Radio Milwaukee is thrilled to announce the return of the highly anticipated event, Vinyl Comes Alive. After a prolonged hiatus, the celebration of jazz is returning bigger and better than ever before. The premier fundraiser brings together jazz music lovers from across the city for a night of unforgettable performances on Thursday, April 18, at Turner Hall Ballroom, 1040 Vel R. Phillips Ave in Milwaukee.

Vinyl Comes Alive is a nod to the past, with a solid focus on the future, creating an immersive experience that transports attendees back to the golden age of jazz, with a fusion of innovation as we re-imagine jazz. From smooth, soulful melodies to upbeat, swinging rhythms, this event has something for everyone. Whether you’re a longtime jazz enthusiast or new to the genre, you don’t want to miss this incredible showcase of talent.

“For over 30 years, WYMS was synonymous with quality jazz programming in Milwaukee. When Radio Milwaukee took over programming on 88.9 FM in 2007, we continued to honor our jazz roots with programming like Rhythm Lab Radio. When we moved to our Walkers Point Studio, we created a memorial for Milwaukee’s jazz station WYMS FM 89 by including archive storage for the vinyl and CD libraries,” says Jordan Lee, 88Nine Senior Director of Programming. “As we find ourselves in 2024, celebrating a number of up-and-coming Milwaukee artists creating a new sound for jazz, we’re excited to bring that WYMS vinyl library to life at the Turner Hall ballroom.”

Tunes from jazz greats like Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, and Charlie Parker will flow seamlessly from the vinyl to this year’s lineup of an impressive roster of musicians, which includes established jazz legends and up-and-coming artists. Attendees can expect to be treated to captivating performances by the Milwaukee All-Star Jazz Band led by Jamie Breiwick, featuring Mark Davis, Hannah Johnson, John Christensen, and Lenard Simpson. Special guest artists include:

• Adekola Adadepo
• B-Free
• Emmitt James
• Klassik
• Tiffany Miller
• Aya
• Kyndal J

These talented musicians will bring their unique styles and interpretations of jazz classics, creating a one-of-a-kind experience for all in attendance.

In addition to the unforgettable live performances, Vinyl Comes Alive will present its first-ever Lifetime Achievement Award. This year’s honoree is the legendary Milwaukee jazz drummer, educator, and entrepreneur Sam Belton, of Sam’s Place Jazz Cafe. Sam has been a driving force in music in Milwaukee for decades, as a student, an educator, and a musical influencer. This well deserved honor highlights his commitment to jazz, music, and legacy in Milwaukee.

“Receiving a lifetime achievement award is not just an acknowledgment of my past accomplishments; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of perseverance, dedication, and passion that drives me forward each day,” says Sam Belton. “I have devoted my career to jazz music, educating and entertaining for decades and I’m thankful to Radio Milwaukee for recognizing my impact on music and Milwaukee.“

“Vinyl Comes Alive is a testament to the timeless allure of jazz, bridging generations and welcoming newcomers to the genre’s rich legacy, while honoring those who love and enjoy it today,” says Radio Milwaukee Executive Director Maxie Jackson. “With a blend of nostalgia and innovation, this event honors our past while embracing the endless possibilities of the future. It serves as a welcoming gateway for the next generation of listeners to discover and appreciate the beauty of jazz. I’m proud that Radio Milwaukee honors America’s original art form – jazz. We are dedicated to the preservation and forward progression of improvisational music rooted in the ideal of democratic virtuosity.”