The 2025 Java and Jazz concert series kicks off on Tuesday, June 17th! Running through August, don't miss performances by Thornetta Davis, Joan Belgrave, and Sean Dobbins.
Detroit has long been known as a great jazz town. Java and Jazz is the summer after-work concert series that showcases some of Detroit’s finest musicians. Join us at the Detroit Public Library from June through August for free concerts held in the Main Library's Clara Stanton Jones Friends Auditorium, with complimentary refreshments.
Thornetta Davis
Tuesday, June 17, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Main Library, Clara Stanton Jones Friends Auditorium
Detroit’s “Queen of the Blues,” Thornetta Davis is an international singer, songwriter, and independent recording artist. The winner of countless awards and a Kresge Fellowship, she has performed and opened for artists such as B.B. King, Ray Charles, Etta James, Bob Seger, Bonnie Raitt and more.
Joan Belgrave
Tuesday, July 29, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Main Library, Clara Stanton Jones Friends Auditorium
Joan Belgrave is a vocalist, songwriter, and award-winning artist. She hosts a weekly radio show on WJZZ, “Groovin with Joan Belgrave.” From jazz, big band, blues, standards, gospel to contemporary R & B, Joan is adept at all musical styles and her versatility and passion for music is evident in every note.
Sean Dobbins
Tuesday, August 19, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Main Library, Clara Stanton Jones Friends Auditorium
Drummer Sean Dobbins got his start in Detroit at a young age as a jazz sideman. Described as “hard-driving, solid rhythm with refreshing melodic sensibility,” Dobbins has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. Not only a talented player, he is also a great educator, having served on numerous university faculties.