Hybrid Jazz From Trish Hennessey - with Vel Lewis!

Sincerely, to know Vel Lewis is to love him.  And yours truly can say that objectively.  It has NOTHING to do with the fact that he's a Philly Baby.  Okay, okay, I might be partial to Hometown Heroes!  But Vel is a wonderfully "different breed of cat."  (thank you, Sammy Davis Jr;) :)  

Vel started his sweet journey in music in the 60's.  He was in the Philadelphia All-Boys Chor, where he showed tremendous promise.  At the Settlement Music School, he learned technique for voice and piano, as well as concert flute.  He switched to organ.  And he learned how to drum and how to play electric bass.  But he DID soar on that Hammond B-3!

It showed when he was on local Philly TV.  Your host might have seen him do his thing with another Facebook friend, Gerry Brown - but I surely didn't know that we'd be pals someday.  He made a name for himself in town as his face became more familiar.  And he enjoyed the session work that came his way in Gospel music.  

In 1995, he was involved with a L.A. production music company - and Vel's music was heard on several TV shows.  Including "The Sopranos", "Mad About You", "Friends" and more.  There were concerts with Grover Washington, Jr. - as well as the O'Jays, Spinners, Supremes, and a three-year tour with Dionne Warwick.  Even a contract with Philadelphia International Records.  Along the way, he managed to record several projects.  You've heard "Colors of Soul" a LOT on "Hybrid Jazz!"

Vel and his wife were victims of Hurricane Harvey in Houston.  And our message during his visit is help for those in need.  We are mindul that it's up to US to take care of one another - we cannot rely on our government.  So, let's see how we can join hands.  Join us on 10/10!