Winter Williams Presents an Instrumental Funk Session with Gurlz Play 2 on Thursday, September 18th at the Ivy Room in Albany, CA. Featured will be Chanelle Ignant (guitar), Danielle "drummagurl" Wansley-Strong (drums), Jewell McMilon (bass) and Richelle Scales (keys) with surprise guests sitting in.
Join us for another unique music experience curated especially for lovers of instrumental Funk influenced by Afrobeat, Jazz, R&B and more!
Doors open at 7:30 and downbeat is 8pm.
Tickets are $10 in advance (ticket link here) and $20 at the door (cash only).
More about the musicians:
Chanelle Ignant is a sought after guitarist and music educator based in Oakland, CA. Playing alongside artists such as Artelia Green and the Bandanas, Be Steadwell, Jay Marie is Holy, and countless others, she has developed a style that blends elements of jazz, R&B, funk, and acoustic soul. In her solo work she uses layered guitar loops to create sonic landscapes exploring the depths of grief, self-transformation, and Black joy. When not playing or writing music she loves teaching guitar and piano to the next generation of music makers. As a 2025 Next Jazz Legacy Awardee she has the honor of apprenticing with Meshell Ndegeocello.
Danielle "drammagurl" Wansley-Strong is a skilled and passionate drummer from the Bay Area, recognized for her versatility, endorsements, and active presence in the drumming community. Sharing the stage with musical greats such as Dwayne Wiggins, Lenny Williams and a lot more great artists. Danielle is currently a member of Girls Play Too, A Different World, Westones, Vibemuzik and Bay Area Blues society bringing a solid foundation and pocket to every stage she steps on.
Jewell McMillon is a bassist, vocalist, and composer from the Bay Area, California, rooted in the groove-rich traditions of funk and soul. She has performed extensively across genres of the African Diaspora, including jazz, gospel, R&B, hip-hop, and more. Her playing has led her to share the stage with artists like Fantastic Negrito, Y La Bamba, and a range of Bay Area acts. As a bandleader, Jewell blends deep-pocket bass with genre-bending arrangements and an open-hearted approach to every performance.
Richelle Scales, is a classically trained pianist with a love and passion for all styles of music. Since the age of 5, Richelle has developed an intricate relationship with the 88s, and as the instrument of choice, uses the piano to express her love for afrobeat, hip hop, classical, rock n roll, reggae, and just down right jammin'. She currently plays keys with Girls Play Too, The Back To Black Band ft. Victoria Wasserman ( Amy Winehouse tribute band), Somos Uno We Are One, and American Beauties (All Women Grateful Dead Tribute Band).
Background:
Started in June, 2023, Instrumental Funk Sessions at the Ivy Room showcase local and touring musicians collaborating in unique combinations that highlight the musicality and virtuosity of each performer. All Sessions feature a core group of musicians joined by surprise guests sitting-in throughout the night. For more information about this one-of-a-kind series please email winter@winterwilliamspresents.com.