The MF Band and Aaron Smith & RDAA

DOORS: 7 PM / SHOW: 8 PM

GA: $15

RES: $25

21+

NO REFUNDS.

Come join us for a night of two drummer-led bands for some explosive and exciting music.

ABOUT THE MF BAND

Marcus Finnie, a proud native of Memphis, began his musical journey playing drums in church, where he accompanied his mother on the organ. During this formative period, he honed his skills by practicing with vinyl records featuring artists like Billy Cobham and Earth, Wind & Fire. At just four years old, he made his debut on Beale Street at the Rum Boogie Cafe, performing Eddie Floyd's classic "Knock On Wood" with a live band.

As he progressed through Watkins Overton High School, Marcus delved into classical and jazz music, igniting his passion for performance. He reflects on the experience, stating, “Being in a competitive school environment taught me about personal ambition and fostered a sense of camaraderie with my peers, motivating us to continually improve.”

Throughout his grade school years, Marcus played drums every Sunday at Olivet Baptist Church, and he also filled in as a drummer at a local club, stepping in occasionally for Yvette Preyer, the drummer for Isaac Hayes and Michael McDonald. It was at Olivet that he caught the attention of jazz saxophonist Kirk Whalum, the son of his pastor, Kenneth T. Whalum Sr. “Kirk encouraged me to keep playing, studying, and practicing, assuring me that I would perform with him someday,” a promise that has come to fruition over the past 16 years.

After relocating to Murfreesboro to attend Middle Tennessee State University, Marcus expanded his musical repertoire by participating in the marching band, jazz band, and orchestra. He later shifted his focus to the highly regarded Recording Arts Program, where he learned about production and studio techniques. During this time, he frequently traveled to Nashville to jam with various bands in hopes of establishing himself in the local gigging scene.

While in college, he interned with Grammy-winning producers Cedric and Victor Caldwell, recording with prominent figures like Smokie Norful, T.D. Jakes, Vickie Winans, and Donnie McClurkin, and he even collaborated with country artist Rodney Crowell.

Just one week after graduating, Marcus hit the road for the summer with Contemporary Christian artist Warren Barfield. Later that same year, he received an exciting opportunity to tour with the legendary Donna Summer. During this tour, he crossed paths with Billy Preston and, in between Donna’s engagements, joined Preston and renowned session guitarist Larry Carlton on international tours.

To date, Marcus has collaborated with an impressive roster of artists, including Kirk Whalum, Keb’ Mo’, Taj Mahal, Kurt Elling, Charlie Hunter, Lady Antebellum, and many more. His recording credits feature Grammy and Stellar Award-winning artists such as Jacob Whitesides, Kenny Lattimore, Ledisi, Andy Mineo, and Joss Stone.

Among his notable Grammy-winning projects are TAJMO with Taj Mahal and Keb’ Mo’ (2018), Oklahoma (2020), and Smokie Norful’s Nothing Without You (2005). He has also contributed to Grammy-nominated projects like T.D. Jakes’ He Motions (2005), India.Arie’s Songversation (2018), and Keb’ Mo’s Good To Be (2023).

For further details on his work, visit www.allmusic.com/marcusfinnie.

ABOUT AARON SMITH & RDAA

Meet "Aaron Smith & RDAA," a dynamic band founded by Aaron Smith, driven by a passion for original jazz, fusion, and soul music. The lineup features Aaron Smith on drums/vocals, DJ Washington Jr on bass, Antuan Walker on main keyboards, Evan Taylor on trumpet, AJ Tyus on guitar, Jordan Wright on auxiliary keyboards, and Deion Williams on Percussion. Hailing from the Midwest, with roots in Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan, the band has captivated audiences in cities like Cleveland, Akron, Indianapolis, Kalamazoo, Louisville, Youngstown, Nashville, and more. Their unique and inspiring sound, crafted by each member's distinct style, has garnered a growing fan base, with overwhelming love from audiences at every show.

Stay tuned for their debut project, "In My Basement," Set to release in 2025.

Before the lights dim and the first note hits, indulge in an evening of elevated dining at Evelyn’s, where timeless American flavors meet a touch of Southern sophistication. As an Analog ticket holder, enjoy 15% off your meal—because a night of exceptional music deserves an equally refined prelude.

Host or Publisher Analog at Hutton Hotel