Isaiah Sharkey

About this event

Isaiah Sharkey stands at the confluence of modern soul, jazz, R&B, and Black American guitar tradition, carrying forward a lineage that links George Benson, Curtis Mayfield, Wes Montgomery, and Jimi Hendrix, while forging a vocabulary entirely his own. A GRAMMY award-winning guitarist, vocalist, composer, and producer, Sharkey has become one of the most respected musicians of his generation – celebrated for his sophisticated harmonic sensibility, unmistakable tone, and ability to shape-shift effortlessly between musical worlds. Sharkey’s guitar work on D’Angelo’s landmark album Black Messiah earned him a GRAMMY Award and a position among the most innovative guitarists shaping contemporary Black music. As a solo artist, Sharkey has developed a distinctive, emotionally resonant sound that blends deep-pocket groove, virtuosic improvisation, and songwriter-driven storytelling. His latest album, RED, introduced audiences to his modern fusion of soul, R&B, jazz, and guitar-based narrative. His follow-up projects – each expanding his sonic palette – solidify his standing as an artist capable of speaking fluently to instrumental purists and mainstream audiences alike. His forthcoming releases explore new integrations of analog and electronic texture, guitar-forward harmonic architecture, and songwriting rooted in personal truth. Whether performing his own music or elevating the work of others, Sharkey brings the same signature qualities: precision, warmth, spirituality, and an unshakeable sense of groove. Isaiah Sharkey Website Sponsored by Joe Hyatt and Anissa Novak (Ticket Includes 5% City of Santa Cruz Admission Tax)