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All sessions feature our Musical Host Raphael Semmes
Featuring Abi Thomas and Taylor Wells
The Dog Days of Summer are inching towards Fall, and that means students are preparing for reading, writing and arithmetic (or A.I. studies and code writing). But some, like this month's guests, are focused on music... specifically Jazz.
Vocalist ABI THOMAS (from Madison) began singing "as soon as she could talk" and in no time was learning Jazz standards. Her early start in life and love for Ella Fiizgerald propelled her into the music program at the University of Mississippi where she recently earned her Bachelor of Arts in Music with an emphasis on voice. As a student busy with lessons and recitals she discovered "The Mississippians" (aka the Ole Miss Jazz Band) and soon became the band's featured vocalist. That was where she met TAYLOR WELLS, a guitarist (and multi-instrumentalist) who had played in the Ridgeland High School Jazz Band. His interest in Jazz led him to Fusion Coffeehouse, where he heard Fusion 'Wall of Famer" Barry Leach. After lessons with Barry and listening to John Scofield he headed to Ole Miss. Playing in "The Mississippians" paid off big for Abi and Taylor when one day at rehearsal Dr. Michael Worthy announced that the band would be embarking on a European tour. Once back home, they were featured at the Township Jazz Festival.
According to Raphael Semmes, "I remember how cool it was to see a 'Fusion Kid' on stage. Taylor and the band were swinging hard, and Abi was amazing. People were asking WHO is that singer?!"
Both Abi and Taylor have sat in for guest appearances in jazz sessions at Fusion in the past, but now is your chance to see and hear them as our featured artists on the "Jazz Spot!"
Come early for best seats,award winning coffee and Italian gelato (which will soon be going out of season – so enjoy it while you can!).
Held Saturday, April 5, 2025
Despite a threatening weather forecast and winds gusting to 40 mph, we had another incredible turnout for the jazz festival! Our headliner Grace Kelly was a huge hit, with many guests buying her albums and begging us to book her again!
Thank you to everyone who helped make it another success!
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