Tue Jan 23
Avon Dews is a vocalist and musician who's regarded as one of Washington, D.C.’s premier Jazz Harmonicists. A native of the District, he began his musical career at six years old. By age 12, this self-taught musician began to explore his abilities by playing his first real instrument, the bass guitar. As he grew into his teen years, Avon traveled the region with two of his older brothers and a cousin in their family band known as “New Elements.”
Avon later received a gift from a friend that would change his life - a kit called “Learn How to Play the Harmonica”, which included an instruction book, cassette tape and harmonica.
Avon embraced the challenge and discovered that, with consistent practice, he could create beautiful music from this small, rectangular wind instrument. It became his passion, and a Jazz Harmonicist was born.
Influenced by some great harmonicists like Lee Oskar (WAR/Lowrider Band), Toots Thielemans, and Stevie Wonder, Avon’s music is a smooth jazz fusion of soul, blues, and rock with a touch of funk. He’s been said to put ‘the cool’ in harmonica playing, and a big part of his unique style is that he enjoys performing songs that were not originally recorded on the harmonica. This was front and center on his 2016 debut album, "Introducing Avon Dews, Volume 1", where he covered classics by Miles Davis, John Lennon, and Michael Jackson.
Avon has wowed audiences in the D.C. region and beyond with his energetic and engaging showmanship at various venues and festivals, having shared the stage with Lonnie Jordan of WAR, acclaimed jazz unit Phaze II and chart-topping smooth jazz bassist Christian de Mesones.
Avon has been called a "superstar harmonicist" by industry peers and his shows are described as ‘must-see events’, turning first-time listeners into loyal supporters.