About this Event
The Preservation of Jazz Monday Night Music Series Proudly Presents
The 30th Annual Billie Holiday Tribute
Featuring Sky Covington
Hosted by Mike Bonner
Monday, April 6, 2026
Aretha’s Jazz Café – 350 Madison Ave, Detroit, MI
Doors Open: 6:00 PM
Showtime: 7:30 PM
Tickets: $40
Detroit Celebrates 30 Years of Honoring Billie Holiday
Detroit’s most beloved jazz tradition returns as The Preservation of Jazz Monday Night Music Series proudly presents the 30th Annual Billie Holiday Tribute, featuring internationally acclaimed jazz vocalist Sky Covington, on Monday, April 6th at Aretha’s Jazz Café.
This special evening is held in honor of Billie Holiday’s birthday, April 7th, celebrating the life, voice, and enduring legacy of one of the most influential artists in American music history. For three decades, this tribute has stood as a sacred musical offering—honoring not just the songs, but the spirit, struggle, and brilliance of Lady Day.
Sky Covington will be joined by her band Club Crescendo, delivering a deeply soulful and historically rooted performance that captures Billie Holiday’s emotional truth while honoring her artistry with reverence and authenticity.
The evening will be hosted by Mike Bonner, whose warmth, humor, and storytelling guide audiences through an unforgettable night of music, reflection, and celebration.
About Billie Holiday
Born April 7, 1915, Billie Holiday was a revolutionary jazz vocalist whose unmistakable voice and emotional depth reshaped American music. Known for classics such as “God Bless the Child,” “Strange Fruit,” and “Lover Man,” Holiday transformed personal pain into timeless art. Her phrasing, tone, and fearless storytelling influenced generations of singers across jazz, blues, and soul. Despite a life marked by hardship, Billie Holiday’s legacy remains one of courage, truth, and unmatched musical expression.
About The Preservation of Jazz
Founded by Sky Covington, The Preservation of Jazz is a Detroit-based cultural institution dedicated to honoring jazz legends, uplifting contemporary artists, and educating future generations. Through its acclaimed Monday Night Music Series, the organization produces historically rooted tribute concerts that preserve the integrity, beauty, and cultural importance of jazz. For over a decade, The Preservation of Jazz has become a trusted home for authentic storytelling, live performance, and community connection.
About Sky Covington
Sky Covington is an award-winning jazz vocalist, producer, poet, and cultural curator with over 30 years of performing the Billie Holiday tribute. An 11-time Detroit Music Award winner, Sky is recognized for her deep emotional delivery, historical accuracy, and commanding stage presence. She is the founder of The Preservation of Jazz, the visionary behind the legendary Satin Doll Revue, and a respected voice in Detroit’s cultural landscape. Sky’s Billie Holiday tribute is regarded as one of the most authentic and moving interpretations in the country
Event: 30th Annual Billie Holiday Tribute
Date: Monday, April 6, 2026
Venue: Aretha’s Jazz Café, Detroit
Doors: 6:00 PM
Showtime: 7:30 PM
Tickets: $40
Featuring: Sky Covington & Club Crescendo
Host: Mike Bonner
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Aretha's Jazz Cafe, 350 Madison Street, Detroit, United States
USD 44.52
