always been, and must continue to be, places of rapture and refuge.

Iconic brick-and-mortar spaces like the Gallery Bar, The Hippo, The Paradox, and Grand Central, along with those like O’Dell’s before my time, served as havens for survival, both spiritually and physically. What does it mean when these vital anchors of community are gone?

These losses mean the roles that music and joyful queer expression play in creating and maintaining community and resistance are even more critical. We find sanctuary when we have the freedom to be enmeshed in our countercultures. In this current political and social landscape, we long for the dancefloor, just as we ached during the pandemic lockdown to be in community again — under neon lights, the creep of fog, and the sweaty amalgamation of a grinding crowd. We long for a place to sit and have a drink with dignity, to meet a cute stranger, to not feel alien, to perhaps muster up the courage to sing karaoke. 

For queer folks, dancefloors, raves, drag watch nights, karaoke, and parties have become churches; they serve as sanctuaries. It’s not too cliché to draw parallels between religious ecstasy and the ecstasy felt on a dancefloor, where time collapses and differences dissolve. Here, music becomes a conduit for expression, connection, and radical joy in the face of oppression. These moments were critically necessary 50 years ago, and they remain so.

This vibrant community spirit — and the creation of third places — is actively nurtured by the people at the heart of these establishments. At Leon’s, figures like bartender Sanders and entertainment host Stacey Antoine are pivotal in shaping the experience. Sanders, with his Southern Baptist roots and family ties to Cameroon and Panama, believes, “bartenders set the tone.” He sees a diverse clientele, from out-of-town visitors to local regulars who range from age 21 to 70-plus, and makes it a point to ensure comfort and safety. He recalls a memorable moment with a guest who had just come out and was concerned about how he would be perceived in the community. “I told him, ‘If you want to meet people, don’t be scared. Have confidence,’” Sanders told me. This ethos of care is crucial in a world that often lacks it.

Writer and cultural theorist DeForrest Brown Jr.’s notion of  “world-building”  powerfully resonates with the way Baltimore’s LGBTQ hosts, bartenders, and emcees use music to transform spaces into havens. Dancefloors and karaoke nights offer both escape and embodiment in a terrifying and dangerous world that often seeks to erase and minimize us. This year, as Baltimore City Pride celebrates its 50th anniversary, the significance of these spaces — like Leon’s Backroom — remains paramount. My first memories of Pride — of true embodiment and true freedom — were found within these queer spaces.

Two years ago, I learned that my beloved Rainbow Lounge burned down in a fire on June 1, 2017. The loss of such a vital space in Fort Worth underscores the preciousness of enduring establishments like Leon’s, which holds the distinction of being Maryland’s oldest continuously gay bar, a testament to its resilience and the unwavering need for such sanctuaries. Stacey Antoine sees this endurance as vital. 

“Being that it’s one of only a handful of gay bars in the city that’s still standing and has zero chance of closing anytime soon,  I’d say it’s vital to the community for every reason,” he said. Sanders echoes this sentiment with hope for the future. 

“It’s a local bar and it has been around for a long time. I think we are on the right trajectory to be around for another 50 years.”

According to Antoine, the key to this incredible longevity is that Leon’s doesn’t over complicate things. It’s affordable and it’s dependable. It also adapts when it needs to. As evidence, he points to the success of the revamped Miss Leon’s pageant and the popular monthly drag show, “Karmella and the Shady Ladies.”

Nowhere is Leon’s welcoming energy and world-building more palpable than during its renowned karaoke nights, hosted three nights a week by the dynamic Stacey Antoine, with Sanders or another of Leon’s dedicated bartenders. If you go to Leon’s karaoke, be prepared to sing, but don’t feel intimidated. Originally from Harford County, Antoine has been honing his craft at Leon’s for nearly four years after moving his show from the former Grand Central Nightclub. He cultivates an atmosphere he describes as “pretty crowded, fun, and filled with eclectic talent.” 

The crowd is hilarious, jovial, intergenerational, queer, and incredibly supportive of every effort, largely thanks to Stacey Antoine’s encouragement. 

“I tell people all the time: ‘It’s just karaoke. It ain’t the Meyerhoff,’” he laughs. “‘I won’t force you on stage. You can sing from your seat. And don’t mind the audience. They aint nobody!’”

It creates truly special moments, like when he kept karaoke going for a small group celebrating a marriage on a pre-wedding night out when the rest of the city was dead. “They ended up having a blast and were very thankful,” Stacey Antoine recalls. “It was a really touching moment for them and I was just glad to be a part of their evening.”

It’s in these moments, and in the cheers for every singer, that the spirit of Leon’s truly shines, offering, as Stacey Antoine hopes, a place to “support, uplift, entertain, welcome, and provide a safe space for our LGBTQIA+ community.” Or, as he’d simply put it to a newcomer: “Come on out and have a gay ‘ol time with us and drink and sing a spell!”

The post Finding Rapture and Refuge at Leon’s of Baltimore appeared first on Baltimore Beat.

DJ-SUN “Didn’t Cha Know” Remix 

The magic of DJ-Sun’s remix of Erykah Badu’s “Didn’t Cha Know,” released on May 16, is that it catches you off guard, the kind of flip that catches you mid-sway and makes you want to dance joyfully. 

Taking the soulful, jazzy foundation that Badu built upon that perfect baseline from Tarika Blue’s Dreamflower, DJ-Sun masterfully speeds things up and modernizes the sound. Around the 22-second mark, he introduces a buoyant, driving beat and shimmering electronic textures that feel both contemporary and celebratory, groovy and breezy. 

Yet throughout the track, he preserves the essence of the original, allowing Badu’s signature honeyed vocals to shine through. 

DJ-Sun’s take on “Didn’t Cha Know” is a testament to the timeless appeal of Badu’s artistry — and the production from that album, which included J Dilla and Questlove — and his own knack for crafting remixes that both respect the source material and inject a fresh, exciting perspective. 

“Didn’t Cha’ Know” is streaming on bandcamp.

glowflower xochi Break It (feat. Alex In Wonderland & Ragdollz) 

Xochi Maldonado’s new single “Break It” from her album “The After Party” is a potent and moving work that immediately establishes its depth. The track opens with a poignant spoken word sample — “Take care of people no matter what their walk of life is” — set against the melancholic strum of an acoustic guitar and the distant wail of police sirens, creating a powerful juxtaposition of empathy and societal tension. 

Maldonado fearlessly weaves her own experiences as a Latina transgender woman with the fight for freedom in Palestine and the realities of Baltimore, incorporating the raw energy of protest audio and a resonant chorus featuring local musicians. This intergenerational chorus underscores the timeless and borderless nature of the fight for liberation. 

You can stream this project on bandcamp or Youtube.

S.DOT – SPECTRUM EP

Veteran Baltimore club producer S.DOT is back, and his latest release is poised to soundtrack your summer. Known for seamlessly blending the infectious rhythms of genres with the smooth melodies of R&B and the catchy hooks of pop, S.DOT crafts ethereal tracks that feel both otherworldly and perfectly at home on a packed dance floor.

This new project, released on May 17, 2025, is more than just a collection of songs; it’s an edit pack designed to provide the backing track for those liminal spaces — the after-hours energy of an underground gathering, the quiet tension between days, the unspoken distance between lovers meeting on a foggy dance floor. S.DOT himself describes the project as reflecting a duality, moving between moments of “light and ethereal” beauty and a “heartfelt and heavy” emotional resonance.” 

While the tracks are perfect for those hazy dancefloor moments S.DOT envisions, I couldn’t help but hear them as the score for navigating the complexities of a breakup. The ethereal textures and underlying emotional weight create a sonic landscape that feels both vulnerable and resilient. 

Mixed by S.DOT, mastered by El Blanco Nino, and featuring striking artwork by Ty Davis, this latest offering is a testament to S.DOT’s continued evolution as a producer and his ability to capture a unique emotional space within the Baltimore club scene and beyond.

You can stream SPECTRUM on all platforms. 

The Black Mermaid/Kendra Banks – Flow Those ABCs 

While “Flow Those ABCs” by The Black Mermaid dropped in 2023, it recently landed on my radar, and as my circle of friends with children grows, I find myself increasingly drawn to media that champions a multitude of perspectives and identities. Kendra Banks is the multifaceted creator behind The Black Mermaid, a vibrant series of books and songs for young girls.

We need more club music nursery songs! “Flow Those ABCs” featured the signature energy you’d expect from Baltimore’s own Mighty Mark. It’s exciting, it’s dynamic, it’s educational. It reminds me of my love for The Magic School Bus and Arthur growing up.

The Black Mermaid League Academy, a platform spearheaded by Dr. Jaky B. EdD. and Banks, cleverly employs colorful imagery, imaginative lyrics, and undeniably danceable beats to teach children how to read. This project, encompassing engaging books and relatable YouTube videos like “Flow Those ABCs” makes learning an interactive and joyful experience.  

You can find more information about The Black Mermaid online at theblackmermaids.com.
If you would like your music to be considered for Baltimore Beat’s Best Beats, send us your project, along with a short bio (no more than 100 words), and a photo of yourself (with the name of the photographer) to music@baltimorebeat.com.

The post Best Beats 5/21/25 – 6/04/25 appeared first on Baltimore Beat.

Wednesday, May 7

Baker Artist Talk: Hear from artists Sanah Brown-Bowers, Andrea Sherrill Evans, and Lynn Cazabon. 7 p.m. at Current Space, 421 N. Howard Street. For more information, go to currentspace.com or email info@currentspace.com.

Thursday, May 8

Sondheim Artist Talks: Learn about the 2025 Janet & Walter Sondheim Art Prize finalists as they discuss their work. Q&A to follow. 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at The Walters Art Museum’s Graham Auditorium, 600 N. Charles Street. For more information, go to thewalters.org or call 410-547-9000.

Conversations with Baltimore Beat and Garden Hours: Talk to the people who make Baltimore Beat. Then enjoy drinks and music from JaySwann and a special guest DJ. 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Current Space Garden Bar, 421 Tyson Street. For more information, go to currentspace.com or email info@currentspace.com.

Boom Selecta 3: A Reggae Bashment Party: A raw, unapologetic reggae bashment party, pulsing with energy. ($23.18) 8 p.m. to midnight at The Mansion Night Club & Restaurant, 401 W. Baltimore Street. For more information, go to mansion-baltimore.com.

Friday, May 9

Infinite Possibilities: Art and Hope (Refugee Art Project): View the new installation of work by the Refugee Youth Project. Noon at Creative Alliance, Amalie Rothschild Gallery, 3134 Eastern Avenue.

Heroes and Heroines: Immerse yourself in history’s most iconic film scores, from The Lord of the Rings to Star Wars as part of the BSO’s Popular Culture, Pops Series.  ($38-$99) 8 p.m. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, Maryland. For more information, go to bsomusic.org or call 410-783-8000.

Trap Music + Puff n Paint: An updated painting with a twist featuring trap music that’s 4/20 friendly. All art supplies provided. ($40, 21+) 9:29 p.m. at In My Lifetime: Mini Hip-Hop Museum, 805 East Baltimore Street. For more information, call 410-504-9249, or follow @ thegalleryaboutnothing on Instagram. 

Saturday, May 10

Blaq Queer Park Meet: Bring your blankets, games, tents, snacks, and homies. Sounds by Starr Martian. 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Druid Hill Park, Sundial Pavilion, Swann Drive. For more information, follow @starr.martian on Instagram.

A Lewis Table Talk Tamara Tunie will be discussing her life, career, and her new endeavor “Beyond The Gates.” Hosted by fabulous media personality LaDawn Black, this conversation will be real, inspiring, and unforgettable. 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 East Pratt Street. For more information, call 443-263-1800, or email info.services@lewismuseum.org. 

Diamond Legacy: Celebrating Baltimore’s Black Baseball History: Film screening and exhibition on the Negro League’s history in Baltimore, plus music and food. 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Peabody Heights Brewery, 401 E. 30th Street. For more information, go to peabodyheightsbrewery.com.

Turnstile: Health Care For The Homeless Benefit Show: Free benefit concert. 6 p.m. at Wyman Park Dell, 2929 N. Charles Street. For more information, follow @turnstileluvconnection on Instagram.

Sweet Spot Anniversary: Celebrate four years of dancing, drag, live shows, and lots of special moments with the Sweet Spot queer fam. 21+ ($15) 10 p.m to late at Metro Baltimore, 1700 N. Charles Street. For more information, go to sweetspotbmore.com.

Sunday, May 11

Queer Art Hang May 2025: Make art in a queer space. 1 p.m. at Red Emma’s, 3128 Greenmount Avenue. For more information, go to redemmas.org/events.

Good Ole Funny Mother’s Day Comedy Special Comedy Show featuring performances, cash bar, crabs and more. Featuring Stiletto, Maria Sanchez, Bad Guy Flexx and more. 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at La Familia Soundstage, 836 Guilford Avenue, For more information, email info@lafamiliasoundstage.com or call 410-885-4572. 

Monday, May 12

WORK & WINE: Where productivity meets pleasure in a carefully curated atmosphere for creatives, entrepreneurs, and night owls.Whether you’re finalizing that project, building your empire, or seeking inspiration among like-minded creators, Work & Wine provides the perfect blend of focus and flow. 8 p.m. to noon at Motor House, 120 W. North Avenue. For more information go to motorhousebaltimore.com.

Wednesday, May 14

OrchKids Spring Celebration: Concert featuring students from all nine OrchKids sites. 5:30 p.m. at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral Street. For more information, go to: bsomusic.org or call 410-783-8000.

A Prelude to Preakness Happy Hour: Hosted by the local alumni networks of several HBCUs , this exclusive happy hour brings together professionals for a night of great drinks, great vibes, and even greater connections. 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at 16 On The Park, 800 North Wolfe Street #16. For more information, find the @be.socialsociety on Instagram.

Aurality: Ambient soundscapes by DJs Nomiii and Missy, plus vendors Tiny Fortress and TWUK. Proceeds for the show will go to Lebanon. ($8-$10) 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Current Space Garden Bar, 421 Tyson Street. For more information, go to currentspace.com or email info@currentspace.com. 

Club Quarantine 5 Live Waterfront musical celebration featuring D-Nice & Friends accompanied by the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra with Conductor Igmar Thomas.  Featuring performances by Ari Lennox, Jadakiss, Deborah Cox, Chanté Moore, Too $hort, Lil’ Mo, Raheem DeVaughn, 803Fresh, DJ Quicksilva, and more. ($78 – $212) 8:00 p.m. at Pier Six Pavilion, 731 Eastern Avenue. For more information, go to preaknessfestival.com/event/magic-of-maryland-music-celebration or email piersixboxoffice@livenation.com

Art Of Comedy: Stand-up comedy featuring Ivan Martin, Dark Mark Rules, Alejandro Labrada, and other local comedians. 18+ 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Motor House, 120 W. North Avenue. For more information, go to motorhousebaltimore.com.

Preakness Festival Concert After-Party: Enjoy signature cocktails by Pronghorn Spirits and nonstop music from a live DJ in a high-energy atmosphere. ($39.19) 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. at Family Meal Restaurant, 621 E. Pratt.

Thursday, May 15

Making Hours: Resist-Dye Fabric with Indigo In this workshop, participants will explore various ways to resist and dye fabric in indigo. Kenya Miles, founder of Blue Light Junction, will guide you in techniques that originated in Asia and West Africa and discuss how this blue alchemy has long been an art and practice. Participants will leave with a bandana of their own creation. No prior experience required. ($20-$30) 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive. For more information, go to artbma.org/events.

John Wilkes Booth: One Night Only | Community Night An audacious look at the notorious man buried in an unmarked grave less than a mile from Baltimore Center Stage. ($10 – $49) 7:30 p.m. Baltimore Center Stage, 700 North Calvert Street. For more information, go to centerstage.org, email info@centerstage.org, or call 410-332-0033. 

Friday, May 16

NIGHTSCAPE Day-To-Night: Day-long celebration featuring local artists, makers, and DJs. May 16 through May 17 at Night Owl Gallery, 1735 Maryland Ave Unit A. For more information, go to night-owl-gallery.square.site, or call 516- 318-2611.

Climas Malsanos | Hoesy Corona: The opening night of an exhibition exploring the complex relationship between humans and the environment. 6 p.m. at Creative Alliance, Main Gallery, 3134 Eastern Avenue. For more information, call 410-276-1651.

Paradise Portals: Multimedia video installation and performance. 7 p.m. ($10–$50). AREA 405, 405 E. Oliver Street. For more information, go to area405.com.

Saturday, May 17

Preakness Stakes Celebrate 150 years of thoroughbred horse racing in Maryland.  Post-race performance by T-Pain. Hosted by Carmelo Anthony and Ray Lewis. (Various Pricing) For more information, go to preakness.com or email info@preakness.com.

Latin American Art / Arte Latinoamericano Opening Day: This day-long celebration marks the opening of a groundbreaking exhibition featuring art from across Latin America and the Caribbean. Activities, market, tours, talks, and performances. Free. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles Street. For more information, go to thewalters.org, or call 410-547-9000. 

COLAB: Art and Music from Baltimore and Beyond: Audible art exhibition featuring visual artists and curated music selections. 5 p.m. at Eubie Blake Cultural Center, 847 N. Howard Street. For more information, go to eubieblake.org, or call 410-225-3130.

Baltimore Beat Beer Release Party!: Celebrate Baltimore Beat’s beer collaboration with Peabody Heights Brewery. 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Peabody Heights Brewery, 401 E. 30th Street For more information, go to peabodyheightsbrewery.com, or call 443-853-9188. 

Sunday, May 18

Community Day: Turn Again to the Earth: Celebrate the Baltimore Museum of Art’s initiative and exhibitions on environment, climate change, and art, including the “Black Earth Rising” exhibition. Free. 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive. For more information, go to artbma.org/events.

The Mystery of Irma Vep | A Penny Dreadful Theater Night for Teens In this production, Gothic melodrama gets a high-camp celebration in this first-class comedy filled with murder and mayhem.  High school aged students can register for a dinner, inside access to the show, pre- and post-show discussions with production artists, and dessert. ($20) 7 p.m. at Everyman Theatre, 315 West Fayette Street. For more information, go to everymantheatre.org. 

The post Baltimore Arts & Culture Events 5/7/25-5/21/25 appeared first on Baltimore Beat.

Known and loved for her impactful work in broadcast journalism and her bright daytime TV presence, Tamron Hall continues to elevate — and celebrate — Black voices through her popular talk show and various projects. With the success of her upbeat, eponymous show (which, this March, reached its 1,000-episode mark), and the recent release of her very first children’s book, Hall ushers in a new chapter of representation for Black storytellers.

This spring, the two-time Emmy Award-winning journalist and host of the nationally syndicated “Tamron Hall” talk show is adding a new title to her impressive resume: children’s book author. With the debut of “Harlem Honey: The Adventures of a Curious Kid,” released on March 25, Hall is not simply entering a new literary genre; she is furthering her mission to celebrate Black culture, ignite curiosity, and champion representation. Books like “Harlem Honey” create modes of representation for young Black and brown readers. Our children, nieces, and nephews can go to a bookstore and see someone who resembles them on the printed page.  

The book opens with Moses missing his home in Texas as he sits on his stoop in Harlem. He draws in his room, and a few bees buzzing through his window ignite his curiosity. Soon, he meets his neighbor Laila. 

Mrs. Louise, Laila’s mother, lives across the street, and they have a honey farm. Together, Moses, his dad, Laila, and Mrs. Louise (and Moses’s pets) go on a journey to deliver the sweet honey to neighbors in Harlem. 

They start at the world-famous Sylvia’s Restaurant. Later, when they visit the Studio Museum of Harlem, Moses sees a painting of a family that reminds him of his own. This journey, where honey is delivered throughout Harlem, allows Moses to begin to love and appreciate his new neighborhood.

“Harlem Honey” is more than a charming tale; it is a love letter to Black boyhood inspired by Hall’s son, Moses, who turns six this month. 

Illustrated by Ebony Glenn, the book’s cover features Moses, his neighbor Laila, and his puppy, Lotus-May. The two characters, with their brown skin and curly hair, smile, holding two jars of honey. Behind them is the city of Harlem. 

The imagery throughout the book yields whimsy, depth, and movement — and most critically, is full of Black and brown people. At first glance, the importance of a book with two Black children on the cover might not register. But that is monumental. 

 “I wanted [Moses] to open a book and see a reflection of himself,” Hall said about her choice to write the children’s book.

 “I wanted him to know that his brown skin, curly hair, beautiful eyes, all of him, is worthy of a story.”

The book’s protagonist, Moses, is a young Black boy with an insatiable curiosity about the world around him.

“Harlem is the place we called home when my son was born,” the author continued.

 “But Harlem [could be] any neighborhood, anywhere in this world, because our neighborhoods are the first place that we really can inspire curiosity in our children.”

Through Moses’s eyes, readers experience the sights, sounds, and rhythms of Harlem, a neighborhood overflowing with Black history and culture. Hall’s vivid descriptions and evocative language — and Glenn’s glowing illustrations — elevate the neighborhood of Harlem to a character in its own right.

“I wanted to capture the magic of Harlem. The music, the food, the people, the energy — it’s all there in the book,” the author said.

But “Harlem Honey” is not just about a place; it’s about the power of curiosity and faith to open doors and expand horizons. In Hall’s book, Moses’s curiosity propels him on a journey through his neighborhood of Harlem, which inspires him to celebrate his individuality and overcome his fears, and find familiar connections between his former home in Texas and his new home.

“Curiosity is a superpower,” Hall said. “It’s what drives us to explore, to learn, to grow. I wanted to show kids that it’s okay to ask questions, to be curious, to wonder.”

During our interview, Hall noted the dearth of children’s books featuring Black boys as main characters. She recognizes the importance of representation in shaping young minds and fostering a sense of belonging. 

“It’s crucial for Black boys to see themselves reflected in the books they read,” Hall emphasized. “It tells them that their stories matter, that they are valued, that they belong.”

“Harlem Honey” is a loving celebration of Black joy and, above all else, Black resilience. Despite the challenges that Black boys often face, Hall’s book accentuates their strengths, smarts, and potential.

“I wanted to show Black boys as they truly are: smart, creative, compassionate, and full of joy,” the author stated. “They are our future, and we need to nurture their dreams.”

Hall’s dedication to the empowerment and representation of Black people extends beyond the pages of her brand new book. From her early days covering local news in Texas to becoming the first African American anchor to host “The Today Show,” Hall has consistently broken barriers and redefined the landscape of broadcast journalism while also remaining a vocal advocate for transformative change within media spaces.

When asked what advice she might offer young journalists, Hall urges content creators, particularly Black journalists, to “own their platform” and produce “exceptional content” that resonates with and empowers communities. Hall herself embraces new forms of storytelling and digital media. Her show has become the destination for social media stars — like fashion content creator Nicky Campbell — who might have millions of views and followers online but would otherwise never make it onto daytime television.

We live in an era where media consumption is rapidly evolving. (Consider the amount of news you get from social media compared to printed publications.) Hall recognizes the untapped potential of emerging platforms, explicitly highlighting the podcast space.

 “I have been on my soapbox lately about really owning your platform for content that is exceptional,” Hall said, emphasizing the importance of Black voices and impactful storytelling in white-dominated spaces.

“I think that we are sorely missing in these podcast spaces dominated by people that aren’t having the conversation that is impactful to us,” she asserts, underscoring the importance of creating content that reflects and aims to service Black communities. 

With “Harlem Honey,” Hall has created a powerful, sweet, and inspiring tribute to Black boyhood where Black children can see familiar glimpses of themselves in the pages. Harlem, like Baltimore, is an iconic area, deeply rooted in Black culture, art, and history. In our interview, Hall emphasizes their triumphant legacies.

“Baltimore and Harlem…these two cities were ‘for the culture’ before that phrase became a thing,” she said, highlighting their enduring contributions that predate contemporary trends. 

This rich cultural landscape has fostered diverse artistic expression in both locales, from music, especially jazz, to writing to theater to visual arts, providing avenues for Black individuals to thrive and gain recognition (Eubie Blake and Louis Armstrong come to mind). 

Beyond their cultural vibrancy, Harlem and Baltimore carry a spirit of resilience and self-determination. We discussed the communal DIY and collaborative spirit propelling folks in Maryland and New York. In both states, Black and brown people have historically forged their own paths and created opportunities, evident in the abundance of independently owned businesses, from restaurants like Rooted Rotisserie, which she featured on her show, to clothing stores like City of Gods to newspapers like the Afro and Baltimore Beat, both founded by Black people. Hall also linked the unique sense of style and culture both Harlem and Baltimore have from Dapper Dan of Harlem to City of Gods. Hall says she proudly wears a hoodie from the Baltimore-based brand in Harlem.

With Donald Trump’s attacks on DEI (Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion), it is essential to take a moment to highlight the importance of books written by and for Black people. Representation matters, and books like “Harlem Honey” demonstrate its critical importance. Black children’s books embody the principles that DEI seeks to uphold. Efforts to undermine DEI not only highlight the importance of supporting these books, but utilizing them as tools for counteracting Black erasure. 

Through her talk show, Hall has tapped into the cultural zeitgeist and nestled a lane built by a Black woman for the creative uplift of all. And with “Harlem Honey,” Hall has created a lasting contribution to children’s literature.

Her work not only provides inspiration for diverse audiences; her career is also a testament to resilience, bravery, and determination.

 “Fear is natural,” Hall told us.

“But on the other side of fear, what can you experience? That’s what this book is about. That’s what my journey has been about.”

The post Tamron Hall, Harlem Honey, and Sweet Representation for the culture appeared first on Baltimore Beat.

The raw, pulsating energy of Miami bass—with its thunderous 808 kicks and crisp, rapid-fire hi-hats—is a sound that resonates deeply, even if its name remains unfamiliar to many. This distinctive sonic signature, a hallmark of the genre, recently experienced a resurgence when JMSN’s “Soft Spot,” though released over a year prior, exploded on TikTok and Twitter. Listeners instantly recognized—and tweeted about—its sonic kinship with Ghost Town DJs’ “My Boo,” highlighting the indelible impact of the Miami bass sound.

Born from the vibrant club culture of 1980s Miami, this genre, also known as “bass music” or “booty music,” is an ode to uninhibited dance and pure, unadulterated fun. Emerging from the electro-funk, electro, and early hip-hop tracks by artists like Afrika Bambaataa and Egyptian Lover, Miami bass evolved into a distinct sound, driven by DJs and producers who masterfully wielded the Roland TR-808 drum machine. This sound became synonymous with skating rinks and strip clubs, places where brown and Black people would congregate to hear the music reverberate through the bass-heavy sound system.

Groups like 2 Live Crew, JJ Fad, and the 69 Boyz propelled Miami bass into the mainstream, creating club and party anthems that were, ultimately, summer soundtracks. Beyond these legendary groups, the genre also fostered the development of early club music trends, cementing its place as a pivotal force in southern music. As we approach summer, and the need for communal joy grows stronger, Miami Bass gives us the perfect soundscape for celebration. 

JaySwann is an electronic artist, producer, and DJ making waves in Baltimore’s music scene and helping to champion a distinct Miami bass boom here. Also a budding event curator and promoter, his events around Baltimore guarantee dancing and fun. Swann is deeply rooted in the city, with his family’s history here spanning generations. When asked to describe his artistic practice, JaySwann prefers the term “electronic artist.”

 “I identify the most as a producer/DJ, but [it’s] not just like one thing or the other. The two kind of coincide and go together, and electronic artist is the best way to describe that,” he says.

His journey as a musician has traversed into a genre that you’ve definitely heard but might not have had the name for: bass music. 

“I first started producing in 2015. That was the first creative endeavor I ever had,” he recalls.

DJing followed in 2016, almost by accident. The artist recounts being part of a collective that was organizing a show: 

“We didn’t have a DJ, and because I was like, the main producer in the group…I kind of just took it over,”  he says.

His first set wasn’t a traditional DJ set, but rather a mix crafted in his production software. The experience, however, sparked a desire to learn the art of DJing.

Looking back on his projects, JaySwann considers his recent release, “BOOTY BASS INFINITI,” to be his best work yet. His previous album, “Lou Dolph,” released in 2023, was more in the electronica vein, which he describes as “cool if you just want to chill.” 

Since then, JaySwann has been leaning more into his DJ practice, wanting to create music that fits into his sets and that his peers can also play.“Booty Bass Infiniti” represents a significant step in that direction. He explains the inspiration behind the project: 

“The thing about doing what I do and living in Baltimore is that there’s so many DJs…like everybody DJs and everybody is good,” JaySwann says. 

To carve out a niche, he started exploring Miami bass, inspired first by artists like Ghostwhip.

 “I think it really started with me getting super into ghetto tech…It really opened up the floodgates for me to get more into Miami bass and Atlanta bass,” he recalls.

The more he listened, the more he appreciated the genre’s energy and its potential to stand out in Baltimore’s scene.

 “I really like playing this out loud, like for crowds. The music itself is really fun, and I like it because nobody else really plays that type of stuff here,” JaySwann says. 

His EP, released on all streaming platforms on March 27, is a 10-track project that the artist has been working on since last summer.

 “I knew that I wanted to take a minute before I put out another project. I’ve been really trying to  figure out what my sound is, but I feel like with this, with “BOOTY BASS INFINITI, I’m grasping that a little bit more,” he says.

To complement the EP, JaySwann is also bringing back his “booty bass” parties. 

“I definitely wanted to pair it with the rollout for the album, just because the two go hand to hand,” he says. 

While the first party will be local, he has plans to take the concept to other cities like New York, Philadelphia, D.C., and Miami. 

When asked about staying inspired, JaySwann credits his love for what he does and the support of his peers.

 “I genuinely just love what I do,” he says. 

“Where I’m at in life, I have a pretty fun, very enjoyable life. I like the things that I do, and I feel like it’s a privilege to be able to do the things that I do. I just draw a lot of happiness from it.” 

Seeing his friends’ dedication also fuels his own drive.

 “All of my artist friends are extremely hard working, I’ll see what they’re doing. And it kind of makes me want to go harder,” he says.

Now in its third year and returning on April 24th, Garden Hours is the result of JaySwann’s hard work and dedication. The residency began as a way for him to gain visibility as a DJ. 

“When I first started doing Garden Hours, I felt I wasn’t really getting booked like that. It’s kind of hard to get booked when people don’t really see you play,” he explains. 

So he decided he’d like to establish a residency and approached the co-owners of Current Space, an artist-run art space in Bromo Arts District, with the idea. They gave him the green light.

“I like the venue a lot,” JaySwann says. “At the time, nobody was really doing DJ nights. It felt like a really untapped thing that I’m kind of surprised nobody else has hopped on.” 

The first few Garden Hours were low in attendance, with five or 10 visitors tops. Today, they are typically packed. Despite a slow start, he stuck with it, and the residency has grown into a Baltimore staple.

 “I just trusted the process, and then everything just kind of started to grow,” he explains.

 “You know, shit just takes time. That’s another big thing that I learned.You can’t rush anything. And if you have a good idea that you know is good, and you stay intentional about it, you got to stick with it, even if you feel like it’s not working.” 

Garden Hours typically runs from late April to October. JaySwann usually begins the night, DJing for the first hour and a half before passing the torch to a guest DJ. The event is also free, something he considers important. 

For the past two years—or, really, every other Thursday, and a few Saturdays—folks have been able to visit the garden bar and leave all of their stresses on the dance floor. He also held a listening release party on March 28th for his latest release at Peabody Heights, a brewery located in Waverly (where the Baltimore Beat will be having our beer release event on May 17).

When I asked the artist if he had any advice for upcoming creatives in the city, he said “trust the process.” With faith in his talents, creativity, and strength—and the help of a cadre of creative collaborators—JaySwann has built Garden Hours into a platform for emerging talent to play to a captive audience and get paid to do so, giving Baltimore a chance to dance. For him and his audience, it’s all about the music.

The post Baltimore Music Right Now: JaySwann appeared first on Baltimore Beat.

DJ Dolla, “2.22FM” 

Released on February 22, 2025, in celebration of his birthday, DJ Dolla’s “2.22FM” EP is a vibrant testament to the energy and diversity of Baltimore club music. Dolla opens the EP with a dynamic remix of A Tribe Called Quest’s “Scenario,” setting the tone for the lively and deeply talented cohort of collaborators that follow.

DJ Dolla, who started DJing with a controller gifted by his girlfriend, has become an undeniable force in the Baltimore music scene. His Dolla Sto Parties at venues like Phlote and 1722 have become legendary.

The EP features a wealth of familiar faces from the Baltimore music scene. “Drop It Low for Jesus,” a hilarious and infectious club track with a traditional hook — “drop it low for Jesus, in the club” — was co-produced by DJ Beast. The drum-and-bass-infused flip of Doja Cat’s “Agora Hills” showcases the talents of Tromac, and the entire project was expertly mastered by Kade Young. 

DJ Dolla emphasized, via email, that “2.22FM” is best experienced in its intended order. In a digital age dominated by streaming, TikTok virality, and fleeting soundbites, this directive serves as a welcome reminder of the artist’s intention and the artful construction of a musical project.

Following a raucous New Year’s Eve DJ set at Royal Blue (where he played alongside Cash.liss and Jourdan) that kicked off 2025, it’s clear that Dolla’s passion for music, particularly club music in all its forms — from juke to Baltimore club — is boundless. This EP, like his energetic live sets, showcases the expansive possibilities of the genre. Compiled from six club remixes created over the past six months, “2.22FM” further solidifies Dolla’s status as an exceptional producer and DJ.

As Dolla himself proclaims, “Shoutout Baltimore! Shoutout club music!” (Teri Henderson)

Buy “2.22FM” on Bandcamp for only $2.22 (you can also pay more). Follow Dolla on IG.

Megazillion, “Don’t Get Sick/Clout”

When Baltimore punk band Megazillion released their double single “Don’t Get Sick/Clout” back in November, they couldn’t have possibly imagined that three weeks later, the murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson would take place, sparking widespread conversation about the vicious and predatory American health care system. “Don’t Get Sick” speaks to exactly that:

don’t get sick

don’t check that lump

just bet your life

another body to the dump

The 42-second song delivers the message with morbidly sarcastic quickness and is followed by the power-packed “Clout,” a song about the current lack of quality in almost everything as clout has become a more valuable commodity than friendship or love. 

If you’re a fan of much-needed unapologetic, socially conscious music, check out these great tunes from the self-proclaimed “wild punks.” (Eze Jackson)

Buy “Don’t Get Sick/Clout” on Bandcamp for only $2 (you can also pay more). Follow Megazillion on IG

Giant Wave, “Part of Me”

Giant Wave’s “Part of Me” is a shimmering, dreamlike single that pairs evocative visuals with introspective lyrics. The music video, shot on an iPhone in late summer and early fall 2024, is an experimental travelogue, expertly embellished with animations by Brendon Sullivan. It seamlessly blends familiar Baltimore scenes, like the purple-hued lights of Current Space’s Garden Bar and Charles Village porches, with evocative shots of deserts and mountains, creating a captivating visual journey.

“Part of Me” is the first single from Giant Wave’s debut full-length album, “Year of Space,” a multi-genre experimental project led by William Rockwell Ryerson.

Ryerson is a Montana-based musician with deep roots in Baltimore’s DIY scene. He has contributed to bands like Other Colors, Chiffon and Outer Spaces, and his solo work on Bandcamp showcases a wide range of styles, from ambient synth to experimental pop.

Ryerson’s vocals, with their steadily delicate and almost whispered quality, serve as an inviting introduction to the textured soundscapes of “Part of Me.” The introspective lyrics, such as “Part of me is closed to function, Ready for the next thing on my list,” are woven into the music’s fabric, creating a sense of both vulnerability and anticipation. The layered melodies create a hazy, ethereal soundscape, with Ryerson’s vocals weaving in and out of the instrumental textures. The song builds with a gentle, driving rhythm, as guitars and keyboards create a warm, enveloping atmosphere. The song’s melancholic beauty is both comforting and cathartic, a perfect soundtrack for those yearning moments, and evokes the feeling of a perfect Baltimore summer day. (I recommend you listen to it anytime you feel the last tugs of seasonal depression pull at your heartstrings.)

This marks Ryerson’s first full-length release since 2016. “Year of Space,” created in studios in Baltimore and Billings, Montana, is an ambitious collaborative effort featuring a diverse cast of Baltimore-based musicians, including the rising experimental hip-hop duo Infinity Knives + Brian Ennals, shoegaze band Jupiter Rex, and members of the new-music collective Mind on Fire.

And although Ryerson has relocated to Montana, he frequently returns to Baltimore to perform with collaborators like Chiffon (with Amy Reid and Chase O’Hara). You can catch Ryerson with Chiffon on Thursday, March 13, at Royal Blue.“Year of Space” is set for release on June 1, 2025, via North Pole Records. Don’t miss the chance to experience “Part of Me” and preorder “Year of Space” on Bandcamp today, available in digital, vinyl, cassette, and CD formats. (Long live print media!) (Teri Henderson)

Knika, “It’s My Body”

Baltimore entertainer and arts activist Knika is climbing some charts with a timely anthem. “It’s My Body” is a social justice song about bodily autonomy, climate change, gun violence and the right to vote. The song placed number 6 on Amazon.com’s “Movers & Shakers” list and 28 on Pop Vortex iTunes Top 100 Pop songs list. Both the original version and the remix are infectious dance tunes that fit perfectly on a gym workout playlist. Why not work out your mind and body with affirmations of self-worth and protest? (Eze Jackson)

We hope you enjoyed reading this first edition of Best Beats. Send your music (or your friends’ music) for a chance to be reviewed: music@baltimorebeat.com.  

The post Best Beats: March 2025 appeared first on Baltimore Beat.

Shortly after the COVID-19 lockdown was lifted, I went to Keystone Korner for the first time. My classmate Noah invited me to see a show with legendary jazz vibraphonist Roy Ayers. It was a special night in October of 2020. Everyone was on edge being around each other in public, but we all wore our masks. It was one of the first times I remember being out and enjoying live music with others. It felt familiar and hopeful. Seeing Ayers perform, and hearing the notes of “Searching,” gave me enough fuel to move through the next week. 

Jazz is a distinctly Black American modern tradition, and Baltimore City has one of the preeminent jazz clubs in the world. Keystone Korner offers a unique and intimate live music experience. The Harbor East jazz club has been integral to the city’s cultural landscape since 2019. 

It attracts both seasoned jazz enthusiasts and neophytes with its authentic atmosphere and diverse offerings, including jam sessions and performances by national legends like Ayers and avant-garde jazz alto saxophone great Marshall Allen. Despite the romantic setting and decor, Keystone Korner welcomes individuals seeking a solitary musical experience as well. It provides a space for creative individuals to gather and experience the unique musical genre.

Founder Todd Barkan, a Columbus, Ohio, native, is the driving force behind Keystone Korner.  His own journey in music began at a young age, influenced by his parents’ diverse record collection and the mentorship of jazz multi-instrumentalist Rahsaan Roland Kirk. Released in 1974, Kirk’s live “Bright Moments” album features a young Barkan on tambourine and synthesizer. 

Barkan was also a friend of the late jazz guitar legend Russell Malone. He recalls his first meeting with the Georgia native artist, known for working with musicians like Diana Krall and Harry Connick Jr.

“He was gracious and humble, a true master of his craft,” Barkan told Baltimore Beat. 

Malone, alongside jazz bassist Ron Carter and composer and pianist Donald Vega, graced the stage for Keystone Korner’s grand opening on April 30, 2019, which also happened to be International Jazz Day.

The club’s first iteration came to life in San Francisco and was open from 1972 to 1983. Barkan’s goal was to provide the best music in the world at the most affordable price, in the most loving environment. This remains the goal of Keystone Korner Baltimore, where Barkan has joined forces with an all-star culinary team (led by chef Robert Wiedmaier) to make sure that the food is as enticing as the entertainment. 

Keystone Korner hosts its Bright Moments Jazz Jam Sessions on Tuesday nights, offering a unique experience for musicians and audiences to connect through spontaneous jazz improvisation. The sessions happen weekly from around 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Unlike pre-arranged big band or rehearsed small group jazz performances, these jam sessions are entirely off-the-cuff. Barkan sees them as essential tools for keeping the tradition of great jazz alive in Baltimore, while fostering community.

Led by bassist, composer, and educator Obasi Akoto, the sessions encompass a variety of styles from bebop and post-bop to avant-garde and fusion. Akoto views the weekly jam session as more than just a musical occasion; it’s a social gathering that transcends boundaries and brings people together. Akoto is also a passionate educator, deeply committed to sharing his knowledge and inspiring the next generation of musicians. 

“Jazz is more than just music,” Akoto explains. “It’s a way of life. It teaches discipline, collaboration, and the ability to think on your feet.”

On Tuesdays, Akoto assembles a rotating house band, featuring talented musicians like Lucas Netto on tenor saxophone, Aidan Francia Cotter on piano, and Amin Gumbs on drums. Together, they lay down unrehearsed tunes from the jazz canon, inviting professional and semi-professional musicians to join in the spontaneous creation of a new sound. 

As the night winds down, Barkan, affectionately known as “the Toddzilla,” takes the stage. He sings the club’s theme song (and jam session namesake) “Bright Moments,” a fitting tribute to the spontaneous and joyful spirit filling Keystone Korner.

Late jazz saxophonist and composer Ornette Coleman, the founder of the free jazz movement, once said, “Jazz is the only music in which the same note can be played night after night but differently each time.” You can return to Keystone Korner every Tuesday to hear and feel this musical community, and allow it to carry you into the next week. If jazz is a language, the notes reverberating from the stage at Keystone Korner are the soundtrack for the bright moments that echo in the background of our lives.

Jam sessions are well documented by the venue’s house photographer, the talented Mr. Michael Friedman. If you visit a session, be sure to take a pause to admire his work on the walls — you might see some faces you recognize. If you want to sit in and join, there’s a sign-up sheet next to the stage. Please note that the club recommends that “jazz standards are preferred repertoire and get the best results” to keep the vibes going. Bright Moments Jazz Jam Sessions carve out space for local, national, and international jazz artists to meet up, and heat up. 

This ethos — this mixing of talents from emerging to established, local to international — echoes the spirit of the club in its programming, showcasing internationally lauded acts like Ayers while providing a consistent practice space for rising jazz talents.

 “We’re committed to showcasing the best of the best, but we also want to give emerging artists a chance to shine,” Barkan said. “We’ve created a space where people can connect with each other and with the music. It’s a place where friendships are formed and memories are made.”

“Baltimore has a vibrant jazz scene, and I’m grateful to be a part of it,” Akoto said. His presence at Keystone Korner has enriched the club’s musical offerings and fostered a deeper connection between the club and its patrons. His commitment to education and his passion for sharing his knowledge with aspiring musicians resonate with the club’s mission to preserve and celebrate the legacy of jazz.

As Akoto reflects on his journey and the evolution of jazz, he muses, “Jazz is constantly evolving, but its essence remains the same. It’s about freedom, expression, and the power of music to connect people.” His words echo through the intimate space of Keystone Korner, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to witness his artistry.

Even amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, with other venues shuttering, Keystone Korner has persevered, adapting to restrictions and finding creative ways to keep the music alive. With Akoto as maestro, the club’s legacy is further solidified, ensuring that the soulful sounds of jazz continue to inspire and uplift future generations.

Since its rebirth in Harbor East in 2019, Keystone Korner has quickly become a cornerstone of Baltimore’s jazz community, embodying founder Barkan’s philosophy that “Jazz is more than just music. It’s a feeling, a way of life.” This philosophy permeates every aspect of the club, from its carefully curated programming to its intimate and welcoming atmosphere. Barkan’s diverse background, coupled with the influence of mentors like Kirk, has shaped a unique vision for the club that honors jazz traditions while embracing innovation and improvisation. 

Beyond showcasing established artists, Keystone Korner is committed to nurturing emerging talent, providing a platform for them to share their music and grow as artists — which it accomplishes with every Tuesday night jam session. This commitment extends to educational programs and workshops, fostering a sense of community and ensuring the future of jazz in Baltimore.

Running a jazz club is a labor of love, and Keystone Korner has faced its share of challenges. From navigating licensing hurdles to weathering the impact of the pandemic, the club’s resilience is a testament to its staff’s dedication and its patrons’ unwavering support. “They’re the heart and soul of this place,” Barkan said,” emphasizing the community’s impact on its longevity.

As more cultural institutions disappear, it is crucial to support venues like Keystone Korner that keep the city’s soul alive.

Join the Bright Moments Jazz Jam Session every Tuesday night, or visit the club’s website for upcoming performances by world-class musicians. Keystone Korner is located at 1350 Lancaster Street.

The post Keystone Korner facilitates bright moments appeared first on Baltimore Beat.

Wednesday, September 25 

Pecha Kucha: A night of visual storytelling where each presenter prepares and shares exactly 20 slides. Get a glimpse into the past, current and future musings of folks doing creative, inspiring and unique work here in Baltimore. 7 p.m. at Current Space, Garden Bar, 421 Tyson Street. For more information, go to currentspace.com or email info@currentspace.com.

Thursday, September 26

Charm City Fringe Festival Celebrate the tenth anniversary of the festival with a live band, local market vendors and a sneak peak at the acts. You won’t want to miss this fantastic line-up of new, funky, always thought-provoking, occasionally sexy shows and artists plus exciting after hours events. Sept. 26 to Oct. 6. For more information, go to charmcityfringe.com. 

Photo Book Meet-Up: Get an introduction to the library’s photo book collection (most of which can be checked out) and meet other photo/art book enthusiasts. Feel free to bring your own photo books to share as well.  5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Enoch Pratt Central Library, Fine Arts Department, 400 Cathedral Street. In-person and virtual. For more information, go to prattlibrary.org or call 410-396-5430.

Exhibition Opening | Walk On By Celebrate the opening of the exhibition and artist exchange which explores the African diaspora in two historic industrial port cities, Baltimore and Rotterdam. Featuring works by Schaun Champion (Baltimore), Charles Mason III (Baltimore), Naomi King (Rotterdam), kolpeace (Baltimore), Djon Seedorf (Rotterdam), and Tarona (Rotterdam). Curated by Joy Davis, Visual Arts Director at Creative Alliance and founder of Waller Gallery. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Creative Alliance, Main Gallery 3134 Eastern Avenue. For more information, go to creativealliance.org or call 410-276-1651.

Garden Hours Drinks in the Garden Bar and music from JaySwann and guest JacqJill. 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Current Space, Garden Bar, 421 North Tyson Street. For more information, go to currentspace.com or email info@currentspace.com.

Ceddo | Virtual Film Screening Screening and discussion focused on Senegalese director Ousmane Sembène’s film, “Ceddo,” which takes place in precolonial Senegal. Free. 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Online. For more information go to naked art museum. 

Friday, September 27

Creative Mornings Baltimore | Reflection with Shawn Chopra: A monthly speaker series led by Baltimore’s most innovative and creative minds. This month’s talk will be led by Shawn Chopra, co-owner of good neighbor. 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Sandtown Furniture, 1226 Wicomico Street.For more information, go to creativemornings.com or email baltimore@creativemornings.com. 

Baby Art Date: Colors and Shapes: Each multisensory tour experience is designed to support children’s language, physical, and emotional development as well as provide social opportunities for children and their caregivers. (Free, registration encouraged) 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., at Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive. For more information, call 443-573-1700 or go to artbma.org.

Vibes & Afro Beats: Current R. House Pop-Up Platinum Amala West African Cuisine is bringing West African culture beyond the kitchen. This event features a live DJ spinning the hottest Afrobeats and Amapiano tracks. 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at R. House, 301 W 29th Street. For more information, go to r.housebaltimore.com.

SWEAT SPOT:  A very gay xcx / troy tour afterparty. Brat Summer is over so wear your hottest brat autumn looks. 21+ ($9.56) 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at Metro Gallery Baltimore, 1700 North Charles Street. For more information go to metrobmore.com.

Saturday, September 28

Drop-in Art Making: A Space of My Own Make a diorama of a space — either from life or your imagination — that makes you feel comfortable being yourself. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.  at The Walters Art Museum, 600 North Charles Street. For more information, go to thewalters.org.

22nd Annual Pigtown Festival In addition to good food, live music, and a KidZone for the little ones, this event features a running of the “Squeakness” pig races. noon. to 7 p.m. at 763 Washington Boulevard. For more information, go to: pigtownmainstreet.org/events/pigtownfestival, email director@historicpigtown.org, or call: 443-908-7038.

Preserving History | How the Black Press Safeguards the Past  A deep knowledge of Black history is vital if you want to understand the world we live in. However, that history is often ignored, underfunded, and erased. Learn from representatives from Afro Charities and Baltimore Beat about how this work began and where it’s going. 5 p.m. at Baltimore Book Festival: 32nd Street stage. For more information, go to baltimorebookfestival.com, email bookfest@promotionandarts.org, or call 410-752-8632.

Panda Den A night of deconstructed club music and other curiosities. 21+ (Free) 10 p.m at Ottobar, 2549 North Howard Street.  For more information, go to theottobar.com.

Sunday, September 29

Mounted Fern Workshop with green neighbor Interactive session where participants will learn how to create and maintain their own wall mounted fern. All materials provided. ($55.20) 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at green neighbor, 3827 Falls Road. For more information, go to goodneighborshop.com.

Wednesday, October 2

Vino & Vibe: A weekly winedown created to help you unplug and connect in real life in an intimate atmosphere with curated wines, a vibey playlist, and a vibrant community. 21+. (Free) 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Stem & Vine, 326 North Charles Street. For more information, go to stemandvinebaltimore.com.

Thursday, October 3

V Walton: Terra | Exhibition Opening: Celebrate the opening of V Walton’s solo show featuring a series of ceramic and soil-based figurative sculptures. This exhibition is part of Beautiful Decay as curated by Derrick Adams. Various Times. Swann House Gallery, 909 North Charles Street. To book an appointment visit: https://resy.com/cities/baltimore-md/venues/swann-house?date=2024-09-21&seats=2.

First Thursdays: Make and Mingle Honoring Indigenous People’s Day in the month of October, join to create a mini textile inspired by some of the pieces in their Ancient Americas collection. 18+ (Free) 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at The Walters Art Museum, 600 North Charles Street. For more information go to  410-547-9000 or go to thewalters.org/events. 

Friday, October 4

Highlandtown Art First Friday Art Walk: A free event that features a guided art walk and food and drink specials at local restaurants. 5 p.m to 9 p.m., various locations. For more information, go to: ihearthighlandtown.com, call: 410-342-3234 ext 26, or email amanda@southeastcdc.org. 

Brick Art Sip & Paint: Participants will receive: canvas, paint, art instruction, alcoholic beverage, and the opportunity to create art in an art gallery. Price of admission includes all necessary materials, and an alcoholic beverage. Ages 21+. ($25) 7 p.m to 10 p.m. at The Motor House, 120 West North Avenue. Email jonbrick3@icloud.com to book. For more information, go to motorhousebaltimore.com. 

The Basement 90’s/00’s RNB Party | MSU Homecoming: Kick back and jam with the Morgan State University Homecoming Edition of media outlet MVEMENT’s R&B basement party. Must be 21+ to attend. ($17.85 – $33.85 for general admission, depending on purchase date) 8 p.m.to 1 a.m. at the Baltimore Soundstage, 124 Market Place. For more information, follow JoinTheMVEMNT on eventbrite.com or Instagram. 

New/Next Film Fest: Film festival held in Baltimore at the historic Charles Theatre and bringing multiple world premieres to the city. Oct. 3 to Oct. 6 at The Charles Theatre, 1711 North Charles Street. For more information, go to newnextfilmfest.com, call 410-727-3456, or email info@newnextfilmfest.com. 

Saturday, October 5

The Black Canni Join our Canni and prepare for life-shifting discussions with Black cannabis practitioners, educators, healers, and cultivators. ($55 – $108) Oct. 5 through Oct. 6, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Unity Hall. For more information, go to livewellbemore.com. 

METROSCHOCK: Baltimore’s longest running dark dance party returns with resident DJs Neska, Nicholai and Angel playing dark beats from Goth and Industrial to Synthwave, 80s, 90s + more. (21+, $10) 9 p.m. at Metro Gallery, 1700 North Charles Street. For more information go to metrobmore.com.

Ultra Naté’s Deep Sugar 21st Anniversary Weekender Pt. 1: Afterhours celebration of 21 years of Deep Sugar’s house music party, featuring an all night set by NYC’s DJ Spinna. ($28.55 – $40) 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. at Club 1722, 1722 North Charles Street. For more information, go to ra.co/events/1993847. 

Sunday, October 6

October G.R.O.W Beyond Creative Barriers Join fellow writers, artists, students, thinkers, organizers and leaders for a monthly productivity session. 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at good neighbor, 3827 Falls Road. For more information, go to goodneighborshop.com.

Tuesday October 8

Bright Moments Jam Session: Join Obasi Akoto and members of the jazz community in a night surrounded by great company, soul-lifting music, and great food. ($10 streaming, free in person) 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Keystone Korner Baltimore, 1350 Lancaster Street. For more information, go to keystonekornerbaltimore.com.

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