THE CHARLES LANGFORD SOUL EXPERIENCE

This promises to be a night of smooth R&B, funky soul with jazz heavy groove featuring the dual vocals of Wali Ali (guitar, vocals) and Heshima Moja (bass, vocals) and the funk heavy sax of Chuck Langford.

When it comes to soul-drenched saxophone and fearless musicianship, Charles “Chuck” Langford isn’t just in the room — he is the room. Hailing from Springfield, Massachusetts, Chuck’s been chasing melodies and crafting grooves since his teenage years, armed with a tenor, alto, soprano sax, clarinet, and flute --- and he’s just getting started.

A graduate of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and The New School for Social Research in NYC, Chuck sharpened his sound under the wing of jazz giants like Billy Harper, Donald Byrd, Barry Harris, Archie Shepp, and Yusef Lateef. Their lessons weren’t just academic - they were spiritual. The result? A player whose sound is equal parts streetwise grit and academic polish. Over the years, Chuck earned his stripes as one of Boston’s top A-list players, hitting stages and sessions with the likes of The Temptations, Norman Connors, Melvin Sparks, Mighty Sam McClain, Solomon Burke, Steve Turre, to name a few.

The Road Life
Chuck Langford didn’t choose the road — the road chose him. From smoky one-nighters and packed festival tents to jazz clubs that felt like church, every gig was a classroom and every mile a lesson. Thousands of performances later, Chuck has forged a sound and presence that can work any room and leave audiences breathless. The road wasn’t just part of the plan — it became his destiny.

Recording Artist
Chuck’s debut album, “That’s Wassup” (Blue Canoe Records, 2008), set the tone: bold, soulful, and unapologetic. Since then, he’s continued to evolve while staying true to his roots. His latest single, “Leave The Light On,” is a heartfelt reflection on enduring love and unwavering support, with emotive saxophone melodies that speak of longing and hope. And with his electrifying album “Powerless”, Chuck turned it up a notch - delivering deep grooves, smooth tones, and heartfelt melodies. Featuring jazz heavyweights like Jimmy Haslip, Russell Ferrante, Jimmy Branly, Avery Sharpe, and Poogie Bell, it’s a must-listen for jazz, soul, and fusion lovers alike.

Educator & Mentor
Beyond the lights and the studio walls, Chuck is a dedicated educator and mentor. A sought-after voice in music clinics and masterclasses, he shares his hard-earned wisdom with the next generation of horn players and creative artists, reminding them that music is as much about heart as it is about skill.

Wali Ali - Motown guitarist and vocalist Wali Ali joined the legendary Funk Brothers band at age 17 and toured and recorded with Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, the Jacksons and many more!

Heshima Moja - Here, the rich legacies of Black Classical Music, the intricate rhythms of Afro-Cuban Rumba, the poetic melodies of Sufi Music, and the vibrant beats of Hip Hop interlace with the profound insights of global scholars and visionaries. Heshima Moja, a masterful bassist, vocalist, composer, and cultural arts presenter, guides this journey, inviting you to experience the transformative power of music and art.

Charles Langford - Sax
Wali Ali – Guitar and vocals, 
Abi Robles – Drums, 
Heshima Moja – Bass and vocals, 
Joey Mazzarella – keyboards

The Fallout Shelter is an all ages performance venue welcoming worldwide, world class music in an intimate setting. Our studio audience attends to watch the creation and production of the music television series The Extended Play Sessions. The Fallout Shelter events are immersive experiences for both audience and performers alike...a live music experience like no other. We are fully ADA compliant and have wheelchair access. We have a wide selection of beer and wine for your adult beverage pleasures and each show comes with a free commemorative event poster. Our doors open at 6PM. Seating is General Admission. We recommend you arrive at the time the doors open.