Jocelyn Ellis Releases Video for 'System Distortion'

Jocelyn Ellis, one of the most talented and creative musicians I've come across in Charlotte, released a new video this week for her single, "System Distortion." She continues to bend/blend genres in her music, and offers an intriguing visual with the video.

I ran into Jocelyn at a party Saturday night, and after talking to her for a few minutes I told her I was going to have to go through my CDs when I got home and break out the EP she released a few years ago ("If Cupid Had A Girlfriend" has always been one of my favorite songs by her). She's continued to put out great work since then, including speaking and performing at TEDxCharlotte earlier this year. Now, she's gearing up for the release of her debut album, Life Of A Hologram, on November 18, of which "System Distortion" is the first single.

Support good music, and keep up with Jocelyn online:

• Tumblr: jocelynellis.com

• Twitter: @mindofjE

• Facebook: JocelynEllisMusic

• Instagram: JocelynEllisMusic

• SoundCloud: jocelynellis

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Jocelyn Ellis' Music Video for 'One Step Closer'

Last night I attended the Music Video Release Party at Lux for Jocelyn Ellis' new single, "One Step Closer." It was a great turnout as Charlotte's creative community and music industry enthusiasts came out to support one of the city's rising stars.

I was impressed with the quality and creativity of the video, which was directed by Devin Johnson and J.E.'s manager Giovani Gonzalez. "One Step Closer," available on iTunes, is written by J.E. and produced by Benie Beatz--the two have been making some great music together--and is a dance/pop/Euro-infused song that further adds to the eclecticism J.E. is becoming known for. Check out the video below and visit www.jocelynellis.com for more details.

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Events for the Week: Labor Day Weekend Edition

Your best weekly list for parties, nightlife, social, and cultural events in Charlotte. This isn’t intended to be a complete list of everything that's going on, but instead are the events GPT recommends.

Thursday, September 3

Alive After Five at EpiCentre (weekly event)
This week’s featured bands are Fantasy (R&B and Motown) performing on the rooftop stage, and Déjà vu (beach music and oldies) playing on the courtyard stage. There will be plenty of drink stations scattered throughout. Wristbands also get you into participating EpiCentre bars. 5-9:30 p.m. Free. The EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.aliveafterfiveatepicentre.com.

Working Together to Meet Basic Human Needs
This event will feature a panel conversation by community leaders including Taylor Batten (The Charlotte Observer), Brett Loftis (Council for Children’s Rights), Dana McDonald (University Park Baptist Church), Pat Mumford (City of Charlotte), and Mary Wilson (Mecklenburg County). The panel conversation will be followed by a dialogue with the audience moderated by Bob Morgan (Charlotte Chamber) and Willie Ratchford (Community Relations Committee). 7 p.m. Free. University Park Baptist Church, 6029 Beatties Ford Rd.

USC vs. NCSU Football Game Viewing Party
Watch the Gamecocks defeat the Wolfpack at this viewing party for South Carolina fans and alumni. Food and drink specials will be served, and the game will be shown in a reserved room on a big screen. 7-10 p.m. Free. Dilworth Neighborhood Grille, 911 E. Morehead St. Presented by USC Charlotte Club. www.mycarolina.org/charlotte.

ROCK * IT Thursdays
Charlotte has another new nightclub in Uptown and this Thursday night party is your chance to check out the posh new venue (owned by partners from the Sunset Club and Kiss Lounge). 9 p.m. Cost varies. To get on the guest list, email mouzakitis.constantine@gmail.com. Luna Lounge, 521 N. College St. www.lunacharlotte.com.

Friday, September 4

Friday Afterwork Rendezvous (weekly event)
End your workweek on a high note at this networking party, held at a different venue each week. Enjoy drink and food specials while listening to live music. Presented by Talk of the Town. 6-11 p.m. Free. Blue Restaurant and Bar, 214 N. Tryon St. (corner of Fifth and College streets). www.bluecharlotte.com.

America's Most Wanted Music Festival
See Lil Wayne and his Young Money Crew, along with Young Jeezy, Soulja Boy Tell’em, Pleasure P, and Jeremih. 7 p.m. $29-$125. Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, 707 Pavilion Blvd. www.livenation.com.

Free Fridays
The first Friday of the month means free admission at one of Charlotte’s swankiest lounges. Enjoy the best in hip-hop, R&B, and reggae. On this night, the club often reaches capacity so get there early. 10 p.m. Free until capacity; cover charge after. Kiss Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. www.kisscharlotte.com.

First Fridays Charlotte
It’s touted as the number one urban event and it draws a large crowd each month to a different venue. Music by DJ MC and DJ Freedom. Presented by Dee Autry, Troy Veale, and Thomas Washington. 10 p.m.-2 a.m. $10 in advance; ladies free until 11 p.m. Cans Bar and Canteen, 500 W. Fifth St. www.ticketannex.com.

Collegiate Flirt Friday
The Lake Norman area gets it popping at Synergy Nightclub (formerly NV Lounge). And this Friday is a concert after-party. 10 p.m. Ladies free all night with college I.D. Men $5 before 11 p.m. with college I.D., more after. Synergy Nightclub, 20924 Torrence Chapel Rd. www.mysynergynightclub.com.

Saturday, September 5

Charlotte Literary Festival
This two-day festival features authors, book signings (Wahida Clark), artists, music, dance, guest speakers (Rev. Michael Beckwith, Chris Gardener), a carnival for kids, and more. Visit website for event line-up. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Cost varies. NoDa, E. 36th and N. Davidson streets. www.charlotteliteraryfestival.org.

Jet Set the Evolution
It’s a “day party” to celebrate the end of summer. Party with the sun out—and see beautiful people with clarity. Featuring catered food, a live band, and music by DJ DR. Presented by The A List-Charlotte and The Sol Kitchen. 4-8:30 p.m. $10 in advance. Pravda Bar and Rooftop Garden Patio at The Forum, 300 N. College St. www.alistnc.com.

Groove.Rock.Dance.
Enjoy great live performances by Jared Allan & Co and Jocelyn Ellis & The Alpha Theory, along with music by DJ Arthur Bros. Hosted by slam poet Bluz. 8 p.m. $13. Club Alive, 2909 N. Davidson St. www.grooverockdance.com.

Marquee Saturdays (weekly event)
It’s Charlotte’s newest and hottest Saturday night party at this newly revamped nightclub. Enjoy the large dance floor, plentiful seating, and outdoor patio. DJ Complete playing in the main room and DJ R-Wonz playing on the patio. Presented by Sleeping Giant Productions. 9 p.m. Cost varies. Halo, inside the N.C. Music Factory, 820 Hamilton St. www.haloclt.com.

Pink and Cognac Affair
Come dressed to impress and ladies are asked to wear pink. Hosted by actor Darrin Henson. Music by DJ Flemingo. 9:30 p.m. $10 and up; ladies free before 11:30 p.m. Décor 1202, 1202 Charlottetowne Ave. www.myspace.com/decor1202.

Sunday, September 6

Charlotte Literary Festival
This two-day festival features authors, book signings (Wahida Clark), artists, music, dance, guest speakers (Rev. Michael Beckwith, Chris Gardener), a carnival for kids, and more. Visit website for event line-up. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Cost varies. NoDa, E. 36th and N. Davidson streets. www.charlotteliteraryfestival.org.

Pre-Labor Day Cookout
Enjoy free food and music by DJ Cuttz. Presented by Presidential Movement Entertainment and Sport E. Odie. 2-7 p.m. Free. Hornets Nest Park, 6301 Beatties Ford Rd.

A Mid-Summer Night’s Dream
Inner Circle Events is taking its popular party to a larger venue and there’s sure to be plenty of attractive young professionals. Summer cocktail attire requested. 10 p.m. $15 and up. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St. www.innercircleevents.com/midsummer.

End of Summer White Party
It’s two clubs in one and it’s likely to fill up at this party hosted by Carolina Panthers Chris Harris, Charles Johnson, Charles Godfrey, and Jeff Otah. White attire is requested. Music by So So Def’s DJ Shakim. 10 p.m. $15 and up; ladies free before 11:30 p.m. Club 935, 935 S. Summit Ave. www.club935.com.

Déjà Blue
Party in style amongst a beautiful crowd and backdrop. Presented by The Sol Kitchen, Blue Goose, and The A List-Charlotte. 10 p.m. $10 in advance. Blue Restaurant and Bar, 214 N. Tryon St. (corner of Fifth and College streets). www.thesolkitchen.com.

Super Fresh Sunday
Sunshine Anderson hosts this party for those who know how to get fresh. Presented by So Fresh Entertainment. 10 p.m. Kiss Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. www.kisscharlotte.com.

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Jocelyn Ellis Is Becoming a Star

There's a talented singer/songwriter in Charlotte named Jocelyn Ellis. If you haven't heard of her, you likely will soon.

Ellis has been getting plenty of media coverage as of late (I wrote an article about her, "Making It," that's in the August issue of Charlotte magazine), and The Charlotte Observer is giving her plenty of shine. There's an in-depth article about her and her band, The Alpha Theory, titled "No borders, no boundaries" (it's in one of this weekend's papers, but I'm not sure what day; I read it online). Plus, the Observer is featuring a photo gallery online with nearly a dozen great pics of Ellis and the band (click here).

Photo of Jocelyn Ellis from gallery on charlotteobserver.com, taken by David T. Foster III.

I saw Jocelyn Ellis and The Alpha Theory perform a 40-minute set during a show at The Evening Muse in May. I was impressed by her stage presence, vocal range, and the crowd she drew, plus the band is one of the best I've seen play live. After the show, her manager gave me a copy of their EP, In the Beginning. Since I was going to be doing a sit-down interview with her in a couple of weeks, I popped the CD into the disc changer in my car. I liked it immediately, and it stayed in rotation in my car for weeks. I often play songs from it for friends. She describes her sound as urban folk, and it sounds as unique as the label she's given it.

Ellis, a Durham native and senior at UNC Charlotte, has been performing at numerous music festivals and concerts in the area, as well as other parts of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. You can see her perform at Groove.Rock.Dance on September 5 at Club Alive. Keep up with her music and upcoming gigs at www.jocelynellis.net.

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Events for the Week: June 15-21

Your best weekly list for parties, nightlife, social, and cultural events in Charlotte. This isn’t intended to be a complete list of everything that's going on, but instead are the events GPT recommends.

Wednesday, June 17

Young Professionals for Anthony Foxx Meet and Greet
Meet Charlotte mayoral candidate Anthony Foxx and learn more about his platform. Featuring guest speaker and NFL player Terry Cousin, and hosted by Q92.7’s Ifé Moore. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and drink specials. 6-8:30 p.m. Free, but you’ll be able to make campaign contributions. Loft 1523, 1523 Elizabeth Ave. ypforanthonyfoxx@yahoo.com.

Pop Life (weekly event)
It’s the most popular social networking event on a Wednesday night. Starts after work but runs past midnight. Varying types of people pop in and out throughout the night so you never know who you’ll run into. Music by select DJs. Presented by Creative Loafing and The Sol Kitchen. 6 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. www.apostrophelounge.com.

2009 Summer Bikini Bash
This installment of Wild Out Wednesdays features a bikini contest with a cash prize going to the winner. Summer drink specials will be served. Hosted by Sport E. Odie. 10 p.m. Cost varies; ladies free all night. Club Ice, 300 E. Stonewall St. www.clubicenc.com.

Thursday, June 18

Alive After Five at EpiCentre (weekly event)
Enjoy live music by this week’s bands, Girlz Girlz Girlz (upstairs) and The Party Nuts (downstairs). Both levels will be filled with people and there’ll be plenty of drinks from cash bars scattered throughout. Wristbands get you into Blackfinn, Whisky River, Suite, and StrikeCity. 5-9:30 p.m. Free. The EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.aliveafterfiveatepicentre.com.

Summertime Bash for Pet P.A.L.S.
Spend the evening with members of Pet P.A.L.S. (Professional Animal Lovers Society) of Humane Society of Charlotte as they mingle and network for a good cause. Complimentary appetizers and drink and wine specials will be served. 5-8:30 p.m. $15. Andrew Blair’s, 1600 Montford Dr. www.humanesocietyofcharlotte.org.

Cufflinks and Cocktails
Presented by Charlotte’s Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity alumni, this event is held at a different bar each month. Come mingle with a group of well-dressed professionals, from 20- to 40-somethings. Drink and appetizer specials will be served. 6-10 p.m. Free. Décor 1202, 1202 Charlottetowne Ave. www.cufflinksandcocktails.com.

Friday, June 19

Culture Initiative Presents Show and Tell
This eclectic arts and music showcase brings together more than 40 visual artists, four bands (The Hot House Heftones, Fuzz & Mac, Groove8, and Jocelyn Ellis & The Alpha Theory) and three DJs to energize and connect Charlotte’s arts community. Presented by the newly formed arts organization, Culture Initiative. Doors open 6 p.m.; show starts 6:30 p.m. $8-$10. Neighborhood Theatre, 511 E. 36th St. www.neighborhoodtheatre.com or www.cultureinitiative.com.

Summer Groove
Come dressed to impress at this party and enjoy a great atmosphere from the bar to the patio. Look for many of Charlotte’s movers and shakers among the mostly 30-and-older crowd (25-and-up are welcomed). Music by DJ Stretch-O-Matic. Presented by Digital Divas. 9:30 p.m. $10 in advance; free before 10 p.m. Sunset Club, 1820 South Blvd. www.digitaldivasevents.com.

Drinks @ Kiss
This monthly cocktail mixer attracts great crowds to one of the city’s trendiest lounges. Featuring plenty of drink specials and complimentary Nuvo tasting (10-11 p.m.). DJ Daddy D will be playing the best in R&B, hip-hop, and reggae. 10 p.m. $10 and up; free before 11 p.m. with RSVP. Kiss Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. www.mingleberry.com/drinks.

Saturday, June 20

Jet Set Day Party
Day parties are popular during CIAA Week so one group is giving it a go now. Party on the rooftop and casual chic attire is requested. Music by DJ Skillz. Presented by The A List and Sol Kitchen. 12-6 p.m. $10 in advance. Pravda Bar and Rooftop Garden at The Forum, 300 N. College St. www.alistnc.com.

PlayDate Charlotte
Charlotte has joined the network of more than 30 cities that offer this alternative to typical partying and nightclubbing. This is the third installment of the monthly series and the first two drew large crowds. Enjoy music and drinks while playing card games, checkers, dominoes, Connect Four, Twister, Monopoly, and more. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $10. Tyvola Marriott, 5700 Westpark Dr. www.playdatecharlotte.com.

The Hamptons Meets Cabo
Party like celebrities and don your most fashionable attire. VIP service will be available. Presented by Six Figure Entertainment. 10 p.m. Cost varies; visit website for advance tickets. 1900 Mexican Grill and Tequila Lounge, 1523 Elizabeth Ave. www.sixfigureentertainment.com.

Sunday, June 21

Marshall Park Music Festival
Each Sunday this month, enjoy jazz in the park and a variety of other music from four bands, along with vendors selling food, drinks, and merchandise. Hosted by Kenny Mack and Larken Egleston. Presented by Lockhart Entertainment. 1-7 p.m. Free. Marshall Park, 800 E. Third St. lockhartentertainment@gmail.com.

Lyrically Speaking
Experience live poetry and spoken word over an appetizing menu. This week’s featured poet is Korim from California. Presented by Touch One Productions. 8 p.m. $10. Utopia SoundStage, 10210 Berkeley Place Dr. www.utopiasoundstagenc.com.

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Events for the Week: April 6-12

Your best weekly list for parties, nightlife, social, and cultural events in Charlotte. This isn’t intended to be a complete list of what’s going on, but instead are the events GPT recommends. More events may be added throughout the week.

Monday, April 6

Charlotte Energy Summit
Leading the Charlotte region out of the recession by creating new jobs and economic opportunities in the area’s fast-growing energy sector will be the focus of the first-ever Charlotte Energy Summit. Sponsored by Duke Energy, the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce, and Charlotte Regional Partnership. 2:30-8 p.m. Hilton Charlotte Center City Hotel, 222 E. Third St. www.duke-energy.com.

Tuesday, April 7

Public Forum: Judicial Reform
Learn about the inner-workings of Mecklenburg County’s judicial system and discuss ways to make needed changes. Judicial panelists will discuss their experience running for and serving as a judge and talk about the greatest challenges facing the Mecklenburg criminal justice system. Panelists will also provide a hands-on perspective and discuss ideas on how the public can get more involved to advance needed changes. Presented by GenerationEngage, the Urban League Guild of the Central Carolinas, and Democracy NC. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free, but please RSVP. Urban League of the Central Carolinas, 740 W. Fifth St. www.generationengage.org/state/chltt.

Tone-X and Friends (weekly event)
Come laugh at the jokes and skits by Power 98’s Tone-X, Chris “Funnyman” Robinson, and other comedians. Music by DJ Stacey Blackman. 8 p.m. $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Skandalos, 5317 E. Independence Blvd. www.myspace.com/tonexandfriends.

Wednesday, April 8

Pop Life (weekly event)
It’s the most popular social networking event on a Wednesday night. Starts after work but runs past midnight. Music by select DJs. Sponsored by Creative Loafing and The Sol Kitchen. 6 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. www.apostrophelounge.com.

I Got Status Wednesdays
If you come for nothing else, come for the half-price appetizers and half-price drinks. And mingle with young professionals at the bar and lounge of this beautiful restaurant. Presented by Red Carpet Affairs. 6:30-10:30 p.m. Free. Chima Brazilian Steakhouse, 139 S. Tryon St. www.redcarpetaffairsnc.com.

Thursday, April 9

Rythemology and After-work Social
Enjoy live jazz during happy hour then hang around late for DJ Daddy D. 6 p.m. Free. Utopia Restaurant, 10210 Berkeley Place Dr. www.utopianc.com.

Top Notch Thursdays (weekly event)
It’s billed as a party for “local celebrities, young professionals, ordinary people, and superstars.” Sounds like it’s for everyone. Plenty of drink specials. Hip-hop and R&B spun by DJ Elementz. 8 p.m.-2 a.m. Free. Tilt, 127 W. Trade St. www.tiltcharlotte.com.

Friday, April 10

Friday Afterwork Rendezvous (weekly event)
End your workweek on a high note at this networking event, held at a different venue each week. Enjoy drink and appetizer specials while mingling with young professionals. Presented by Talk of the Town. 6-10 p.m. Free. Ruth's Chris Steak House, 222 S. Tryon St.

Boney James in Concert
See the acclaimed saxophonist perform live. This is the first installment in the Carolina Smooth Jazz Friends concert series. 8 p.m. $35 and up. Dale F. Halton Theater, 1206 Elizabeth Ave. www.thejazzdiva.com or click here to buy tickets.

Amateur Night at the Soul Café
Enjoy an evening of amateur entertainment and you’ll get to pick the winner. After the competition will be a performance by The Company Band while DJ DR will close out the night on the turntables. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served the first hour. Presented by The Underground Soul Station. 8 p.m. $5. Wine Up, 3306 N. Davidson St. www.wine-up.com.

I Love the QC
Mingle and party with the trendsetters and tastemakers of Charlotte. “I Love the QC” T-shirts will be given away throughout the night. 9 p.m. Free before 10:30 p.m. Kiss Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. www.kisscharlotte.com.

Saturday, April 11

Nappy Luv 7.5
It’ll be a night of creative hip-hop and R&B, hosted by MTV2’s Amanda Diva, who will also perform. Additional performances by Median, Jocelyn Ellis, and Quill, plus DJ DR and That Guy Smitty on the turntables. Open bar. 9 p.m. $30 in advance. Hart Witzen Gallery, 136 E. 36th St. www.nappyluv.com.

Inner Circle Events Turns Five
The popular planners of “premium professional nightlife” celebrate five years of throwing parties in Charlotte. 10 p.m. $15 in advance, more at the door. Blue Restaurant and Bar, 214 N. Tryon St. (corner of Fifth and College streets). www.innercircleevents.com or click here to buy tickets.

Ron Browz CD Release Party
The hitmaker behind "Pop Champagne" and "Jumping Out the Window" hosts this party and will also perform. 10 p.m. $20 in advance, more at the door; members free until 11 p.m. (visit website for membership). Club 935, 935 S. Summit Ave. www.club935.com.

Sunday, April 12

Easter Jazz Brunch
Featuring a great brunch menu with everything from shrimp and grits to Utopia Style Sweet Chicken. Hosted by Mellanie Clark of Praise 100.9 and live jazz by the John Dillard Trio. Free admission. 12-3 p.m. Reservations recommended. Utopia Restaurant, 10210 Berkeley Place Dr. www.utopianc.com.

SSSHH: Sensual Seduction Sundays at Happy Hour (weekly event)
Enjoy an infusion of open-mic poetry and jazz over candlelight. Hosted by poet Bluz. After-party and dancing follows. Presented by Pink Diamond. 9 p.m. $10. Happy Hour Bar and Lounge, 3603 S. Tryon St. www.pinkdiamondpromo.com.

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Events for the Week: February 16-22

Your best weekly list for parties, nightlife, social, and cultural events in Charlotte. If I learn of more events, I’ll update this post throughout the week.

Tuesday, February 17

A Peace of Jazz (weekly event)
Radio personality Jaye Delai and his wife Monica present this weekly jazz series at one of Charlotte’s swankest lounges. This week features guitarist Terence Young. Complimentary buffet by La’Wan’s Soul Food. 6-10 p.m. $10. Kiss Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. www.jayeandmonica.com.

Wednesday, February 18

Pop Life (weekly event)
It’s the most popular social networking event on a Wednesday night. Starts after work but often runs past midnight. Music by select DJs. Sponsored by Creative Loafing and The Sol Kitchen. 6 p.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. (South End). www.apostrophelounge.com.

Thursday, February 19

Second Annual Friday Friends Festival
This year’s festival will welcome current and new participants for the launch of the third season of Friday Friends—a group of Charlotteans of different races, cultures and faiths, that gather to celebrate the breaking of boundaries. Hosted by Susan Tran of WSOC-TV and entertainment includes Men in Black and the Indian Dancers. Featuring complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Presented by Mecklenburg Ministries. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. The Atrium at Wachovia, 301 S. Tryon St. www.meckmin.org.

Friday, February 20

Friday Afterwork Rendezvous (weekly event)
End your workweek on a high note at this networking event, held at a different venue each week. Enjoy live music and drink and appetizer specials. Presented by Talk of the Town. With an extended time this week, they're inviting you to join them before or after the Bobcats game. 6-11 p.m. Free admission and free valet parking. LaVecchia's Seafood Grille, 225 E. Sixth St. www.talkofthetownent.com.

Nikki Giovanni
See the great poet perform live at this fundraiser for the Charlotte Literary Festival. Opening act is Jocelyn Ellis and The Alpha Theory. 6:30 p.m. $15. Alive, 2909 N. Davidson St. www.realeyesbookstore.com.

Saturday, February 21

HBCU Empower Me Tour with Hill Harper
The tour is designed to empower all young people and motivate them toward academic excellence and personal responsibility. Ford team members will be on hand to provide information on multicultural programs and enrichment opportunities including the 2009 Ford HBCU Business Classic and the 2009 Ford Roadies Program. Event will also feature a conversation with actor and activist Hill Harper. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. University Park Baptist Church, 6029 Beatties Ford Rd. www.empowermetour.org.

Charlotte Style’s First Birthday
The style magazine celebrates it turning one year old and will unveil the cover for its Men’s Issue featuring Kenyatte Nelson. There will be a men’s runway show with fashions by Astor & Black, Bruce Julian, and more. Complimentary pastries by Cloud 9 Confections will be served. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. $10-$20. Loft 1523, 1523 Elizabeth Ave. www.charlottestylemag.com.

Sunday, February 22

Special Blend @ PJ’s
Special Blend presents genres of artistry, music, visual, and humor in the spirit of good times and good people. Come experience it while relaxing in a trendy lounge. 8 p.m.-midnight. PJ’s Coffee and Lounge, 210 E. Trade St. (inside the EpiCentre). www.pjscharlotte.com.

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Events for the Week: Jan. 26-Feb. 1

Your best weekly list for parties, nightlife, social, and cultural events in Charlotte. If I learn of more events, I’ll update this post throughout the week.

Weeklong

Queen's Feast: Charlotte Restaurant Week
This celebration of Charlotte’s restaurant scene runs through Friday. Each participating restaurant will offer a three-course, prix fixe dinner menu for only $30 per person (not including tax and gratuity). More than 60 participating restaurants. Visit website for details. www.charlotterestaurantweek.com.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus
The theme of this year’s Greatest Show on Earth is “Over the Top,” and in it you’ll experience a wacky circus spectacular filled with mayhem as Ringmaster Chuck Wagner and clown eccentric Tom Dougherty compete for control of a magical top hat. Runs Jan.28-Feb. 1. Visit website for times. $15-$100. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St. www.timewarnercablearena.com.

Tuesday, January 27

A Peace of Jazz (weekly event)
Radio personality Jaye Delai and his wife Monica present this weekly jazz series at one of Charlotte’s swankest lounges. This week’s musical guest is Moments Notice. Complimentary buffet by La’Wan’s Soul Food. 6-11 p.m. $10 and up. Kiss Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. www.jayeandmonica.com.

A Night of Hip-Hop
See several of Charlotte’s homegrown hip-hop artists perform, as well as up-and-coming “urban folk” artist Jocelyn Ellis. 6:30 p.m. $10. The Evening Muse, 3227 N. Davidson St. (NoDa). www.theeveningmuse.com.

Tone-X and Friends
Not sure of the reasons, but after debuting to a full house at Alive two weeks ago as its new location, after leaving Skandalos last year, the comedy night is going back to its first home. Anyway, come laugh at the jokes and skits by Power 98’s Tone-X, Chris “Funnyman” Robinson, and other comedians. Music by DJ Stacey Blackman. 8 p.m. $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Skandalos, 5317 E. Independence Blvd. www.myspace.com/tonexandfriends.

Wednesday, January 28

North Carolina Conference for Women
This all-day conference is designed to provide a platform for women of all ages and backgrounds to network and become informed on timely issues that are of value to today’s women. Celebrity speakers include Lisa Ling, Susan L. Taylor, Alek Wek, Jean Chatzky, and Sheri Lynch. Cost includes breakfast and lunch. 7 a.m.-5 p.m. $150. Charlotte Convention Center, 501 S. College St. www.ncwomensconference.com.

Pop Life (weekly event)
It’s the most popular social networking event on a Wednesday night. Starts after work but often runs past midnight. Music by select DJs. This week, Flawless Make-Up Art presents “The Make-Up Soiree.” Sponsored by Creative Loafing and The Sol Kitchen. 6 p.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. (South End). www.apostrophelounge.com.

How Does the Media Influence Public Perception?
In advance of Frost/Nixon coming to the Belk Theater in February, the Blumenthal Center's Education Institute is presenting this event to explore how journalist David Frost was able to successfully question President Nixon after the Watergate Scandal and how the interview affected the public's perceptions of Nixon. This event is part of the "Get to Know the Show" series. 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Queens University of Charlotte, Sykes Auditorium, 1900 Selwyn Ave. Click here to RSVP.

Thursday, January 29

Top Notch Thursdays (NEW weekly event)
It’s billed as a party for “local celebrities, young professionals, ordinary people, and superstars.” Sounds like it’s for everyone, and the hours are all-encompassing, too. 5 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Free before 10:30, women $5 and men $10 after. Tilt, 127 W. Trade St. www.tiltcharlotte.com.

Touch One Thursdays (weekly event)
Come and enjoy a live band and spoken word by Charlotte’s slam poets. An after-party follows. Presented by Touch One Productions. 9 p.m. $10. Wine Up, 3306 N. Davidson St. www.wine-up.com.

Friday, January 30

Strike City Grand Opening
As if the EpiCentre is dominating uptown Charlotte enough, the highly anticipated upscale bowling alley is now open and is holding an official grand opening party. You must have tickets to attend the opening, but everyone is admitted afterwards. Come experience the bowling alley that’s more like a club (dance floor, dozens of flatscreen TVs). Grand opening party 7-10 p.m., general admission 10 p.m-2 a.m. Strike City Bowling, 210 E. Trade St., inside the EpiCentre. www.strikecitycharlotte.com.

Kickin’ It Uptown
Digital Divas takes the party to the all-new Club Ice. Expect a beautiful crowd of young professionals. Music by DJ C-Rob. 10 p.m. $10 in advance. Club Ice, 300 E. Stonewall St. www.digitaldivasevents.com.

Saturday, January 31

An Evening at the Heartbreak Hotel
Inner Circle Events is getting a jump on the Valentine’s parties. Expect a large crowd so get there early (plus admission goes up). Come dressed to impress. 10 p.m. Cost varies. Ember Grill at The Westin Hotel, 601 S. College St. www.innercircleevents.com.

Club Illumination Part 1: The Ms. Officer Party
It’s a “blue-light affair” that promises to be a night of top-level partying. Plenty of models will be on hand strolling the catwalk. Music by DJ Chase and hosted by Q 92.7’s Ifé Moore. First 50 ladies admitted free and all Aquarius birthdays in free til 11. Presented by Dream Team Entertainment. 10 p.m. $15 in advance. Extravaganza Depot, 1610 N. Tryon St. www.experiencedreamteam.com.

Sunday, February 1

Super Bowl Sunday!

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