What The Funk?
A Night of Grooves and Good Vibes at The Wolf
Experience an unforgettable night of live funk music at The Wicked Wolf, with “What the Funk?” Led by the dynamic duo of Paul Smith on guitar and Nico Vasquez on drums, this event is a haven for music lovers, happening every last Thursday of the month at 7:00 pm. Curious to know more? Read more about the event below and join us for an evening of unforgettable funk at The Wicked Wolf.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the smooth sounds of Paul and Nico as they kick off the night with soulful renditions of classics like “Confessions” by Usher, “Brown Sugar Babe” by D’Angelo, and “Oh Baby Baby” by Smokey Robinson. For the first hour, these seasoned musicians set the tone with their electrifying performance, creating an atmosphere that’s both intimate and exhilarating.
As the second hour unfolds, the stage opens up to the audience, inviting aspiring musicians and singers to join the fun. Whether you bring your own instrument or lend your voice, this is your chance to shine alongside some of the best in the business. The crowd, a vibrant mix of music enthusiasts, sway and bob their heads to the beat, making for a lively and engaging night out.
Meet Paul Smith: The Guitar Maestro
Paul Diess Smith II is a versatile and accomplished guitarist with a rich background in both education and performance. He honed his technical skills and theoretical knowledge at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. Known for his proficiency in various genres, Paul has taken numerous specialized guitar courses and workshops, refining his skills under the guidance of esteemed guitarists and music educators.
With an extensive performance history, Paul has graced stages at the Montreux Jazz Festival, Newport Folk Festival, Blue Note Jazz Club, The Fillmore, and the Hollywood Bowl. His collaborations with renowned artists like John Mayer, Herbie Hancock, Norah Jones, Esperanza Spalding, Marcus Miller, and Diana Krall highlight his adaptability and proficiency in different musical styles.
Paul has also made significant contributions as a recording artist, with albums like “Strings of Serenity,” “Electric Groove,” “Jazz Reflections,” “Fusion Frontier,” “Acoustic Journeys,” “Live at Blue Note,” and “Strings of Serenity II.” These works showcase his versatility and skill across various genres, solidifying his reputation as a talented and innovative guitarist. You can see some of his work on Spotify.
Meet Nico Vasquez: The Drumming Prodigy
Nico Vasquez, a drummer and songwriter from Orange County, CA, is one of the most sought-after drummers in Southern California. He has performed on prestigious stages like Camp Flog Gnaw, Observatory, and El Rey Theater with Steve Lacy of The Internet. Nico also showcased his drumming prowess on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert with Rae Khalil. A recent graduate of CSUF in 2023, Nico’s talent and energy bring an electrifying dynamic to every performance.
Join The Groove!
“What the Funk” is not just a music event; it’s a community experience. With no cover charge and no reservations required, it’s the perfect night out for anyone 21 and older looking to enjoy live music, good company, and the chance to be part of the show. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to groove to the beat and maybe even take the stage yourself!
