Entertainment
The Lineup
Welcome to the heart and soul of the Wine & Jazz Festival—our stage showcases a dazzling mix of local legends and rising stars delivering electrifying performances under the open Missouri sky.
Meet
Ernest Melton —
Jazz Sax Firestarter
Kansas City–based saxophonist, composer, and bandleader Ernest Melton first picked up his horn at age 10. By 14 he was jamming with KC’s top youth ensembles and had already left high school to devote himself entirely to music.
Self-taught and driven, he draws inspiration from jazz legends like Coltrane, Sanders, and Mingus, blending their fervor into his own electrifying sound. With nationally released albums and dynamic live performances under his belt, Ernest brings deep soul and fierce creativity to the Wine & Jazz Festival—don’t miss his captivating set.
Meet
Kendrick Smith — Saxophonist, Composer & Jazz Trailblazer
Hailing from East St. Louis, Kendrick Smith studied under the legendary Hamiett Bluiett and has shared the stage with icons like Branford Marsalis and Kamasi Washington.
Founder of Build A Yes Jazz Music Society and creator of Truly Reeds and Jazz Culture magazine, he’s a driving force in expanding the jazz community in St. Louis. With a career spanning two decades across performance, composing, education, and mentorship, Kendrick brings electrifying energy and soulful artistry—this is the jazz experience you won’t want to miss.
https://youtu.be/eUxAGFO1E-o
Meet
Cheyenne “BodaciousThang"
Jolene the LA Songbird
Cheyenne Jolene brings powerhouse vocals, charisma, and soul to every stage she graces. A Kansas City native turned Los Angeles songbird, she’s become a go-to voice for television, featured worldwide across major networks and streaming services—including commercial spots for the 2023 Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl “I’m Going to Disneyland” campaign.
Her voice has soundtracked hit Netflix shows like "Love Is Blind" and electrifying moments at WrestleMania. She’s even shared the spotlight with legends such as Pat Benatar, Idina Menzel, Janelle Monáe, and Stevie Wonder—talk about pedigree!
Expect a dynamic, bold, and unforgettable experience when Cheyenne takes the stage—true star quality with a side of “Bodacious.” Get ready to be swept off your feet.
https://shorturl.at/vWavB
https://shorturl.at/OGRDX
Meet
Kara Smith –
A Note from the Heart of Jazz
Hailing from Lawrence, KS, and shaped by the soulful spirit of Kansas City, Kara Smith is a dynamic vocalist with roots in choral, theatrical, a cappella, sacred, and jazz traditions. A proud alumna of Baker University (B.M. in Music Education, Vocal), she blends technique and emotion seamlessly in performances ranging from spirituals to jazz standards.
Her voice first rose to prominence when she placed first in the American Negro Spiritual category at the regional NATS competition—out of 500+ entries—demonstrating her commanding stage presence and artistic versatility.
Whether leading workshops at the Mutual Musicians Foundation or gracing the festival stage, Kara delivers heartfelt, soulful performances that celebrate jazz’s rich legacy and inspire all who listen.
Meet Your Host
Angela Believes—Top Emcee, Travel Host & Joy-Spreader
Get ready to be charmed, energized, and delighted—because Angela Believes, CEO of Angela Believes, LLC, is the fabulous host of this year’s Wine & Jazz Festival! Voted Best Host/Emcee in the Arts & Entertainment category of the Kansas City People’s Choice Awards, Angela brings charisma and grace to every moment.
A natural connector and master of memorable experiences, she’s taken audiences on journeys as a vivacious travel host and has emceed stunning events like ASX Fest, The Athleisure Collection Show, 18th & Vine Lives, and so many more—think exclusive red carpets, runway reviews, and music festivals!
Angela’s also a seasoned voice on 90.1 FM KKFI, where she’s known for her entertaining, encouraging, and informative radio presence that resonates deeply with the KC community.
Whether she’s on stage or over the airwaves, Angela’s mission is clear: share her infectious energy and genuine love for people to create unforgettable moments.
