SF SOUNDS Presents James "StickNasty" Small & G Roc

SF Sounds is a live concert series produced and recorded at the Ruth Williams Opera House, to showcase San Francisco's diverse and vibrant music scene.

The event features a curated lineup of local, emerging, and international bands and artists from a variety of genres, SF Sounds brings live performances to San Francisco's oldest theater, creating a unique platform for the next generation of talent to share their voice. Each artist brings their distinct sound, weaving inspiring stories and cultural richness into every note.

Audience members will experience an up-close and personal concert setting, with exclusive behind-the-scenes insights into the creative process. SF Sounds is more than a concert—it’s a celebration of creativity, a showcase of talent, and a stage for artists to shine.

Join us at the historic Ruth Williams Opera House in Bayview for an unforgettable evening of live music and discover the sounds of San Francisco.

James “StickNasty” Small & G-Roc ft. Ariel Bowser

Sunday, November 24th 2024

Doors Open: 6:00 PM

Ruth Williams Opera House

4705 3rd St. SF, CA 94124

This event was made possible with generous support from: SF Dream Keeper Initiative, Office of Economic Development, Amazon, and SF Jazz

Tickets: Suggested Donations

Section A General Admission (32): $25 Front Row

Section B General Admission (32): $20 Second Row or Stage Seating

Section C VIP (40): $35 glass of wine/beer/cocktail or drink, seat at high top table

Section D Full Table for 4 (6 tables w/24 seats total): $100 w/ table service

Please note: To guarantee your seat location, it is important to pay the full suggested amount. For ADA accommodations, please email [email protected].

This event is a live recording, and by attending, you agree to be filmed, photographed, and/or otherwise recorded. Your entry constitutes your consent to the use of your image and likeness in any and all media throughout the universe in perpetuity in connection with Ruth Williams Opera House and its partners.

For Media and Sponsorship Opportunities Contact: [email protected]

James “StickNasty” Small is an Oakland-based, Drummer, Producer, and Actor known for his artistic dexterity whether leaning into his deep pocket behind the kit, unique and great sense of taste as a producer and depth as an Actor. James hails from a musical family with strong Church roots, with Pastor Mother directing the Church Choir and his father as Musical Director and Pianist. Small grew up playing alongside them both in the Gospel music tradition from the young age of two years old. Gospel was his first introduction to music, and it was in the church that he developed a love and understanding of music.

With his heart set on only one place, Small was accepted into the Berklee College of Music in Boston in 2009. As often is the case at the world-renowned Berklee, Small was approached in his first semester by a student who was the musical director for a group called Bedroc which set Small on the rocket ship trajectory of touring. Bedroc’s first show was opening for 2 Chainz to none other than a sold out arena. This launched the band to full-time touring with Small dropping out of Berklee to pursue his musical dreams. As also often happens, Bedroc broke up in 2013, with Small finding himself at a key life crossroads. Out of school, out of a band, and now living in Cleveland with no job, Small looked inward to a deep passion he had for uplifting and supporting community youth. Feeling called, He took a job as an after-school program counselor at The Haley School of the Performing Arts for a year before moving back home.

Upon his return to the Bay Area, Small immediately jumped back to playing shows every night. Building his chops and skill, Small became a member of several bands, including Sal’s Greenhouse, Kezar, STANG, Mama’s Soup, and Liberation Movement just to name a few. His next break would come In 2016 when Small received a call to come in and audition for acclaimed artist, Fantastic Negrito. With his skill and affable charm, Small quickly became a fixture behind the kit and began touring with Fantastic Negrito. After two long years of touring, Small had to take a step back and focus on recovering from substance abuse. After making a recovery and implementing life changes, Small was welcomed back into Fantastic Negrito and has been touring internationally since. Small is proud to have recently celebrated five years of sobriety.

As seasoned a drummer as they come, Small has played on some of the biggest stages in the world including Red Rocks, Radio City Music Hall, The Greek Theater (Los Angeles and Berkeley, CA), and the Boston Symphony Hall. He has played at many notable festivals including, Afro Punk in Paris, North Sea Jazz Festival, Hollywood Bowl Jazz Fest, and Monterey Jazz Festival. He has also appeared on several Late Night TV shows, such as Jimmy Fallon and Stephen Colbert. He has shared the stage with several celebrated artists including Train, Lyrics Born, Taj Mahl, Rexx Life Raj, Ariana Afsar, Fantastic Negrito and more.

In 2022 his professional acting career bloomed when he was cast as the starring role alongside his wife, Sahra Brubeck, in Fantastic Negrito’s visual Album “White Jesus Black Problems.”

Today, Small specializes in music production, drums and percussion, as well as being a music director and bandleader.

G-ROC ft. Ariel Bowser

Bio coming soon

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Bayview Opera House, 1429 Mendell St, San Francisco, United States