Friends of the Arts

History of Rhythm & Blues
A Musical Review with Ahmad Ali

Sunday, February 19, 2012 at 2:00 p.m.
At the Library Auditorium

Heat up your weekend with a smooth and soulful journey through R&B music with local artist Ahmad Ali and his band. Raised in a diverse community on Long Island, Ahmad was exposed to a wide variety of Soul and Jazz at home. The desire to play an instrument started young - he would put rubber bands on shoe boxes and try to make music! After playing throughout clubs, churches and all kinds of venues throughout his 20's, Ahmad raised a family, then began a new career as an event producer and playing back up for all kinds of artists and styles of music ranging from classic oldies Club music, Caribbean music, and more. He served as stage manager for the group Protocol when they opened up for Will Downing at the Paramount theatre. Other groups Ahmad worked with include: Soul 4 Real and “Perfect Pair Studios” which has produced Grammy winning artists such as Lauren Hill and Biggie Smalls; The Blackwood Band and James Brown Impersonator “Black Velvet” (AKA Daptone recording artist, Charles Bradley). Most recently, he has been working with various local groups and forming his own ensembles, including The Gordon Hurley Big Band, Ahmad + Kim Tetrault Combo, Blues States, Jazz on the Half Shell, Island Jazz Express, Snap, and The Ahmad Ali Trio. He has been a featured artist at LI Winterfest Jazz on the Vine for the past three years. For selections of his music, visit www.AhmadAliMusic.com or listen to his show “Café Ali” on alternating Wednesday mornings on WUSB Stonybrook,90.1fm and streaming at www.WUSB.fm, which highlights the music he loves, and inspirational people from all walks of life. We know you'll enjoy this musical review exploring the origins of R& B music. All are welcome.