I didn’t want to neglect you all this week with so much music to be seen, especially coming off of a strong Day for Night festival. Speaking of the festival, the real MVP of the weekend was Posh Liquors, a black-owned liquor store (also the only one) in downtown that also delivers!

1. Live Out Loud Band’s 2nd Annual Charity Holiday Concert

Tuesday, December 20 at Warehouse Live
I’ve seen this group perform and they’re jazzy, soulful greatness. And this annual bash is free!

2. Jabee “Black Future Tour”

Tuesday, December 20 at Alley Kat
Rapper Jabee is coming backed by local rapper Flyger Woods and two other local acts. I don’t know his music but I see a lot of names that I respect listed in association and it’s only $12 so stop by Alley Kat.

3. Jazz and the Word: Henk Rossouw & Kool B

Wednesday, December 21 at Project Row Houses
The Jazz Church of Houston is an interesting series that brings musicians and poets into a temporary exhibit space as a part of Project Row Houses’ current round of exhibitions. Make sure to reserve your space as seating is limited.

4. Analogue Wednesday’s presents Hope 4 The Holidays

Wednesday, December 21 at the House of Blues Foundation Room
I’m really glad that these are back. Just show up and hear some musicians do their thing. And if you play an instrument don’t be afraid to take the stage. RSVP now to get in free and avoid paying $5.

5. Milky Wayv Presents: Wayvy Wednesday LIVE

Wednesday, December 21 at the Nightingale Room
Milky Wayv is a Houston-based label and collective, and they’ll be featuring musicians Peyton, Eros, Lita Styles and Bobby Earth in this free show.

6. Tailored Wednesdays (5 Year Anniversary)

Wednesday, December 21 at Leon’s Lounge
Excellent music with good cocktails and free steak with shrimp kabobs. I still don’t understand how this free food situation works but people eat it and enjoy it and survive.

7. Lawndale Live

Thursday, December 22 at Lawndale Art Center
Lisa Gray, a columnist with the Houston Chronicle is joining as a guest for the last taping of this weekly variety show. It’s hilarious and each episode is recorded on Youtube. Also the musical guest is local rap phenom Fat Tony (pictured above)! If you watch the commercials you might see a familiar face…

8. LIVE Music: Blaze X Black Christmas Eve Party w/ DJade, T-Doe

Friday, December 23 at The Nightingale Room
Rap duo Blaze X Black is performing followed by DJade spinning.

9. The 5th Annual Bad Santa Holiday Affair

Friday, December 23 at 1919 Wine & Mixology
I tried to schedule my holiday travel around this party but alas I have to miss it this year. RSVP now to get in for free and party with other black professionals in town for the holidays. It should be a sign that this is the only actual party on the list.

That’s all I have for the week but I might add more later. Regardless, the merlexpicks.com calendar is up to date as always. And you can subscribe to my newsletter if you haven’t already. Make your New Year’s Resolution to attend more Houston events!