Notes of Hope: A Powerful Night of Music, Legacy, and Cultural Impact
Presented by The Bass Shed Academy | October 5, 2025 | Catalina’s Jazz Club, Hollywood, CA
In a cultural moment where the arts continue to face critical challenges, Notes of Hope arrives as both a celebration and a call to action. Presented by The Bass Shed Academy, this special benefit concert—happening on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at Catalina’s Jazz Club in Hollywood—brings together legendary musicians, emerging artists, and community supporters to raise awareness and funding for music education and cultural outreach in Los Angeles and beyond.
At the heart of the event is a deep commitment to legacy—honoring the past while empowering the future.
Honoring a Legend: Jerry Jemmott’s Incarnation Blues Band
Headlining the evening is two-time GRAMMY Award–winning bassist Jerry Jemmott, a pivotal figure in the history of soul, blues, and American music. Known for his iconic work with artists such as Aretha Franklin, B.B. King, and Nina Simone, Jemmott will perform with his Incarnation Blues Band, offering a set that bridges history, groove, and activism.
Adding a unique layer of storytelling, the performance will feature acclaimed actor and vocalist Tucker Smallwood in a stirring musical tribute to Robert Johnson, the legendary Delta bluesman whose work laid the foundation for generations of artists. Smallwood’s soulful interpretation, paired with Jemmott’s unmistakable groove, promises to be a highlight of the night—reminding audiences of the enduring power of music to speak truth and carry legacy forward.
A Debut of Artistic Vision: Echoes of Change
Lia Booth
The evening will also feature the album release performance of “Echoes of Change”, the debut recording from The Bass Shed Academy Founder Ryan Roberts and acclaimed jazz vocalist Lia Booth. A deeply expressive voice-and-bass duo project, Echoes of Change is described as “A Suite Through Sorrow, Strength, and Song”—offering a fresh take on jazz tradition through emotional storytelling, innovative arrangements, and intimate musical interplay.
Ryan Roberts
Roberts and Booth’s performance captures the heart of The Bass Shed Academy’s mission: connecting generations, elevating artistry, and championing music as a transformative force.
Supporting Arts Education and Community Access
Proceeds from Notes of Hope directly support the Academy’s growing list of community-based programs:
LowEnd Lab – Masterclasses and workshops with world-class bassists and rhythm section players
Mobile Lesson Program – Bringing high-level music instruction into students’ homes at discounted rates
Peer Development Program – A youth leadership and creativity initiative connecting middle and high school students through music
Soundwave – A biannual community-building event celebrating local musicians, studios, and educators across Southern California
In addition, Notes of Hope will feature the official release of “The Baby Maker,” the Jerry Jemmott signature bass developed in partnership with Woodcraft Basses—a tribute to his cultural legacy and lasting impact on the instrument.
Tickets & Information
Notes of Hope will take place at Catalina’s Jazz Club in Hollywood on October 5, 2025.
Tickets and sponsorship information are available now at:
👉 www.TheBassShedAcademy.org/events/notes-of-hope
Join us for an unforgettable night that honors the voices of the past, celebrates the music of today, and invests in the sound of tomorrow.