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Jesus and Jazz Presents Charlie Apicella feat Avery Sharpe, Beareather Reddy and Steve Johns at Mt Zion AME
May 3 @ 11:30 am – 1:00 pm EDT
Jesus and Jazz returns on Sunday, May 3, 2026 at 11:30 AM with a powerhouse lineup featuring guitarist Charlie Apicella, legendary bassist Avery Sharpe, soulful vocalist Beareather Reddy, and master drummer Steve Johns. This is a rare convergence of artistry, spirit, and swing—right inside Mt. Zion AME Church, where music and ministry meet in a way only this series delivers.
Pastor Eyesha Marable – Honoring Legacy, Elevating the Lineage
Pastor Eyesha K. Marable has long been a guardian of cultural memory, and her leadership ensures that artists who carry the deep lineage of Black American music are honored with the reverence they deserve. Welcoming Avery Sharpe, now 71 and widely regarded as one of the most important bass voices of his generation, is perfectly aligned with her mission. Through her decades of work at Mt. Zion AME and NJPAC
Pastor Marable has built sacred platforms where master musicians can share their gifts with the community while their stories, struggles, and triumphs are preserved for future generations. By bringing in Charlie Apicella Vice President of North Jersey Blues Society with the legendary Sharpe—whose career spans McCoy Tyner, historic recordings, and a lifetime of musical storytelling—to Jesus & Jazz, she continues her commitment to celebrating elders, uplifting artistry rooted in heritage, and ensuring that the spiritual and cultural legacy of Black music remains alive, accessible, and deeply respected.
This is not just another concert—it’s a gathering of masters whose collective experience spans the deepest roots of jazz, blues, gospel, and Black American musical tradition.
Blessing Us With Their Gifts – Charlie Apicella Quartet
The Charlie Apicella Quartet brings a warm, soulful blend of blues, jazz, and deep groove that lifts the spirit and fills the sanctuary with joy. Their sound honors the tradition while inviting us into a moment of pure musical fellowship.
Charlie Apicella – Guitarist, Composer, Keeper of the Groove
Charlie Apicella brings a warm, soulful guitar voice shaped by the lineage of Wes Montgomery, Grant Green, and the organ‑groove tradition. Known for his work with Iron City and his deep respect for jazz history, Apicella blends blues feeling, bebop vocabulary, and spiritual sensitivity—perfect for the Jesus & Jazz sanctuary experience. Learn more:
https://www.ironcity.nyc/bio
Avery Sharpe – Bass Legend, Composer, Cultural Voice
Avery Sharpe is one of the most respected bassists of our time, celebrated for his decades‑long work with McCoy Tyner, his leadership as a composer, and his commitment to telling the stories of African American history through music. His presence elevates any stage—and his sound inside Mt. Zion AME will be nothing short of profound.
Learn more about the legendary Avery Sharpe:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avery_Sharpe
Beareather Reddy – Soul‑Stirring Vocalist with Gospel Fire
Beareather Reddy brings a voice that carries both the sanctuary and the jazz club. Her performances are rich with emotional truth, gospel warmth, and blues authenticity. Whether she’s delivering a spiritual, a standard, or a soul classic, she connects directly with the heart of the congregation.
Discover the fabulous Bearther:
http://beareatherreddy.com/
Steve Johns – Master Drummer, Rhythmic Architect
Steve Johns is a drummer whose swing is deep, joyful, and unshakeable. Having performed with jazz greats across generations, he brings clarity, drive, and musical wisdom to every ensemble. His rhythmic foundation will anchor this powerhouse group with grace and fire.
Lots more about Steve Johns right here:
https://www.stevejohnsjazz.com/
Why This Special Communion Sunday is Important?
Jesus and Jazz has become a cherished monthly gathering at Mt. Zion AME—a place where community members, music lovers, and spiritual seekers come together for a unique blend of worship and world‑class jazz. This May 3rd edition stands out as a rare meeting of four artists whose collective experience spans the highest levels of the jazz and blues world.
Leadership – Jesus and Jazz
Jesus & Jazz in Millburn is led by Rev. Dr. Eyesha Marable’s spiritual vision, Phil Bingham’s soulful musical direction and Gregory Burrus’s artistic curation forming a powerful trio that unites faith, community, and jazz excellence.
Discover more from Gregory Burrus Productions
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