How might one describe an artist who records and performs in whatever genre her spirit is speaking that day? An artist you go to see and never quite know what to expect…except that you’re going to feel good. Real good. Akeylah Simone, from Hampton Roads, VA, is that artist.
Akeylah Simone delivers a stunning performance both in the studio and on the road, fusing Neo‑Soul, Rock, R&B, Pop, and Jazz into a sound that is unmistakably her own. Her personal, poetic writing style—paired with sultry, soulful vocals—creates an experience that leaves audiences entranced. In just her first two years of releasing original music, she landed five songs on the Grammy Ballot, earned Encore’s 2021 Best Solo Artist, ISSA’s 2022 Female Rising Star, and Veer Magazine’s 2023 Best R&B/Soul Artist. She has also received numerous nominations across major publications, including Best New Artist (Soul Tracks Reader’s Choice Awards) and Song of the Year & Best R&B/Soul (Veer Awards).
Her love for music is deeply rooted in her upbringing. Raised by two musicians, Akeylah developed a passion for singing and sonic exploration early on. By age seven, she was already practicing her Bruce Hornsby set in her bedroom every night—preparing for the life she knew she was destined for. She still joins her father, Bobby Blackhat, on stage whenever possible and has been featured on several of his albums, lending background vocals, solos, and even her own cover of “Fever” alongside her younger sister.
Music has always been her outlet for navigating life’s complexities. From her first single, Uncertainty, to her debut album Akeylah Simone…AS IS | Black First, she shares her story with refreshing authenticity. And now, as a nationally touring recording artist, Akeylah Simone continues to open her journey to the world—one city, one stage, one unforgettable performance at a time. Her voice makes it clear exactly where she’s headed.
Previous events
Join Akeylah Simone & Company for a special acoustic performance of her original music off her debut album, Black First.
Raw. Radiant. Revolutionary. Akeylah Simone's AS IS | Black First Tour is more than a concert-it's a declaration. With a voice that commands attention and a presence that radiates authenticity, Akeylah delivers a soul-stirring performance that celebrates Black identity, resilience, and artistry in its purest form. This tour is a sonic journey through genres —R&B, soul, jazz, and funk-woven together with unapologetic storytelling and electrifying stagecraft. Each show is a living, breathing canvas where Akeylah paints her truth As Is: unfiltered, unpolished, and unforgettable.
Get ready to jam out at the Revel at the River Music Festival in conjunction with the Revolutionary BBQ Brawl! Join us at the beautiful Chickahominy Riverfront Park. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy great tunes, good vibes, and awesome company. Don’t miss out on a weekend full of music, fun, and riverfront views.
Friday, April 24: BBQ, Beer, Whiskey, and Wine Time: 6:30pm-9pm Ticket: $55 - Includes BBQ tastings, beer, whiskey & wine tasting
Raw. Radiant. Revolutionary. Akeylah Simone's AS IS | Black First Tour is more than a concert-it's a declaration. With a voice that commands attention and a presence that radiates authenticity, Akeylah delivers a soul-stirring performance that celebrates Black identity, resilience, and artistry in its purest form. This tour is a sonic journey through genres —R&B, soul, jazz, and funk-woven together with unapologetic storytelling and electrifying stagecraft. Each show is a living, breathing canvas where Akeylah paints her truth As Is: unfiltered, unpolished, and unforgettable.
Raw. Radiant. Revolutionary. Akeylah Simone's AS IS | Black First Tour is more than a concert-it's a declaration. With a voice that commands attention and a presence that radiates authenticity, Akeylah delivers a soul-stirring performance that celebrates Black identity, resilience, and artistry in its purest form. This tour is a sonic journey through genres —R&B, soul, jazz, and funk-woven together with unapologetic storytelling and electrifying stagecraft. Each show is a living, breathing canvas where Akeylah paints her truth As Is: unfiltered, unpolished, and unforgettable.
Raw. Radiant. Revolutionary. Akeylah Simone's AS IS | Black First Tour is more than a concert-it's a declaration. With a voice that commands attention and a presence that radiates authenticity, Akeylah delivers a soul-stirring performance that celebrates Black identity, resilience, and artistry in its purest form. This tour is a sonic journey through genres —R&B, soul, jazz, and funk-woven together with unapologetic storytelling and electrifying stagecraft. Each show is a living, breathing canvas where Akeylah paints her truth As Is: unfiltered, unpolished, and unforgettable.
The Black First Homecoming Anniversary Concert marks a full year of artistry, advocacy, and unapologetic cultural celebration. What began as a bold declaration has grown into a movement — one that has traveled city to city, stage to stage, carrying the stories, rhythms, and resilience of Black identity across the region.
Now, one year later, the tour returns to where it all began.
This homecoming concert is more than a performance; it is a moment of reflection and recognition. It honors the community that shaped the vision, the hometown that nurtured the voice, and the people who have walked alongside the movement from its first note. Audiences will experience an evening of soulful music, intentional storytelling, and the unmistakable spirit that has defined the Black First Tour from day one.
As the journey comes full circle, this anniversary celebration stands as a testament to legacy, leadership, and the power of returning home transformed — yet rooted in the same truth:
Black. First. Always.
An intimate night of live soul, artistry, and Black excellence—celebrating one year of AS IS at Venue Thirty7 in Akron. Join us for a night of live music, connection, and culture as Akeylah Simone brings her AS IS | Black First One Year Anniversary Concert to Venue Thirty7, Akron’s newest destination for elevated experiences and creative expression.
This milestone marks one year of the AS IS | Black First Album — a journey of unapologetic artistry, storytelling, and Black excellence. Expect an inspiring evening filled with soul, authenticity, and powerful performances that celebrate community and culture.
✨ What to Expect:
Live performance by Akeylah Simone featuring original music and soulful storytelling. An intimate venue experience designed for creative energy and connection. Exclusive grazing table curated by Plannerz Place Eatery (VIP access only). Merch pop-up and meet & greet with Akeylah Simone. After-vibe moment for photos, conversation, and celebration. 🎟️ Two Ways to Experience the Night:
VIP Access: Early entry (6:30 PM), private grazing table, meet & greet, mini wine, grab bag, and premium stage seating. General Admission: Entry (7:30 PM), standard seating, full performance access, and merch availability. 🕕 Schedule Highlights: 6:30 PM — VIP Doors Open 7:30 PM — GA Doors Open 8:00 PM — Live Performance 8:45 PM — Meet & Greet + Merch 9:00 PM — After-Vibe + Photos 9:30 PM — Event Close
A night of artistry. A celebration of Black expression. A moment for the culture — live at Venue Thirty7.
Raw. Radiant. Revolutionary. Akeylah Simone's AS IS | Black First Tour is more than a concert-it's a declaration. With a voice that commands attention and a presence that radiates authenticity, Akeylah delivers a soul-stirring performance that celebrates Black identity, resilience, and artistry in its purest form. This tour is a sonic journey through genres —R&B, soul, jazz, and funk-woven together with unapologetic storytelling and electrifying stagecraft. Each show is a living, breathing canvas where Akeylah paints her truth As Is: unfiltered, unpolished, and unforgettable.
Raw. Radiant. Revolutionary. Akeylah Simone's AS IS | Black First Tour is more than a concert-it's a declaration. With a voice that commands attention and a presence that radiates authenticity, Akeylah delivers a soul-stirring performance that celebrates Black identity, resilience, and artistry in its purest form. This tour is a sonic journey through genres —R&B, soul, jazz, and funk-woven together with unapologetic storytelling and electrifying stagecraft. Each show is a living, breathing canvas where Akeylah paints her truth As Is: unfiltered, unpolished, and unforgettable.
AS IS… Music with Purpose explores how to use music as a creative outlet for emotions and tell stories through lyrics, melodies and chord progressions. As well as raising awareness about social issues and celebrating who we are individually and culturally. Music is more than just entertainment. When we use art and Music with Purpose, we have the power to make change within ourselves and in the World.
FREE
Raw. Radiant. Revolutionary. Akeylah Simone's AS IS | Black First Tour is more than a concert-it's a declaration. With a voice that commands attention and a presence that radiates authenticity, Akeylah delivers a soul-stirring performance that celebrates Black identity, resilience, and artistry in its purest form. This tour is a sonic journey through genres —R&B, soul, jazz, and funk-woven together with unapologetic storytelling and electrifying stagecraft. Each show is a living, breathing canvas where Akeylah paints her truth As Is: unfiltered, unpolished, and unforgettable.
Come celebrate Black History Month and the uniqueness of each other as we perform music from the Akeylah Simone…AS IS| Black First Album!
$25
Latest Track
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0:00/2:55
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0:00/2:45
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8 Hours 2:460:00/2:46
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This Love 4:540:00/4:54
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0:00/7:38
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Uncertainty 3:340:00/3:34