The Phelps Connection Jazz Concert

“The Phelps Connection” is a collaboration of Indy musicians, managed by legendary drummer and entrepreneur Kenny Phelps and lead vocalist Valerie Phelps.

Kenny Phelps is one of the most in-demand jazz drummers internationally and in the Indianapolis area. He has backed the likes of Dee Dee Bridgewater, Melvin Rhyne, Roy Meriwether, and many more. His touch has been compared to legendary drummer Tony Williams. He also produces community festivals and has reached 1000s with entertainment throughout the city.

Valerie’s vocal style is versatile and dynamic. She performs a combination of jazz and soul rolled into an inspirational mix. She is a professional entertainer, producer for The Jazz Kitchen, Artistic Associate for The Cabaret of Indianapolis, and an admin agent representing other artists. She has shared the stage with Kandace Springs, countless Indy jazz ensembles, a featured guest National Anthem soloist for Gov. Holcom Inauguration, Indiana Black Expo, American Pianist Association Events, Animals and All That Jazz at The Indianapolis, Indiana Jazz Fest, Indiana Fever Anthem soloist, and Super Bowl Half Time Show support vocalist and more.

Also included in this collaboration are Indianapolis jazz all-stars Rob Dixon, Reggie Bishop, and Jonathan Wood.

Rob Dixon, the "Musical Mayor of Indianapolis" himself, steps up the groove. Dixon has worked with such legendary and famous artists as the Count Basie Band, Tony Bennett, The Ellington Band, members of A Tribe Called Quest, The Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks, and 7-string guitar virtuoso Charlie Hunter. Rob Dixon is an adjunct professor at IUPUI and Earlham College and is the Artistic Director for Indy Jazz Fest.

Reggie Bishop glues the group together with accompaniment on keys. Reggie is a staple in the Indy jazz scene and is often featured in groups around the area, including Triology, Blues Side, Groove Smash and countless combos at every jazz club in Indianapolis.

Jonathan Wood is a national bassist who has traveled worldwide with Kirk Whalum and countless other national jazz, soul, and gospel artists. He is one of the sought-after 8-string bass players in the nation.

This concert is co-sponsored by the Friends of Hancock County Public Library in conjunction with Winter Reading. Adults can join the club and earn entries in prize drawings for time spent reading in February. Visit https://hcplibrary.beanstack.org for more info.