Tribute: Nikki Giovanni & Gil Scott-Heron ft. Knowledge & One Single Rose®

On Monday, June 1st, Detroit is invited to gather for a powerful
evening of poetry, rhythm, remembrance, and revelation as Sky
Covington’s Preservation of Jazz Monday Night Music Series proudly
presents:

A Tribute to Nikki Giovanni & Gil Scott-Heron ft. Knowledge + One
Single Rose®
This special tribute takes place at the legendary Aretha’s Jazz Café,
where artistry and legacy meet under one roof. The night will be
guided by laughter, soul, and truth—hosted by the incomparable Mike
Bonner, and opened by Sky Covington, the award-winning vocalist,
producer, and visionary behind The Preservation of Jazz, serving as
both curator and show opener.

With the sonic landscape carried by Knowledge, and the featured
presence of One Single Rose®, this tribute will feel like a cultural
gathering—where the spoken word becomes music, and music becomes
memory.
Honoring Nikki Giovanni
Nikki Giovanni is more than a poet—she is a heartbeat in language.
Her voice has cradled generations with words that are fearless,
tender, revolutionary, and beautifully Black. From love poems that
feel like warm sunlight, to declarations that stir the spirit,
Giovanni has always written with a rare combination of grace and fire.
As an icon of the Black Arts Movement, her work has uplifted Black
identity, celebrated Black womanhood, and reminded us that our voices
are not optional—they are necessary. Nikki Giovanni is the kind of
writer who makes you feel seen… and then makes you feel brave.
Honoring Gil Scott-Heron
Gil Scott-Heron was a poet, musician, and truth-teller whose voice
carried the sound of a people refusing to be erased. Often recognized
as one of the pioneers who shaped spoken word culture and conscious
hip-hop, he fused poetry and rhythm into a language that could
educate, awaken, and ignite.

His work was bold, brilliant, and uncompromising—rich with social
commentary, political insight, and emotional depth. Gil Scott-Heron
didn’t just perform… he delivered messages. He gave the world art that
stood for something, and reminded us that culture isn’t entertainment
alone—it is testimony.

An Evening of Legacy, Rhythm & Reflection
This is not just a show.
This is a Detroit moment.
A gathering for those who love art with meaning.

A tribute for those who remember what words can do.

A night for those who know that poetry can be a protest…and jazz can be a prayer.
Come dressed in elegance.
Come ready to feel.
Come ready to honor the voices that helped shape who we are.
Because some nights aren’t just performances…
They are history in the room.

EVENT DETAILS
Aretha’s Jazz Café (Inside Music Hall) — Detroit, MI
Monday, June 1st, 2026
Doors Open: 6:00 PM
Show Begins: 7:30 PM
Tickets: $35

Hosted by: Mike Bonner
Show Opener & Curator: Sky Covington
Featuring: Knowledge + One Single Rose®

For More Information
Aretha’s Jazz Café Detroit
Sky Covington / The Preservation of Jazz
248-383-3385

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