Jazz N Soul Music welcomes Saxophonist and National Recording Artist Derwin Friday to the Jam Shak at Rozzelles Ferry Landing, Charlotte NC! Join us on Saturday, December 28th at 7:00pm or 9:15pm for live Smooth Jazz and Soul!
Don't let his last name confuse you – Derwin Friday works 24/7 as a professional saxophonist, national recording artist, and businessman. Going by the stage name D. Friday or simply Friday, he grew up in multi-rural churches that poured musical influence into his heart and soul. He began crafting his sound at nine and has been nonstop ever since.
He's the co-founder and lead of 5th and York- A Charlotte-based jazz ensemble formed in 2007. Along with Derwin on sax, the six-member group consists of a lead vocalist, drummer, guitarist, bassist, and keyboardist. Their music can be described as smooth contemporary natural vibes that grab the audience's attention—heading local events in the Charlotte metro area and others down south.
Opening for Earth, Wind and Fire, Frankie Beverly and Maze, Anthony Hamilton, and more, The group dropped their debut album, “Nascentum”, in 2011 and with a follow up in 2014 titled “All In”. The latest Venture, a live alum entitled “No Chaser” is accompanied by a Video production Executively Produced by Friday.
In 2012, he launched Baby Brothers Entertainment, LLC. The pragmatic umbrella sets the tone of elegance for his style, events, performances, and work in the music industry.
When creating his music, Derwin draws inspiration from a variety of sources including activist/writer James Baldwin, the legendary Stevie Wonder, and folk-rock artist James Taylor. This multi-dimensional inventiveness continues to propel his artistry forward. He's consistently redefining his impulses, curiosity, and complex nature to try something new every day.
When he's not working as a professional musician, Derwin impacts the community as a medical social worker, and has been recognized as the Inspire Social Worker of the Year for the city of Charlotte N.C.
Take a Walk on West Side at the Jam Shak at Rozzelles Ferry Landing, 2821 Rozzelles Ferry Rd, Charlotte NC. Less than 10 minutes from Uptown and I-77.