vol. 278 / ALEXANDER MACKExploring and celebrating the place we all love to call home.
VOL. 278 / ALEXANDER MACK
Meet this week's guest editor, Alexander Mack. A Richmond-based singer, songwriter, and producer, Alexander is known for seamlessly fusing the vintage art of jazz, the energy of funk, and the versatility of hip-hop to create a smooth, groove-filled aesthetic.
A talented crooner as well as an emcee, Alexander channels his old soul through the head-nodding music he produces. With a rapidly growing international fanbase, he has a unique ability to capture new sounds with an old-school flair — earning him organic success around the world. Working across both music and fashion, Alexander has collaborated with brands such as Nike, Sperry, Rowing Blazers, and most recently TAFT Shoes.
Many people are unaware that Alexander has synesthesia, a perceptual condition in which he sees sounds as colors and shapes. It deeply influences the way he experiences the world, especially when creating or even listening to music. To Alexander, each instrument has its own color and shape. Another surprise to many — he is naturally a stutterer. Around age ten, Alexander realized that when he sang or rapped along with his favorite songs, he didn’t stutter. This taught him to speak with rhythm in conversation to help his mind maintain a certain pace, often using his hands while talking. By age nine, Alexander also discovered he could play music by ear and began learning his favorite songs. That skill became invaluable as a producer and songwriter, enabling him to create exactly what he hears in his head.
Mark your calendar for Saturday, August 9, when Alexander Mack takes the stage at the Richmond Jazz Festival alongside a phenomenal lineup of legends and rising stars — many of whom he grew up listening to. Until then, we’re honored to have him as this week’s guest editor to share his top recommendations for exploring and celebrating the place we all love to call home.
Take it away, Alexander …
SwapMeet RVA
SwapMeet RVA is one of my favorite events in the city — and a great way to surround yourself with Richmond’s creative community. The event features tons of curated thrift vendors, some of the city’s best DJs, and an unbeatable vibe. But SwapMeet is more than just a market. It’s a community hub where local entrepreneurs, artists, and vintage enthusiasts come together to celebrate creativity, diversity, and sustainability. Founded and organized by passionate locals, SwapMeet was created to provide a platform for small businesses, artisans, and food vendors to showcase their unique offerings in the heart of Richmond.
Latin music is one of my biggest inspirations, and Latin culture has played a meaningful role in my life. Havana ’59, a staple of Richmond’s Shockoe Bottom District since 1994, hosts a weekly Latin dance social every Thursday evening. Dancers aged 21+ are invited to enjoy a lively mix of salsa rhythms spun by a live DJ. The venue features an indoor dance floor and a popular rooftop bar. The event kicks off promptly at 8:00 p.m. and typically runs late into the evening.
My good friend Marcus “Tennishu” Tenney of the illustrious Butcher Brown will be playing with the Billy Williams Trio at the 1920s-inspired Goldwing cocktail bar. Goldwing is already one of my favorite spots in the city, but having one of the best sax and trumpet players to come out of Richmond, join a great band is the icing on the cake. Don’t miss their show on July 25 at this classic cocktail lounge in Scott’s Addition.
Vitals:
Friday, July 25 / 8 p.m. / Goldwing, 910 N Arthur Ashe Blvd
More about Alexander Mack and Richmond Jazz Festival.
The Richmond Jazz and Music Festival returns August 8–10, bringing three days of incredible live music, amazing food, and nonstop vibes. Alexander Mack's set is at 2 p.m., where he’ll be performing with a live band and one of his favorite DJs in the city, Infinite Peace. This year’s lineup also features T.I., Jodeci, Muni Long, Masego, CeeLo Green, Aloe Blacc, Charles Owens, and many more. Come experience the best of RVA — the best music, the best food, the best vibes — all at one of the East Coast’s premier music festivals.
