On this week's SOUND CHECK, I've got tons of lovely music for you from across the sonic spectrum. From an incredible visitor from out of town bringing with them on stage a variety of local talent to open the night, to a local music spotlight that has been lighting up...
FUNK & JAZZ
SUBSCRIBE TO THE RVAMAG NEWSLETTER
more in music
‘Solar Music’ Shines Bright with Butcher Brown on NPR Tiny Desk
For those who've been following the mag coming out of the pandemic, it's no secret that we've got respect for Butcher Brown. This crew embodies much of what makes us love our city — authenticity coupled with a DIY spirit, and an unwavering love for Richmond, VA. A city known for birthing legends such as D'Angelo, Lonnie Liston Smith, Lamb of...
From Richmond to the Grammys: DJ Harrison Is Reppin’
Kick back and check out the conversation with Devonne Harris aka DJ Harrison, a down-to-earth local with some serious skills. He started Jellowstone Records from his living room, signed to the legendary Stone’s Throw label, put out several great albums, solo and with Butcher Brown, got a Grammy nod along the way, collabed with Polo and is...
Deep in the Cut with Hip Hop Henry & Billy Crystal Fingers
In this laid-back interview, I caught up with Richmond party scene vets Hip Hop Henry and Billy Crystal Fingers about their weekly Wednesday night event, Acid's Groove at Get Tight Lounge. They discuss the origins of the name, their love for acid jazz and rare grooves, and for making the party happen whenever they team up. ed. note:...
Falling in Love with Big Fancy
According to Big Fancy’s Instagram bio, they’re “kind of like a milkshake with all of your favorite things.” Sounds a bit too good to be true, but if your favorite things include smooth, sweet R&B, soul and pop sounds, you might be pleasantly surprised. Their Jan. 5 show at Gallery 5 sold me, and likely many other audience members, judging...
You Voted And Here We Go! the Richmond Music of Right Now in 2024
Thank you to everyone who participated in our voting this year. It's our first time compiling such a catalog, and it's truly been great to see the enthusiastic response with so many votes and shares. Also, we can't help but admire the incredible talent in our community. Musicians and artists are not only showcasing their own work but are also...
Grimalkin Records and The Richmond Trans & Queer Community
We delve into the world of Grimalkin Records, a Richmond, Virginia-based collective with a mission that goes beyond music. In this interview, you'll meet Eli Owens and Grim, the driving forces behind this nonprofit endeavor, and explore their inspiring journey from humble beginnings to a certified 501(c)(3) organization. They're amplifying...
RVA Mag’s Top 5 Guitarists in Richmond 2023
In embarking on any endeavor to decide who is the best, those engaged in the activity must recognize, and by extension acknowledge, that it is futile. Subjectivity holds sway over every aspect of any art form, and to dub someone the singular best of anything does a disservice to the area being dubbed. One person might possess an undeniable...
Local Music In The Spotlight at First Ever Richmond Music Week
Hey, Richmond, ready for a shot in the arm? Well, next week, prepare for the maiden voyage of Richmond Music Week, a coordinated strike from some of the city's stalwart music institutions — HearRVA, Ignited, The Auricular, RVA Playlist, Shockoe Records, and Virginia is for Music Lovers. It's a bold move, attempting to bottle the lightning that...
DJ Williams Is Embracing Vulnerability and Personal Growth in New Album, Soldier of Love
The neon glow of Get Tight Lounge is set to vibrate to the rhythm of an old friend on June 9th. One of Richmond's best live acts, DJ Williams, is returning to his musical roots, gracing the lounge with his versatile tunes and soulful strains in a special 20th-anniversary show that promises to be as electrifying as the day he left. Now a...