Jazz’d Up Sundays: Kobie Watkins

Jazz up your Sundays in Downtown Cary Park with our robust jazz series, produced by Christian Tamburr. Free and open to the public, this series promises to be a melodic journey through the vibrant world of jazz, featuring talented musicians and unforgettable performances.

A native of Chicago, Illinois, Kobie Watkins began his musical journey as a child, inspired by watching his father, Alious C. Watkins, play drums in church. From early days experimenting on pots and pans, he developed a deep sense of discipline, structure, and musical purpose that continues to define his artistry as a professional drummer, percussionist, and educator.

The Kobie Watkins Grouptet reflects this foundation—bringing together a collective of musicians rooted in tradition while embracing a forward-looking approach to jazz. Watkins has cultivated dynamic relationships across the jazz, Latin, and gospel communities, performing and recording with an extraordinary range of artists including Sonny Rollins, Joe Lovano, Branford Marsalis, Terence Blanchard, Christian McBride, Roy Hargrove, and Kurt Elling, among many others.

With the Grouptet, Watkins channels these influences into performances that blend hard-swinging rhythms, soulful expression, and vibrant interplay. The ensemble’s sound is both grounded and exploratory, reflecting a lifetime of collaboration, global touring, and deep musical connection.

Know Before You Go

• This event is free and open to the public.
• Bring your own chairs and blankets for a comfortable viewing experience during the performance.
• This event is suitable for all ages.
• Guests can bring their own food into the Park.