The City of West Palm Beach is set to host a musical evening filled with soulful performances and nostalgic moments. Today, from 7 to 9 p.m., the Sunset Lounge will be alive with the songs of Valerie Tyson, affectionately known as South Florida’s Very Own Queen of Soul. This gifted songstress, who has been compared to the legendary Aretha Franklin, is renowned for her “flame-thrower vocals” that undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on her audience. Attendees can expect a repertoire filled with jazz, soul, and R&B, as reported by the City’s official website.
Not just a regular gig, the concert is part of a grander plan for the Sunset Lounge, now hitting a high note as a cornerstone of cultural programming in the Historic Northwest District. In its heyday, the Lounge was the center stage for icons like Count Basie and Ella Fitzgerald, serving as a crucial platform for Black artists during an era when opportunities were far from equal. Scheduled future Soul in the City concerts at this venue, aim to offer a more dynamic experience for a larger crowd, complete with a pre-show dinner between 5 – 7 p.m.
The 7,200-square-foot, two-story Sunset Lounge reflects the West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency’s ongoing effort to revitalize downtown. Featuring a full-service restaurant, bar, and rooftop space, the venue serves not only as a concert hall but also as a cultural gathering place centered on music and community. Its restoration represents more than a physical upgrade, highlighting the city’s history and reaffirming its longstanding musical legacy…