For the Love of NINA

Step into the Liminal Space Where Legacies Converge: Sista Zock and Leopoldo Fleming at Minton’s Playhouse On September 14, at the historic Minton’s Playhouse, prepare to witness a performance that transcends time and space as Sista Zock and Leopoldo Fleming bring their unique musical chemistry to the stage. Their connection is not just one of collaboration, but of deep mentorship and shared history that began in the vibrant atmosphere of St. Nick’s Pub, where they first crossed paths. It was here that a chance encounter with a CD seller named Benny led Sista Zock to purchase a live performance recording of the legendary Nina Simone—only to discover that the voice accompanying Simone was none other than Leopoldo Fleming, the very man who would become her mentor. Sista Zock: A Renaissance Woman from Harlem, Sista Zock’s artistry defies categorization. She crafts a sonic experience that melds spoken word with song, weaving Afro Jazz Fusion with a touch of Hip-hop into a tapestry that resonates with cultural richness and personal resilience. Her work, including the track "You Should Know That," featured as the official trailer for Academy Award-winning Lee’s Netflix series She’s Gotta Have It Season 2, showcases her ability to transcend boundaries and captivate audiences across mediums. Sista Zock’s latest project, Zock Solid, Where the Stem Meets the Root, features a collaboration with Abiodun of The Last Poets and is a dedication to fallen soldiers, victims of senseless killings, and those ahead of their time. Her performances are a celebration of triumph, optimism, and perseverance, with a narrative that speaks directly to the soul. Having shared the stage with luminaries like Omari Hardwick, Loretta Divine, Bilal, and Macy Gray, Sista Zock’s influence extends beyond music, inspiring individuals from all backgrounds. Leopoldo Fleming: A master percussionist and a true veteran of the global music scene, Leopoldo Fleming brings decades of experience and a rich cultural palette to his performances. With roots in Latin-Afro-Indian traditions, his childhood in Puerto Rico and St. Thomas, and a career that spans continents, Leopoldo’s music is a fusion of jazz, funk, R&B, Caribbean, Cuban, Brazilian, and African rhythms. He has toured extensively with legendary artists such as Miriam Makeba, Harry Belafonte, and Eartha Kitt, and served as Nina Simone’s percussionist for over 31 years. Leopoldo’s performances are marked by his melodic gift and sophisticated timing, making him a brilliant accompanist and soloist. His contributions to the world of jazz and beyond have been celebrated worldwide, including his work with the Lou Caputo Not So Big Band and the New York Harlem Singers. Whether leading ensembles at major festivals or creating original compositions for theater, Leopoldo’s artistry reflects a deep authenticity and an unwavering commitment to his craft. Together, Sista Zock and Leopoldo Fleming create a liminal space where the echoes of Nina Simone, John Coltrane, and Billie Holiday converge with an Afro-Futuristic lyrical vibe. Their collaboration at Minton’s Playhouse is more than just a performance; it’s a journey through the legacies of the past and the creation of new artistic expressions that resonate with the present. Their bond, forged through shared history and mutual respect, brings a unique depth to their music, promising an unforgettable evening of sound and storytelling.

Event Links

Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/2604611-0

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