New Orlean’s Cultural Ambassador Irvin Mayfield Jr. Performs at MCG Jazz; Shemika Copeland at Club Cafe (CPs Thurs., 2/19/15)

1) Did you know that the city of New Orleans has an official Cultural Ambassador? His name is Irvin Mayfield, Jr. He announces his presence with a very mean trumpet. And for his visit to Pittsburgh, he’s bringing his full retinue of movers and shakers, the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra. Expect more than the traditional Dixieland jazz their city is known for, because Mayfield and the NOJO play jazz, period—with authority and with feeling. This is an MCG Jazz event. 9:30 p.m. 1815 Metropolitan St., Manchester.

Shemekia Copeland
photo: Sandrine Lee

2) Harlem-born blues singer Shemekia Copeland gained a lot of notice with “Never Going Back to Memphis,” which featured her resonant blues/soul vocals, storytelling lyrics, and fantastic guitar and drums. Copeland—the daughter of Texas blues guitarist and singer Johnny Copeland—started out singing professionally as her dad’s opening act while still in high school. A two-time Grammy nominee, she’s performed with such notables as Buddy Guy, B.B. King, Mick Jagger, and Eric Clapton. Copeland has also performed for President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama at the White House. She’ll be at Club Café with her band, so bring your own top guy or first lady and join the fun. The Blues Devils open. Doors at 7 p.m., music at 8. 56-58 S. 12th St., South Side.

3) The Blue Jackets are hopping on I-70 from Columbus, Ohio and will challenge our Pens tonight in a game of ice hockey. Faceoff is at 7 p.m.  Consol Energy Center, 1001 Fifth Ave., Uptown.

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