Jazz pianist and composer Ramsey Lewis and world-renowned jazz guitarist and vocalist John Pizzarelli will pay tribute to Nat “King” Cole at the West Virginia University Creative Arts Center on Sunday, May 3. The concert is entitled “Straighten Up and Fly Right” and will get underway at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at the Mountainlair and CAC box offices and online at ticketmaster.com.

Ramsey Lewis, composer and pianist, has been an iconic leader in the contemporary jazz movement for more than 50 years. His unforgettable sound and outgoing personality have allowed him to cross over to the pop and R&B charts. Lewis first captivated fans with his debut album “Ramsey Lewis and the Gentlemen of Swing” by the Ramsey Lewis Trio (with Eldee Young and Redd Holt) in 1956. His 2011 release “Ramsey, Taking Another Look” marked his 80th collection of songs. Lewis has amassed three Grammy Awards and seven Gold records during his career.

John Pizzarelli is a world-renowned jazz guitarist and singer. Town & Country describes him as “hip with a wink,” while the Los Angeles Times call him “madly creative.” In the style of Nat “King” Cole and Frank Sinatra, John Pizzarelli has established himself as one of the prime interpreters of the Great American Songbook, bringing to his work the cool jazz flavor of his brilliant guitar playing and singing. The Seattle Times calls him “a master of Nat King Cole.”

Together, Lewis and Pizzarelli have crafted a tribute to Nat “King” Cole –- titan of fifties vocal pop –- that includes not only his hits but also those singular tracks of sophisticated cool jazz that have influenced their own careers.

Tickets for “Straighten Up and Fly Right” range from $40 to $70, depending on location. WVU Student tickets are available for $28 at the campus box offices with a valid Mountaineer Card. Some restrictions apply. Tickets may be purchased at the Mountainlair and CAC box offices, online at ticketmaster.com, by phone at 304-293-SHOW or 800-745-3000, and at all Ticketmaster outlets.

This performanceis part of the University Arts Series produced by WVU Arts & Entertainment. Stay connected with the latest event updates through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram by following @wvuevents.

-WVU-

ksg/4/28/15

CONTACT: Kristie Stewart-Gale, Arts & Entertainment
304-293-8221, kristie.stewart-gale@mail.wvu.edu

Follow @WVUToday on Twitter.