Description
Welcome to the Kannapolis Jazz Festival - Valentine's Day Special Concert! Get ready to groove at The Blind Fox with some of the best R&B artists in the business. Join us for a night of soulful music, smooth jazz, and unforgettable performances. This in-person event will have you grooving all night long. Don't miss out on this legendary experience!
Come enjoy Valentine's Day in the most elegant venue North of Charlotte, the Blind Fox Speakeasy. Raybandz Saxz is bringing his 5 piece band and Derwin Friday's band brought the house down last year at the Kannapolis Jazz Festival so look no further for the very best Valentine's Day event in the Charlotte area.
Click below to view video:
Video of 2024 Kannapolis Legends of R&B Jazz Festival
Artist Lineup:
- Raybandz Saxz & Band
- Derwin Friday & Band
Pricing
1 Ticket grants entry to both bands - $49.99 (UPDATE)
NOTE: Anyone that purchased tickets previously will be granted entry to both shows.
Be advised that the last event sold out and based on early ticket sales this will be another sold out event so do not wait if you are interested in attending this one of a kind Valentine's Day experience.
Kannapolis Jazz Festival FAQs
FAQs
Q. Will there be food?
A. Yes, there are options available to purchase for those that want to enjoy the show and a meal.
You can also order food at several amazing nearby restaurants.
Full Cash Bar and Food will be available for purchase.
Q. Will I have a seat to sit in?
A. Yes, there are very comfortable seats, elegant leather barstools, and plush sofas throughout the venue. Visit the Blindfox's website to learn more about the venue.
www.welcometotheblindfox.com
Q. Is there a dress code?
A. Yes. Please refer to the venue's website at www.welcometotheblindfox.com
It is an upscale speakeasy so dress shoes and collared shirts are recommended for men. Ladies are not allowed to have excessive ripping or undergarments showing. Again, please reference the dress on the aforementioned website for additional information.
Q. What is the run of show and layout of the event?
A. The venue, The Blindfox, is a gorgeous speakeasy with the performance happening in the Barrel Room Main State
Artist Bios
Derwin Friday Songwriter | Saxophonist |National Recording Artist
Don't let his last name confuse you – Derwin Friday works 24/7 as a professional saxophonist, national recording artist, and businessman. Going by the stage name D. Friday or simply Friday, he grew up in multi-rural churches that poured musical influence into his heart and soul. He began crafting his sound at nine and has been nonstop ever since.
He's the co-founder and lead of 5th and York- A Charlotte-based jazz ensemble formed in 2007. Along with Derwin on sax, the six-member group consists of a lead vocalist, drummer, guitarist, bassist, and keyboardist. Their music can be described as smooth contemporary natural vibes that grab the audience's attention—heading local events in the Charlotte metro area and others down south.
Opening for Earth, Wind and Fire, Frankie Beverly and Maze, Anthony Hamilton, and more, The group dropped their debut album, “Nascentum”, in 2011 and with a follow up in 2014 titled “All In”. The latest Venture, a live alum entitled “No Chaser” is accompanied by a Video production Executively Produced by Friday.
In 2012, he launched Baby Brothers Entertainment, LLC. The pragmatic umbrella sets the tone of elegance for his style, events, performances, and work in the music industry.
When creating his music, Derwin draws inspiration from a variety of sources including activist/writer James Baldwin, the legendary Stevie Wonder, and folk-rock artist James Taylor. This multi-dimensional inventiveness continues to propel his artistry forward. He's consistently redefining his impulses, curiosity, and complex nature to try something new every day.
When he's not working as a professional musician, Derwin impacts the community as a medical social worker, and has been recognized as the Inspire Social Worker of the Year for the city of Charlotte N.C.
Follow Derwin for his latest happenings on Twitter @derwinfriday and Instagram @d_friday_on_sax.
Learn more about 5th and York exclusively here: 5thandyork.com
Raybandz Saxz
Raybandz Saxz is a gifted, saxophonist originally from Shelby, NC, and currently residing in Greenville, SC. Known for his unique style and soulful sound, he captivates audiences at weddings and various special events throughout the region. Raybandz specializes in classic R&B hits and timeless oldies, while also performing original music. Praised not only for his musical talent but also his humble character and warm personality, Raybandz Saxz consistently leaves a lasting impression wherever he performs. He is a massively popular regular at Blues Boulevard in Greenville, South Carolina, and his 5 piece band is something you will not want to miss.
Run of Show
The Barrel Room Main Stage (To the left upon entering)
4:00 PM Raybandz Saxz and Band
6:00 PM Derwin Friday
Q. Where should I park?
A. I would recommend trying to park directly in front of the Blind Fox on West Avenue initially. However, there is very high chance that these parking spaces will be occupied.
The very best place to park if you are able to walk is parking on the Main Street parking lot near the Core Lab. This parking lot is located at the corner of Main Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard across from the park.

Q. How do I get to the venue?
The Blind Fox is a gorgeous speakeasy located at 207 West Ave. It is across the street from the Swanee Theater. It is very near the Sabor Latin Restaurant. A key to look out for will be "bowling pin" sign above the door.
Date & Time
Feb 14, 2026 4:00 PM-8:00 PM