496 West

Based in Lansing, Michigan, and founded by guitarist Charlie Wilson, 496 West has been igniting stages since their debut in 2008. This powerhouse collective has earned a reputation as one of mid-Michigan’s premier live bands—known for their musicianship, professionalism, and magnetic performances.

Blending soul, smooth jazz, R&B, blues, and gospel jazz, 496 West delivers a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. With soulful vocals, a dynamic horn section, rich harmonies, killer keys, silky strings, and indispensable percussion, their performances create a signature sound that connects with audiences of all kinds.

Performing both original music and re-imagined favorites, 496 West offers a complete live music experience—from smooth listening sets to high-energy jams. Their versatile repertoire makes them a favorite for community events, corporate functions, private celebrations, and regional festivals. 496 West has graced stages at the Shoreline Jazz Festival (Muskegon, MI), East Lansing Summer Solstice Jazz Festival, Lansing Jazz Festival, Flint Jazz Festival, Ribs and Jazz Fest (Columbus, OH), Great Lakes Jazz & Arts Festival (Toledo, OH), Glass City JazzFest (Toledo, OH),Celebration of Talents (Lise, IL),  River Raisin Festival (Monroe, MI), Jazz on the Ave (Dearborn, MI), and more.

496 West released a new album, Heights  at the beginning of 2026 Featured songs from the project include Piano Funk, a lively fusion of jazz and soul influences, Horizions, a  guitar lead and gentle sax cut, and the laid-back instrumental track In the Morning. The group also plans to build on previous albums 496 West (2012), Auxiliary Lane (2014), Key Change (2017), and Rules of Engagement (2022).which features originals like “Dilla J” and covers including Ella Mai’s “Boo’d Up” and Bob James & David Sandborn’s “Maputo.”

Over the years, 496 West has shared the stage with industry greats including the late Nick Colionne, Gerald Albright, Kirk Whalum, Alexander Zonjic, Euge Groove, Tim Bowman, Norman Brown, Larry Braggs, Bob Baldwin, Phil Perry, Eric Darius, Doc Powell, Jeanette Harris, Ragan Whiteside and Jackiem Joyner.