The Queen Sessions V1 | Featuring Melissa McKinney

Join us at Hotel Eve for the beginning of a new series: The Queen Sessions. This first performance features Asheville singer-songwriter Melissa McKinney as she honors the timeless artistry of Eva Cassidy.

Known for her raw, soulful voice, emotional delivery, and commanding stage presence, Melissa is the frontwoman of the horn-powered blues and soul band MAMA—winner of the 2025 MerleFest Band Competition and second-place finalist at the 2026 International Blues Challenge in Memphis. Her music is rooted in blues, soul, jazz, and the rich storytelling traditions of her Southern Appalachian upbringing.

Throughout the evening, Melissa will explore the jazz influences that made Cassidy’s interpretations so unforgettable. Beloved songs will be woven together with selections reflecting Melissa’s own musical spirit.

This intimate performance celebrates two powerful voices and the extraordinary ability to take a familiar song and make it entirely your own.

$10 weekdays -$15 weekends at the door (all ticket proceeds are 100% passed to the band, backed by a living wage guarantee from Hotel Eve)

*Reserve a table in advance, or join us impromptu the night of the show. Reservations/advance tickets are recommended for preferred seating, but not required. Tickets are available at the door on a first-come, first-served basis.  Event Details and Tickets

Hotel Eve is your locally rooted, speakeasy jazz club & cocktail bar, hidden in the heart of Downtown Asheville. Mysteriously not a hotel…check in for spirits, souls and jazz! We’re tucked away, on purpose. You’ll find us behind the gate nestled between Virtue Boutique and Dane Wells Gallery at 56 N Lexington Avenue in downtown Asheville. Step through, take a left into the courtyard, check in for Spirits, Souls & Jazz. We’ll be waiting on the other side. hotelevejazz.com