RESPECT: Quiana Parler Sings Aretha Franklin
Season Subscriptions available for purchase on October 13
To purchase by phone, call the Box Office (Mon-Fri, 10AM-5PM): (843) 641-0011
RESPECT: Quiana Parler Sings Aretha Franklin
Two-time Grammy Award winner and Charleston favorite Quiana Parler, joined by The Wives vocal ensemble, delivers a soul-stirring tribute to Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul. From “Respect” and “Chain of Fools” to “Think” and “A Natural Woman,” these iconic songs rise to new heights with the power of the full Charleston Jazz Orchestra behind them.
A night of soul, powerful vocals, and spirit.
Concert Length: 90 min (no intermission)
About Aretha Franklin:
Aretha Franklin (1942-2018) was an American singer who defined the golden age of soul music of the 1960s. Considered one of the greatest vocalists of the 20th century, Franklin possessed a formidable gospel-trained voice that she used to command a range of music styles, including jazz, blues, pop, rhythm and blues (R&B), rock, and even opera.
Source: Brittanica.com
About Quiana Parler:
As lead vocalist, lyricist, and composer for internationally- and critically- acclaimed Grammy Award-winning roots music group, Ranky Tanky, Parler spent weeks at #1 on several Billboard Jazz charts. Quiana has spent over 20 years as the most sought-after vocalist in the Lowcountry. Known locally for years prior, she rose to national prominence after her success on the 2003 season of American Idol.
Quiana has worked and collaborated with diverse artists and producers such as Clay Aiken, Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard, Bobby McFerrin, Miranda Lambert, David Foster, Walter Afanasieff and many more. Her performances have been featured on national broadcasts like The View, NBC’s TODAY, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, The Tonight Show, The Tyra Banks Show, and Saturday Night Live, as well as the Academy of Country Music Awards and the American Music Awards.
Her vocals on Ranky Tanky’s eponymous debut album has drawn praise and acclaim from some of the nation’s most discerning and respected music critics. Parler uses her artistry to bring the cultural and musical heritage of the SC Lowcountry to some of the most prestigious stages in the US and Europe, like Norway’s Molde jazz and New York City’s Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall.
Often hailed as one of the top things to do in Charleston, SC, attending a Charleston Jazz Orchestra concert is an unforgettable experience. If you are new to the jazz genre and big band style, take a risk and surprise yourself. Our director Robert Lewis will guide you through the nuances and significance of each piece, sharing stories behind the songs and composers. Many arrangements have been specially created by our own orchestra members and can’t be heard anywhere else in the world. You can get a taste of past performances on our YouTube channel here.
When you step through the doors of the Charleston Music Hall you are stepping back in time into a circa 1849 train station, historically known as the Tower Depot. You will hear the iconic sounds of jazz wafting through the lobby, reminiscent of the city’s rich jazz history. Stop by one of the lobby bars on the lower or upper lever to purchase snacks, beer, wine or soft drinks to bring with you into the theatre. Our friendly ushers will greet you and assist you in finding your way to your seats – there’s not a bad seat in the house!
Our audience is diverse and you will see patrons of all ages and walks of life, including couples, singles, students, families, and groups of friends – jazz has never met a stranger and all are welcome. Many of our guests are tourists visiting Charleston, and some of our regular attendees have been coming to concerts since the beginning of the organization. We hope that you will become one of our “regulars” as well by joining the Charleston Jazz family by becoming a Season Subscriber, Member, Sponsor, Donor, Student or Advertiser. There is a place for YOU at Charleston Jazz.
I have been a season ticket holder since the inception of Charleston Jazz Orchestra for many wonderful reasons. The caliber of performances are spectacular. Their musical selections appeal to all musical tastes regardless of age. The Music Hall is the perfect venue for such a group of phenomenal artists.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Lil H., Google Review
We love the Charleston Jazz Orchestra! We have been attending their concerts for about seven years. They are so talented and entertaining.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Cheryl I., Google Review
Watch this video of a past Charleston Jazz Orchestra performance:
Venue:
Charleston Music Hall
37 John St., Charleston, SC 29403
Parking:
Camden Garage
47 John St., Charleston, SC 29403
Charleston Visitors Center Parking Garage
73 Mary St., Charleston, SC 29403
Marion Square Garage
399 King St., Charleston, SC 29403
Accessible seating locations are available on the first floor of the theater and marked on the seating map. Assisted Listening Devices and Sensory Inclusive bags are available at the Box Office.
Nearby Dining:
Note: These links are provided for your convenience. Charleston Jazz does not represent or endorse any of these services.
Lodging Package:
We are proud to partner with the Francis Marion hotel as our official lodging partner in 2026. Book the Francis Marion’s Charleston Jazz Package this season! Your package includes accommodations at the Francis Marion Hotel, (2) cocktails at the Swamp Fox Restaurant & (2) tickets to the Charleston Jazz Orchestra!
Other Lodging Options:
Note: These links are provided for your convenience. Charleston Jazz does not represent or endorse any of these services.
Bus Services:
The CARTA bus system offers a free downtown shuttle called the DASH. Visit their site for map and schedule here.
Car Services:
There are a variety of local transportation services available including taxis, Uber and Lyft.
Pedi Cab Services
Note: These links are provided for your convenience. Charleston Jazz does not represent or endorse any of these services.
Refreshments are available for purchase at the bars located in the lobby and upstairs. The bars offer snacks and candy as well as beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages.
See you at the show!
