Toni Baker-Tyson
Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Check out Toni Baker Tyson's weekly entertainment picks. It's fun for grown folks.

It was all about that Bass.

Last weekend Grammy-winning bass player Stanley Clarke performed at Knight Theater. I had waited patiently for this concert ever since tickets went on sale last fall. Yes, it’s safe to assume that Mr. Clarke lived up to the audience’s expectation, adding a taste of FUNK, which jolted the crowd to its feet. Did I also mention that, at the tender age of 64, Clarke still has it? And, if I should say so myself, he was pretty easy on the eye from my front-row seat.

Opening act, saxophonist Al Strong from the Durham area, set the tone, kicking things off with smooth jazzy classics from the past. If you aren’t familiar with Strong, check him out around town this month during CIAA. Both artists were outstanding, and the show was amazing. Promoters Mike Kitchens and “Jazz Diva” Tammy Greene certainly outdid themselves with this concert.

Now for my weekend picks. This week, it’s all about love.

FRIDAY

Couple’s Night Out ~ Looking for a new way to spend a romantic evening with your special someone? Create a piece of modern art with your boo. You get to paint your half of a vibrant heart shape on canvas, while your Valentine paints the other half. Charlotte Fine Art Gallery (7510 Pineville-Matthews Road, Suite 12A). No experience needed. Pre-registration required.
Time: 7 p.m.
Cost: $70/couple. All supplies included. Refreshments served. (Must be 21.)
More info: http://www.charlottecultureguide.com/event/detail/441955506/Couples_Night_Out_Celebrate_Valentines_Day

SATURDAY

Persona In Love ~ Persona Bell wears her love for music on her sleeve. She says, “My favorite thing about being a vocalist is that my voice is my instrument, and it’s always packed and ready to go!” Join her at the Stage Door Theater (155 North College Street). this weekend in Uptown Charlotte. If you enjoy the sounds of Whitney Houston, Adele, and Lauren Hill, this event is for you.
General Admission: $15.
Time: 7 p.m.
More info: http://carolinatix.org/events/detail/persona-in-love

SUNDAY

Lovers Night Out ~ Looking for something different this Valentine’s night? Enjoy live entertainment from magician Chastain Criswell, musician/singer Matt Kelly, and DJ Ace Rockwell. This is a dress-to-impress formal event for the mature crowd, hosted by the Mens 911 group, which empowers other men to be great in every aspect of life. Lovers Night Out is the group’s first major function. You can’t go wrong with good food, great entertainment, and your special Valentine.
Location: Stowe Manor (217 South Central Avenue, Belmont, NC).
Time: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
More info: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lovers-night-out-tickets-20149788560?aff=efbeven

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Toni Baker-Tyson is an entertainment columnist for Qcitymetro.com. She enjoys being a social butterfly out on the town, loves live music, the arts, and foreign films. Her passion is volunteering with the...