By Ericka Alston Buck,
Special to the AFRO
Baltimore’s second Annual Charm City Live Music Honors unfolded on Feb. 3 at the Orion At Fillmore, transcending expectations and delivering a spectacular celebration of local talent that resonated far beyond city limits. Curated by the visionary Luz Arce, the event aimed not only to showcase the vibrant music scene of Baltimore but also to reshape the city’s narrative through the lens of its thriving live music community.
The Orion At Fillmore, with its state-of-the-art sound system and intimate ambiance, served as the perfect stage for the enchanting evening that awaited attendees – a mix of dedicated fans and curious newcomers eager to experience the promised soulful melodies and electrifying beats.
At the heart of the celebration were the 2024 honorees: Craig Alston, Cory Baker, Rodney Kelley II, Brian “Spyda” Wheatley of the Craig Alston Syndicate, and the soulful Karen Linette.
These remarkable artists, deeply ingrained in Baltimore’s musical identity, took center stage as Luz Arce expressed her vision for the event: “With Charm City Live Music Honors, my goal is to inspire musicians to continue creating beautiful art and provide audiences with a magical night of music, fostering ongoing support for the talented individuals that keep the city’s live music scene alive and well.”
The Orion At Fillmore buzzed with anticipation as each honoree took their turn, delivering an eclectic mix of musical genres that showcased the diversity of Baltimore’s music scene. From jazz to R&B, the night unfolded like a musical tapestry, weaving together the rich cultural heritage of the city.
Jasmine Forman, left, Trennell White and Sherrell White enjoy the show. (Photos by Ericka Alston Buck)
Singer Karen Linette receives her flowers as a staple on the Baltimore music scene. (Photos by Ericka Alston Buck)
Keyboardist Rodney Kelley, left, drummer Brian “Spyda” Wheatley, vocalist Joi Carter, event organizer LuzCelenia Arce, bass player Cory Baker and saxophonist Craig Alston. (Photos by Ericka Alston Buck)
The Craig Alston Syndicate, a regional staple known for soulful and electrifying performances, took control of the room from their opening notes. Guiding the audience through a musical journey with their seasoned professionalism, the Syndicate played familiar songs, creating an atmosphere that resonated with both longtime fans and newcomers.
“What made the evening truly special was the collective synergy of The Craig Alston Syndicate, combined with the opportunity for each member to shine individually,” said Adam Davis, a Delaware resident who traveled specifically for the event.
Solo interludes allowed Craig Alston, with his soulful saxophone melodies, to paint emotive musical landscapes. Cory Baker’s mastery of the guitar added layers of depth and complexity, captivating the audience with each strum. Rodney Kelley II’s rhythmic prowess on the keyboard provided the heartbeat of the night, while Spyda’s drumming ability anchored the entire ensemble, creating a sound that was both cohesive and exhilarating. Each member took center stage for their solo moments, offering a showcase of individual brilliance that reaffirmed these musicians as not only a force when united but also formidable talents in their own right.
Karen Linette, described as a “true musical force” by event curator Luz Arce, emerged as a standout among standouts. Her soulful sound and awe-inspiring multi-octave range left an unforgettable mark on the hearts of those in attendance. As she graced the stage, attendees weren’t just treated to a performance; they witnessed a transformative experience. Linette’s vocal acrobatics effortlessly traversed various octaves, leaving the entire crowd on their feet, caught in the magnetic pull of her soul-stirring performance.
Described as a superstar by those yelling at the stage in attendance, Linette’s contribution became the highlight of an already spectacular evening, solidifying her status as a musical luminary in Baltimore. The Orion At Fillmore, now transformed into a pulsating sea of energy, bore witness to a true musical celebration.
As the applause echoed through the venue, it was abundantly clear that Karen Linette had not just performed; she had “shut the house down” in the best possible way. Her stellar performance, coupled with the collective brilliance of The Craig Alston Syndicate, made the Second Annual Charm City Live Music Honors a resounding success.
But the night held even more enchantment, as Joi Carter took center stage as the headlining vocalist. A DMV native and star of the OWN network reality show “Love & Marriage DC,” Carter brought her top-tier performance to the Charm City Live Music Honors. Dancing, singing, and flawlessly rendering popular R&B hits, she added another layer of brilliance to an already extraordinary night.
Carter’s dynamic vocals and commanding stage presence set the stage ablaze, creating an infectious vibe that kept the audience moving, grooving, and singing along. Her collaboration with The Craig Alston Syndicate added richness to the performance, showcasing the symbiotic relationship between vocalist and band.
As the night drew to a close, the applause for Joi Carter, Karen Linette and The Craig Alston Syndicate echoed through the Orion At Fillmore. The Second Annual Charm City Live Music Honors had not just celebrated local talent; it had declared Baltimore’s musical prowess to the world, leaving a mark on the global stage. For those who missed the magic, the message was clear: plan ahead for 2025, as Charm City Live Music promises another year of enchanting performances, community building, and an unparalleled celebration of Baltimore’s musical tapestry. The Charm City Live Music Honors are not just an event; they are a declaration
