Anne Erickson on Jackiem and An Evening of Smooth Jazz

An Evening of Smooth Jazz returns to mid-Michigan for a ninth year tonight, bringing the smooth jazz sounds of Jackiem Joyner.

BMRW Promotions puts on the show, which takes place at the Holt High School Performing Arts Complex this year, and spokesperson Charlie Wilson says the event has grown steadily over time.

“I remember our first event when many didn’t know about smooth jazz or even some of the artists who performed, but they came to support music in the community,” Wilson said.

“An Evening of Smooth Jazz has become more than just a music event,” he added. “Several people who have moved from the area, come back to spend the evening with friends and family. A few have purchased tickets in advance for the next three to four years, and we’ve had repeat guests from Washington, Nevada, Florida, California, Ohio and Georgia.”

Q: What’s the fundamental purpose of An Evening of Smooth Jazz?

A: You might not expect a show that parallels that of larger cities, but An Evening of Smooth Jazz offers just that, right in the community. The music series was created to support the jazz art form by providing affordable, top-quality music in the community. We feature some of the best musicians in the world who don’t typically perform in mid-Michigan, as well as local or regional artists.

The only way to keep the music alive is for artists to play it and others to hear — to see and to experience the art form live.

Q: Tell me about Jackiem Joyner, this year’s headliner.

A: Jackiem Joyner is a talented and versatile artist, composer and producer.

He has never been to Lansing and we are really excited to build on that.

Jackiem has developed a reputation as a complete instrumentalist with a signature sound that pleasantly surprises audiences with his music.

He was chosen Debut Artist of the Year by industry tastemaker “Smooth Jazz News.” He caught the attention of trumpeter Rick Braun and saxophonist Richard Elliott, who signed him to their record label, the Artizen Music Group.