Alexander Simone and Whodat shines a light on the west side of Asbury Park and all the local creatives living there who inspire and uplift people through music. The event, which Simone hopes will inspire a new generation of up-and-coming creatives, features jazz, R&B, neo-soul, spoken word and more, hopes to help bring unity and awareness to an area that’s often overlooked, yet full of vibrancy and talent. Alexander Simone is a prolific artist, musician, songwriter and motivational speaker hailing from Asbury Park. The grandson of Nina Simone, he started composing music at 14, creating music that relates to everyday life and inspires listeners to cherish life and love. Joining him is Whodat? Live Crew, a league of extraordinary musicians including Jules Drucker on lead, Kevin Stryker on bass, Andrew Davis on drums, Jabbari Hill on key and Kindra Graham and Bryen Reeves on vocals. Marcus Machado was named “Next Young Gun” by Rolling Stone Magazine in 2016 and since then he has not disappointed in becoming one of the most in demand young guitar players in the world, both in the studio and on the road. Marcus recently has secured endorsement deals with D’Angelico Guitars, Beetronics, Tech 21 and D’Addario as well as performing on stage and/or in the studio with such contemporary luminaries as Anderson.Paak, Robert Glasper, Lalah Hathaway, Pete Rock, and Georgia Ann Muldrow. Asha Griffith is a prolific hip hop artist/tap dancer/choreograper from NYC who does shows all through the tristate and has worked with and for a plethora of Notable Artists. Her soulful hip hop presence through bars and tap is sure to captivate an audience. Chill Smith is a fire hip hop artist from the shore who thrives in the local scene as a producer, artist, and educator. Zal Walton is a local artist and soul singer whose voice captivates any audience he’s in front of. Also featuring other local artists, comedians, poets, and creatives from around the tristate area! Telegraph Hill Records and Asbury Sunset are collaborators on the event.