Sy Smith Proves She's the Queen of Underground Soul at MIAC

Contributed

The Queen of Underground Soul herself, Sy Smith, will grace the Mary D'Angelo stage at Mercyhurst University for one night only. Embarking on a 14 show tour, her stop in Erie is one local residents should take advantage of, enjoying a night of world-class soul.

TUESDAY, MAR. 12

If you happen to be unfamiliar with Sy Smith, it's only going to take a few seconds for you to understand why she's known as "The Queen of Underground Soul." A monumental talent, Smith has been crafting innovative music for well over 20 years. Her latest album, Until We Meet Again is a gorgeously lush collection of tracks that showcase both the smoothness and the agility of her and her band. With what seems like effortless interplay, Smith's vocals waft magnificently like smoke — that is until it's time to hit.

And hit she will, on the Mary D'Angelo stage. Presented by the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture (MIAC), Smith is performing in support of Until We Meet Again with a 14-show tour. Fans from around the tri-state area should take notice of this Erie date as well, since this is the only stop within an over 200-mile radius.

Beginning her career as a background singer, Smith has toured with Usher, Ginuwine, Brandy, and none other than Whitney Houston, as well as appearing with musician Vonda Shepard (who played a fictionalized version of herself) on more than 40 episodes of Ally McBeal. She released her debut solo album Psykosoul in 2000, and has recorded five more full-lengths since then, as well as four EPs and guest appearances on at least 27 different albums. Her most recent and significant touring collaborations have been with trumpeter Chris Botti and singer/drummer Sheila E., both of whom make guest appearances on her latest release.

Her current band includes keyboardist DeAndre Shaifer, drummer Chris Bynum, and bassist Dennis Tyrelle Turner. Past lineups have included modern R&B and jazz icons Thundercat and Kamasi Washington. 

7:30 p.m. // Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center, 501 E. 38th St. // $35-$45 // For tickets and info: call the box office at (814) 824-3000 or visit miac.mercyhurst.edu