Top Picks at The Hamilton in July

Head down to The Hamilton this July and enjoy the uniquely designed, state-of-the-art venue where the musician and audience come together for a truly one-of-a-kind experience of entertainment and dining. Check out The Hamilton’s top picks for the month. 

1. Naomi Shelton and Kevin Jackson on Saturday, July 9
Catch Naomi Shelton, a veteran gospel/soul singer who only recently got her big break and signed to Sharon Jones’ Daptone Records. Though the music is most unapologetically gospel, most of the lyrics on the record would fall under what could be called “message songs.” That is, music containing uplifting spiritual messages, reminiscent of the more inspirational moments of The Staple Singers or Curtis Mayfield. However, the relationship between gospel and soul music does not need to be discussed again here. It is as plainly and naturally inherent in these grooves as it is in the singer’s every word and motion. There is no one alive today that has a voice or spirit more capable of lifting an audience than Naomi Shelton.

Also, don’t miss Kevin Jackson, a Baltimore-based R&B/soul singer who is lively and energetic. A guitarist, bassist and producer, Kevin Jackson from has recorded and performed with artists Sheila E., Jennifer Holliday, Maysa, Oli Silk, Chico Debarge and international talent Kenny Wesley. Jackson’s mix of acoustic renditions, rock, contemporary Christian, jazz and soulful R&B offers something for every taste. On stage, it’s easy to see this is where he is most comfortable. Performing is truly where Jackson comes to life through his music and band. $15-$35. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.Purchase tickets here.

Dubbed by CMT as the “Rockstars of Bluegrass,” the Dailey & Vincent duo has been hailed throughout the music industry as one of the most exciting, reputable and elite bluegrass bands in America, having won numerous awards for their uniquely contagious and riveting music, including three Grammy Award nominations for the 2014 “Bluegrass Album of the Year;” 14 International Bluegrass Music Awards as three-time “Entertainer of the Year,” three-time “Vocal Group of the Year” and “Album of the Year;” and four Dove Awards with three “Bluegrass Album of the Year” and one “Bluegrass Song of the Year.” This show is presented in partnership with WAMU as a part of the Hamilton’s monthly concert series. $22.50-$39.50. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.Purchase tickets here.

Catch son of the legendary king of zydeco, the late Clifton Chenier, as he plays with his dad’s original band. C.J. Chenier, a Creole born and raised in an indigenous American culture with its distinct language, cuisine and music, delivers a soulful vocal and accordion. Chenier, a Grammy-nominated, world-renowned musician and recording artist, has performed alongside many internationally recognized artists including his Grammy-awarded father, Clifton Chenier, Paul Simon, Joe Sample and Ray Parker, Jr., The Gin Blossoms, and John Mayall. He has appeared on The Jon Stewart Show, CNN and was featured on VH1 and in Entertainment Weekly. Enjoy the upbeat and danceable New Orleans music. $15-$20. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Purchase tickets here.

4. Rich Robinson on Saturday, July 30
Catch the former guitarist of The Black Crowes touring as a solo project, and what a treat! Robinson has pushed himself further than ever in his new music and it still fits into the arc that spans all of the music he’s made, on his own and with the Crowes. “I’ve always been happy with every record I’ve ever made,” he reflects. “With the band and on my own, I’ve always made the best records we could at the time. I’ve never looked back and thought, ‘I wish I could have done this differently.’ That’s not how I think. From when I was 19 and we made  Shake Your Money Maker to now, I’ve never tried to make the same record twice. We were always pushing and pushing, always forward. We were free, but it’s been great to get away from always thinking, ‘I’m writing for this band. I’m writing for someone else’s voice.’” Enjoy his Southern Jam Band style. $18-$28. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Purchase tickets here.Hamilton:  600 14th St. NW, DC; 202-787-1000; www.thehamiltondc.com

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