Vel Lewis (Velbert Lewis, Jr.) is an American contemporary jazz recording artist, composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist whose signature Hammond organ sound has earned international recognition on radio, streaming platforms, and concert stages worldwide. For more than six decades, Lewis has blended soulful melodies, sophisticated grooves, and exceptional musicianship into a career that continues to connect with audiences around the globe.

 

His current single, "Smoovee" featuring acclaimed saxophonist Marion Meadows continues to receive worldwide radio airplay while charting on multiple contemporary jazz and smooth jazz radio charts, including the Smooth Jazz Network Top 100, Mediabse Smooth Jazz, RadioWave Monitor Groove Jazz 100, and the Top 30 Weekend Radio chart in Madrid, Spain. The recording is available on all major digital music and streaming platforms.

 

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Lewis began performing as a featured soloist with the Philadelphia All-Boys Choir before studying voice, piano, and organ. Early in his professional career, he was signed to Philadelphia International Records as a member of The Futures, performed with The Delfonics during the era of Major Harris, and co-wrote and sang lead on the Northern Soul classic "Tell Me Why". His career later expanded into composing music for television and international touring with legendary vocalist Dionne Warwick, further establishing his reputation as a versatile performer, composer, and recording artist. As a solo artist, Lewis has released an acclaimed catalog of contemporary jazz recordings, including All Wound Up, Colors Of Soul, "Forever More" featuring Larry Braggs, "PlayTyme", "Bossaflowz", and "Smoovee". In 2024, he was honored with the Houston Black Music Award for Best Jazz Male Performer, recognizing his outstanding contributions to contemporary jazz.

 

Today, Vel Lewis continues to write, record, produce, and perform music that celebrates the timeless sound of the Hammond organ while bringing contemporary jazz to audiences worldwide. 

 

Vel Lewis is also President and Founder of F2F Music Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit, educational and performing arts organization, located in Fort Bend County. Visit F2FMusicFoundation.org for more information.